- Coinbase is launching a Bitcoin-rewards credit card in partnership with American Express for Coinbase One subscribers.
- Users can earn 2–4% back in BTC, while Coinbase also introduces a cheaper “Basic” subscription plan.
- The move signals Coinbase’s shift toward subscription growth amid a crypto-friendly regulatory environment.
Coinbase announced its first branded credit card on Thursday, teaming up with American Express to offer the product exclusively to U.S. members of Coinbase One. The premium subscription service includes zero trading fees, higher staking rewards, and other benefits. The company also unveiled a more affordable “Basic” subscription plan for $4.99 per month or $49.99 annually.
Card Perks and Membership Options
Starting this fall, cardholders can earn between 2% and 4% back in Bitcoin on purchases, along with traditional American Express benefits like purchase protections and exclusive experiences. Coinbase One is priced at $29.99 per month, while the new Basic tier provides reduced rewards at a lower cost. American Express’s Will Stredwick praised the partnership, calling it “an excellent mix of what customers are looking for.”
Coinbase Betting Big on Subscriptions
While Coinbase’s primary business remains its trading platform, subscriptions and services are a growing part of its revenue. In Q1, the company posted $1.26 billion in trading revenue and $698.1 million from services. Analysts like Andrew Jeffrey of William Blair expect this subscription growth to drive long-term stock value. Coinbase One has already surpassed one million members since launching in 2023.
Credit Card Timing and Market Outlook
This marks Coinbase’s first foray into credit cards after launching a prepaid Visa debit card in 2020. The release comes at a time of renewed optimism in the crypto sector, fueled by pro-crypto policies from the Trump administration and anticipated regulatory clarity. While other crypto-backed cards have struggled or shut down, Coinbase hopes its American Express partnership will offer lasting value. Competing products from Gemini and Venmo still allow crypto rewards, though options are increasingly limited.
