Cross-border Payments
The bridge to world commerce is modernizing.
Cross-border Payments (CBPs) are transactions where the payers and recipients are located in different countries. These transactions can occur between companies, financial institutions, and individuals.
The various types of cross-border transactions are Business to Business (B2B); Business to Consumer (B2C), e.g. wage, commissions; Consumer to Business (C2B), e.g. eCommerce, tourism spend; and Consumer to Consumer (C2C), e.g. remittance. The common challenges associated with CBPs are limited access, low speed, lack of transparency, and high costs. Making CBPs faster, cheaper, more transparent and inclusive, and more widely available around the globe is paramount as the world economy becomes more connected. This will require worldwide cooperation amongst countries and their financial institutions. The G20 made this a priority in 2020 and we are already seeing improvements to cost, speed, transparency and access due to their efforts.
Traditionally, correspondent banks, banks that handle transactions involving multiple currencies, and intermediary banks, banks that handle transactions involving a single currency, have been the primary players in cross-border transactions. As emerging technology advances, new players are making their way into the CBPs ecosystem and improving the existing payments rails.
Trends are Increasing Demand for a More Connected & Efficient International Payments System
Due to the influx of new providers, increased competition is upping the ante for an eCommerce experience that is more connected, intuitive, fast, and secure. Smart phones and alternative payment methods (APMs) have created new demands of which the banking system has struggled to keep pace.
-
Popular APMs: digital wallets, bank transfers, cryptocurrency, buy now pay later (BNPL). Mobile wallets and e-payments are seeing record growth.
Emerging markets are thriving, most notably in Latin America (LATAM), APAC (Asia-Pacific), Eastern Europe, and Africa.
.png)
CBP Specialists
These providers deal directly with the senders and the receivers of payments. Digital money transfer, domestic and international, is the core of their business. They have direct banking relationships and net payment flow among the sending and receiving countries.
In many emerging markets, setting up an international bank account number (IBAN) can be difficult due to government controls and regulations, and unreliable payment methods. As a result, many digital money transfer operators turn to back-end networks.
Back-End Networks
These providers deal indirectly with senders and receivers by partnering with their local bank or APM/digital wallet provider.
Through these partnerships, back-end networks have optimized cross-border payments, and enabled synergy between payment methods. They give senders more options and efficiencies to deliver payments to the receiver.
HOW WE CAN HELP
Expert CBPs Guidance
Strategy
We possess a thorough understanding of the CBPs market, including the initiatives providers are undertaking to address pain points and drive innovation. Our expertise will guide you in comprehending the available options and technology, refining your CBPs strategy with precision.
Vendor Assessment & Selection
Every CBPs provider offers a distinct set of competitive advantages and access. We take the time to understand your unique requirements and use cases, allowing us to offer insights and recommend providers whose products and services align best with your business model and goals.
Market Insights
Our relationships with industry players, independent experts, and thought leaders give us a deep understanding of the CBPs market, enabling us to provide you with the most current and relevant insights.
