Cryptocurrency Payment

Definition ∞ A cryptocurrency payment involves transferring digital currency directly between parties on a blockchain network, without requiring traditional financial intermediaries. These transactions are secured by cryptographic protocols and recorded on a distributed ledger, providing transparency and immutability. Such payments offer an alternative to conventional fiat currency transfers, often featuring faster settlement times and lower fees for cross-border transactions. They represent a fundamental use case for digital assets.
Context ∞ Cryptocurrency payments are a constant feature in crypto news, with reports on increasing merchant adoption, stablecoin usage for daily transactions, and regulatory efforts to define their legal status. Discussions frequently focus on scalability solutions to handle higher transaction volumes and the development of user-friendly interfaces. The evolution of central bank digital currencies also presents a parallel development, influencing the future landscape of digital payment methods.