North Carolina has done much for its cryptocurrency scene, and the entire debate history has been turbulent. And it still is, as crypto remains a hot topic, and the dust has not yet settled on the matter. This may sound frightening or off-putting for crypto newcomers, but the situation is far from it. As with every business, a level-headed approach fueled by information can get you started on the right foot. Pitfalls and opportunities exist at the heart of crypto, where there is space for everyone.

1. Crypto acceptance in NC

NC has joined the ranks of other crypto-friendly states such as Florida, Wyoming, and Texas. Crypto has found its foothold, and users can view crypto ATMs spread across the country (more on that later) and have crypto payment options at a growing number of retailers. There are many national brands that now accept payment in cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, and others. For example, Burger King, DoorDash, and many others allow crypto payments nationwide, and local retailers in Charlotte are also jumping on the trend, including Delgado’s Fuego, Southern Strain Brewery, and Johnny Fly Sunglasses.

As well as in-person purchases, online crypto use is common, with the ability to use crypto to play at Bitcoin casinos like those listed by cryptocasino.ltd, for users who don’t wish to visit a physical casino. Since North Carolina allows only online sports betting and lottery ticket purchases, crypto can open up more options for residents to gamble online safely.

2. Crypto startups

North Carolina’s crypto startup scene is booming, and plenty of new names are popping up, showing that the NC crypto scene is alive and well. Unbanked, MahaDAO, Catalyst Exchange, WholeBod Technologies, Zenledger, and All over Chain have chosen NC over others, marking a significant landmark in crypto acceptance. From developing blockchain technologies, cryptocurrency tax management and accounting, and teaching new users how to trade, these companies have also developed fitness apps that reward their users with crypto when they work out.

Innovation and crypto go hand in hand, and new users can acquire crypto or trade with coins that these startups provide or associate with. Exploring crypto gambling options is also possible for NC crypto holders, and all businesses are verified and have been operating for a while. 

3. Legal guidelines

It’s important to note that North Carolina has done plenty of work regulating its crypto landscape, making it secure and trustworthy. Like the recent European MICA (Markets in Crypto-Assets) regulation, government regulations provide the necessary foundations for a thriving and organized landscape, provided they don’t over-regulate it. In North Carolina, the Money Transmitters Act goes with the Anti Money Laundering (AML) and Know Your Customer (KYC) regulations to provide a safe and regulated crypto landscape where the end users are protected from manipulation, fraud, and other malicious behavior when using crypto.

By definition, crypto is a decentralized system operating without a central financial institution, offering benefits like enhanced transaction speed, lower costs, anonymity, and worldwide potential for trading. The downside of such an unregulated market is visible, and North Carolina aims to protect its local crypto users. All cryptocurrency exchanges who wish to operate within North Carolina borders and with its citizens and businesses must acquire a license beforehand.

 

4. Crypto wallets and dispensers

Cryptocurrencies are usually associated with something abstract and intangible. As they mostly exist online, for newcomers and non-tech-savvy people, they can be a difficult concept to grasp or accept. Let’s take credit cards and our standard cash as an example. ATMs are everywhere, and it’s normal to carry your wallet with your credit cards around. Even though the cryptocurrency market expanded to $1.13 trillion during 2023, it means nothing if people can’t access their crypto assets.

Luckily for crypto users, North Carolina has plenty of crypto ATMs. These ATMs are spread across the state, and companies like Coinme offer 652 ATMs, as just one example. Public acceptance and visibility rise with such examples, and new users should also use a trusty digital wallet. Before starting out and if you aim to use Bitcoin, North Carolina requires its new crypto users to register at Public, Gemini, or CEX.io, and after that step, you’re good to go. Digital wallets are an important step because they will hold your crypto assets.

Most registration is straightforward and can come as physical devices or cold storage. Creating a card, choosing your password, and connecting your crypto wallet are universal steps. However, choosing the right one can be a personal preference, when choosing between Trust Connect, MetaMask, Coinbase, Zelle, Airtel Money, or others.

5. Crypto mining in NC

Crypto mining is also a hot topic in the crypto community, but North Carolina has regulations regarding it and even a large operation in Haywood County, where there is an active crypto mining ordinance. The various countries in North Carolina, like Jackson, Buncombe, Clay, and others, have their regulations, but it’s worth noting that crypto mining is regulated and present in North Carolina, signaling a strong crypto presence and ensuring a bright future for crypto as the operations continue.

Conclusion

With each passing day, the North Carolina crypto scene evolves, following global trends and welcoming new and enthusiastic crypto users. With government regulations on one side and the presence and growth of private crypto entrepreneurship on the other, crypto users have plenty to look forward to.