What is Crypto GCash and How Does It Work?
Crypto GCash refers to the integration of cryptocurrency services within GCash, the Philippines’ leading mobile wallet. Through partnerships with licensed exchanges like PDAX, GCash allows users to buy, sell, and hold popular cryptocurrencies directly within the app. This seamless integration transforms your GCash wallet into a gateway to digital assets, eliminating complex exchange registrations while leveraging GCash’s 66 million-strong user base and robust financial infrastructure.
How to Buy Cryptocurrency Using GCash
Follow these steps to purchase crypto via GCash:
- Open your GCash app and tap ‘View All’ under Finance services
- Select ‘Crypto’ and complete the one-time verification process
- Choose your preferred cryptocurrency (BTC, ETH, USDT, etc.)
- Enter the PHP amount you wish to invest
- Confirm transaction details and authenticate via MPIN
- Cryptocurrency appears in your GCash Crypto Wallet instantly
Minimum purchase: ₱100. Transactions are processed 24/7 with fees typically under 1%.
Selling Crypto and Withdrawing to GCash
Convert crypto to pesos in minutes:
- Go to ‘Crypto’ section and select ‘Sell’
- Pick the cryptocurrency and amount to liquidate
- Review current market rates and transaction fees
- Confirm sale – funds reflect in GCash wallet immediately
- Withdraw to bank or use for bills, shopping, or cash-in via 170K+ outlets
Top 5 Benefits of Using GCash for Crypto
- Instant Transactions: Buy/sell completes in seconds with 24/7 availability
- Zero Withdrawal Fees: Move pesos from crypto sales to GCash at no cost
- Regulatory Compliance: Operates under BSP guidelines with PDAX’s VASP license
- Beginner-Friendly Interface: Simplified process with no external wallets needed
- Integrated Ecosystem: Use crypto profits for real-world payments instantly
Key Risks and Security Considerations
While convenient, Crypto GCash carries inherent risks:
- Market Volatility: Crypto values can fluctuate over 10% daily
- No Private Keys: GCash custodially holds assets – not ideal for large, long-term holdings
- Transaction Limits: Daily crypto purchase cap of ₱100,000 for verified users
- Phishing Threats: Enable GCash’s two-factor authentication and never share MPIN
Always invest only what you can afford to lose and diversify beyond crypto.
GCash Crypto Alternatives in the Philippines
Other regulated platforms include:
- Coins.ph: Offers more altcoins but higher fees
- Binance P2P: Better rates but requires manual bank transfers
- PDAX Direct: Lower fees for advanced traders
- Moneybees: Physical crypto kiosks for cash transactions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is Crypto GCash legal in the Philippines?
Yes. GCash operates through PDAX, a Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP)-licensed virtual asset service provider under Circular No. 1108.
What cryptocurrencies can I buy on GCash?
Currently supports Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Ripple (XRP), Bitcoin Cash (BCH), and Tether (USDT). More assets may be added.
Are there taxes on GCash crypto profits?
Yes. The BIR requires reporting capital gains exceeding ₱250,000/year. GCash provides transaction history for tax filing.
Can I transfer crypto from GCash to external wallets?
No. The current implementation only supports buying, holding, and selling within GCash’s ecosystem. Withdrawals are peso-only.
What’s the minimum crypto investment via GCash?
₱100 for purchases. Minimum sale amount varies by cryptocurrency.
How long do GCash crypto transactions take?
Purchases and sales settle instantly. Peso withdrawals to banks take 1-3 business days depending on the institution.
Is there customer support for crypto issues?
Yes. Contact GCash Help Center via in-app chat or call 2882 for crypto-related inquiries. Response time is typically under 4 hours.
