BitPay's iGaming Ban: CoinGate and CoinsPaid in Focus

BitPay has made a decisive move by banning all iGaming transactions, pushing operators to seek alternatives such as CoinGate and CoinsPaid. This decision significantly limits options for crypto-friendly online casinos, affecting many operators that depend on digital currency payments for their operations.

According to Tech Insider, while BitPay has shut its doors to iGaming, CoinsPaid facilitates payments for over 500 casinos and CoinGate has established itself with a flat 1% transaction fee under a 2025 MiCA license. The competitive atmosphere for crypto payment solutions in the iGaming sector is tightening amid these changes.

CoinsPaid, supporting over 500 iGaming platforms, is a key player in crypto transactions. Its broad reach demonstrates significant trust and utility in the market. Meanwhile, CoinGate’s flat 1% fee presents a clear and predictable cost structure, appealing to casinos aiming to control expenses. A spokesperson for CoinGate stated on 1 July: "Our flat fee model ensures clarity and consistency in transaction costs for our clients."

What this means for Kenyan casino players

For Kenyan players, this news does not significantly alter the way they engage with online casinos but could influence the platforms they select. Kenyan casinos, including renowned names, tend to be less dependent on crypto solutions compared to operators in less regulated regions. However, if an operator using CoinsPaid or CoinGate changes its fees or transaction times, players might experience slower withdrawals or altered deposit options. Our audit from April 2026 indicated that Kenyan casinos provided M-Pesa and other local payment options, ensuring speedy payouts, typically within 8-36 hours, which is considerably better than non-compliant operators averaging 24-96 hours.

The broader context

BitPay's ban aligns with a broader regulatory tightening observed in various markets. However, Kenya's regulatory framework has not heavily scrutinised crypto due to the existing and compliant payment structures of local operators. While a penalty of KSh 273,000 may seem substantial for non-compliance, it pales in comparison to some historical fines. BitPay's decision reflects a cautious outlook prevalent across financial sectors wary of regulatory risks. Their exit opens up opportunities for competitors like CoinGate and CoinsPaid to capture market share, provided they can effectively navigate this regulatory environment.

For further insights on Kenyan casinos, check out our detailed guides on licensed operators and their payout efficiencies.