Walmart to offer Bitcoin and Ethereum trading through its OnePay app
John: Hey everyone, I’m John, your go-to writer at Blockchain Bulletin, where I break down the latest in Web3, crypto, and blockchain in straightforward terms. Today, we’re diving into Walmart’s exciting move into crypto trading via their OnePay app—think Bitcoin and Ethereum right in your mobile banking. For readers who want a full step-by-step guide, you can also check this exchange guide.
Lila: Hi, I’m Lila, John’s curious sidekick here to ask the questions you’re probably thinking! So, John, what’s the big deal with Walmart getting into crypto—does this mean I can buy Bitcoin while shopping for groceries?
What is OnePay?
John: Great question, Lila. OnePay is a fintech platform backed by Walmart and venture firm Ribbit Capital, launched back on 2021-01-01 as a way to offer mobile banking services. It’s designed to be an “everything app” for finances, including checking accounts, payments, and now, crypto features.
Lila: “Fintech” sounds fancy—what does that even mean?
John: Fintech just means financial technology—think apps like Venmo or Cash App that make money management digital and easy. OnePay started with basic banking but is expanding, and as of 2025-10-06, it’s gearing up for crypto integration. (And hey, if Walmart can sell everything from bananas to TVs, why not add digital coins?)
Background on Walmart’s Crypto Journey
John: In the past, Walmart has dipped toes into blockchain, like using it for supply chain tracking since around 2018-06-25. But this OnePay update marks a bigger step into consumer crypto. The announcement came on 2025-10-03, via reports from trusted sources like CNBC and CoinDesk.
Lila: Why now? Has something changed in the crypto world?
John: Crypto adoption has surged, with Bitcoin hitting all-time highs in 2024 and regulatory clarity improving. Walmart sees an opportunity to compete with apps like PayPal, which added crypto trading back in 2020-10-21. This move aligns OnePay with those rivals by offering Bitcoin and Ethereum trading later in 2025.
The Current Landscape of Crypto Trading Apps
John: As of now, apps like Venmo and Cash App let users buy, sell, and hold crypto seamlessly. OnePay’s addition, powered by Zerohash—a regulated crypto infrastructure provider—will allow similar features. Reports from CoinDesk on 2025-10-04 confirm it’ll include trading and custody for Bitcoin and Ethereum.
Lila: Custody? Is that like babysitting my crypto?
John: Haha, sort of! Custody means securely storing your digital assets, like a bank vault for your coins. Zerohash handles the tech side, ensuring compliance with U.S. regulations. This puts OnePay in a strong position, especially since Walmart has over 230 million weekly customers globally.
How It Will Work
John: Looking ahead, users will be able to buy, sell, and store Bitcoin and Ethereum directly in the OnePay app by the end of 2025. You’ll convert crypto to cash for Walmart purchases or card payments, as per CNBC’s report on 2025-10-03. It’s all mobile-first, no need for separate wallets.
Lila: That sounds convenient! Any step-by-step on getting started?
John: Absolutely. First, download the OnePay app and set up an account—it’s free and links to your Walmart ecosystem. Once crypto rolls out, you’ll see a new section for trading; just verify your identity, add funds, and start with small amounts, like buying $10 worth of Bitcoin. (Pro tip: It’s like adding a crypto aisle to your virtual shopping cart.)
Benefits and Use Cases
John: One big benefit is accessibility—millions of Walmart shoppers can enter crypto without complex exchanges. For example, convert Ethereum to cash and pay off your OnePay card balance instantly. It’s practical for everyday folks, not just tech enthusiasts.
Lila: Can you give some real-world examples?
John: Sure! Imagine earning crypto rewards from shopping, then using them at checkout—though that’s not confirmed yet, it’s a logical next step based on competitors. Or, for immigrants sending money home, crypto could offer faster, cheaper remittances compared to traditional wires. As of 2025-10-06, sources like The Block highlight how this boosts crypto’s mainstream adoption.
Risks and Safeguards
John: Crypto isn’t without risks—prices can swing wildly, like Bitcoin dropping 20% in a day back in 2022-05-12. OnePay will likely include educational tools and limits to protect users. Always remember, regulations from bodies like the SEC are evolving to safeguard against fraud.
Lila: How do I stay safe?
John: Start with these tips:
- Only invest what you can afford to lose—treat it like a high-risk savings account.
- Enable two-factor authentication on your app for extra security.
- Keep an eye on official updates from Walmart or Zerohash to avoid scams.
- Diversify: Don’t put all your eggs in one crypto basket.
John: And since this is regulatory territory, we’ll skip the jokes here—safety first.
Looking Ahead
John: By late 2025, expect OnePay to fully launch these features, potentially expanding to more coins if adoption grows. With Walmart’s scale, this could onboard millions to Web3. Keep watching sources like Cointelegraph for updates.
Lila: Will this change how we shop?
John: Possibly! It might integrate crypto payments at stores, making blockchain part of daily life. As of now, it’s a bridge between traditional retail and digital finance.
John: Wrapping up, Walmart’s OnePay crypto move is a game-changer for making Bitcoin and Ethereum accessible to everyday people—exciting times ahead in 2025. It’s a reminder that crypto is evolving from niche to normal. And if you’d like even more exchange tips, have a look at this global guide.
Lila: Thanks, John—that makes crypto feel less intimidating! Key takeaway: Start small, stay informed, and who knows, your next Walmart run might involve some digital coins.
This article was created using the original article below and verified real-time sources:
- Walmart to offer Bitcoin and Ethereum trading through its OnePay app
- Walmart-Backed OnePay to Add Bitcoin and Ether Trading to Finance App: CNBC
- Walmart-backed fintech OnePay is bringing crypto to its banking app, sources say