Hi there wolf one! let me answer your question one by another.
I wonder what is the future of bitcoin and other virtual currencies?
The future is bright and green ahead, several companies are now considering crypto as a payment in their payment and services.
Daily consumer payment to replace credit card?
I think it is very far from replacing credit card, because some prefer to sell their bitcoin and the payment go straight to their card and those who are willing to buy crypto mostly use their credit card.
Replace international cash payment?
International cash payment could, because transaction fee and the transaction speed is way faster and cheaper using crpto.
Replace short-term bank deposits?
I could be, I even prefer to open a new wallet rather than opening a new account in a bank.
The future of bitcoin and other virtual currencies is to choose low cost, privacy or decentralization?
Yes, some are right but the privacy could be a debate, transaction are publicly viewable but the owner is hard to be trace.
When a dispute arises, is the Bitcoin service provider protecting the seller or the buyer?
The prefer to protect their self first not even the seller or the buyer. I can't state the issue but a couple of google search and you could find what I am talking to.