Xapo becomes the first bank to integrate the lightning network

Xapo Bank, a Gibraltar-licensed private bank and Bitcoin custodian, integrated the Bitcoin-based Lightning Network to enhance its services. This integration allows Xapo Bank users to instantly pay for small purchases of up to $100 at any vendor accepting Lightning payments, without high transaction fees or long blockchain confirmation times.

 The partnership with Lightspark aims to bridge the gap between traditional finance and bitcoin, offering interest-bearing USD accounts and soon, up to 1% interest on Bitcoin. This move is part of Xapo’s long-term plan to provide alternative banking services in emerging market countries.