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THE MIDDLE EAST’S PAYMENT REVOLUTION

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By Amer Qavi, Founder & CEO, Swipe2B

The way we make payments is changing at an unprecedented pace. Understanding the recent advances and emerging trends in payment technology is crucial in our cashless society. Here are the latest developments in payment technology and their implications, with a particular focus on the Middle East, a region experiencing a rapid and transformative shift towards modern payment solutions.

The Digital Payment Revolution 

The global digital payment ecosystem is undergoing a significant transformation. With the ubiquity of smartphones and internet access, digital payments have become more accessible and convenient than ever before. According to Statista, the global digital payments market is expected to reach a staggering $9.5 trillion in 2023, with projections suggesting this will increase to nearly $15 trillion by 2027.

Middle East’s Role in the Digital Payment Landscape

The Middle East is no exception to this global trend. Countries in the region are making substantial investments in digital infrastructure and fintech solutions. One standout example is the UAE, which has positioned itself as a leading hub for fintech innovation. According to the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), the fintech sector in the UAE now contributes over 27% to the Centre’s growth, reflecting the rapid adoption of digital payment technologies.

Mobile Wallets & Contactless Payments 

One of the most notable developments in payment technology is the widespread adoption of mobile wallets and contactless payments. These solutions allow users to make transactions with a simple tap or scan, enhancing both convenience and security.

In the Middle East, mobile wallet usage has surged. The UAE, for instance, witnessed a substantial increase in mobile wallet adoption, with over 50% of the population now using digital wallets for various transactions, as reported in a recent survey. Similarly, Saudi Arabia has seen impressive growth in the use of contactless payments, with 94% of all digital transactions taking place using contactless technology.

Blockchain & Cryptocurrencies 

Blockchain technology and cryptocurrencies have also made significant inroads into the payment industry. While cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum are still considered volatile assets, the underlying blockchain technology is being embraced for its potential to enhance security, transparency and efficiency in payment processes.

The Middle East is recognizing the potential of blockchain and cryptocurrencies more and more. In the UAE, the government has launched various blockchain initiatives, including the Emirates Blockchain Strategy 2021, which aims to position the country as a global leader in blockchain adoption. The DIFC has also introduced a regulatory framework for cryptocurrencies, attracting blockchain startups and investments.

Biometric Authentication 

Security remains a paramount concern in the world of payments. Traditional methods of authentication, such as PINs and passwords, are being complemented and, in some cases, replaced by biometric authentication methods. Biometrics, such as fingerprint recognition, facial recognition, and even iris scanning, offer a higher level of security while ensuring user convenience.

In the Middle East, biometric authentication is on the rise. GCC countries, including Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Qatar, have been at the forefront of implementing biometric authentication in financial services.

Peer-To-Peer (P2p) & Cross-Border Payments 

The growth of P2P payment platforms has revolutionized how individuals transfer money to friends and family. Apps like PayPal, Venmo, and Cash App have become household names, simplifying the process of splitting bills or reimbursing friends. In the Middle East, local players are entering the P2P space, providing tailored solutions for the region’s unique needs.

Cross-border payments, too, are becoming more seamless thanks to advancements in payment technology. Traditional international money transfers are often costly, time-consuming or both.

B2B Payments 

While all these trends are most widely visible in the B2C (Business-to-Consumer) space, such as e-commerce and online bill payments, the area undergoing the biggest transformation is B2B (Business-to Business) payments. The transaction volume of companies paying other companies (B2B payments) in any economy tends to be 4 to 5 times larger than B2C transactions, even though they may not be as visible.

Digital wallets, blockchain, biometric authentication, P2P payments, cross-border solutions and B2B payments are just a few examples of the exciting developments reshaping the payment landscape. While challenges persist, the opportunities for convenience, efficiency and financial inclusion are immense. Be prepared to adapt to these changes as they continue to reshape the way we pay and transact in an ever evolving digital world.

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Wio Bank and Fiskl Embark on Groundbreaking Journey to Redefine Financial Management with AI

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Wio Bank announced a groundbreaking partnership with Fiskl, marking a significant step forward in advancing digital banking and AI-powered financial management solutions. This collaboration leverages Wio’s world-class banking APIs to integrate with Fiskl’s advanced AI-driven financial management platform, setting a new benchmark for digital banking and financial management services in the region.

Innovative Digital Banking Solutions and Beyond

Wio transcends traditional banking by not only embracing but leading technological innovation, offering its customers in the UAE an enhanced way to manage their finances. The availability of Wio’s banking API and its direct integration with Fiskl establishes a new standard in digital banking. This collaboration merges reliability with real-time API banking data access and leverages advanced AI-driven financial management to deliver a comprehensive and seamless experience for Wio business banking customers.

Empowering SMEs with AI-Driven Financial Management

Fiskl’s integration with Wio Bank simplifies financial management for SMEs by combining cutting-edge AI technology with real-time API banking data access. This strategic partnership provides Wio Business banking customers with a unified, user-friendly platform that fully automates financial processes, enabling them to optimize their financial operations and make informed decisions more effectively.

Transformative Benefits of the Wio – Fiskl Integration

● Seamless Connectivity: A direct link between Wio accounts and Fiskl’s platform ensures efficient financial management and real-time cash flow overviews.

● Instant Financial Clarity: Real-time transactions keep businesses aligned with their financial status, without the need for manual updates.

● Automated Transactions: Exclusive to Wio, this feature automates internal and cross-currency transfers, simplifying complex financial reconciliation with Fiskl’s AI-based engine.

● Mobile First: The integration provides a comprehensive accounting mobile experience, enabling on-the-go financial management with full Wio Bank sync capabilities.

● Simplified financial flow: Simplifies the process of adding and managing new Wio accounts within Fiskl, enhancing user experience.

Setting up Small Businesses for the Future

The need for modern, compliant financial and accounting tools is paramount for UAE businesses navigating corporate tax and digital tax submissions. Wio, through its partnership with Fiskl, is at the forefront of addressing these requirements, offering businesses the solutions they need to navigate the evolving financial landscape with confidence.

Prateek Vahie, Chief Commercial Officer of Wio, shared his vision: “Wio’s direct integration with Fiskl underlines our commitment to pioneering digital banking solutions and empowering our customers to manage their finances. We continue to work with our partners to develop and provide innovative financial services that make banking easier and more transparent for SMEs.”

Alina Lapusneanu, CEO of Fiskl, remarked, “Our collaboration with Wio is more than a partnership; it’s a pivotal step forward in our quest to make sophisticated financial management accessible to all small businesses. By joining forces with Wio, a leader in banking innovation, we’re enhancing our AI-powered banking to accounting services to better serve the broader UAE market. This ensures that small businesses can navigate the complexities of new financial regulations not just with ease, but with confidence. It stands as proof of the transformative power of technology when aligned with visionary partners.”

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Ajman Bank Partners with Magnati to Leverage Merchant Acquiring Services for its Customers

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Ajman Bank has entered into a strategic partnership with Magnati to enhance the digital payment capabilities of its corporate and business banking clients. Through this collaboration, Ajman Bank will leverage Magnati’s merchant acquiring services to offer secure payment solutions for both online and in-store payments.

With Magnati’s expertise in payment processing and Ajman Bank’s robust banking infrastructure, clients can look forward to a more streamlined and efficient payment experience.

Mr. Mustafa Al Khalfawi, CEO of Ajman Bank, said, “Our collaboration with Magnati will enable us to offer our corporate and business banking clients with state-of-the-art technology and innovative payment solutions. It aligns with Ajman Bank’s strategic vision of fostering innovation and embracing cutting-edge technologies to push boundaries of excellence. We are committed to providing top-tier banking solutions that cater to the evolving needs of businesses to thrive in an increasingly digital economy by supporting their growth and success.”

Mr. Ramana Kumar, CEO of Magnati said, “We are excited to partner with Ajman Bank to implement our advanced merchant acquiring services. Our solution is designed to offer improved experiences and increased efficiency with fast, secure and convenient payment options. With a vast network of partners and state-of-the-art platform, we ensure an efficient connection across the ecosystem.”

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Ajman Bank Among the First in the UAE to Accept Jaywan Cards Across its ATM Network

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Ajman Bank is among the first banks in the UAE to successfully integrate Jaywan card acceptance across its ATM network, facilitating seamless cash withdrawals for Jaywan cardholders.

The Jaywan card, launched by Al Etihad Payments, a subsidiary of the Central Bank of the UAE, is designed to boost efficiency and sovereignty in the national payment landscape by promoting digital transactions in the local currency.

Mr. Mustafa Al Khalfawi, CEO of Ajman Bank said, “We are proud to be one of the first banks in the UAE to accept Jaywan cards on our ATMs. This initiative reflects our dedication to innovation and our commitment to contributing to the UAE’s domestic payments agenda. We are confident that this will enhance the payment experience for Jaywan cardholders while supporting the broader economic goals of the nation.”

Jan Pilbauer, CEO, Al Etihad Payments, said, “Jaywan has been launched in line with a vision to expand the national financial market infrastructure in the UAE.  Jaywan cards are designed to offer convenience for customers of UAE’s Licensed Financial Institutions, being progressively accepted across all payment channels – ATMs, Point of Sale, and eCommerce. Our partnership with Ajman Bank, along with other financial institutions in the UAE, marks a significant step towards enhancing convenience and accessibility for users throughout the UAE.”

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