The world of iGaming is undergoing a transformative shift with cryptocurrency, fundamentally changing how operators handle payments. Kate Lifshits, CEO of NOWPayments, shared her insights at SiGMA on how crypto payments are streamlining processes, reducing costs, and providing faster, more secure cross-border transactions. Here’s a breakdown of the key takeaways from her interview.
Global Reach and Low Fees: The Crypto Advantage
One of the standout benefits of crypto in iGaming is the ability to bypass high fees and time-consuming bank transfers. Kate Lifshits pointed out that crypto enables seamless, global transactions without borders, offering very low fees. This system is not only efficient but eliminates the need for intermediaries.
“With crypto payments, there are no borders, there are very low fees, and it’s all about programmable trust.” — Kate Lifshits
The concept of “programmable trust” refers to the security and reliability of transactions in the absence of intermediaries. This enhances both the operator and player experience, ensuring smooth and quick payments across the globe.
Zero-Fee Mass Payouts: A Game Changer for Affiliates
Affiliate payouts have traditionally been a complex and costly aspect for iGaming operators. NOWPayments offers a solution with its zero-fee mass payout feature, allowing operators to send payouts quickly and efficiently, with no hidden costs. As Lifshits explains, getting affiliates their earnings instantly is crucial for maintaining trust and satisfaction.
“If an affiliate earns $100, they should receive $100 immediately.” — Kate Lifshits
Integrating NOWPayments’ API means that operators can send out bulk payouts with a single click, and affiliates receive their funds in under a minute, transforming the way the iGaming industry operates by increasing operational efficiency and enhancing partner relationships.
Flexibility with Custodial and Non-Custodial Models
Flexibility in payment models is essential for operators. NOWPayments offers both custodial and non-custodial options, catering to different business preferences. While non-custodial wallets provide full control to operators, the custodial model automates processes like payouts and transfers, providing security and eliminating manual effort.
“The magic of automation happens in custodial mode.” — Kate Lifshits
The custodial model not only ensures security but also streamlines operations, allowing for instant payouts and zero-fee transactions with minimal friction.
Navigating Regulatory Compliance with Ease
Regulation is a crucial factor for global iGaming operators, and each jurisdiction has its own legal framework. NOWPayments ensures full compliance by working with a dedicated legal and compliance team, which makes it easier for operators to scale globally without running into legal hurdles. Crypto payments provide an efficient, low-cost way to handle cross-border transactions while staying within legal boundaries.
“We understand that each jurisdiction has its own legal framework, and we ensure that we comply with all of them.” — Kate Lifshits
By seamlessly bridging different regulatory environments, NOWPayments makes it easier for operators to expand their reach while maintaining compliance across borders.
Fiat and Crypto Integration: Bridging the Gap
Adopting crypto payments can be daunting for players who are unfamiliar with cryptocurrency. NOWPayments simplifies this by providing fiat on-ramp and off-ramp solutions, allowing players to pay in fiat while casinos receive crypto. This ensures financial inclusion and removes the barriers to entry for players who are not yet comfortable with digital currencies.
“It’s all about financial inclusion.” — Kate Lifshits
Whether players are crypto-savvy or prefer traditional fiat payments, NOWPayments makes the process seamless, allowing casinos to cater to both types of players without friction.
Looking Ahead: Automation and Web3 Integration
As crypto adoption continues to scale, Lifshits sees automation as the key opportunity for iGaming’s future. With Web3 technology, crypto payments offer solutions to problems that traditional finance has yet to resolve. Lifshits envisions a future where the benefits of Web2 finance merge with the innovation of Web3, creating a more efficient and accessible financial ecosystem.
“We’re moving beyond just niche adoption. It’s about bringing the benefits of Web2 finance into Web3 and solving problems that traditional systems haven’t yet addressed.” — Kate Lifshits
The integration of Web3 with Web2 finance could resolve longstanding issues while offering new opportunities, such as instant transactions, greater accessibility, and improved financial flexibility.
Conclusion
As the iGaming industry continues to embrace cryptocurrency, NOWPayments remains at the forefront, providing the solutions that operators need to streamline payments and enhance financial inclusion. With its zero-fee mass payouts, flexible payment models, regulatory compliance, and seamless fiat-to-crypto integration, NOWPayments is shaping the future of iGaming payments. The next few years will undoubtedly see even more growth and adoption, driven by the continued evolution of crypto technology.
For more insights on crypto payments in iGaming, be sure to connect with industry leaders at events like SiGMA 2026. You can also read the full article on the subject on SiGMA’s website to explore how crypto payments are reshaping the industry.