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Archive · January 10, 2026

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The Lead

Story 01

Microsoft Partners with PayPal and Stripe for AI Shopping Checkout

Microsoft has partnered with PayPal, Shopify, and Stripe to launch Copilot Checkout, allowing merchants to enable purchases directly within the AI-powered Copilot without redirecting to external sites. This partnership strengthens Microsoft's position in AI-driven commerce, challenging traditional e-commerce platforms by reducing friction in the checkout process. Expect increased adoption of AI in e-commerce, potentially leading to higher conversion rates and customer satisfaction. While AI integration simplifies checkout, it may raise concerns about data privacy and security, which could slow adoption.

Source: Finextra
Also Worth Knowing
№02

Ripple Secures UK EMI License, Expanding Cross-Border Payment Solutions

Ripple has obtained an Electronic Money Institution license and crypto asset registration from the UK's Financial Conduct Authority, enabling it to expand its cross-border payment solutions. Ripple gains a regulatory edge in the UK, potentially increasing its market share in cross-border payments and challenging traditional banks. This could accelerate the adoption of crypto-based payments in the UK, influencing other regions to follow suit. However, regulatory hurdles in other jurisdictions may limit Ripple's global expansion despite UK success.

Source: PYMNTS
№03

BNY Mellon Launches Tokenized Deposit Service for Institutional Clients

BNY Mellon launched a tokenized deposit service, enabling blockchain-based payments and collateral for institutional clients. This positions BNY Mellon as a leader in digital asset services, potentially attracting more institutional clients seeking blockchain solutions. The move may drive other financial institutions to adopt similar blockchain-based services, enhancing industry-wide digital transformation. However, tokenization may face resistance from traditional clients wary of blockchain technology.

Source: The Block
№04

Chase to Take Over Apple Card from Goldman Sachs, Managing $20B Portfolio

JPMorgan Chase will assume the Apple Card portfolio from Goldman Sachs, managing a $20 billion portfolio of Apple customers. This strengthens JPMorgan's consumer lending portfolio, potentially increasing its market share in digital payments. The transition may lead to enhanced features and services for Apple Card users under JPMorgan's management. However, transition challenges could disrupt user experience, affecting customer satisfaction.

Source: Banking Dive
№05

Rain Raises $250M in Series C for Stablecoin Payments Expansion

Rain, a stablecoin payments firm, raised $250 million in a Series C round, valuing the company at $1.95 billion. The funding boosts Rain's market position, enabling it to expand its stablecoin payment solutions and challenge established players. This may accelerate the adoption of stablecoins in mainstream payments, influencing regulatory and market dynamics. Despite the funding, stablecoin volatility and regulatory uncertainties could hinder Rain's growth.

Source: The Block
The Long Memory
“Did you know that the global market for AI in retail is expected to reach $19.9 billion by 2027, driven by innovations like AI-powered shopping assistants?

Source: Business Insider ↗