Walmart’s OnePay Set to Add Bitcoin, Ether Trading and Custody

Core Insights - Walmart's fintech venture, OnePay, will introduce Bitcoin and Ethereum trading and custody features in its mobile app later this year, allowing users to buy, sell, hold, and store cryptocurrencies directly [1] - OnePay aims to integrate cryptocurrency with everyday purchases, enabling users to convert crypto into cash for use at Walmart stores or to pay credit card balances, making crypto a part of daily financial routines [2] - This initiative aligns with Walmart's broader financial services strategy, positioning OnePay as an all-in-one hub for banking, credit, payments, and now crypto, enhancing its competitiveness in the fintech space [3] Integration and Competition - The launch coincides with a more favorable regulatory environment for crypto in the U.S., and OnePay's features will make it a direct competitor to established fintech platforms like Venmo, PayPal, and Cash App [4] - The integration of crypto trading and custody presents technical and logistical challenges, requiring compliance with financial regulations and ensuring user asset protection while providing a seamless experience [5] - The timeline for the launch is uncertain, with potential delays due to technical issues, regulatory hurdles, or banking coordination, which could impact the success of the rollout [6] Implications for Retail and Crypto - If successful, OnePay could significantly enhance the accessibility of crypto for everyday shoppers, making digital assets feel more like regular money for Walmart's customer base [7]