By Sarson Funds, Inc.
The recent collapse of Silicon Valley Bank and the subsequent delay in payments for some Etsy sellers highlights the need for a more reliable and secure payment system. Cryptocurrencies have the potential to provide a solution to this problem, offering faster, more secure, and more accessible payment options.
One of the main benefits of cryptocurrencies is that they operate on a decentralized network, which means that they are not controlled by any central authority. This means that there is no single point of failure, making them less susceptible to the kind of disruptions that we saw with the collapse of Silicon Valley Bank. With cryptocurrencies, payments can be made directly from buyer to seller without the need for intermediaries, such as banks, which can be slow and expensive.
In the case of Etsy, the use of cryptocurrencies would have allowed sellers to receive payments instantly and directly, without having to rely on a third-party payment processor. This would have eliminated the delay that many sellers experienced and ensured that they received their funds as soon as possible. Additionally, the use of cryptocurrencies would have reduced transaction fees, which are often charged by payment processors, and could have saved sellers money in the long run.
Another advantage of cryptocurrencies is that they offer greater security and privacy than traditional payment methods. Transactions made with cryptocurrencies are recorded on a public ledger, but the identities of the parties involved are kept anonymous. This means that sensitive information, such as bank account details, is not shared between buyers and sellers, reducing the risk of fraud and identity theft.
Moreover, the use of cryptocurrencies could have made it easier for international sellers to receive payments from buyers around the world. Traditional payment methods can be expensive and slow, with fees charged for currency conversions and long processing times. With cryptocurrencies, payments can be made instantly, and there are no fees for currency conversions. This would have made it easier for sellers to expand their businesses globally and reach a wider audience.
In addition, the use of cryptocurrencies would have given sellers more control over their funds. With traditional payment methods, funds can be frozen or seized by banks or other intermediaries, which can cause significant financial losses. With cryptocurrencies, funds are held in digital wallets that are controlled by the owner, giving them full control over their funds.
In conclusion, the recent issues faced by Etsy and other companies highlight the need for a more reliable and secure payment system. Cryptocurrencies offer a range of benefits, including faster payments, lower transaction fees, greater security and privacy, and greater control over funds. By adopting cryptocurrencies, companies like Etsy could provide a better experience for their sellers, reduce costs, and improve efficiency. Will Etsy innovate and embrace technology? Or leave that level of seller service to more innovative startup companies looking to differentiate their selling platform from legacy platforms like Etsy? Although only time will tell, Etsy’s track record for improving the customer and partner experience suggests they will implement these type of banking solutions in the future.
