Bitcoin Payments Firm Strike Secures New York BitLicense

The New York State Department of Financial Services (NYDFS) has regulated virtual currency businesses through its BitLicense framework since 2015, while companies handling U.S. dollar transfers must also obtain a money transmitter license. Strike, founded by Jack Mallers, focuses on payments using Bitcoin and the Lightning Network but was previously unable to serve New York residents. The two licenses are therefore critical to entering the state’s crypto-financial market.

Strike announced on March 5, 2026, that Zap Solutions, Inc. had received a BitLicense and money transmitter license from NYDFS. Individuals and businesses in New York can now buy, sell and custody Bitcoin, transfer funds and pay bills, with account assets held on a 1:1 basis. Starting April 2, consumer Bitcoin-backed loans will have a minimum of $10,000, while business loans and lines of credit will have a minimum of $5,000.