The Green Sheet Online Edition
June 23, 2025 • 25:06:02
Letter from the editor
Cryptocurrency is edging its way into mainstream commerce. It's no longer just a store of value but a method of payment merchants are seriously considering. This issue's lead story explores how stablecoins and bitcoin are gaining traction at the POS, from fast-food chains like Steak 'n Shake to major ecommerce platforms like Shopify. With Congress advancing stablecoin legislation and Block preparing to roll out bitcoin payments across its Square platform, the stakes are high. Will digital currencies challenge the Visa-Mastercard duopoly? The race is on, and merchants are watching closely, with savings and flexibility in sight. Is your business ready?
With preparation for today's challenges in mind, this issue's contributors explore a range of payments developments and issues. One expert makes a compelling case for enhancing the ETA's Certified Payments Professional program, proposing upgrades like a dedicated directory, code of ethics and complaint resolution process to improve trust and elevate standards. Another leading voice warns against an unchecked march toward a cashless society, emphasizing cash's role as a budgeting tool and financial lifeline for unbanked households.
Other experts discuss Capital One's acquisition of Discover, revealing how the deal could reroute billions in network fees, potentially disrupting Visa and Mastercard's dominance; the importance of advanced fraud prevention as digital payments and AP automation expand; marketing payment solutions to HVAC professionals; and a POS-integrated panic button demonstrating how merchant security is evolving to meet physical safety concerns.
In addition to the updates and profiles included herein, our news briefs reveal points where innovation meets disruption. A Kansas City Fed report highlights how BNPL services are deepening financial distress among already overextended users. On the global stage, tariff instability and rising invoice rejections underscore the need for real-time, automated systems to navigate payment and compliance chaos.
Meanwhile, the Credit Card Competition Act inches forward, aiming to reduce card processing fees by requiring network choice, though critics warn it could undercut rewards programs.
PayPal and Mastercard's expanded partnership emphasizes consumer flexibility, blending loyalty, credit, debit and installment payments into unified, secure credentials. And Illinois delayed its controversial Interchange Fee Prohibition Act until 2026. The bill, which would exempt taxes and tips from interchange fees, has sparked debate about who benefits more: big-box retailers or everyday small businesses.
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