For those seeking to acquire cryptocurrency without creating an account on a centralized exchange, converting Amazon gift cards to Bitcoin Cash (BCH) offers a practical path. Purse.io provides a streamlined solution by connecting crypto shoppers (who want to spend BCH) with gift card holders (who want to convert their cards into digital currency).
How Purse.io Works
On Purse.io, you can act as an "Earner" — you don't need to physically send gift cards; instead, you fulfill Amazon orders for shoppers. The process is simple: the shopper deposits the required BCH into an escrow held by the platform. You use your Amazon gift card balance to place the order on the shopper's behalf. Once the platform confirms delivery, the BCH is released to you. According to statistics published on the site, Purse.io facilitated more than 300,000 orders in 2018, with an average discount of 18% — meaning shoppers are willing to sell their gift card value at a discount, providing an arbitrage opportunity for Earners.
Key Considerations and Risks
This model essentially trades time for a discount. You must front the gift card value and wait for delivery confirmation before receiving BCH, exposing you to price volatility during the holding period. However, because the platform holds funds in escrow, counterparty risk is reduced. It's best suited for those with unneeded Amazon gift cards who can tolerate a few days' delay. Note that some orders require an Amazon Prime membership or specific shipping addresses; check your Amazon account compatibility beforehand.
Alternative: Local.Bitcoin.com
If you prefer a decentralized approach, Local.Bitcoin.com offers a peer-to-peer marketplace focused on privacy. Users can negotiate directly with sellers on payment methods, including gift card exchanges. The platform requires no KYC, but trades are not escrowed — you must assess the seller's reputation independently. Compared to Purse.io, Local.Bitcoin.com provides greater flexibility and anonymity but carries a higher risk of fraud.
Conclusion
Whether through Purse.io's order-fulfillment model or Local.Bitcoin.com's peer-to-peer marketplace, converting Amazon gift cards to Bitcoin Cash is achievable without a centralized exchange. Choose based on your risk tolerance and the amount of gift card credit. Beginners should start with small amounts to understand the process. Always remember that cryptocurrency markets are volatile — the discount you earn may not fully offset a price drop, so plan your trades carefully.