Strike, a Bitcoin-focused payment app, has announced the launch of its services in seven African countries, signaling its expansion into the continent. Countries included in this initial rollout are Gabon, Cote d’Ivoire, Malawi, Nigeria, South Africa, Uganda and Zambia. The company, founded by CEO Jack MALLERS, aims to expand its presence in more African markets in the future.
Strike, a product of Chicago startup Zap, is similar to mobile payment apps like Cash App or Venmo, but uses blockchain technology for transactions. The app will allow users in these African countries to buy and sell Bitcoin (BTC) and the dollar stablecoin USDT. Additionally, it will provide local fiat currency on-ramps and off-ramps, alongside global payments via Bitcoin’s Lightning network. This network enables low-cost and fast transactions for both transfers and cross-border payments.
The expansion follows Strike’s announcement last year of plans to expand its operations to more than 65 countries, targeting not only Africa but also Latin America, Asia and the Caribbean. In November, Strike made its services available globally, allowing users in more than 35 countries to buy BTC through its app, albeit with a 3.9% fee for customers outside the US.
Image: TechCabal
Read the full article here