Table of Contents
Quick Summary
PayPal has just rolled out two new cryptocurrencies—Chainlink (LINK) and Solana (SOL)—to its U.S. users on both PayPal and Venmo platforms. Users can now buy, sell, hold, and transfer these tokens directly in-app, offering more flexibility and easier access to some of the most innovative blockchain networks out there.
PayPal Is Getting Serious About Crypto
Since entering the cryptocurrency space, PayPal has been steadily expanding its offerings. According to May Zabaneh, VP of Blockchain, Crypto, and Digital Currencies at PayPal:
“Users have asked for more token options that align with our mission to revolutionize payments.”
This move is more than just adding a couple of coins—it’s about giving users more control and access to popular, functional digital assets, all in a trusted environment they already use.
Chainlink (LINK) – The Data Highway of Blockchain
Chainlink is like the quiet genius in the background—powering smart contracts by delivering real-world data to blockchain applications. It’s the most widely adopted decentralized oracle network out there.
- Popular Use Case: Chainlink powers major DeFi protocols like Aave and Synthetix, where up-to-date, accurate data is crucial for pricing, lending, and synthetic assets.
If Ethereum is the stage for smart contracts, Chainlink is the lighting, sound, and backstage crew making sure the show runs smoothly.
Solana (SOL) – The Speed Demon of Crypto
Solana is built for speed and scale, capable of handling up to 65,000 transactions per second (TPS) with near-zero fees. It’s become the go-to blockchain for developers building high-performance apps, especially in DeFi, NFTs, and gaming.
- Real-World Example: Remember Stepn, the move-to-earn app that paid users to walk or run? That ran on Solana—fast, cheap, and perfect for mobile-first experiences.
Solana has been called the “Visa of crypto”, and honestly, the speed comparison isn’t far off.
Quick Comparison: LINK vs. SOL
| Feature | Chainlink (LINK) | Solana (SOL) |
|---|---|---|
| Core Purpose | Real-world data & smart contract oracles | High-speed blockchain for apps |
| Transaction Speed | Depends on the blockchain used | Very high (up to 65,000 TPS) |
| Notable Apps | Aave, Synthetix | Stepn, Magic Eden, Jupiter |
| Average Transaction Fee | Varies by network | Extremely low (~$0.00025) |
| Popularity | Widely used in DeFi | Favored in NFTs & blockchain gaming |
PayPal as the Everyday Crypto On-Ramp
Adding LINK and SOL is a major step toward making crypto feel less intimidating for everyday users. No need for a fancy crypto wallet or navigating through a DEX—just open PayPal or Venmo, and you’re good to go.
With hundreds of millions of users now having easy access to two of the most innovative crypto networks, crypto is inching closer to becoming truly mainstream.
Final Thoughts: A Small Step for PayPal, a Big Win for Crypto Adoption
This update isn’t just good news for PayPal users—it’s great news for the crypto industry at large. The more accessible crypto becomes, the more real-world use cases we’ll see, from buying coffee with SOL to sending LINK for automated financial services.
And who knows? Maybe in a year, splitting the check at brunch with your friends over Venmo using SOL won’t raise any eyebrows at all.
Learn more at:
🔗 PayPal Crypto
🔗 Venmo Crypto
If you’re a PayPal or Venmo user, check your app—your crypto journey with LINK and SOL might just start today!
