The difference is actually wider, for example:

* Singapore 3.4% (https://stripe.com/en-sg/pricing)

* US 2.9% (https://stripe.com/pricing)

* Poland 1.4% (https://stripe.com/en-pl/pricing)

(+ some fixed amount in every country)

In some cases it can be even more expensive (see Adyen pricing for Amex or Diners cards: https://www.adyen.com/pricing)

This is a large difference and partially explains why the loyalty programs in Europe are not that attractive

I also kinda feel europeans would find reward programs stupid and call bullshit.

In the sense that someone would readily build a "no reward" chain and get adoption real quick.

I mean there IS reward programs somehow, but it's not like they give you 30% off sometimes like in the US. I always found them outrageous in a way when I was in the US.