Spain’s e-commerce market continues to experience rapid expansion, with digital payments increasingly overtaking cash. By 2025, online shoppers are projected to exceed 40 million, and e-commerce revenue is expected to surpass €75 billion.

That's why we will take a look at the current status of Spanish online payment solutions today.

Market Overview and Consumer Preferences

Growth of Online Shopping

In 2022, e-commerce turnover in Spain reached approximately €67 billion, growing steadily and expected to reach over €75 billion by mid-decade. Consumer adoption is rising, with nearly 40 million digital buyers projected by 2025 (from 32 million in 2022).

Payment Behavior: Card and Wallets

In 2024, 51% of online payments in Spain were made with cards, followed by 26% via other electronic methods such as digital wallets and mobile apps. While physical stores still handle a portion of payments in cash, card, and mobile payments are becoming dominant in online commerce.

Card Usage Dominance

Card payments remain Spain’s most important online payment instrument. In 2024, cards accounted for 62% of payment volume, with nearly 94 million cards in circulation by 2025, averaging two cards per adult.

Digital Wallets and Instant Payments

Digital wallets—including PayPal, Apple Pay, Google Pay, and especially Bizum—constitute a growing share of e-commerce payments. They are forecast to rise steadily thanks to consumer demand for fast, mobile-first checkout. Bizum is particularly prominent for peer-to-peer and retail use. In 2024, it had over 27 million active users and launched Bizum Pay for NFC and e-commerce in 2025.

BNPL Growth

Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) services are also expanding. Spain’s BNPL market is projected to grow at an annual rate of 11.6%, reaching nearly €9 billion by 2025.

Leading E-Commerce Payment Methods in 2025

Credit & Debit Cards

Cards represent over 50% of all online transactions in Spain. They capture the largest share of e-commerce value due to widespread use, high trust levels, and high average basket sizes. Cards are especially preferred for purchases over €50 and in cross-border shopping.

Digital Wallets & Bizum

Digital wallets, including PayPal and mobile-native options, account for approximately 26% of online payments and are experiencing steady growth. Bizum stands out due to its widespread P2P adoption and increasing use in commerce through the newly launched Bizum Pay feature.

Instant Bank Transfers (Bizum in Commerce)

Bizum enables instant, account-to-account bank transfers and is growing rapidly for e-commerce, offering low-friction checkout and seamless integration with Spanish banks.

Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL)

BNPL services like Klarna and local providers are on the rise, especially in high-growth verticals like electronics, fashion, and travel. They provide installment flexibility for consumers and increase average order values for merchants.

SEPA Direct Debit and Recurring Payments

SEPA direct debit remains the leading method for recurring payments such as subscriptions and utilities. It is favored for its automation, predictability, and low fees for domestic services.

European Initiatives & Wero Rollout

Bizum & EuroPA Alliance

In 2025, Bizum joined EuroPA alongside Portugal’s MB WAY and Italy’s Bancomat Pay, enabling cross-border instant payments across Southern Europe. This alliance aims to create an interoperable European payments framework centered on mobile-first experiences.

Wero (EPI Wallet)

Wero is the new European digital wallet developed under the European Payments Initiative (EPI). It is intended to unify and gradually replace local solutions like Bizum, starting in 2025. It includes features such as QR-code-based payments, BNPL support, loyalty programs, and strict EU data compliance. Full rollout in Spain is expected between 2025 and 2026.

Strategic Considerations for Spanish E-Commerce Merchants

Conversion-Optimized Payment Mix

To reduce cart abandonment and optimize conversion rates, merchants should prioritize card acceptance, followed by PayPal, Bizum, and emerging BNPL options. Offering a diverse mix aligned with Spanish user preferences is critical.

Streamlined, Mobile-First Checkout

With mobile commerce on the rise and more than 60% of Spanish users stating they would spend more online if checkout were simpler, merchants must focus on providing frictionless, mobile-optimized experiences. Features like one-click payments, biometric login, and mobile-native wallets are now essential.

Preparing for EU Payment Infrastructure

Merchants should follow developments around Bizum’s integration into EuroPA and the eventual launch of Wero. Ensuring readiness for PSD2/PSD3 compliance and supporting open banking features will help future-proof operations and ensure EU-level competitiveness.

Summary Table: Spain’s E-Commerce Payment Methods 2025

Spain’s e-commerce payment landscape in 2025 is led by credit and debit cards, with digital wallets and Bizum gaining increasing support. Recurring transactions are primarily driven by SEPA direct debit, while BNPL is gaining traction across various retail categories. The introduction of Wero will mark a turning point, offering a unified, EU-native alternative to U.S.-based platforms.

To thrive, merchants must adapt to evolving consumer habits, prioritize mobile-friendly, multi-option payment experiences, and prepare for deeper European integration through platforms like EuroPA and Wero.

The post E-Commerce Payment Landscape in Spain 2025 appeared first on Cross-Border Magazine.

The Netherlands is a digitally advanced e-commerce market, with online retail sales exceeding US$43 billion in 2023, expected to grow to around US$63 billion by 2027. Nearly 40 % of purchases are made via mobile devices, highlighting consumers’ preference for fast and trusted digital payment options.

Today, we want to take a deep look at the Netherlands' current e-commerce payment solutions landscape.

Market Overview and Consumer Preferences

iDEAL Dominance in Dutch Payments

iDEAL, the Dutch bank-transfer-based payment system, processes approximately 60–70 % of all online transactions in the Netherlands. It rose from 69% in Q3 2022 to 73% in Q3 2023, confirming its position as the undisputed market leader in e-commerce payments.

Use of Cards and Digital Wallets

Credit and debit cards are less frequently used by Dutch consumers (approximately 14% of transactions), although they remain essential for international shoppers and higher-value purchases. Digital wallets, such as PayPal, Apple Pay, and Google Pay, account for around 11% of transactions, favored by younger and mobile-first shoppers.

Emergence of BNPL and Open Banking

Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) is gaining traction in the Netherlands. The market is expected to reach approximately US $10.3 billion in 2025, growing at a 14 % annual rate, with providers like Klarna and Riverty expanding their partnerships with local retailers. Meanwhile, open banking and real-time account-to-account (A2A) payments are rising due to faster settlement and reduced reliance on cards.

Leading E‑Commerce Payment Methods in 2025

iDEAL (Bank‑Based Payments)

iDEAL remains the cornerstone of Dutch online checkout, accounting for over 70% of e-commerce transactions. Shoppers authenticate via their own bank’s secure environment, with prefilled payment information and instant confirmation. The integration of iDEAL is crucial for conversions in Dutch webshops.

Credit & Debit Cards

Used for approximately 14 % of transactions, cards (Visa, Mastercard, Maestro, V Pay) are primarily favored by cross-border customers, higher-basket shoppers, and B2B merchants. For domestic Dutch shoppers, iDEAL remains the preferred alternative.

International Wallets (PayPal, Apple Pay, Google Pay)

These digital wallets account for around 11 % usage and help merchants attract international consumers and younger shoppers. They offer speedy checkout and minimal friction, although conversion rates remain highest with local payment methods.

BNPL (Buy Now, Pay Later)

BNPL adoption is on the rise, with consumers drawn to the flexibility and deferred payments offered. Major providers like Klarna and Riverty are expanding in the Netherlands, particularly among shoppers of fashion and electronics.

Open Banking‑Driven Real‑Time Payments

Real-time A2A payments, enabled by open banking frameworks, are emerging as the preferred method for fast, secure, and cost-effective e-commerce transactions—bypassing cards and reducing fees.

European Payments Initiative: Wero Transition

Wero and the Future of Dutch Payments

The European Payments Initiative (EPI) acquired iDEAL in October 2023 and is preparing to transform it into Wero, a pan‑European digital wallet system. Wero is set to gradually replace iDEAL and expand functionality to online shopping, mobile commerce, QR-based checkout, BNPL, loyalty integration, and European data sovereignty features. Full rollout in the Netherlands is expected between 2025 and 2026, following pilot stages in other markets.

Strategic Considerations for Dutch E‑Commerce Merchants

Prioritizing Local Payment Experience

Dutch consumers overwhelmingly prefer local bank-based payments. Offering iDEAL should be non-negotiable. Only after iDEAL should merchants layer in cards, wallets, or BNPL as secondary options.

Mobile Optimization and Checkout Flow

With nearly 40 % of purchases via mobile, checkout experiences must be streamlined, mobile-first, and support bank-based authentication methods like iDEAL. Digital wallets and BNPL are essential for enhancing speed and conversion on mobile devices.

Preparing for Wero and EU Integration

Merchants should stay informed about the Wero rollout, as it will eventually subsume iDEAL. Preparing integration pathways and ensuring compliance with evolving EU payment regulations (PSD2/3 and Strong Customer Authentication) will keep merchants competitive and future-ready.

Summary Table: Netherlands E‑Commerce Payment Methods 2025

In the Netherlands, iDEAL remains indispensable, representing the largest share of e-commerce payments. Cards and international wallets offer supplementary reach, while BNPL and real-time open banking provide modern flexibility. The upcoming Wero platform represents the next-generation EU-compatible payment framework.

Merchants seeking success in the Dutch market should prioritize iDEAL support, optimize for mobile and local preferences, and prepare for Wero-based payment evolution within the coming years.

The post E‑Commerce Payment Landscape in the Netherlands 2025 appeared first on Cross-Border Magazine.

Portugal’s e-commerce market is growing steadily, with an estimated value of US $6.45 billion by 2025, and projected to experience double-digit annual growth through 2030. Smartphones dominate, with over 40% of purchases made via mobile devices, and digital payments accounting for the bulk of transactions.

Market Overview and Consumer Preferences

Payment Method Shares

• Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, etc.) account for approximately 26% of online purchases.
  
• E-wallets account for around 34% of transactions, led by local platforms.
  
• Bank transfers (including Multibanco systems) account for approximately 25%.
  
• Cash payments account for approximately 7%, with other methods making up the remainder.
  

Evolving Mobile and Wallet Trends

Portugal has experienced rapid digital adoption, with daily smartphone use for banking, a surge in wallet-based payments (MB WAY, Multibanco), and a notable increase in P2P activity. Urban areas have achieved mobile wallet penetration rates of 70–90%.

Leading E‑Commerce Payment Methods in Portugal

MB WAY (Portugal’s Leading Digital Wallet)

MB WAY dominates Portuguese e-commerce, accounting for up to 45% of transactions, with over 5 million active users and 9 million monthly purchases. Users authenticate via mobile number and PIN or biometrics. It supports one-click purchases, subscriptions, and fast refunds.

Multibanco / Bank Transfers

Multibanco (via SEPA-based bank transfer) remains widespread and trusted. It accounts for about 25 % of paid transactions, commonly used in combination with MB WAY or as direct bank settlement.

Credit & Debit Cards

Although used by only around 26 % of online shoppers, card payments still represent a major share of purchase volume due to higher average basket sizes. Cards remain essential for international customer reach.

International E‑Wallets (PayPal, Apple Pay, Google Pay)

While local wallets lead, international digital wallets, such as PayPal, Google Pay, and Apple Pay, are increasingly supported by Portuguese merchants to meet cross-border consumer demand.

European Initiatives & Interoperability Payments in Portugal

EuroPA (European Payments Alliance)

Portugal’s SIBS (MB WAY operator) joined forces with Italy’s Bancomat Pay and Spain’s Bizum to form EuroPA, enabling cross-border instant mobile payments in the Iberian region. Live as of March 2025, with plans to expand to 15 countries via partnership with the European Payments Initiative (EPI).

Wero (EPI Wallet Rollout)

Wero, the pan-European digital wallet by EPI, launched in mid-2024 with plans to add Portugal during 2025–2026. It will support instant account-to-account transfers using QR codes, BNPL, loyalty features, and EU data sovereignty. Wero and EuroPA collaboration was formally announced in June 2025.

Strategic Considerations for Portuguese E‑Commerce Merchants

Offering a Balanced Payment Mix

To minimize cart abandonment and maximize conversions, merchants should support MB WAY, Multibanco transfers, credit/debit cards, and international wallets—all preferred by different consumer segments.

Prioritizing Mobile-First Checkout

With mobile e-commerce accounting for the majority of online transactions in Portugal, checkout experiences must be wallet-optimized, streamlined, and support biometric/mobile authentication.

Planning for EU-driven Innovation

Merchants should prepare for integration of Wero and interoperability via EuroPA/EPI, aligning with PSD2/PSD3 regulations and leveraging EU-controlled payment infrastructure for future-proofing operations.

Summary Table: Portugal’s E‑Commerce Payment Methods 2025

Portugal’s e-commerce payment landscape in 2025 is heavily shaped by local digital wallets (MB WAY) and bank transfer infrastructure (Multibanco), while credit cards and international wallets support a broader range of consumer segments. Key developments, such as EuroPA interoperability and the forthcoming Wero wallet, signal a shift toward a European-controlled payments ecosystem.

To maximize conversion and future readiness, merchants should integrate a balanced mix of mobile-first, local, and pan-European payment options, aligned with evolving EU regulatory and technological trends.

The post E‑Commerce Payment Landscape in Portugal 2025 appeared first on Cross-Border Magazine.

Italy’s e-commerce market is rapidly growing—estimated at US $56 billion (≈ €52 billion) in 2025 and expected to reach approximately US $82 billion by 2027. As consumer behavior shifts toward digital, offering the right mix of payment methods is essential for enhancing trust and conversion.

That's why we will review the current landscape and leading players in the Italian online payment solutions market today.

Market Overview and Consumer Preferences

Payment Shares & Trends

• Credit and debit cards account for around 31–33% of online transactions, often leading in terms of transaction value.
  
• Digital wallets—including PayPal, PostePay, Amazon Pay, and Google Pay—account for ≈ approximately 35 % of online payments and are especially preferred for low-value orders.
  
• Bank transfers (e.g. SEPA, MyBank) contribute roughly 13 %, while cash on delivery still persists at about 4 %.
  

Payment Providers & Local Preferences

• PostePay, Italy’s national postal service prepaid card, is used by around 35% of consumers, often chosen over credit cards due to its convenience and security.
  
• PayPal remains widely trusted across purchase types—from subscriptions to retail—thanks to its buyer protection and flexibility in payment sources.
  

Leading E‑Commerce Payment Methods in 2025

Credit and Debit Cards

Credit/debit card transactions (Visa, Mastercard, local schemes) hold the largest share of e-commerce payment volume (≈ 31–33 %). Local card schemes are particularly significant, accounting for nearly 45% of card usage in some reports.

Digital Wallets (PayPal, PostePay, Amazon Pay, Google Pay)

Digital wallets account for approximately 35% of online payments in Italy. PayPal leads, followed by PostePay, Amazon Pay, and Google Pay.

PostePay

Issued by Poste Italiane, PostePay is deeply integrated with Italian e-commerce preferences and frequently used among younger or card-averse consumers.

Bank Transfers (SEPA, MyBank)

Account-to-account methods, such as SEPA transfers and MyBank (a bank-based online payment method), account for about 13% of transactions. These methods appeal to consumers favoring direct bank settlement.

Bancomat Pay

Bancomat Pay, Italy’s domestic debit card–based wallet, is gaining traction—especially after partnerships like the one with Amazon Italy, which enables checkout via Bancomat Pay cards.

Mobile Tap‑to‑Pay (Apple Tap to Pay, etc.)

In 2024, Nexi, Stripe, and Adyen launched Apple Tap to Pay services in Italy, enabling merchants to accept contactless NFC payments via iPhones—ideal for small shops without dedicated hardware.

European Initiatives: Wero & EuroPA

Wero (European Payments Initiative)

Wero, the new EU-wide digital wallet by the European Payments Initiative (EPI), was launched in mid-2024 and is expected to extend online payment functionality into 2025–2026. Italian merchants using Wero via Nexi will soon offer QR, installment, and BNPL features fully integrated into the European instant payment infrastructure.

EuroPA (European Payments Alliance)

Italy’s Bancomat, Spain’s Bizum, and Portugal’s SIBS created EuroPA to enable cross-border instant mobile payments across Southern Europe. By March 2025, instant transactions were live, and EPI–EuroPA collaboration was established to expand interoperability across 15 countries.

Strategic Considerations for Italian E‑Commerce Merchants

Optimizing Payment Mix for Conversion

Integrating local options, such as PostePay, Bancomat Pay, and SEPA transfers, alongside international methods (PayPal, cards), reduces abandonment and builds local trust.

Emphasizing Mobile-First Experience

With mobile accounting for around 40 % of Italian e-commerce, and mobile payments growing by 61% in 2024, merchants should prioritize NFC contactless options and wallet integrations for smoother checkout.

Preparing for European Innovation and Regulation

Merchants should monitor PSD2/3 compliance, SCA updates, and EU initiatives like Wero and EuroPA as they evolve through 2025, offering more EU-centric and sovereign payment infrastructure.

Summary Table: Italy’s E‑Commerce Payment Methods 2025

In Italy’s dynamic 2025 e-commerce ecosystem, there’s no one-size-fits-all payment solution. Cards and digital wallets dominate, but local favorites like PostePay and Bancomat Pay are essential for domestic appeal. Bank transfers remain a reliable option for consumers seeking direct and secure transactions.

Meanwhile, emerging platforms like Wero and EuroPA signal a broader move toward European-controlled, interoperable payments.

For merchants, success depends on offering a balanced mix of traditional, local, and modern methods—meeting Italian consumer preferences while preparing for pan-European payment innovation.

The post E‑Commerce Payment Landscape in Italy 2025 appeared first on Cross-Border Magazine.

Mobile payment adoption across the EU continues to accelerate. A recent OECD-supported study indicates that up to 59% of e‑commerce transactions in selected European countries are already executed through digital payments, with projections reaching 75% by 2030.

According to Mordor Intelligence, the European mobile payments market is expected to grow from USD 136.45 billion in 2025 to nearly USD 476.25 billion by 2030, with a 28.4% CAGR. In mobile commerce applications, retail and e‑commerce already contribute more than 35% of market value.

Regional Differences and Adoption Trends

Western Europe Leads in Mobile Wallet Usage

In countries such as the UK, Germany, and France, digital wallets are used by over 20% of consumers every week as of 2024. The Netherlands stands out, with more than 80% of consumers using Pay-by-Bank options monthly for online purchases.

Eastern Europe Showing Rapid Growth

In Eastern European markets like Poland, Romania, and Turkey, digital wallet adoption is growing steadily. However, card-based transactions still dominate. In Turkey, for instance, 65% of online transactions were card-based in 2023, though contactless and mobile options are expanding.

Emerging Infrastructure: Wero and EuroPA

Wero Launches Across Key Markets

Wero, the digital wallet by the European Payments Initiative (EPI), launched in Germany in July 2024 and is expanding to France and Belgium. Support for online commerce began rolling out in mid-2025—major banks and payment providers, including Worldline and Nuvei, back the wallet.

EuroPA Enables Cross-Border Mobile Payments

The European Payments Alliance (EuroPA) is a coalition of national payment schemes like Bizum, Bancomat, and MB Way, aimed at creating a cross-border instant payment network. Since early 2025, it has expanded into Slovakia, Norway, Greece, and Poland, offering seamless mobile transactions across regions.

Consumer and Merchant Benefits

Mobile payments offer fast, secure, and user-friendly checkout experiences. According to OECD data, point-of-sale mobile payments in the EU rose from €4 billion in 2017 to €195 billion in 2022, accounting for 21% of all POS value—with forecasts predicting 36% by 2030.

Merchants benefit from faster settlement, lower processing costs, and reduced fraud. Regulatory support under PSD2 and open banking fosters competition, enabling alternatives to high-fee card networks through instant account-to-account payment rails.

Barriers and Strategic Outlook

Despite rising adoption, cards still dominate e‑commerce in many EU markets, particularly in the east. Full online functionality for new wallets, such as Wero, is still being rolled out as of mid-2025. Legacy schemes such as iDEAL, Paylib, and Payconiq will be phased out gradually by 2027.

A significant milestone was reached in June 2025, when the EPI and EuroPA announced plans to unify under a single, interoperable EU payment framework, covering up to 15 countries and over 380 million consumers. This initiative aims to strengthen EU payment sovereignty and reduce reliance on US-based networks.

Summary of Key Metrics

Mobile Payment Statistics in the EU

• 59% of e‑commerce payments are already digital; 75% expected by 2030
  
• Europe mobile payments market projected to grow from USD 136B to 476B (2025–2030)
  
• Over 20% of consumers in Western Europe use wallets weekly
  
• Netherlands sees 80%+ monthly usage of Pay-by-Bank options
  
• POS mobile payments rose from €4B to €195B (2017–2022); 36% POS share by 2030
  

Strategic Recommendations for E‑Commerce Merchants

Integrate Wallets and Instant Bank Payments

E‑commerce businesses should integrate leading mobile wallet solutions such as Bizum, MB Way, Bancomat, and Wero as they become available in their respective markets. Offering Pay-by-Bank options can also reduce transaction fees and meet consumer demand.

Prepare for Cross-Border Mobile Commerce

With EuroPA and Wero expanding across multiple EU countries, merchants should prepare for increased cross-border wallet interoperability. Supporting seamless mobile payment experiences for users across different EU markets will be critical to retaining customers.

Monitor Regulation and Infrastructure Evolution

Merchants should stay updated on EU regulatory developments, such as PSD2 updates or new digital ID initiatives, that may impact payment flows. Embracing these technologies early will position businesses ahead of competitors.

Mobile payments are reshaping the future of e‑commerce across the EU. Driven by consumer demand, wallet innovation, and coordinated EU initiatives like Wero and EuroPA, the region is on the path to creating an integrated, sovereign digital payment infrastructure. Businesses that act now to adopt mobile-first strategies, support instant bank transfers, and stay abreast of the evolution of EU-led solutions will be well-equipped to thrive in the coming decade.

The post Mobile Payments in the EU represent 59% of all E-commerce Transactions appeared first on Cross-Border Magazine.

More than 50 years ago, BBVA introduced the first bank card in Spain, revolutionizing how people paid for goods and services. This milestone marked the beginning of a transformation that would eventually make card payments the most common form of transaction in daily life. But the payments landscape is shifting again, and instant payment solutions are leading the charge.

The Rise of Card Payments: A Legacy of Innovation

In the early days, payment cards were a novelty—an alternative to cash promoted by banks through growing networks of ATMs, merchant agreements, and digital platforms. Over time, cards symbolized convenience, security, and global reach, becoming integral to modern commerce.

Yet the same banks that introduced card technology are now driving a new evolution in payments—one that favors real-time, low-cost digital transfers over traditional card-based systems.

Instant Transfers: The New Standard in European Payments

What Are Instant Payment Solutions?

Instant payments are digital transactions that move money between bank accounts within seconds, 24/7. Unlike cards, these solutions eliminate intermediaries, offering direct, secure, and cost-effective alternatives that align with the European Union's goals for digital sovereignty.

Bizum: Spain’s Leading Example

In Spain, Bizum has become a household name. Backed by a consortium of Spanish banks, Bizum has:

• 28+ million users
  
• 3.4 billion transactions
  
• 80,000+ participating merchants
  

Initially launched as a peer-to-peer (P2P) transfer service, Bizum now supports online purchases, in-store QR code payments, NGO donations, and identity verification. With plans to incorporate NFC technology, Bizum is poised to cover the full spectrum of digital payments.

Beyond Spain: Interoperability Across Europe

Spain is not alone. Italy’s Bancomat Pay and Portugal’s MB Way have followed similar paths. Recently, these three services signed an interoperability agreement allowing users to make instant payments across borders with a mobile phone—no foreign platforms are needed.

The Push for European Payment Autonomy

Why Interoperability Matters

Although each domestic payment solution was designed for local needs, its long-term success depends on pan-European compatibility. A Bizum user should be able to pay a merchant in Italy using Bancomat Pay, and vice versa. This vision is driving technological and regulatory efforts at the European level.

Support from European Institutions

The European Commission and the European Central Bank (ECB) have strongly advocated for homegrown payment solutions as an alternative to international card networks. Their economic and strategic motivation is ensuring Europe’s control over its financial infrastructure and monetary policy.

Initiatives such as PSD3 (the new Payment Services Directive) and SEPA Instant Credit Transfer (SCT Inst), which enables real-time euro transfers across the eurozone, are laying the groundwork for this interoperable payment ecosystem.

The Digital Euro: A Public Alternative for the Digital Age

The upcoming digital euro represents the next significant shift. Currently in development by the ECB, this central bank digital currency (CBDC) aims to serve as a digital complement to cash, ensuring privacy, accessibility, and financial autonomy in an increasingly cashless world.

Role of Instant Payment Platforms

Platforms like Bizum are well-positioned to serve as distribution channels for the digital euro. They already:

• Operate under European regulations
  
• Offer real-time bank-authenticated payments
  
• Have high levels of user trust
  
• Provide proven technical infrastructure
  

This makes them ideal for integrating and distributing the digital euro in a secure, scalable, and inclusive way.

A New Payment Paradigm: Mobile, Fast, and Merchant-Friendly

Today’s consumers and merchants demand more than just convenience. They expect mobile-friendly, private, and efficient payment systems. Instant transfers outperform traditional cards in many ways:

• Lower and more transparent costs
  
• Fewer intermediaries
  
• Faster settlement
  
• Bank-to-bank relationships
  

This benefits merchants, who gain more predictable fees, and consumers, who enjoy seamless, real-time transactions.

The Road Ahead: Toward a Unified, Sovereign European Payments System

The journey that began with BBVA’s first card is coming full circle. Once again, banks are leading innovation, this time with digital tools designed for a connected, sovereign, and user-centric Europe.

National solutions like Bizum, Bancomat Pay, and MB Way are not isolated successes—they are the foundation of a new interoperable ecosystem. With support from European institutions, integration with the digital euro, and strong merchant and user adoption, these platforms are shaping the future of payments in Europe.

Will Instant Transfers Replace Cards?

The final decision doesn’t lie with regulators or banks—it lies with users and merchants. As they gravitate toward instant, secure, and cost-effective alternatives, the role of cards may gradually diminish. What’s clear is that instant payment solutions, once just a supplement, are becoming central to Europe’s digital financial future.

The post From Cards to Instant Payments: The Future of European Transactions appeared first on Cross-Border Magazine.

Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) services have revolutionized the European e-commerce sector, offering consumers flexible payment options and driving increased sales for merchants. As of 2025, BNPL has become a mainstream financial tool, particularly among younger demographics seeking alternatives to traditional credit.

Market Overview: BNPL's Explosive Growth

The European BNPL market has experienced significant growth:

• Market Size: In 2024, BNPL payments in Europe reached $167 billion, marking a 15.2% year-over-year increase. Projections estimate this figure will rise to $191.3 billion in 2025.
  
• Growth Rate: The BNPL sector is expected to maintain a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 10.1% from 2024 to 2029, indicating sustained expansion.
  
• Consumer Adoption: Approximately 68% of European consumers have utilized BNPL services, with 40% using them frequently.
  

Leading BNPL Providers in Europe

Several key players dominate the European BNPL landscape:

• Klarna: Headquartered in Sweden, Klarna is a leading BNPL provider with a presence in 26 countries and over 93 million users. The company offers a range of payment solutions, including interest-free installments and direct payments.
  
• Afterpay (Riverty): In Europe, Afterpay operates under Riverty. It provides BNPL services across multiple European markets, focusing on seamless integration with online retailers.
  
• PayPal Pay Later: Leveraging its extensive user base, PayPal offers BNPL options that are widely accepted by merchants, enhancing consumer flexibility at checkout.
  
• Scalapay: An Italian fintech company, Scalapay specializes in BNPL services for fashion and lifestyle products and partners with numerous European retailers.
  
• Alma: Based in France, Alma offers customizable payment plans and BNPL solutions for small and medium-sized businesses.

Main Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) providers operating in Europe:

Notes:

• Klarna processed $105 billion in Gross Merchandise Volume (GMV) in 2024, with 93 million active users and partnerships with 675,000 merchants .(research.contrary.com)
• Afterpay handled $27.3 billion in global payments in 2023, serving 24 million users worldwide. It operates under the name "Clearpay" in some European markets .(en.wikipedia.org)
• PayPal Pay Later has a significant user base in Europe, with 137.7 million users in Germany and 56.2 million in the UK as of 2024 .(oberlo.com)
• Scalapay achieved approximately €1 billion in annual financing volume across Southern Europe, with over 5 million users .(blog.scalapay.com)
• Alma reported over €1 billion in annual transaction volume and is a leading BNPL provider in France, expanding its presence across Europe .(fintechnews.ch)

Product Categories Popular with BNPL

BNPL services are predominantly used for the following product categories:

• Fashion and Apparel: Clothing and accessories are the most common purchases made using BNPL, appealing to consumers seeking to manage budgets without delaying gratification.
  
• Electronics: High-ticket items like smartphones, laptops, and gaming consoles are frequently financed through BNPL options.
  
• Home Goods and Furniture: Consumers utilize BNPL to spread the cost of home improvements and furnishings over manageable installments.
  
• Travel and Experiences: An emerging trend shows consumers using BNPL for booking travel and leisure activities, indicating diversification in BNPL usage.
  

Regulatory Landscape: Ensuring Consumer Protection

The rapid expansion of BNPL services has prompted regulatory scrutiny to safeguard consumers:

• European Union Initiatives: The EU is set to implement regulations classifying BNPL as consumer credit by 2026, mandating creditworthiness assessments and more precise terms to prevent over-indebtedness.
  
• Germany's Approach: Starting in 2024, Germany requires credit checks for BNPL transactions, even for amounts under €200, to mitigate consumers' financial risks.
  
• United Kingdom Measures: The UK government plans to bring BNPL providers under the Financial Conduct Authority's oversight, enforcing stricter lending standards and transparency.
  

BNPL services have become integral to the European e-commerce ecosystem, offering consumers flexible payment options and driving merchants' sales. As the market grows, regulatory frameworks are evolving to ensure responsible lending practices. Businesses and consumers should stay informed about these changes to navigate the BNPL landscape effectively.

The post Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) in European E-Commerce: A 2025 Market Deep Dive appeared first on Cross-Border Magazine.

Visa wants to expand its reach in payment flows beyond the traditional domain of its card network. The largest card network in the United States is preparing to offer A2A services in the UK in early 2025. As Visa CEO Ryan McInerney stated during the web broadcast of the company's first fiscal quarter results, this service will also reach other parts of Europe and other countries.

Initially, Visa will focus its A2A offering on bill payments for merchants and consumers, a segment where it has identified growing demand. However, the company plans to progressively expand the service to include direct transfers between bank accounts, thus optimizing the payment experience for its customers.

Account-to-account (A2A) payments allow direct transfers from the payer's bank account to the merchant or supplier without intermediaries such as credit or debit cards. Also known as “payment by bank,” these methods are beautiful to merchants as they eliminate card interchange fees.

A2A Payments are growing 

According to Statista, A2A payments are expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 14% between 2023 and 2027, consolidating their position as a key payment alternative in the coming years. This boom has led companies such as Visa to diversify their services, seeking new opportunities as the card market in the US and other regions matures.

In this context, Visa has announced that it will implement its bank payments service in the US once it has consolidated its European presence. The European strategy relies on Tink, the open banking fintech acquired by Visa in 2022, facilitating money movement between banks, merchants, and fintechs.

However, Visa faces growing competition in the A2A sector, especially in markets such as the US and Latin America, where other digital payment players are expanding their solutions. In Europe, the growth of these services has been more moderate, as card processing costs are significantly lower. As a result, A2A payments have focused on specific segments, such as high-risk businesses, high-value transactions, and recurring fees.

The post Visa opens its A2A service in the UK appeared first on Cross-Border Magazine.

As global tourism moves from a year of recovery to a year of growth in 2025, merchants around the world are turning to Alipay+, Ant International's cross-border mobile payment and digitization solution, to improve payments, loyalty programs, and the development of digital services, to better attract and welcome tourists for Chinese New Year, the first significant travel peak season of the year.  

Alipay+ has over 35 international payment partners, connecting its 1.6 billion user accounts with over 90 million merchants in 66 markets. Alipay+ has recently enabled the acceptance of new partners, such as Kaspi.kz (Kazakhstan) and BigPay (Malaysia, Singapore and Thailand), connecting even more users with their businesses worldwide.

“Tourism plays an increasingly important role in local economies and accelerates the growth of merchants in all sectors, but companies must adapt to new digital habits and preferences," said Douglas Feagin, president of Ant International.

“Starting with mobile payments, Alipay+ offers merchants a range of solutions to connect better, engage and retain customers as travelers become more demanding in taking advantage of technology while traveling. We will continue to offer more innovative ways for businesses to transform and benefit from the growth of tourism,” adds Feagin.

Alipay+ partners launch exclusive Chinese New Year campaigns 

Around the world, Alipay+ and its commercial partners are jointly presenting promotions for users of Alipay+ payment partners, in anticipation of this tremendous seasonal surge in travel. 

Together with Alipay+, major retailers such as Resorts World Sentosa, Marina Bay Sands, Central Retail, King Power, Pavilion KL, Lotte World, Olive Young, Daimaru, Printemps, Galeries Lafayette, airport duty-free shops and more, through more than one hundred thousand shops, are driving engagement in-store and in the app with enhanced rewards.

Spain: During the Chinese New Year celebrations, tourists using Alipay+ will be able to enjoy various promotions and discount options in Spain. For example, visitors to Casa Batlló in Barcelona will be able to benefit from exclusive discounts on the purchase of tickets and souvenirs when paying with Alipay+. In addition, Alipay+ users in Spain will receive a random discount of up to 5 EUR on their first 10 purchases made at IVS vending machines, enhancing their travel experience with convenient payment options.

Europe: in popular European destinations such as the UK, France, Germany and Italy, users of Alipay+ payment partners can enjoy discounts at shops, restaurants and points of interest.

China: travelers can use Alipay or 13 international payment applications to make payments conveniently and easily. In addition, users of AlipayHK, Mpay, Touch 'n Go eWallet, TrueMoney and GCash can access promotional packages in more than 100 Cozy Consumption Zones in major cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, and Chengdu, among others, with special discounts for merchants. The International Consumer-Friendly Zones program expands bilingual assistance, offers user guides, and reinforces training for businesses to provide a more welcoming experience to travelers.

South Korea: Alipay+ is accepted by more than 2 million businesses, including all those that accept ZeroPay. Users can enjoy tiered discounts at selected merchants. In Seoul, users can also look forward to additional benefits, including at Lotte World and select stores in Myeongdong, Dongdaemun, and Seongsu district. To make getting around easier, the NAMANE x Alipay+ Transit Pass Card has recently been launched, which can be used on buses and subways across the country.

Japan: Alipay+ connects to more than 3 million merchants across the country, including izakayas, wagashi shops, snack shops, hostels, leading retailers, health and beauty shops and attractions such as Tokyo SKYTREE, Tokyo Solamachi and Tokyo mizumachi.

Southeast Asia: Alipay+ is widely accepted, including through DuitNow in Malaysia and SGQR in Singapore, and local transportation options such as trains in Malaysia and Thailand or taxis in Singapore. In the Philippines, Alipay+ welcomes SM Malls, the largest chain of stores in the Philippines and a cornerstone of Filipino lifestyle culture, and Hennan Resort, a top hotel brand with 10 resorts in Boracay and Bohol. Users can expect special promotions at major retailers such as Pavilion KL, Central Retail in Thailand and Resorts World Sentosa in Singapore, along with domestic vouchers to use at any local merchant that accepts Alipay+.

Middle East: users of payment partner Alipay+ will enjoy discounts at all Alipay+ merchants in the region and increased rewards at duty-free shops in major airports in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Istanbul.

Unified solution for merchants to attract travelers with digital and payment services

Travelers can use their preferred payment app, including e-wallets, banking apps, and BNPL, to pay seamlessly at online and offline merchants throughout their trip, from OTAs, airlines, and hotels to street vendors, restaurants, shopping malls, attractions, transportation ,and more. 

More than 90% of Alipay+ merchants are micro-enterprises, which boosts the growth of these small businesses by accepting multiple international payment applications while allowing users to travel like locals. 

Alipay+ is accepted in offline shops in the main destinations in Asia, Europe, and the Middle East, covering a wide range of travel scenarios. In the case of Europe, Alipay+ continues to increase its acceptance in Europe, with more than 400,000 shops and supports interoperable payments through Bluecode. 

Alipay+ offers a range of other services

It is also worth noting that Alipay+ offers app development solutions so that users of its payment partners can access a range of services, such as booking tickets for tourist visits, road transport, and tax refunds, directly from the application, saving them the hassle of downloading additional applications or spending time on physical processes. 

In this sense, before the Chinese New Year, the Geneva Tourism Office is taking advantage of Alipay+'s mini-programs solution to launch a hub integrated into certain banking applications and e-wallets to help tourists navigate, book attractions, and enhance their travel experience in Switzerland.

For its part, Antom, Ant International's payment and digitalization service provider for merchants, Alipay+, also connects the main Asian e-wallets with online travel platforms, most recently with AirAsia MOVE and Booking.com, simplifying the overall payment process for Asian travelers looking for a getaway this Chinese New Year and beyond.

Finally, through A+Rewards, an in-app destination marketing platform, merchants and tourist offices can directly engage with travelers, showcasing each destination's best dining, attractions, and shopping and offering exclusive promotions to attract more customers.

The post Alipay+ aims to provide payment solutions for over 90 million stores globally appeared first on Cross-Border Magazine.

Morgan Stanley-backed payments company Sokin has acquired Norwegian fintech company Settle Group AS (Settle) to enhance its technology capabilities and offers, including its flagship product, Sokin Pay. The purchase comes months after Sokin received $31 million from Morgan Stanley Expansion Capital.

Sokin CEO and founder Vroon Modgill highlighted the acquisition's strategic importance: "The acquisition of Settle is a turning point for Sokin, as it will allow us to unlock new technology capabilities and expand our presence in key markets. It is a fascinating time for us as a company. We anticipate this will be the first in a series of acquisitions following a recent investment that has accelerated our growth. We aim to deliver market-leading value, an unrivaled proposition, and become the trusted partner for businesses on the global stage."

Settle aims to be a global payment solution

Settle, a payments solution launched in 2010, is an app-based platform that enables consumers and businesses to send and receive money instantly, domestically and internationally. Available in all European Union countries, Settle is positioned as an agile and efficient tool for managing transactions.

Through the acquisition, Sokin gains access to Settle's European EMI license. This license will strengthen their market presence and open up new regional growth opportunities.

Founded in 2019, Sokin offers a platform that enables global businesses to transfer, hold, and exchange over 100 currencies through multi-currency IBANs and local currency accounts. It currently operates at a transaction rate of more than $4.5 billion annually, and its representatives say they anticipate further growth. Sokin integrates with companies in a wide range of verticals, from transportation and logistics to Premier League soccer clubs.

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