XRP, the indigenous token of the Ripple network, is gaining traction as a favored option for both payments and investments.
In this article, we will explore what you can do with XRP, from buying games to investing in precious metals. From games to flights, food to fashion, and even precious metals, there’s a wide range of purchases you can make.
Let’s dive in and explore which merchants accept XRP.
What should you know about XRP before using it for payments?
Before you start using XRP for payments, you should understand its unique characteristics and how it contrasts with other cryptocurrencies like BTC.
Understanding these factors will help you make informed decisions when using XRP for transactions.
Be aware that your XRP’s value can fluctuate significantly due to its volatile nature. This volatility can bring both gains and losses.
Important characteristic of the Ripple token is that if you keep it in a non-custodial wallet, you must hold at least 20 XRP as an account reserve, which can’t be withdrawn. This is a measure to prevent overloading the XRP Ledger blockchain.
Yet, if you hold XRP in a crypto exchange, this requirement doesn’t apply because exchanges use shared addresses.
Another unique aspect about XRP is its target audience. Unlike other cryptocurrencies intended for consumers, XRP is designed for financial institutions and payment services. This focus allows for low-cost, speedy international transfers, a major advantage to its users.
How do XRP payments compare to BTC payments?
XRP has some advantages over BTC in terms of payments. It offers quicker processing times as XPR transactions are processed in only 3 to 5 seconds compared to the average time for Bitcoin transactions of 20 minutes which is way faster.
The transaction fees of XRP are reasonably lower than the BTC ones as the average cost per transaction for XRP is $0.0002 while the average cost for BTC for September 2023 is between 40 and 60 dollars which is quite the growth compared to the $20 average in May 2023.
You can say that XRP is more efficient than the original Bitcoin network as there is no need for mining. At launch, one hundred billion XRP’s were created, compared to Bitcoin’s supply being capped at 21million. This dearth has made a bigger appeal for investors in BTC based on the potential.
Bitcoin is widely more popular than XRP, which means that XPR would be broadly less accepted worldwide as a payment method. As XRP is designed mainly for cross-border payments it may not be the best fit for other types of transaction.
XPR is more centralized than Bitcoin because it is controlled by Ripple Labs, a private company, while Bitcoin remains a public system that is not owned by a person, authority or government. As XRP is dependent on Ripple Labs, this can become a disadvantage if the company faces any regulatory or legal issues.
SEC Vs Ripple
SEC filed a lawsuit against Ripple in December 2020, in accusation of selling $1.3 billion worth of unregistered securities. On 13.07.2023, Judge Analisa Torres ruled in favor of Ripple and did not break the law when XRP was sold on public exchanges, stating that the SEC had failed to prove that XRP was a security.
The SEC followed it with an announcement that it would appeal the ruling. It’s too early to predict how the whole process will play out as it will take months or probably years to reach a verdict.
Buy Games with XRP
XRP is quickly becoming a popular choice for purchasing games.
This provides gamers with an efficient, secure, and cost-effective way to purchase their favorite games.
Gamesplanet
You’re now able to purchase games on Gamesplanet with XRP, adding another option for transactions in the realm of digital distribution. This is a significant development in the gaming industry, as Gamesplanet, a licensed reseller, broadens its payment options to embrace the digital age.
Here are three key points about Gamesplanet:
- Gamesplanet is a pioneering force in the digital distribution of games, providing game keys directly from publishers since 2006.
- As a licensed reseller, they ensure legitimacy and fair distribution of revenue to game developers.
- The inclusion of XRP as a payment method showcases their commitment to embracing cryptocurrency trends.
Playasia
In addition to Gamesplanet, Playasia is another platform where customers can purchase games using XRP as a payment option. Established in 2002, Playasia is committed to being the leading global online retailer of entertainment products, offering worldwide shipping with a host of delivery options to suit all customers’ needs.
Customers can buy electronics, gaming accessories, digital codes, collectibles, and merchandise from Playasia, all of which can be paid for using XRP. The company has invested a lot of effort to provide a wide range of localized payment methods across regional markets, allowing customers to enjoy a comfortable shopping experience from start to finish.
Playasia is the perfect destination for gamers who want to purchase their favorite games, consoles and accessories without hassle.
Pay for flights and hotels with XRP
XRP is being accepted as a payment method by a growing number of flight and hotel booking sites. Some of them include CryptoTurismo, AirBaltic, and JetFinder. This development makes it easier for travelers to pay for flights and accommodation using XRP. It provides a convenient, secure, and fast way to book travel. This option is particularly beneficial for those looking to save time and money on their next trip.
CryptoTurismo
CryptoTurismo allows customers to pay for flights and hotels with XRP. CryptoTurismo is a travel agency based in Spain that enables customers to create personalized trips in five minutes, including transportations, hotels, transfers, rent a car and tourist activities. The company is one of the leading businesses in the travel industry that’s allowing cryptocurrency adoption.
AirBaltic
AirBaltic became one of the first airlines to accept cryptocurrency, including XRP. Founded in 1995, AirBaltic is a Latvian-headquartered low-cost airline that offers flights to over 70 destinations from Latvia, Lithuania, and Estonia.
AirBaltic offers various promotions, such as their loyalty program, which rewards customers with discounts and special offers. Customers can also take advantage of AirBaltic’s flight routes to the Baltics, Middle East, and Europe. AirBaltic also offers competitive baggage policies on their flights.
JetFinder
JetFinder is a luxury travel broker that has offices in Canada and UAE, providing access to the best aircraft in the aviation industry.
Through JetFinder, customers can enjoy these benefits:
- Ability to book private jet charters through a trusted broker
- Access to a vast network of aircraft for luxury travel
- Experienced charter brokers provide personalized service for each customer.
Check out the other travel companies that accept cryptocurrency payments.
Food delivery services that accept XRP
You might be surprised to know that XRP is gaining acceptance in the food delivery sector. Platforms such as Menufy and Takeaway now let you settle your bill with XRP.
Menufy
Menufy is your go-to for ordering meals with XRP. With an in-depth understanding of restaurant e-commerce, Menufy provides a seamless online ordering experience.
Takeaway
As the leading online food marketplace in Continental Europe, Takeaway.com’s adoption of XRP and other cryptocurrencies is a game-changer. The company was founded in 2000 in Denmark and expanded to 24 countries worldwide with over 580,000 local restaurants.
Takeaway has partnered with thousands of restaurants in its network to ensure customers can find the food they want, when they want it. It is a beneficial partnership that allows restaurants to receive roughly 2300 orders per year with their largest demographic being the 18-34 year olds and young families making the most orders on average.
Fashion brands that accept XRP
High-end fashion brands like Bottega and online luxury retailers like Jomashop are also accepting XRP for transactions. This adoption highlights the increasing acceptance of cryptocurrencies in the retail sector, especially in the fashion industry.
Bottega
Bottega Veneta is one of the fashion brands that accept XRP as a form of payment. This iconic Italian fashion house has been in business since 1966 and is renowned for its unique craftsmanship and collaborations with celebrities and fashion houses around the world.
The brand offers a plethora of items such as ready-to-wear clothing, handbags, shoes, and accessories. Bottega Veneta has also been featured in a number of fashion shows as well as iconic designs and collaborations. With XRP, customers can now pay for their favorite items from this iconic Italian fashion house.
Jomashop
With over 75,000 unique items, Jomashop offers a wide range of buying options for customers looking for high-end items from some of the top fashion brands. This online marketplace is a hub for luxury fashion, offering high end watches, designer handbags, exclusive jewelry, and premium sunglasses.
Pay for sports with XRP
Dallas Mavericks
The Dallas Mavericks are the second NBA team to accept cryptocurrency, including XRP as payment for tickets and sports gear. Fans of the team now have the opportunity to buy team merchandise, player jerseys, and game tickets with the cryptocurrency.
Greenbelt Outdoors
Greenbelt Outdoors is a Veteran-owned business in Austin, TX. They claim to be the first self-served merchant that is renting kayak, paddleboards and packrafts. For sure they are the first one accepting Ripple tokens!
Software and web services that can be purchased with XRP
Namecheap
Namecheap is a domain registrar established in 2000. With over 10 million customers and more than 77 million domains under management, Namecheap is one of the biggest independent domain registrars on the planet.
You can register different domain extensions (TLDs), and you can also buy hosting, website security services, managed WordPress services, and more. You can pay for all of these with XRP
Express VPN
Express VPN is a secure and reliable option for those who wish to make purchases with XRP. Founded in 2009 by Peter Burchhardt and Dan Pomerantz, Express VPN operates a secure network of VPN servers in 94 countries and is used by 4+ million active subscribers in over 180 countries. With team members located in over 20 cities around the world, Express VPN provides users with a reliable, secure and private way to access the internet.
Express VPN users now can pay for their subscription with XRP.
Vultr
Vultr is a cloud computing platform. They are most famous for:
- Server Management: Vultr’s platform provides top-notch server management capabilities. With your XRP, you can invest in infrastructure that’s easy to use and delivers excellent performance.
- Infrastructure Scalability: As your business grows, you’ll need more resources. Vultr’s infrastructure scalability ensures that you can easily adjust to your ever-changing computing needs.
- Data Sovereignty and Multicloud Strategy: Vultr respects your data sovereignty, offering regional compute availability. Also, it fits seamlessly into your multicloud strategy, enhancing your business flexibility.
Buy Watches, Jewelry, and other Luxury goods with XRP
With platforms like Marc Gebauer Lifestyle, Crypto Emporium, Wrist Aficionado, and Ace Jewelers accepting XRP, the world of high-end commodities is at your fingertips.
Marc Gebauer Lifestyle
In the luxurious lifestyle of Marc Gebauer, you’re investing in exquisite watches and other high-end goods with XRP. This German-based platform offers a gateway to a world of exclusive brands and high-quality watches. From Rolex to Patek Philippe, you’ve got access to some of the world’s most desired timepieces.
Crypto emporium
Crypto Emporium is a peer-to-peer marketplace is revolutionizing the way we conduct transactions, allowing you the freedom to use your XRP payments in a real-world setting. With a reach extending across 125 countries, Crypto Emporium provides a platform for p2p transactions using cryptocurrencies, making it a global frontrunner in this space.
Wrist Aficionado
You’ll love the selection of luxury watches at Wrist Aficionado, and with XRP, you can buy the timepiece of your dreams. Wrist Aficionado offers a vast collection of luxury timepieces from top brands like Rolex, Richard Mille, and Audemars Piguet.
Ace Jewelers
Established in 1975 in Amsterdam, Ace Jewelers is owned and run by the Ben Joseph Family and consists of two physical boutiques and an international eBoutique. The boutiques offer a range of high-end jewelry and watch brands such as IWC, Messika, Bulgari, Omega, and Parmigiani Fleurier.
In 2008, Ace Jewelers launched the eBoutique AceJewelers.com, making it a pioneering omni-channel retailer and winner of the 2015 Dutch eCommerce award for best eBoutique.
Invest in precious metals with XRP
Auragentum
Argentum is a German-based precious metal dealer that specializes in gold and silver coins, as well as other precious metals. It offers customers the opportunity to invest in precious metals with XRP.
Through international partnerships, Auragentum is able to provide attractive prices and cut out the middleman, while also offering storage services for customers who want to keep their precious metals safe. Not only are private customers and precious metal dealers catered for, but also financial advisors and banks.
Sharps Pixley
As a member of the London Bullion Market Association (LBMA) and a central player in the London bullion market, Sharps Pixley offers a unique opportunity for those interested in bullion investments.
With a legacy dating back to 1778, they’ve had a major role in gold fixing and silver fixing, enhancing their reputation and reliability.
Registered by the Financial Conduct Authority, they adhere to strict regulations ensuring security for investors.
By using XRP for investments, you’re not just tapping into the potential of cryptocurrencies but also the stability of precious metals.
This approach can provide a balanced portfolio capable of weathering market fluctuations.
APMEX
With APMEX and XRP you can buy:
- Precious Metals: You can buy gold, silver, platinum, and more with your XRP. It’s an efficient way to invest in commodities.
- Luxury Goods: From high-end watches to jewelry, you can spend your XRP on more than just metals.
- Gift Cards: APMEX offers gift cards, which you can purchase using Ripple tokens, providing a convenient solution for gifting.
Buy Gift cars with XRP
You can now use your XRP to get gift cards through platforms like Bitpay, CoinGate, and Coinsbee. These platforms have incorporated XRP, allowing you to broaden your shopping horizons by trading your crypto for gift cards from a wide range of retailers.
Bitpay
BitPay is a crypto payment service provider with headquarters in Atlanta, Georgia. It has 12 years of history in bridging the gap between cryptocurrency and FIAT, helping businesses to accept crypto.
With BitPay, you can purchase gift cards for Fashion stores, Food delivery, Travel, Gaming and even Precious metals vendors and more.
CoinGate
CoinGate offers gift cards for more than 2000 brands, from Uber, Twitch, and Steam to AirBNB and Adidas, that you can purchase using XRP, as well as credit and debit cards.
The platform presents a service that is fast and secure, with instant email delivery 99.9% of the time, according to their website, regardless of the cryptocurrency used. Coingate also offers lower processing fees than traditional payments, as they charge 1% of the processed transaction volume as their fee.
Coinsbee
With Coinsbee, customers can conveniently purchase gift cards with XRP in a secure and reliable manner. The platform offers a wide range of options to choose from, including gamesbee, fashion trends, luxury travel, digital services, and precious metals.
Coinsbee also offers multiple payment options, including XRP, and allows customers to select the currency that best suits their needs. The platform offers a wide range of gift cards from over 2,500 brands in over 165 countries, making it a great choice for those looking to buy things quickly and securely with XRP.
The platform also provides helpful customer support and is easy to use, making it a great choice for anyone looking to make quick and secure purchases with XRP
P2P transactions with XRP
P2P transactions are a handy alternative to traditional payments as they can be made from a mobile device or any home computer with Internet access. P2P payments allow users to send funds directly to other people through an intermediary often mentioned as a P2P payment application. In most cases, P2P transactions are typically free, but there are some that may have a fee included.
Following a partnership with Visa, XRP can be used for almost instant cross-border P2P payments. Using only the recipient’s Visa card details, users are able to send funds to over 170 countries in 160 currencies. Unlike traditional cross-border payments that require days to reach the destination, here you will be able to receive the funds within 30 minutes of the transaction.
It is quite important to note that there are more secure substitutes to P2P transactions like decentralized exchanges (DEX) as they come with potential risks like fake proof of payment, wrong transfer or chargeback fraud.
Exchange XRP for Fiat or other cryptocurrencies
If you cannot spend your XRP on what you want at the moment, you can always exchange it for Fiat or other cryptocurrencies.
Start by using reputable exchanges that present security and liability. Be aware of bad reviews and what common user experiences are shared online.
It is always best to diversify your portfolio by investing in different cryptocurrencies or other assets. Cryptocurrencies are infamous for their high volatility and their value can drop significantly in a matter of weeks.
Before you come to a decision what to invest in, be sure to do your own research, check predictions and understand the risks associated with each option in front of you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Process of Converting XRP Into Physical Cash?
You can convert XRP into physical cash by selling it on XRP exchanges. Mind the withdrawal fees and crypto regulations. This process enhances XRP liquidity, allowing you to cash out your investment easily.
Can You Use XRP to Pay for Online Subscriptions Like Netflix or Amazon Prime?
You can’t directly use XRP for subscriptions like Netflix, but there’s potential. With XRP’s payment flexibility, crypto-enabled streaming might soon be feasible. XRP subscription benefits could revolutionize e-commerce, proving digital currency’s practicality.
How Secure Is It to Use XRP for Online Transactions?
Using XRP for online transactions is pretty secure. XRP encryption and blockchain verification ensure transaction safety. High transaction speeds minimize risks. However, XRP’s legal status varies, so ensure your XRP wallet complies with your nation’s laws.
What Are the Tax Implications When Using XRP for Purchases?
When using XRP for purchases, you’re required to report capital gains or loss deductions on your taxes. These transactions are taxable events and can trigger cryptocurrency audits, so proper tax reporting is essential.
Can XRP Be Used for Charity Donations or Crowdfunding Platforms?
Absolutely, you can use XRP for charity donations and crowdfunding platforms. Numerous charitable organizations accept XRP, showcasing its philanthropic potential. The use of blockchain in charity and crowdfunding with cryptocurrency is increasingly common.
Conclusion
In essence, XRP isn’t just a digital asset, it’s a flexible payment solution. You can use XRP to buy games, pay for flights and hotels, order food, shop for fashion, invest in precious metals, and even buy gift cards.
