Introduction: My Bitcoin Journey
I believe Bitcoin is one of today’s hottest topics. I’ve been a user since 2017, when I first discovered and had my initial contact with Bitcoin. Back then, each Bitcoin was worth $100, and I had a Xapo credit card where I could convert my balance for products and services.
Unfortunately, I no longer have Bitcoin at that price—obviously, I used it all! I’ve seen price variations you wouldn’t believe. Today, Bitcoin has gained the spotlight again, and I’ve returned to focus more on it, studying it more deeply.
In my opinion, the biggest challenge is still using my balance without KYC (Know Your Customer). There are optional credit cards like Crypto.com and Noone, but obviously, to receive one of these, you have to provide your personal data. And when Bitcoin was created, the idea was to maintain money anonymity and self-custody.
Let’s analyze what has changed and what options we have available.
“You Can’t Buy Bread with Bitcoin… But You Can’t Buy It with Gold Either”
In a video I watched, an interviewer challenged someone by saying “you can’t buy bread with Bitcoin.” The response was brilliant: “But you also can’t buy bread with gold… and gold still maintains its value.”
Understanding Bitcoin’s Primary Function
This is due to their primary function. Both gold and Bitcoin are essentially stores of value, not currencies for daily transactions.
Key Points:
- Bitcoin functions like gold as a store of value
- You can convert gold deposits into fiat currency
- If you don’t honor payments, gold serves as collateral
- Bitcoin synthetics work similarly (read my article about L-BTC)
Bitcoin as Collateral
We can use Bitcoin as collateral to borrow value in other currencies/cryptocurrencies because:
- It’s a valuable asset
- Doesn’t produce dividends directly
- Protects against inflation over time
- Maintains purchasing power long-term
Gift Cards: The KYC-Free Solution
This is an interesting option because it requires no KYC. You simply:
- Enter the platform
- Select desired products
- Enter your email
- Purchase with Bitcoin
My Favorite: Bitrefill
Why I love Bitrefill:
- Accepts over 6,000 types of cryptocurrency
- Quick and easy purchase process
- Wide variety of useful services
Popular gift cards available:
- Uber – Transportation
- Shell – Gas stations
- Airbnb – Travel accommodation
- Nike – Clothing and shoes
- Spotify – Music streaming
- Netflix – Entertainment streaming
The Logic: If you’re going to consume these services anyway, why not buy with your appreciating cryptocurrency balance?
P2P (Person-to-Person) Trading
With increasing concerns about financial privacy (especially with digital payment tracking), you might want privacy over your money. For this, you can use:
- Bisq
- Noone
- Hodl Hodl
All three don’t use KYC – you only need an email to register and start using.
My Experience with Each Platform:
🥇 Bisq
Pros:
- Download program to your PC
- Many payment/transfer options
- Complete anonymity
- No need to leave home or take risks
Cons:
- Higher buy prices, lower sell prices (typical for P2P)
- Requires software installation
Bottom Line: Great for maintaining anonymity and avoiding in-person meetings.
🥈 Noone
Features:
- Simple and friendly interface
- Supports: Bitcoin, Ethereum, USDT, Solana, Monero, TON, USDC
- Virtual Visa card available
- Very comprehensive platform
Drawbacks:
- High fees
- Prices significantly above/below market rates
- Most expensive of the three options
- Virtual card requires KYC
🥇 Hodl Hodl (My Favorite)
Why I prefer it:
- Simple and intuitive interface
- Clear step-by-step process
- Excellent confirmation stages
- Most fair pricing
- Lending feature available (trade Bitcoin for synthetics and earn interest)
Recommendation: Everyone should research and check what best suits their needs.
Credit Cards: Are They Worth It?
In my opinion, crypto credit cards are a good solution for using your cryptocurrencies. However, each person must understand their needs and study the conditions each exchange requires for a crypto card.
I honestly believe that with recent political changes, much of this will improve and more payment providers will accept crypto in their portfolio.
Important Note:
I don’t personally use these cards because I prefer and enjoy the privacy of my money.
Recommended Crypto Cards
💳 Foxbit Card (Virtual Only)
- No annual fee
- Up to 1% cashback
- Good starter option
💳 Noone Card (Virtual Only)
- Virtual Visa card
- $50,000 limit
- $3+ minimum to request
- Easy application process
💳 Crypto.com (Top Choice)
Why it’s excellent:
- Premium features and benefits
- Multiple tier options
The requirement:
- Must purchase CRO tokens (company token)
- Hold them for a specific period
- Starting at ~$500 equivalent for entry-level card
- Higher tiers offer better rewards
Card Tiers Available:
- Ruby Steel – Entry level
- Royal Indigo/Jade Green – Mid tier
- Icy White/Rose Gold – Premium
- Obsidian Black – Ultra premium
The Future of Cryptocurrency Usage
Each year, we’ll see the market offering more and more solutions for using our digital currencies. The important thing is that the state loses power over us and we gain more control over our hard-earned money.
My Predictions:
- 40%+ market adoption for cryptocurrency solutions within years
- More payment providers accepting crypto
- Enhanced privacy options
- Better integration with traditional financial systems
- This is the present/future of our money and how we’ll use it
Key Benefits of This Shift:
- Financial Sovereignty – Control your own money
- Privacy Protection – Maintain transaction anonymity
- Inflation Hedge – Protect purchasing power
- Global Accessibility – Use anywhere in the world
- Lower Fees – Reduce traditional banking costs
Final Recommendations
For Maximum Privacy:
- Use gift cards (Bitrefill)
- Trade on P2P platforms (Hodl Hodl preferred)
- Avoid KYC when possible
For Convenience:
- Consider crypto credit cards
- Choose based on your spending habits
- Research rewards programs
For Long-term Strategy:
- Hold Bitcoin as store of value
- Use only what you need for daily expenses
- Keep the majority in cold storage
Remember: The goal is financial freedom and privacy. Choose the methods that best align with your values and needs. The cryptocurrency ecosystem is rapidly evolving, and more solutions are coming every day.
The revolution isn’t just about the technology—it’s about taking back control of our financial lives.