Spain digital payment trends: Bizum expansion and cash usage

The digital payment landscape in Spain is undergoing significant shifts. The Bizum platform continues to expand, with the introduction of Bizum Pay in mid-2026, allowing users to replace physical cards with mobile phones at point-of-sale terminals. CaixaBank currently holds a 30% market share of Bizum, managing over a million daily operations. While the service is expanding to include cross-border payments with Portugal and Italy, the Spanish National Police have issued warnings regarding new scams targeting the system.

In the online gaming sector, there is a growing trend toward cryptocurrency-based casinos, particularly in Spain. Players are increasingly utilizing Bitcoin and Ethereum for faster, more private transactions and to access significant welcome bonuses. Other digital payment methods like Payz and Bizum are also gaining traction in online casinos due to their speed and security.

Despite the rise of digital tools, cash remains a dominant payment method in Spain, accounting for 57% of transactions at points of sale, which is higher than the European average. A report by Denaria Europe highlights that 70% of the population believes cash should remain part of the economy. However, the decline of ATMs and bank branches poses a risk of monetary exclusion for the elderly, people with disabilities, and rural populations.