The year ending as we prepare our final issue of 2017 has been highly challenging, as well as rewarding. Given developments both man made and otherwise, the past 12 months have been a reminder of how essential it is to question assumptions and be flexible enough to meet unexpected events, both positive and negative. At this time of year, we typically assess what has gone well and what needs improvement in our businesses, assess how the economy and payments, in particular, are likely to unfold in the coming year, and then plan accordingly.
Devising and executing a plan requires many things, among them vision, knowledge, motivation and data. Throughout each year we strive to provide information that contributes to you, our readers', industry knowledge and helps inspire you to create and follow clear avenues toward success. The lead article in this issue offers solid data on key developments and trends in payments in 2017. From acquirers' earnings to M&A activity to data security and ecommerce innovations, the article provides a snapshot of the year and is designed to aid in your planning for the year to come.
Contributing writers have also provided thought-provoking articles on the 2017 Jack Henry Annual Conference, the race toward a zero-click economy, how to stay a step ahead of fraudsters in 2018, opportunities, and issues that arise when an angel investor calls and asks you to help identify and create a revolutionary product or service and then bring it to market.
News stories recently posted under Breaking Industry News and excerpted herein cover such developments as removing friction from digital cash, EMV gains during the holidays, a continuing investigation of the TIO network breach, ecommerce merchants' moves into brick-and-mortar stores, and more. And no issue of The Green Sheet would be complete without product and company profiles, along with briefs on new industry research and developments, as well as your business milestones, including honors, card brand requirement changes, partnerships, acquisitions and executive appointments.
As we bid farewell to 2017, we look forward to continuing to foster your success in the payments business. Why not stop in at the MLS Forum and contribute your ideas to the lively discussions there? Members find information and advice there aplenty. Also, keep those press releases coming to press@greensheet.com, send feedback to greensheet@greensheet.com, and take good care of yourself as you ring in a fresh, new year. 
The Green Sheet Inc. is now a proud affiliate of Bankcard Life, a premier community that provides industry-leading training and resources for payment professionals. Click here for more information.
Notice to readers: These are archived articles. Contact names or information may be out of date. We regret any inconvenience.
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