Guide: Spending Bitcoin from Self-Custody

Following our previous report on the Bitget Wallet card launch, we are now providing a complete usage guide. As we reported earlier, this payment service is already active in South Africa. Furthermore, the company plans to expand the rollout to other parts of Africa soon. This practical guide acts as a direct addition to our coverage. Specifically, it explains how to spend your assets while maintaining full custody of your private keys.

The Self-Custody Mechanism Explained

In our initial coverage, we highlighted that this new solution prevents you from giving up your private keys. However, maintaining price stability requires a specific process. Users store their Bitcoin securely inside the app’s self-custodial wallet. Right before making a purchase, you swap your Bitcoin to USDC on the Base network. Consequently, your funds remain in your exclusive control until the exact moment of sale.

Step-by-Step Setup Guide

Setting up this system requires a few simple steps to ensure maximum security.

Step 1: Install a Secure Self-Custody Wallet

First, navigate to your official mobile app store on your device. Next, download the official Bitget Wallet application. Open the app and select the option to “Create a New Wallet.” Afterward, choose the Mnemonic or Seed Phrase option. This step ensures that you alone hold the keys to your digital wealth.

Step 2: Secure Your Seed Phrase

Write down your unique seed phrase on a physical piece of paper. Specifically, never store this phrase on any digital device or cloud service. Verify the phrase within the app to complete your secure setup. Consequently, your backup remains safe from online security threats.

Step 3: Manage the Conversion Flow

Deposit your Bitcoin directly into your newly created self-custody wallet. When you want to fund your card, navigate to the swap section. Convert your chosen amount of Bitcoin into USDC on the Base network. Finally, load those digital dollars onto your card for instant real-world merchant spending.

Future Expansion Beyond South Africa

As noted in our previous report, the current rollout serves the South African market. However, Bitget has confirmed subsequent launch plans for West Africa. Specifically, users in Nigeria and Ghana are next in line for this tool. This expansion will bring decentralized spending infrastructure to millions of active Bitcoin users across the region.