The Green Sheet Online Edition
July 14, 2025 • 25:07:01
Industry Update
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Electronic Payments marks 25-year milestone
Electronic Payments Inc. (EPI) is celebrating its 25th anniversary, highlighting a legacy of innovation, in-house development and unwavering support for agents and merchants.
Founded in 2000, EPI prides itself on having grown into a leading fintech provider with proprietary solutions like Exatouch® POS, ProCharge® and Cygma®.
The company processes over $24 billion annually for 52,000 merchants through a 1,200-agent network. Unique in its agent-driven, investor-free model, EPI noted it offers 24/7 U.S.-based support and fast, reliable processing.
This November, EPI will debut TableTurn® POS for restaurants at its IMPACT25 conference, celebrating a quarter-century of empowering small businesses and shaping the future of commerce.
NetXD unveils TradFi-DeFi infrastructure platform
NetXD, a Kansas-based fintech company operating in 10 countries, launched a full-stack platform designed to bridge traditional finance and decentralized finance.
Its infrastructure includes a programmable ledger, stablecoin-enabled global payments hub, self-custodial HD wallet, AI engine and Large Action Model for automating complex workflows.
Financial institutions can tokenize assets, process payments across all major rails (including ACH, RTP, FedNow, Visa and blockchain) and streamline operations without replacing legacy systems, NetXD stated, adding that the platform emphasizes compliance, security and efficiency, aligning with the U.S. GENIUS Act’s regulatory push.
NetXD noted that it enables cost savings, real-time settlements, and innovation through automation and unified digital asset infrastructure.
Onramp Funds launches ISO program
Onramp Funds launched a new independent sales organization program, enabling select brokers to connect ecommerce small and midsize businesses with fast, flexible funding.
Designed for businesses that may not qualify for traditional financing, the program allows ISOs to offer capital based on sales performance rather than credit scores or business age, Onramp stated, adding that loans come with no interest or equity requirements, and repayments align with sales cycles.
Onramp’s AI-driven underwriting matches funding needs to inventory and supply chain demands.
In addition, Onramp noted, its commission-based program empowers brokers with modern tools to support client growth, helping online merchants scale rapidly—averaging 73 percent growth within six months of funding.
RESEARCH
BHN finds shoppers lean into gift cards, digital gifting
New research from Blackhawk Network revealed that despite economic uncertainty, U.S. consumers plan to buy 10 percent more gift cards in 2025 than in 2024, using them to manage budgets, control spending and find deals. Digital gifting is on the rise, according to the study, especially via messaging and social media, with younger consumers leading adoption.
Nearly one-third of gift cards are bought for self-use, and AI is increasingly used to personalize shopping experiences, participants in the study indicated. Loyalty programs tied to gift cards are also growing in popularity. These trends, researchers found, highlight gift cards as flexible financial tools and present opportunities for brands to boost engagement, loyalty and digital sales.
Gen X prioritizes security over convenience
Generation X prefers traditional payment methods like debit and credit cards, prioritizing security, reliability and transparency over digital convenience, according to research by PXP.
While comfortable with digital transactions, Gen X is cautious about adopting newer technologies like mobile wallets, which see limited use among this group.
Security ranks highest in their payment priorities, with 51 percent of respondents in the study citing it as key and 40 percent expressing concerns about fraud.
They value clear payment terms, trusted methods and meaningful rewards. Businesses aiming to engage Gen X should offer familiar, secure payment options with added benefits, PXP advised.
Super apps are transforming global markets
ResearchAndMarkets' App Economy Market (2025 Edition) report provides a comprehensive analysis of global app market trends, forecasting growth from $409.62 billion in 2024 to $874.64 billion by 2031 at a CAGR of 8.87 percent.
Key drivers include rising smartphone and internet penetration, especially in emerging markets, and a growing demand for mobile-first experiences.
The report highlights major trends like the rise of super apps, AI integration, immersive AR/VR features, cloud scalability and the transformative impact of 5G. The report segments the market by app type, platform and revenue model, with regional insights and profiles of leading companies such as Apple, Google, Meta and Amazon.
AI-generated scams claim 62 percent more victims YoY
Sift’s Q2 2025 Digital Trust Index revealed a growing gap between consumer confidence and vulnerability to AI-generated fraud, with 27 percent of targeted individuals falling victim, which is a 62 percent rise from 2024. Alarmingly, concern over AI fraud has dropped from 79 percent to 61 percent, despite scams becoming harder to detect, Sift found. Gen Z and millennials, though confident, are most frequently scammed, while older generations show greater caution.
Researchers further found nearly one-third of respondents admitted to sharing sensitive data with GenAI tools, exposing both personal and business risks. Sift urges businesses to counter rising fraud with AI-powered defenses to secure identity trust and protect customers across all interactions.
PARTNERSHIPS
Alipay+, Meizu debut smart glasses-embedded payment solution
Alipay+, under Ant International, said it partnered with Meizu to launch the world’s first smart glasses-embedded e-wallet payment solution outside China.
A successful transaction in Hong Kong using AlipayHK and Meizu’s StarV Snap glasses marks a major step in mobile payment innovation, the partners stated.
Powered by AI voice interfaces, voiceprint authentication and QR code scanning, users can make hands-free payments via voice or gesture. The feature, supported by Meizu’s advanced AR tech, will roll out globally in 2025. Alipay+ connects 1.7 billion accounts to 100 million merchants, and this smart glasses integration signals a shift toward next-generation, seamless wearable-driven commerce experiences, Alipay+ noted.
Elavon, Wyndham team up on Cloud Payment Interface for hotels
Elavon, a U.S. Bank subsidiary and global payment processor, expanded its partnership with Wyndham Hotels & Resorts to offer its Cloud Payments Interface (CPI) to over 6,000 Wyndham franchisees in the United States and Canada.
This cloud-based solution, Elavon noted, eliminates the need for costly on-site hardware, enhancing payment security and enabling faster, touchless check-ins.
CPI integrates seamlessly with property management and reservation systems while supporting scalable growth and PCI DSS compliance, the partners pointed out, adding that the collaboration reflects a shared commitment to innovation, operational efficiency and improved guest experiences, with Elavon providing long-standing, trusted support.
InComm, NCR Atleos to deliver self-serve cash solutions
NCR Atleos stated it partnered with InComm Payments to enable cardless cash withdrawals at over 23,000 U.S. ATMs using Atleos’ ReadyCode API.
This integration, NCR Atleos noted, allows InComm’s fintech and banking partners to offer secure, app-based cash pickup without a physical card.
By expanding digital-to-physical payment options, the partners mentioned, their collaboration supports consumer demand for flexible, omnichannel access to funds.
ATMs enabled with ReadyCode are located in major retail stores across 40 states and 70+ top U.S. metro areas. This move, they added, enhances InComm’s cash-out network while increasing ATM utilization and foot traffic for retail partners, helping financial service providers serve customers beyond the counter.
Klarna, Bolt aim to deliver one-lick flexible payments
Klarna partnered with Bolt to integrate its flexible payment options, including Pay in 4 and Financing, directly into Bolt’s CheckoutOS platform.
This collaboration, Klarna said, allows Bolt’s network of 80 million shoppers to access Klarna's services through seamless one-click checkout, enhancing speed, personalization and convenience.
Klarna will become the preferred payment partner on all Bolt-powered sites, increasing visibility and adoption without added technical work for merchants, the partners noted, adding that the partnership empowers brands, from startups to large retailers, to boost conversions, customer loyalty and repeat purchases.
The U.S. rollout will begin in 2025, with plans for global expansion to follow.
PayJunction, Twillo integrate for AI-driven voice payments
PayJunction stated it integrated with Twilio to automate and scale phone payment operations using AI-driven interactive voice response technology.
This integration, PayJunction noted, allows businesses to securely process payments over the phone, reduce manual tasks and improve customer satisfaction by shortening wait times and boosting efficiency.
It also helps merchants maintain PCI compliance without outsourcing phone payments, the company pointed out, adding that Independent software vendors can leverage the No-code Payments Integration® to add customized payment features without major development work.
ACQUISITIONS
Fabrick completes acquisition of finAPI
Italian open finance firm Fabrick acquired 75 percent of Germany-based finAPI from Schufa Holding AG, expanding its reach into key European markets including Germany and Austria.
The acquisition, approved by regulators, strengthens Fabrick’s position in digital payments and open banking, enabling it to offer a broader range of secure, efficient solutions, Fabrick stated, adding that the combined portfolio enhances customer experience and supports businesses through innovation, particularly in the growing account-to-account payments segment.
With over 400 clients and €70 billion in transaction volume, finAPI brings deep expertise, Fabrick pointed out, noting this move aligns with Europe’s open banking evolution, reinforced by the upcoming PSD3 directive and rising embedded finance adoption.
Network Solutions, Web.com consolidate
Network Solutions reported it has fully integrated the Web.com brand, uniting two major digital service providers under one trusted name.
The consolidation enhances customer experience by offering a unified platform for domains, websites, hosting, security and marketing tools, Network Solutions stated. Web.com customers will now benefit from Network Solutions’ 45-year legacy of expert support.
Central to the update, the company added, is the AI Website Builder—now powered by Web.com's award-winning technology—featuring streamlined, customizable design tools, enhanced media management and responsive layout options.
Olo agrees to be acquired by Thoma Bravo
Olo Inc., an open SaaS platform for restaurants, entered into a definitive agreement to be acquired by Thoma Bravo in an all-cash deal valued at approximately $2 billion.
Olo shareholders will receive $10.25 per share, a 65 percent premium over the company’s April 30, 2025, share price. The acquisition, expected to close by year-end 2025, will make Olo a privately held company.
Founded in 2005, Olo mentioned it serves over 750 restaurant brands with digital ordering, payments and guest engagement tools. Thoma Bravo indicated it plans to support Olo’s continued growth and innovation, strengthening its position as a vital partner in the hospitality sector.
Shift4 completes acquisition of Global Blue
Shift4 Payments said it completed its $7.50-per-share tender offer to acquire Global Blue, marking its largest acquisition to date.
The deal brings tax-free shopping, dynamic currency conversion and other specialty payment solutions into Shift4’s unified commerce platform. Shift4 stated that Global Blue, a market leader with 40+ years of experience, serves premium retailers across Europe, Asia and South America, and the integration will enable it to offer an all-in-one payment terminal combining VAT refunds, DCC and payment processing.
Ant International and Tencent will become strategic partners, expanding global reach through services like Alipay+ and WeChat Pay, Shift4 added. Global Blue shares will be delisted following a squeeze-out merger.
Swivel integrates Magic-Wrighter’s LoanPay Xpress
Fintech provider Swivel Transactions LLC announced the full integration of its acquisition Magic-Wrighter’s LoanPay Xpress (LPX) into its award-winning payments platform.
This transition, Swivel stated, will upgrade LPX and New Account Funding users to Swivel’s enhanced, browser-based system, offering expanded features like Apple Pay, AutoPilot, Swivel Pay and advanced reporting tools.
The integration streamlines payment management and improves user experience across industries, including K-12 education through continued support of e~Funds for Schools, the company added. Swivel also reaffirmed its commitment to reliability and service while enhancing innovation.
APPOINTMENTS
Ballerine appoints Christian Chmiel in EMEA
Christian A. Chmiel is the new general manager for EMEA at Ballerine, bringing over 20 years of expertise in risk management, compliance and fraud prevention to the company.
A Certified Fraud Examiner and Certified High-Risk Underwriter, Chmiel previously founded Web Shield Group and served as deputy head of compliance at an acquiring bank. He is a recognized industry thought leader, known for shaping best practices in online fraud detection and high-risk underwriting.
In his new role, Chmiel will lead Ballerine’s regional growth, helping financial institutions leverage AI-driven tools for smarter, faster merchant risk decisions and streamlined compliance across Europe, the Middle East and Africa.
Finastra strengthens team with strategic hires
Finastra appointed three key executives to support its delivery of innovative, customer-focused financial services software. Don Baptiste, who joined as chief operating officer, brings a strong track record in business transformation and operational performance. He will oversee analytics, customer insights, partnerships, sales operations and strategic programs.
Shirley Powell was appointed as head of strategic communications. A seasoned adviser to senior executives, she will lead corporate and strategic communications to enhance stakeholder engagement and alignment.
Mike Stawchansky, in his expanded role as chief technology officer, will lead the creation of a centralized technology hub to accelerate delivery of secure, scalable solutions.
These leaders are expected to play pivotal roles in advancing Finastra’s focus on generative AI, intuitive technology and evolving customer needs, Finastra stated.
FPC lauds incoming, returning, outgoing board members
The U.S. Faster Payments Council (FPC) celebrated new and returning members to its 2025–2026 Board of Directors, bringing together leaders from across the payments ecosystem to guide the organization’s strategy and growth.
Six new directors will begin terms on July 1: Tony Cook (FirstBank), John Drechny (Merchant Advisory Group), Jim Filice (Visa, Inc.), Sri Iyer (Cross River), Jessica Johnson (First National Bankers Bank) and Craig Ramsey (ACI Worldwide).
Each brings deep expertise in banking, merchant services, real-time payments and digital innovation.
Re-elected to serve new terms are Scott Anchin (ICBA), Sarah Arnio (Walmart), and Elspeth Bloodgood (Jack Henry), continuing their roles in shaping industry engagement and advancing faster payments initiatives. The board also includes leaders from consumer advocacy, payment networks, and technology firms.
Outgoing board members were recognized for their service and contributions. With fresh perspectives and strong experience, the new appointees are positioned to advance secure, efficient, and inclusive faster payments in the United States, the council stated. 
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