Investing in crypto becomes easy as Shakepay becomes Payments Canada member

Shakepay, a Montreal-based cryptocurrency platform, has achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first crypto-native company to be granted membership with Payments Canada. This development positions Shakepay as a key player in Canada's financial ecosystem, allowing it to access the country's core payment infrastructure, including the forthcoming Real-Time Rail (RTR) system.

Also read: How Mark Carney’s rise will affect Canada’s crypto industry

A historic achievement for Shakepay

Founded in 2015 by Jean Amiouny and Roy Breidi, Shakepay initially offered a Bitcoin-loadable Visa card for retail purchases. Recognizing the need for a more comprehensive crypto platform, the company transitioned into a full-fledged crypto exchange, enabling Canadians to buy, sell, and earn Bitcoin. Today, Shakepay serves over one million users across Canada.


The company's journey towards Payments Canada membership began with obtaining investment dealer status from the Canadian Investment Regulatory Organization (CIRO) in early 2025, a process that took over two years. This status was essential for Shakepay to qualify for Payments Canada membership.

Implications of Membership

As a member of Payments Canada, Shakepay gains the ability to apply for direct access to the country's payment systems, including the Real-Time Rail. This access will enable Shakepay to offer faster, more reliable payment options to its customers, reducing reliance on third-party intermediaries. However, it's important to note that this membership pertains only to Shakepay's Canadian dollar products and does not extend to cryptocurrency transactions.

Shakepay's membership also provides the company with a platform to advocate for changes within Canada's payment infrastructure, aligning itself with major financial institutions in the country.

Also read: Crypto prices today: Bitcoin falls below $94k ahead of Fed decision

Regulatory standing and future prospects

In addition to Payments Canada membership, Shakepay is registered with FINTRAC, Canada's financial intelligence and anti-money laundering agency, as a money service business. This dual regulatory standing enhances Shakepay's credibility and positions it for future growth in the evolving fintech landscape.

Looking ahead, Shakepay plans to expand its offerings to include services such as bill payments, direct deposits, and e-transfers, further integrating cryptocurrency into Canada's financial mainstream.

Shakepay's achievement underscores the growing acceptance and integration of cryptocurrency within traditional financial systems in Canada. As the company continues to innovate and expand its services, it remains at the forefront of the fintech revolution in the country.