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Meet the Winners of the Swiss Fintech Awards 2025

The Swiss Fintech Awards marked their tenth edition on the evening of 11 June in Zurich, celebrating start-ups and individuals making notable contributions to the Swiss fintech ecosystem. tiun Named “Early Stage Start-up of the Year” The early-stage award was presented to tiun, a start-up positioning itself as the “SBB EasyRide for the internet”. The company provides a new payment model for digital content such as newspaper articles, videos, and podcasts. Rather than relying on subscriptions or single-item purchases, tiun allows users to pay based on actual usage. This model aims to help content providers, such as publishers, attract more users and diversify their existing paywall strategies. tiun’s system seeks to offer a more flexible consumption model for online content. Also shortlisted in the early-stage category was Yainvest, which provides asset managers with a software-as-a-service platform. It leverages behavioural finance principles and artificial intelligence to better understand investor behaviour and reduce costly errors in financial decision-making. Taurus Wins “Growth Stage Start-up of the Year” Taurus, a provider of digital asset infrastructure, received the award in the growth-stage category. Its platform enables secure storage, tokenisation, and trading of digital assets. Recently, the firm introduced an interbank settlement system aimed at supporting future capital market infrastructure. Rivero, another finalist in this category, offers a range of SaaS tools for stakeholders in the payments ecosystem. Its products are designed to digitise and automate key functions in the payment process. Marc Bernegger Named “Fintech Influencer of the Year” Marc Bernegger Marc Bernegger was recognised as the “Fintech Influencer of the Year” for his long-standing role in shaping the Swiss fintech landscape. More than a decade ago, Bernegger co-founded one of Switzerland’s earliest fintech conferences. He later co-founded Crypto Finance in 2017, which was acquired by Deutsche Börse four years after its launch. In 2018, Bernegger also helped establish the Swiss Blockchain Federation and served on its board for six years. As an investor and board member, he has supported several fintech start-ups and contributed to the strategic development of various organisations. The award acknowledges his influence on the Swiss fintech sector over the past ten years.   Featured image credit: Swiss Fintech Innovations The post Meet the Winners of the Swiss Fintech Awards 2025 appeared first on Fintech Schweiz Digital Finance News - FintechNewsCH.

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Stripe Acquires Privy to Strengthen Crypto Infrastructure Offering

Stripe has announced the acquisition of Privy, a software company focused on simplifying access to crypto infrastructure through user-friendly wallet technology. The acquisition marks a continued commitment by both companies to support developers building financial applications that bridge traditional and crypto systems. Privy, which launched just over three years ago, was founded with the aim of making crypto infrastructure more accessible to developers. By offering a simple API, Privy enables secure wallet creation, transaction signing, and integration with onchain systems. To date, Privy supports more than 75 million accounts and works with over 1,000 developer teams, facilitating billions in transactions across a variety of use cases. Privy will continue to operate independently as part of Stripe, with its team focused on improving its products and serving its existing customer base. This partnership is expected to accelerate product development and provide enhanced capabilities for developers using either platform. The core challenge Privy set out to solve was the friction users experienced when interacting with crypto wallets, particularly the need to leave an application to set up a wallet. This hurdle reduced user conversion and limited what developers could build. Privy aimed to abstract this complexity, enabling digital assets to be used as seamlessly as other online tools. Organisations currently using Privy include trading platforms, restaurants accepting digital assets, and companies managing global payroll in digital currencies. These varied use cases demonstrate the breadth of adoption and highlight the growing role of digital assets in everyday applications. Stripe and Privy share a belief in integrating crypto and fiat systems to the point where the distinction between the two becomes minimal. This acquisition reflects Stripe’s broader strategy to support new financial technologies and provide developers with tools to build inclusive, efficient financial services. Both companies will continue to support their existing developer communities, with a shared goal of making digital ownership more usable and widespread.   Featured image credit: Edited by Fintech News Switzerland, based on image by pvproductions via Freepik The post Stripe Acquires Privy to Strengthen Crypto Infrastructure Offering appeared first on Fintech Schweiz Digital Finance News - FintechNewsCH.

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US Remittances Tax: Experts Warn of Higher Costs for Consumers and Operational Challenges for Money Transfer Providers

In May, the House Republicans’ “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” passed through the US House of Representatives, outlining US President Donald Trump’s tax agenda for the next few years and introducing a new 3.5% tax on remittances by non-citizens. A new analysis by FXC Intelligence, a data platform specializing in the cross-border payment and e-commerce sectors, explores the potential effects of the proposed tax on money transfers, warning of increased costs for consumers, the growth of informal and unregulated cross-border payment methods, and the introduction of operational challenges for money transfer providers. Higher costs for migrant workers Under the proposed law, this 3.5% tax would be charged on the amount being sent, meaning that it would come in addition to the costs charged by the remittance provider. According to the report, this means that an international transfer of US$100 could cost up to twice as much than it currently does, while sending US$1,000 could cost three times more. Such an increase would pose a significant burden for migrant workers in the US, since many of them regularly send between US$200 and US$300 home every one or two months, constituting around 15% of what they earn. While this amount may seem modest, it can represent up to 60% of the recipient’s household’s total income. Moreover, the United Nations (UN) has set out a sustainable development goal of reducing the global average cost for sending US$200 to 3% or less by 2030. The current average currently stands at 6.4% and a new US remittance tax would only worsen the situation, the report says. The rise of informal cross-border payment methods The analysis also warns that a 3.5% tax on remittance could change the way consumers send money, possibly pushing senders toward informal channels like “mules” and hawala networks, which are an informal method of transfers through unlicensed brokers. This shift could hurt licensed money transfer companies, but also smaller businesses that partner with providers like grocery stores hosting Western Union outlets, which may see reduced footfall and revenue due to lost businesses. Furthermore, an influx of “underground” transactions outside regulated money transfer providers would make it harder for law enforcement agencies from being able to track how money is moving, increasing risks tied to money laundering, terrorism financing, and drug trafficking. Argentina is a relevant example of this. Under previous administrations, foreign exchange and capital controls drove transactions into underground banking networks, making it far harder to trace illicit activity. These restrictions also weakened the already vulnerable economy, contributing to stagnation and inflation. Another possible effect of the bill is the rise in cryptocurrency-based remittances. Cryptocurrencies present an appealing alternative, especially in countries like Venezuela, Mexico, and Argentina where crypto adoption has been among the highest globally, according to a ChainAnalysis report. Potential impact of a remittance tax on consumer behiavor, Source: FXC Intelligence, May 2025 Operational challenges for money transfer providers In addition to losing customers to informal channels, licensed providers may be burdened by new compliance requirements. According to Kathy Tomasofsky, Executive Director of the Money Services Business Association (MSBA), such taxes add expenses and introduce a new set of hurdles to companies without seeing a benefit, forcing them to either pass on those costs to consumers, or cut their services to existing states. Part of this is from the difficulty of installing systems for verifying and ensuring that customers are US citizens. For example, if someone goes to Western Union to send money and shows their ID, Western Union would have to keep proof that they checked the person’s identity. This might mean taking a photo of the person’s passport and storing their information in a secure way. Setting up such a system would cost money and could lead to privacy concerns, because the company would be storing sensitive personal information. Moreover, the bill mandates that only “qualified” money transfer providers who enter into specific agreements with the government can exempt US citizens and nationals from the tax. However, it remains unclear how to register as a qualified provider and whether it will cost any money to do so. These ambiguities, combined with existing regulatory obligations, could lead some providers to charge the 3.5% tax to everyone, including US citizens, to avoid dealing with the hassle of checking everyone’s identity. Potential impact of a remittance tax on money transfer operators, Source: FXC Intelligence, May 2025 Discouraging foreign investment in the US But perhaps more worryingly, the Tax Foundation, an international research think tank based in Washington, DC, warns that the tax could dissuade foreign investment in the US by complicating international transactions and potentially misclassifying fund movements as taxable remittances. One example would be an international investor who maintains an account within the US for the purpose of business. If this investor wishes to transfer funds to another account outside the country, the transaction may bear the appearance of a remittance. But it is not one as the investor would simply be withdrawing their own money, not transferring funds to another person. A money transfer provider may struggle to verify this, wrongfully charging the investor withdrawing their investment returns, and effectively disincentivizing further and future foreign investment in the US. Another potential problem arises for businesses with international operations or supply chains. For example, a small business in the Detroit-Windsor, Ontario area may have hundreds of transactions with Canadian and US customers, suppliers, and employees. However, these transactions are not remittances, and would be subject to a burdensome process to prove so. Missing the mark Overall, industry experts believe that the proposed remittance tax will not be effective at achieving its intended goal of increasing federal revenue as people sending money abroad will likely find maneuvers to circumvent the charge. The Joint Committee on Taxation estimates that the tax will generate a mere US$26 billion over the next 10 years, a modest amount considering the administrative burden, and potential economic distortions associated with implementing such a tax. The proposed “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” is a broad and ambitious piece of legislation that combines a wide range of fiscal, economic, and regulatory reforms into a single package. Its primary purpose is to reduce the federal deficit and streamline government spending ahead of a critical debt ceiling deadline. Alongside the 3.5% tax on remittances, the bill includes reductions in non-military government spending and significantly cuts spending on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Medicaid. It also allocates an additional US$150 billion for defense spending, while scaling back many clean-energy tax credits from the Inflation Reduction Act. With the bill having passed the House of Representatives last month, the legislation is now moving to the Senate where key provisions are expected to be debated and amended. Once the Senate finalizes the text, it will head to the President’s desk, expected to be signed into law by early July.   Featured image: Edited by Fintech News Switzerland, based on images by Allexxandar and chayanuphol via Freepik The post US Remittances Tax: Experts Warn of Higher Costs for Consumers and Operational Challenges for Money Transfer Providers appeared first on Fintech Schweiz Digital Finance News - FintechNewsCH.

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Barclays Opens Innovation Hub in London to Support AI and Deep Tech Startups

Barclays has announced the opening of a new Innovation Hub in London, developed in collaboration with several key players in the technology sector, including Microsoft and NVIDIA. The Hub, part of Barclays’ Eagle Labs network, will focus on supporting early-stage businesses in the fields of AI, deep tech, and broader innovation. It aims to bring together entrepreneurs, investors, and industry experts to foster growth within the UK’s tech sector. Located in Shoreditch, the Hub will provide workspace for up to 150 businesses, and will offer access to events, workshops, and business development programmes. Companies based at the Hub will also have the opportunity to connect with organisations involved in its development, such as Microsoft, NVIDIA, Conception X, Databricks, Innovate Finance, and Twin Path Ventures. Barclays’ innovation banking team will also be based on-site, offering guidance and support to founders. The partners will help shape the ongoing development of the space, with plans to meet regularly to assess how best to support the businesses that use it. Hannah Bernard, Head of Business Banking at Barclays, said: Hannah Bernard “Key players from across the industry need to come together to help nurture and develop the next wave of tech entrepreneurs, this new Innovation Hub will play an important role in facilitating that as part of our wider offering to tech businesses. Our innovation banking specialists will be on hand to provide tailored support to founders, helping them raise capital, develop business skills and accelerate their growth.” Ali Wright, SMB Director at Microsoft UK, added: Ali Wright “The UK has a rich entrepreneurial history, and the Barclays Innovation Hub will form a critical focal point for the next wave of innovators looking to bring their ideas to life with the power of AI. Microsoft is delighted to be a launch partner, and we look forward to providing expertise and access to services that will help aspiring organisations fulfil their potential and fuel growth across the UK economy.” The launch of the new Hub builds on Barclays’ existing support for UK entrepreneurs through its Eagle Labs initiative, which operates in 43 locations across the country and has supported over 17,000 businesses since its inception.   Featured image credit: Barclays The post Barclays Opens Innovation Hub in London to Support AI and Deep Tech Startups appeared first on Fintech Schweiz Digital Finance News - FintechNewsCH.

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Leonteq Partners with Emirates Islamic on Shari’a-Compliant Structured Products

Leonteq, a Zurich-based fintech company, announced today the formation of a partnership with Emirates Islamic, a financial institution in the UAE, to manufacture and distribute Shari’a-compliant structured products. The collaboration builds on Leonteq’s strategic move into the Gulf region. In 2022, the firm introduced a Shari’a-compliant trust certificate issuance programme through IBDAA Certificate Issuer (IBDAA), a dedicated Islamic issuance vehicle. Amanie Advisors, a recognised Shari’a advisory firm, has been engaged by Leonteq to provide guidance on the Shari’a aspects of the programme and subsequent initiatives involving IBDAA. Under this partnership, Emirates Islamic will co-develop certain trust certificates issued by IBDAA and offer these products through its distribution network. Leonteq will support the initiative by providing a full range of services, including issuance arrangements, Shari’a-compliant hedging, and lifecycle management. This collaboration marks a notable development in the Islamic structured product space, bringing together Leonteq’s capabilities in investment solutions, structuring, and technology with Emirates Islamic’s market presence, credit standing (rated A+ by Fitch), and reach in the UAE wealth management sector. Clients of Emirates Islamic will gain access to investment solutions that were previously limited in availability or scale. These products will be issued via IBDAA, which is among the first Islamic issuance entities able to offer a broad range of payoff structures across various asset classes, supported by automation and flexible investment thresholds. Christian Spieler, CEO of Leonteq, commented: Christian Spieler “We are proud to partner with Emirates Islamic, a top tier institution in the Middle East. This collaboration will allow clients of Emirates Islamic to benefit from Leonteq’s longstanding expertise in white-labelling solutions and marks a milestone for Leonteq’s growth ambitions in the Middle East.” Farid AlMulla, CEO of Emirates Islamic, said: Farid AlMulla “We have always endeavoured to offer Islamic solutions that make a difference in the lives of our customers and beyond. This new partnership will enable our clients, in particular, to benefit from an even bigger product universe that further enhances their investment choices and access to global markets.” Emirates Islamic, a member of the Emirates NBD Group, was established in 2004. It offers a wide range of Shari’a-compliant retail, business, and corporate banking services through a network of 40 branches across the UAE.   Featured image credit: Edited by Fintech News Switzerland, based on image by rawpixel.com via Freepik The post Leonteq Partners with Emirates Islamic on Shari’a-Compliant Structured Products appeared first on Fintech Schweiz Digital Finance News - FintechNewsCH.

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J.P. Morgan and EY Open Applications for Fintech Forward UK Accelerator

J.P. Morgan, in collaboration with EY, has announced that applications are now open for the Fintech Forward Programme, a 12-week accelerator designed to support early-stage founders and business leaders developing technology-driven solutions in financial services. The initiative forms part of JPMorganChase’s broader work to expand access to resources and opportunities within the innovation economy. The programme aims to support those who may face barriers to funding and networks, particularly individuals and businesses committed to addressing challenges faced by underserved communities in the UK. To be eligible, applicants should be applying technology to build scalable financial services solutions, have a live product with some level of market traction, and report annual revenues of under £1 million. A demonstrated commitment to the programme and to making a positive impact on individuals or businesses in the UK is also required. Participants will take part in a hybrid programme that includes expert mentorship from J.P. Morgan executives, targeted workshops, and a two-day offsite at the firm’s technology centre in Glasgow. They will also have opportunities to present their work to investors and potential partners, and join a sponsored trip to Slush in Helsinki, a major global event focused on founders and innovation. Travel and accommodation costs related to the programme will be covered. Veronique Steiner, Head of EMEA Innovation Economy & Head of EMEA E-Commerce, Technology, Media and Telecom at J.P. Morgan Payments, said: Veronique Steiner “At J.P. Morgan Payments, our north star is to improve the payments ecosystem and transform the movement of information, money, and assets. We’re actively encouraging applications from founders or business leaders who are overcoming obstacles to growing a business, including a lack of proximity to funding and networks, and are addressing the needs of underserved consumers, businesses or communities.” The Fintech Forward Programme offers ongoing support beyond the initial 12 weeks, including continued access to the network of alumni and a connection to JPMorganChase.   Featured image credit: Edited by Fintech News Switzerland, based on image by EyeEm via Freepik The post J.P. Morgan and EY Open Applications for Fintech Forward UK Accelerator appeared first on Fintech Schweiz Digital Finance News - FintechNewsCH.

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XTransfer Partners with BNP Paribas to Simplify Eurozone-China Trade Payments

XTransfer, China’s B2B cross-border trade payment platform, and BNP Paribas have signed a MoU to collaborate on cross-border financial services. The agreement was formalised during the Money20/20 Europe event in Amsterdam and aims to reduce the cost and processing time of international payments, particularly for businesses operating between China and the Eurozone. The partnership will enable Chinese clients of XTransfer to collect payments in Euros more efficiently by making use of BNP Paribas’ network across Europe. At the same time, European SMEs will be able to make direct payments in Euros to Chinese businesses, simplifying currency exchange and improving operational efficiency. The companies also plan to expand the service to include additional currencies in the future. Bill Deng “It is a great honour to join hands with BNP Paribas,” said Bill Deng, XTransfer Founder and CEO. “This MOU reflects our mutual ambition to empower SMEs with enhanced cross-border financial solutions. As we continue to grow our European footprint, partnerships like this are instrumental in building robust, compliant, and innovative financial infrastructure for international trade.” Bruno Mellado, Global Head of Payments and Receivables at BNP Paribas, added, Bruno Mellado “By combining BNP Paribas’ extensive European network with XTransfer’s expertise in B2B cross-border trade payments, we aim to simplify international trade transactions, reduce costs, and enhance the global competitiveness of our clients.” The partnership is expected to support SMEs in both regions by addressing the practical challenges of cross-border payments, easing transaction processes, and lowering costs for international trade.   Featured image credit: XTransfer The post XTransfer Partners with BNP Paribas to Simplify Eurozone-China Trade Payments appeared first on Fintech Schweiz Digital Finance News - FintechNewsCH.

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Online Invoicing and Accounting Solutions for Self-Employed and SMEs in Switzerland

In recent years, several companies have emerged in Switzerland to provide freelancers, self-employed and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with affordable and efficient online invoicing and accounting software. These solutions focus on automating routine tasks, increasing operational efficiency, and ensuring full compliance with Swiss regulations. While some international providers such as Zoho from India, and Xero from Australia, have adapted their platforms to meet Swiss standards, a strong ecosystem of homegrown Swiss software companies has also emerged. In this article, we highlight leading Swiss providers that offer cloud-based accounting and invoicing tools built with the unique needs of domestic businesses. These platforms not only simplify financial management and reduce compliance risks but also integrate seamlessly with local banks, tax authorities, and payroll systems, making them a reliable choice for Swiss SMEs. Accounto Founded in 2016 and head quartered in Zurich, Accounto is an SaaS ERP solution designed specifically for trust companies and SMEs in Switzerland. The platform blends deep industry expertise with advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and optical character recognition (OCR) to set a new standard for efficiency, accuracy, and usability in accounting. At its core, Accounto automates accounting entries through intelligent allocation rules, real-time document processing, and seamless transaction reconciliation. This allows for consistently up-to-date bookkeeping with minimal user intervention.  Key features of the platform include effortless digital archiving, comprehensive document accounting, real-time identification of missing receipts, integrated client communication tools, and a complete accounting suite covering everything from daily operations to annual closings and budgeting. The software also includes modules for invoicing, payroll, and expense management, all accessible via a modern, cloud-based interface optimized for users at all levels of experience. bexio Founded in 2013, Bexio is a Swiss company offering a cloud-based software-as-a-service (SaaS) platform tailored specifically for SMEs. The company started with a focus on accounting solutions and has since evolved into a comprehensive business management platform that enables users to manage accounting, customer relationships, sales processes, payroll, and expense tracking in a single, integrated environment.  The platform is designed to eliminate the administrative burden that often hampers small business growth. It features an intuitive interface that supports the seamless creation of customized offers and invoices, complete with automatic reminders and an e-banking interface for effortless bank reconciliation.  Expense and payroll management are optimized for Swiss regulations, and the software’s accounting features make preparing annual financial statements straightforward and accessible. Furthermore, with Bexio Pay, users benefit from automated and contactless expense posting, full visibility into spending, and cost savings through fee-free foreign currency payments. Bexio says its automation capabilities can save users up to 12 hours of office work each month, while its efficient financial tools help reduce fiduciary costs by up to a third annually. It claims more than 80,000 self-employed, small businesses and startups among its customers.  Bexio was acquired by insurance firm Mobiliar in 2018.   CashCtrl CashCtrl is a multi-client cloud-based accounting software designed for freelancers, SMEs, and fiduciaries. Core features are financial accounting with order processing, reporting, payroll, and many ERP features. Hosting, backups, development and support are 100% Swiss-made. The software imposes minimal constraints on workflows and is awesome for various industries. A strong focus is placed on direct interaction with the community, free technical support (as far as possible), and a fair pricing model — all of which are highly appreciated. Both accounting professionals and beginners value the clean UI and transparent functionality. For specific workflows, custom apps and scripts can be integrated via the API. CashCtrl Pro starts at CHF 350 per year. Run my Accounts Founded in 2008 and based in Stafa, Run my Accounts aims to revolutionize accounting for SMEs and startups.  At the heart of the company’s offering is its proprietary online accounting software, developed specifically to support its innovative outsourcing model. The platform enables users to issue invoices, approve supplier bills, locate documents instantly, and monitor live financial data, all in one place.  Automation is key to Run my Accounts’ approach. Using advanced proprietary technology, receipts and bank transactions are posted faster and more efficiently than through traditional methods. This allows businesses to offload time-consuming administrative tasks and gain real-time insight into their finances. What sets Run my Accounts apart is the combination of cutting-edge software and personalized fiduciary support. Each client is assigned both an online accountant and trustee, who manage all accounting responsibilities, including bookkeeping, payroll, taxes, and annual financial statements. This hybrid model ensures that clients receive expert guidance while benefiting from streamlined digital processes. In 2021, Run my Accounts was acquired by Austria-based Infoniqa. Winbiz Founded in 1992 and based in Geneva, Winbiz is a leading Swiss provider of business management software, offering a comprehensive and proven solution tailored to the needs of SMEs, micro-enterprises, the self-employed, and startups.  The company’s flagship offering, Winbiz Cloud, is an all-in-one enterprise resource planning (ERP) solution designed to manage every aspect of business administration. Accessible anytime and anywhere from a Mac, Windows PC, or tablet, the platform provides tools for accounting, payroll, inventory management, customer invoicing, and supplier oversight. The software is available in four languages: French, German, Italian, and English, making it an inclusive and adaptable solution for the diverse Swiss market. Winbiz is certified Swiss Made and Swissdec-compliant, ensuring its software meets the highest national standards for security and regulatory alignment. Data is securely stored within Switzerland and backed up multiple times daily, offering users peace of mind and operational reliability. Customers also benefit from continuous updates, guaranteeing access to the latest features and legal standards without additional effort. Winbiz claims more than 50,000 customers, including 1,000 fiduciaries, making it one of the most widely used ERP systems among Swiss SMEs. Swiss21 Founded in 2017 and based in Appenzell,Swiss21 is a modern, cloud-based ERP platform designed to empower Swiss SMEs, startups, and associations. With an all-in-one system that covers invoicing, accounting, payroll, e-commerce, customer relationship management (CRM), and mobile expense management, Swiss21 aims to allows users to streamline their operations, save time, and reduce costs, without needing advanced technical knowledge or incurring high software expenses. At the core of Swiss21’s offering is a suite of interconnected applications tailored to every aspect of a business. Its invoicing module includes features such as automated reminders, recurring billing, and electronic signatures, while the accounting tool, 21.AbaNinja, supports more than 70 bank connections, Swiss VAT methods, and real-time dashboards with journal, balance sheet, and income statement views. The payroll component, 21.AbaSalary, is ELM 5.0 certified and enables easy management of monthly salaries, benefits, social contributions, and working time tracking.  Swiss21 also provides a comprehensive e-commerce module, 21.Commerce, for creating and managing an online store complete with order and inventory control, responsive design, and checkout integration.  Its CRM system, 21.CRM, delivers a clear overview of customer interactions, sales opportunities, tasks, and marketing campaigns, while the mobile app AbaClik allows for expense reporting, time tracking, and document scanning on the go, powered by AI to further streamline input.   Featured Picture via Xero.com The post Online Invoicing and Accounting Solutions for Self-Employed and SMEs in Switzerland appeared first on Fintech Schweiz Digital Finance News - FintechNewsCH.

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Banks Embrace Embedded Finance Amid Rising Consumer Demand for Digital Services

The banking industry is undergoing a profound transformation as consumers increasingly favor digital channels. In response, banks are rapidly adapt by embracing platform-based strategies and embedding financial services into broader digital ecosystems, according to a new report by the IBM Institute for Business Value (IBM IBV), developed in collaboration with Banking Industry Architecture Network (BIAN) and Red Hat. The report, based on 2023 surveys of 12,000 consumers in 12 countries and 1,000 banking executives across 32 countries, alongside in-depth interviews, highlights a clear digital shift among consumers. Over the past three years, 63% of respondents have started a loan application online, 69% have made investment decisions digitally, and 58% have purchased or renewed auto insurance through online platforms. However, the study found that digital adoption varies significantly by region. For example, in Brazil, 29% of respondents have a primary account with a neobank, compared to just 7% in Japan, reflecting how emerging markets are leading digital banking. When asked what might prompt consumers to change their primary banking provider, respondents cited better customer service (20%), the convenience of transferring money instantly (19%), and frictionless mobile access (11%) as the top three factors. Online banking is now the preferred method for 80% of consumers when managing basic financial tasks, with 62% using mobile apps and 12% relying on websites. Source: Embedded finance: Creating the everywhere, everyday bank, IBM Institute for Business Value (IBM IBV), Banking Industry Architecture Network (BIAN), and Red Hat, Sep 2023 Disconnect between banks and customers Despite these clear preferences, the study found a disconnect between banks and their customers. In particular, it revealed a gap in bankers’ understand of their clients’ expectations, with many executives overvaluing the role of peer-to-peer (P2P) money transfers and buy now, pay later (BNPL). Conversely, most underestimate the importance of mobile wallets and the draw of personalized rewards. Additionally, customers indicated good customer service as a priority for clients, though bankers see it as relatively less important compared to other factors. These gaps underscore the need for banks to recalibrate their understanding of customer priorities. Banker perspectives on client priorities and clients needs, Source: Embedded finance: Creating the everywhere, everyday bank, IBM Institute for Business Value (IBM IBV), Banking Industry Architecture Network (BIAN), and Red Hat, Sep 2023 Embedded finance gains traction To address evolving consumer behaviors, banks are advancing on the platform economy. The research reveals that one in four executives believing that embedded finance is core to their institution’s strategy. 71% of executives said their institutions are already active in the embedded finance space, reflecting that implementation is well underway. 20% have already launched embedded finance solutions, with institutions in emerging economies being ahead of those in major developed economies and European Union (EU) member states (24% versus 18%). Of those, 65% said they have seen intermediate results. An additional 10% stated that they’ve achieved the goals set at the start of the journey. State of embedded finance within banking institutions, Source: Embedded finance: Creating the everywhere, everyday bank, IBM Institute for Business Value (IBM IBV), Banking Industry Architecture Network (BIAN), and Red Hat, Sep 2023 Despite growing interest, foundational challenges persist. Banking executives indicated insufficient modularity of core banking systems (53%), inadequate API standards (52%), and the lack of funding commitment for long-term strategies (40%) as the top obstacles. Challenges with the greatest/least adverse impact on the embedded finance journey, Source: Embedded finance: Creating the everywhere, everyday bank, IBM Institute for Business Value (IBM IBV), Banking Industry Architecture Network (BIAN), and Red Hat, Sep 2023 Outlook on embedded finance When asked where bankers anticipate the biggest boost, many executives agree that launching a non-banking platform-based business model would be the most advantageous path forward. A majority of respondents (57%) see great value in orchestrating retail and SME ecosystems. By contrast, less promising opportunities include embedding finance in gaming platforms (33%), integrating small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) lending into merchant ecosystems (28%), and providing embedded treasury services to corporate clients (27%). Currently, banks are focusing on implementing embedded finance within high-growth sectors. These include the consumer industry with embedded payments and lending in e-commerce, manufacturing with embedded trade-finance tools, and education by engaging young consumers early to promote long-term financial wellness. Top industries by ecosystem opportunities for embedded finance, Source: Embedded finance: Creating the everywhere, everyday bank, IBM Institute for Business Value (IBM IBV), Banking Industry Architecture Network (BIAN), and Red Hat, Sep 2023 The embedded finance market generated an estimated EUR 20 billion to EUR 30 billion in Europe in 2023, representing about 3% of total banking revenues, according to McKinsey. By 2030, that market could surpass EUR 100 billion and account for 10% to 15% of banking revenue pools, the consultancy estimates.   Featured image: Edited by Fintech News Switzerland, based on image by thanyakij-12 via Freepik The post Banks Embrace Embedded Finance Amid Rising Consumer Demand for Digital Services appeared first on Fintech Schweiz Digital Finance News - FintechNewsCH.

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UK’s Financial Conduct Authority Proposes Lifting Ban on Retail Access to Crypto ETNs

The UK’s Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has proposed lifting the ban on offering crypto exchange traded notes (cETNs) to retail investors. At present, these high-risk products are only available to professional investors, but the change would allow individual consumers in the UK to access them, provided they are traded on an FCA-approved recognised investment exchange (RIE). Similar investment products are already available to retail investors in other countries. Should the proposal go ahead, financial promotion rules would apply to ensure consumers are clearly informed about the risks and are not offered inappropriate incentives, similar to the safeguards in place for direct purchases of cryptoassets. David Geale, Executive Director of Payments and Digital Finance at the FCA, said: David Geale “This consultation demonstrates our commitment to supporting the growth and competitiveness of the UK’s crypto industry. We want to rebalance our approach to risk and lifting the ban would allow people to make the choice on whether such a high-risk investment is right for them, given they could lose all their money.” The move is part of the FCA’s wider effort to establish a regulatory framework for cryptoassets. The regulator has already set out a crypto roadmap and published recent proposals on stablecoins and other aspects of the emerging regime. However, the FCA’s ban on retail access to cryptoasset derivatives will remain in place. It also stated that it would continue monitoring market developments and reviewing its approach to high-risk investments. The proposal was included in the FCA’s latest quarterly consultation paper, which also outlines other measures aimed at easing regulatory burdens and supporting economic growth. These include plans to simplify reporting requirements for funds’ assessments of value, following feedback from the Consumer Duty Call for Input, a change expected to lead to significant cost savings for 149 firms managing over 3,900 funds. The regulator also plans to remove unnecessary data reporting, a move that would benefit nearly all regulated firms.   Featured image credit: Edited by Fintech News Switzerland, based on image by wirestock_creators via Freepik   The post UK’s Financial Conduct Authority Proposes Lifting Ban on Retail Access to Crypto ETNs appeared first on Fintech Schweiz Digital Finance News - FintechNewsCH.

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Fiserv to Acquire Full Ownership of Ireland’s AIB Merchant Services

Fiserv, a US-based provider of payments and financial services technology, has announced it will acquire the remaining 49.9% stake in Ireland’s AIB Merchant Services (AIBMS), its joint venture with AIB Group. The move is aimed at supporting continued growth in Ireland and across Europe. Financial details of the transaction have not been disclosed. Established in 2007, AIBMS is among the largest payment solution providers in Ireland and ranks as one of Europe’s major e-commerce acquirers. Following the transaction, AIB Group will continue to refer customers requiring merchant acquiring services to AIBMS and Fiserv exclusively. Katia Karpova, Head of the EMEA region at Fiserv, stated: Katia Karpova “Our focus will remain on delivering market-leading solutions to clients of all sizes across Ireland and the broader European market. We are particularly excited for the opportunity to accelerate the local penetration and growth of Clover, the world’s smartest point-of-sale system and business management platform.” Colin Hunt, Chief Executive Officer of AIB, added: Colin Hunt “Following a successful joint venture partnership, we believe Fiserv has the commitment, experience and innovative technical solutions to grow AIBMS and that our customers will continue to be well-served under their sole ownership. Recognising the strength of the AIB customer franchise, we are pleased to support our business customers by maintaining a close on-going relationship with Fiserv.” The acquisition is expected to be completed in the third quarter.   Featured image credit: Edited by Fintech News Switzerland, based on image by user5027847 via Freepik The post Fiserv to Acquire Full Ownership of Ireland’s AIB Merchant Services appeared first on Fintech Schweiz Digital Finance News - FintechNewsCH.

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BIS, Bank of England Tests AI to Detect Financial Crime in Real-Time Payments

The BIS Innovation Hub’s London Centre, in collaboration with the Bank of England, has published the findings from Project Hertha, a study exploring how AI can help detect financial crime in real-time retail payment systems, while safeguarding user privacy. Building on the earlier work of Project Aurora, Project Hertha focused on a key challenge in modern payments: how to identify complex criminal activity that is often spread across multiple bank accounts and financial institutions. Because payment systems process transactions across many different players, they offer a rare opportunity to spot patterns that would otherwise remain hidden. Project Hertha tested the use of advanced AI to analyse payment system data and uncover coordinated or unusual behaviour that may indicate financial crime. To carry out this research responsibly, the team developed a state-of-the-art synthetic dataset containing 1.8 million simulated bank accounts and 308 million transactions. This dataset was created using AI models that mimic real-world payment patterns, without using any personal customer information. The results are promising. By tapping into system-wide transaction analytics, banks and payment service providers were able to detect 12% more illicit accounts than they would through standard approaches. When it came to identifying new or previously unseen financial crime patterns, the system achieved a 26% improvement in detection rates. This suggests that AI-powered analytics could serve as a valuable complement to existing tools in the fight against financial crime. At the same time, the project acknowledged that analytics alone are not a complete solution. Rolling out similar systems in the real world would raise a number of legal, regulatory, and operational questions that need to be carefully considered. These aspects were beyond the scope of the current research. Project Hertha also emphasised the importance of using high-quality training data, creating a strong feedback loop to refine the AI models, and ensuring that the technology is transparent and explainable. These elements are essential for building systems that are both effective and trustworthy. The project is named in honour of Hertha Ayrton, the pioneering British scientist, inventor, and suffragette. In 1904, Ayrton became the first woman to present a paper at the Royal Society, and in 1906 she received the prestigious Hughes Medal for her contributions to electrical science.   Featured image credit: Edited by Fintech News Switzerland, based on image by Alicja Ziajowska via Unsplash The post BIS, Bank of England Tests AI to Detect Financial Crime in Real-Time Payments appeared first on Fintech Schweiz Digital Finance News - FintechNewsCH.

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HSBC Invests in Token.io to Expand Open Banking Payment Solutions

European fintech firm Token.io has announced that HSBC has become a strategic investor, further strengthening the two companies’ ongoing partnership and shared focus on enhancing payment solutions. Revealed during Money2020 Europe, the investment represents a notable step forward for Token.io, which provides account-to-account (A2A) payment infrastructure. Token.io has worked with HSBC since 2019 to support its HSBC Open Payments platform. Todd Clyde, CEO of Token.io, said: Todd Clyde “We are excited to deepen our partnership with HSBC as we embark on this collaboration. This investment will not only accelerate Token.io’s growth and innovation, it will also advance our shared vision of making Pay by Bank a mainstream payment method, delivering benefits for HSBC’s customers across the region.” Manish Kohli, Head of Global Payments Solutions at HSBC, said: Manish Kohli “Our investment in Token.io reflects the trust and confidence we have in their team and technology, and our firm belief in the role that innovative Open Banking solutions play in transforming the payments experience for both corporates and consumers.” HSBC’s Open Payments offering allows customers to initiate direct bank payments from third-party platforms with speed and security. The bank is now expanding its use of Token.io’s infrastructure to support a broader rollout of Pay by Bank services, which include peer-to-peer payments, account deposits, and loan repayments. Built on open banking and real-time payment systems, Pay by Bank aims to reduce the cost and complexity of processing payments. Transactions are completed directly from users’ bank accounts, authenticated securely via banking apps. Token.io’s current infrastructure enables most individuals with bank accounts in the UK and Europe to access this payment method. Industry analysts estimate that 75% of Europeans will regularly use Pay by Bank by 2029. Payment volumes are expected to grow by 30% in 2025, with e-commerce adoption of the method likely to surpass most other digital options by 2030, second only to digital wallets. Token.io has also secured additional investment from the majority of its existing backers, indicating continued support for the company’s development within the sector.   Featured image credit: Edited by Fintech News Switzerland, based on image by user850788 via Freepik The post HSBC Invests in Token.io to Expand Open Banking Payment Solutions appeared first on Fintech Schweiz Digital Finance News - FintechNewsCH.

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Revolut Launches Branded ATM Network in Spain

Revolut has launched its own branded ATM machines in Spain. Spain has been selected as the pilot market, with 50 ATMs to be rolled out in Madrid and Barcelona initially. A further 150 machines are expected to be installed in other major cities such as Valencia and Málaga, bringing the total to around 200 nationwide. These ATMs will be located in high-footfall areas, and users will be able to find them via an in-app map, which includes location details, directions, and opening times. The initiative comes amid Spain’s continued reliance on cash. Revolut already has a strong user base in the country, with close to 5 million customers using features such as in-house savings, Bizum (a popular local peer-to-peer payment system), and tax payment tools. Spain is the first country to receive Revolut’s new physical offering, with further expansion planned for 2026 and beyond in countries including Germany, Italy and Portugal. Despite major changes in how people manage money in recent years, ATM infrastructure has largely remained the same. Revolut says its machines are designed to offer a more modern, digital-first experience, with features that allow users to withdraw cash, collect a new card, and check their balance. The machines are intended for both locals and tourists, offering fast service and clearer information, particularly in relation to exchange rates and fees. The move is also intended to enhance Revolut’s presence in physical locations, providing tangible brand interaction points in places such as travel hubs and busy urban centres. According to the company, this could help to build trust and attract new customers. For existing Revolut users, one of the key advantages is fee-free cash withdrawals, including those made internationally or within the EU. Customers withdrawing funds in a foreign currency will continue to benefit from Revolut’s exchange rates. Given that foreign ATM usage in Spain often comes with high fees and less favourable rates, this feature may be of particular interest to travellers. Non-Revolut users can also use the ATMs for a competitive fee. At launch, they will be subject to their bank’s exchange rate, but Revolut plans to introduce a Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC) feature, which would allow these users to choose Revolut’s real-time conversion at the point of withdrawal. Additionally, individuals can sign up for a Revolut account directly at the ATM and receive a physical card immediately. The new ATMs have a 32-inch touchscreen and are designed to offer a more intuitive user experience. Revolut’s machines will also support contactless withdrawals via mobile wallets, removing the need for a physical card. Other features include multi-language support, adjustable display settings for improved accessibility, and plans for future enhancements such as facial recognition for identity verification. Revolut also aims to introduce support for cash deposits over time. Manjot Bhatia, Operating Partner at Revolut, stated: Manjot Bhatia “Launching our own ATM network is a pivotal step in bringing Revolut’s vision closer to our customers, offering a truly global, seamless financial experience. By reimagining one of the most essential physical touchpoints in banking, the ATMs, we’re not just providing smarter cash access; we’re strengthening our brand presence, deepening engagement, and setting the foundation for the next phase of our growth across Europe.” Following the launch in Spain, Revolut intends to expand the ATM network to additional European markets, depending on the outcome of this initial phase.   Featured image credit: Revolut The post Revolut Launches Branded ATM Network in Spain appeared first on Fintech Schweiz Digital Finance News - FintechNewsCH.

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China’s LianLian Global Partners with BVNK to Enable Stablecoin Payments

LianLian Global, a China-based cross-border payments company, has partnered with BVNK, a stablecoin infrastructure platform for payment service providers, to offer stablecoin payment capabilities to its international customer base. This collaboration will allow LianLian Global’s merchants in over 100 countries to fund cross-border transactions within minutes using major stablecoins, rather than waiting days through traditional methods. The partnership brings together LianLian Global’s extensive international merchant network and local currency expertise with BVNK’s stablecoin infrastructure and automatic conversion technology. LianLian’s business customers will now be able to use stablecoins to speed up payment cycles, improve liquidity and streamline cross-border payouts. Under this integration, BVNK converts stablecoin deposits into US dollars, which are then routed through LianLian Global’s global payment network. Adora Wang “Stablecoins have emerged as a powerful global settlement tool,” said Adora Wang, Chief Executive Officer of LianLian Europe. “By partnering with BVNK, we are meeting growing demand for stablecoin payment rails, helping our customers in ecommerce, marketplaces and other sectors to boost liquidity and execute cross-border payouts in 130 currencies with unprecedented efficiency. We selected BVNK for their proven experience serving global payment service providers, extensive banking relationships and comprehensive multi-stablecoin offering that gives our customers maximum flexibility.” BVNK, which supports other payment providers including Worldpay and Deel, currently processes an annualised stablecoin volume of US$14.5 billion. Jesse Hemson-Struthers “Stablecoins are rapidly reshaping global finance,” said Jesse Hemson-Struthers, Co-Founder and CEO of BVNK. “Through this partnership, LianLian Global’s merchants can transform idle digital assets into instant cross-border payment fuel. Together, we are removing technical barriers so businesses worldwide can access these high-speed payment rails and move their money faster than ever before.”   Featured image credit: Edited by Fintech News Switzerland, based on image by Freepik The post China’s LianLian Global Partners with BVNK to Enable Stablecoin Payments appeared first on Fintech Schweiz Digital Finance News - FintechNewsCH.

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China’s XTransfer Announces European Expansion with Move into the Netherlands

XTransfer, a China-based B2B cross border trade payment platform, has announced plans to expand into the Netherlands. The company formalised its intention during a signing ceremony at Money20/20 Europe in Amsterdam, where representatives from XTransfer and the Netherlands Foreign Investment Agency (NFIA) signed a Letter of Intention. The signing took place at XTransfer’s booth, with Bill Deng, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of XTransfer, and Hans Kuijpers, Director of Investment Projects at the NFIA, in attendance. The Netherlands, widely recognised for its fintech ecosystem, offers a strong digital infrastructure, a supportive regulatory environment and a collaborative business climate. These factors have made it a strategic choice for XTransfer’s European expansion. Bill Deng said, Bill Deng “Our intention to invest not only demonstrates our long-term commitment to the region but also reflects our deep appreciation for the Netherlands’ position as a leader in fintech innovation. We look forward to growing alongside the local ecosystem and empowering SMEs across Europe with innovative cross border payment solutions.” Hans Kuijpers added, Hans Kuijpers “We warmly welcome XTransfer’s decision to establish its European base in the Netherlands. Their international presence, innovative compliance technology, and strong focus on SME cross border payments strengthen our dynamic fintech ecosystem. Backed by a Dutch EMI license, this expansion reinforces the Netherlands’ position as a key player in international digital finance.” This development marks a step forward in XTransfer’s strategy to build a stronger cross border payment infrastructure in Europe. The company aims to support local SMEs with integrated financial services for international trade and plans to collaborate closely with banks, financial institutions and other fintech players in the Netherlands. The announcement comes after XTransfer secured an Electronic Money Institution license from the Dutch Central Bank, allowing it to offer a full payment solution to local trading SMEs. The post China’s XTransfer Announces European Expansion with Move into the Netherlands appeared first on Fintech Schweiz Digital Finance News - FintechNewsCH.

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ABN AMRO to Launch BUUT, a Neobank for Young People

ABN AMRO, a Dutch bank, will launch a new neobank called BUUT after the summer. BUUT has been developed in collaboration with the team behind Tikkie and is intended to reflect the way young people manage their finances today. Annerie Vreugdenhil The bank and Tikkie team built the it from the ground up over twelve months. “The world is changing, so we are too. There are more possibilities, we want more and we expect more. As a next-gen bank, BUUT understands this,” said Annerie Vreugdenhil, Chief Commercial Officer Personal and Business Banking at ABN AMRO. “It’s easy to use, interactive, 100 per cent visually driven and totally at home in the world of the new generation. BUUT is everything you expect of a bank, but designed to Tikkie a different box.” BUUT is based on the Tikkie platform and uses ABN AMRO’s internal systems, but it has a distinct look, tone and user experience, shaped by the creative direction of Tikkie and the bank’s focus on innovation. Research by Nibud, the Dutch institute for family finance awareness, found that young people are dealing with more payment options than ever. While this offers flexibility, it also increases the risk of losing track of spending. Some may believe they have more or less money than they actually do. “As young people in this phase of life learn to save, keep within a budget and understand the impact of financial choices, BUUT is the solution this generation needs,” Vreugdenhil said. ABN AMRO has launched several digital financial services in recent years, including Tikkie, New10 and BUX. These efforts are part of the bank’s broader strategy to respond to changing financial habits, particularly among younger users. BUUT will be available in app stores after the summer. Starting 4 June, those interested can visit buut.com to sign up for updates, early access or join the BUUT community to help test the app.   Featured image credit: ABN AMRO The post ABN AMRO to Launch BUUT, a Neobank for Young People appeared first on Fintech Schweiz Digital Finance News - FintechNewsCH.

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Scalable Capital Secures €155 Million to Expand European Investment Platform

Munich-based Scalable Capital has raised €155 million (approximately US$175 million) in a new funding round, its largest to date. The round was led by Sofina, a global investment company listed on Euronext Brussels, and Noteus Partners, a pan-European growth equity investor. Existing backers including Balderton Capital, Tencent, and HV Capital also took part. Total investment in Scalable Capital has now surpassed €470 million (over US$535 million). Scalable Capital, which offers digital investment services to retail clients, said the new funding will support continued expansion and platform development. Erik Podzuweit “Noteus Partners and Sofina perfectly complement our global investor base. The recent funding round is a clear endorsement, and an important step on our path to becoming the leading retail investment platform in Europe,” said Erik Podzuweit, Founder and Co-CEO of Scalable Capital. Fellow Co-CEO Florian Prucker added, Florian Prucker “Low-cost, broadly diversified ETFs, free access to financial knowledge, stock exchanges tailored for retail investors, and technology-driven investment platforms like Scalable Capital have fundamentally improved access to capital markets for millions of retail investors. To accelerate this development, we will continue to invest in our fully verticalised platform with the additional capital.” Podzuweit also noted that the company intends to use the investment to expand its offering across Europe. “Through our investment platform and additional new products, we’ll be able to offer even more people in Europe the best options for their investments. We have a firm focus on wealth creation and saving for retirement for the whole family.” Founded in 2015, Scalable Capital offers access to a range of investment products including ETFs, stocks, funds, bonds, cryptocurrencies, derivatives, and private equity. The firm also provides interest on cash balances via partner banks, as well as low-cost securities-backed loans. In 2023, the company launched the European Investor Exchange, aimed at retail investors. More recently, Scalable began offering access to private equity through European Long-Term Investment Funds (ELTIFs), allowing eligible clients to invest in assets typically reserved for institutional investors. A new feature set to launch this summer will allow parents to open kids’ accounts, enabling long-term investments for children.   Featured image credit: Scalable Capital The post Scalable Capital Secures €155 Million to Expand European Investment Platform appeared first on Fintech Schweiz Digital Finance News - FintechNewsCH.

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Deutsche Bank and Mastercard Partner to Expand Open Banking Payments in Europe

Deutsche Bank and Mastercard have announced a partnership aimed at accelerating the development of open banking and enhancing account-to-account (A2A) payment services across Europe. The collaboration will strengthen Deutsche Bank’s Merchant Solutions offering, particularly its Request to Pay (R2P) service. By integrating Mastercard’s open banking technology, the bank aims to provide merchants and consumers with improved payment options that offer greater flexibility and efficiency through A2A payments. The agreement will allow merchants using Deutsche Bank’s platform to offer a “Pay by Bank” option, enabling consumers to authorise payments directly from their bank accounts. The process will support real-time payment execution and confirmation, along with improved settlement speeds, reconciliation, and transparency. Killian Thalhammer, Global Head of Merchant Solutions at Deutsche Bank, said: Killian Thalhammer “This partnership with Mastercard marks a pivotal moment in the growth of open banking. Together, we are delivering innovative merchant solutions that reflect the needs of a digital-first economy, secure, instant, and built for scale.” Valerie Nowak, EVP and Head of Open Banking at Mastercard Europe, added: Valerie Nowak “With the further expansion of our partnership, we combine our open banking payments technology with Deutsche Bank’s payments expertise and big merchant base across Europe, and together we’re shaping a future where account-based payments are becoming the new norm.” As demand grows in Europe for faster, more cost-effective, and secure payment methods, the partnership is positioned to make A2A payments a viable alternative to traditional card-based transactions. The announcement was made during Money 20/20 in Amsterdam in 2025. Deutsche Bank confirmed that existing R2P customers will be transitioned to the new platform.   Featured image credit: Edited by Fintech News Switzerland, based on image by XIIM via Freepik The post Deutsche Bank and Mastercard Partner to Expand Open Banking Payments in Europe appeared first on Fintech Schweiz Digital Finance News - FintechNewsCH.

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Banxware Secures €10 Million from UniCredit, Partners with Aion and Vodeno

Banxware, a Berlin-based embedded lending platform and lending-as-a-service provider for SMEs, has announced a strategic partnership with UniCredit’s banking-as-a-service platform Aion and Vodeno. Alongside the collaboration, UniCredit has made a follow-on investment of €10 million in Banxware. These developments mark a shift in Banxware’s operating model from structured finance to a capital-light forward flow approach. Under this arrangement, Banxware’s bank partner will assume full ownership of the loan book generated through Banxware’s embedded lending platform partnerships. This transition allows Banxware to redirect its equity from loan funding towards scaling operations, product innovation and international growth. Banxware has previously operated through a structured warehouse facility, but this move signals a new phase of its development. The forward flow structure aims to enhance scalability by enabling Banxware to act as an intermediary between digital platforms and a network of banks, alternative lenders and specialist finance providers. Currently embedded in over 40 digital platforms, Banxware recently launched a joint lending product with UniCredit that allows SMEs to access financing between €1,000 and €5 million via a single integration and application process. For loans exceeding €250,000, the offering, supported by HypoVereinsbank and UniCredit, focuses on delivering efficiency, pricing advantages and faster processing. Banxware’s platform connects pre-qualified and pre-onboarded SME borrowers with lenders that match their underwriting requirements, aiming to improve conversion rates and lending performance. Additionally, the Banxware for Brokers initiative enables loan brokers to serve their clients through the same infrastructure, offering access to UniCredit-backed loans under the same terms. The additional investment from UniCredit will support Banxware’s continued development as a middleware layer for SME lending. Planned areas of focus include user experience improvements, streamlined platform integrations, AI-driven underwriting and market expansion. Jens Röhrborn, CEO of Banxware, said: Jens Röhrborn “It is a major step forward to see our strategic partnership with UniCredit deepen further. We are not just scaling, we are shaping a new infrastructure layer for business lending in Europe. With every new platform we embed and every lender we connect, we are moving closer to a future where access to capital is as seamless and intelligent as the platforms SMEs use to run their businesses.” Fiona Melrose, Head of Group Strategy and ESG at UniCredit, commented: Fiona Melrose “Banxware uniquely combines fintech agility and user-centricity with the financial strength and distribution of a major bank. Through Banxware’s platform reach, UniCredit is extending its footprint across the digital SME economy in Europe, continuing to unlock the Group’s acceleration.”   Featured image credit: Edited by Fintech News Switzerland, based on image by Freepik The post Banxware Secures €10 Million from UniCredit, Partners with Aion and Vodeno appeared first on Fintech Schweiz Digital Finance News - FintechNewsCH.

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