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Archive · January 28, 2026

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Story 01

Revolut Expands Banking Operations to Mexico, Disrupting Local Market

Revolut has launched full banking operations in Mexico, marking its first bank established outside of Europe. This expansion could disrupt traditional banks in Mexico by offering competitive digital banking services. For payments teams, this means increased competition in the digital banking space, prompting local banks to innovate or risk losing market share. As Revolut adapts its European model to the Mexican regulatory environment, watch for potential challenges that could arise.

Source: Finextra
Also Worth Knowing
№02

Fiserv and Affirm Shift BNPL Competition from Credit to Debit Cards

Fiserv has partnered with Affirm to integrate Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) capabilities into debit card programs for banks and credit unions. This move challenges traditional credit card models and could reshape consumer credit behavior. Payments professionals should note that increased adoption of BNPL could lead to regulatory scrutiny, as consumers may be wary of overextending their finances. This shift may also prompt other players to explore similar integrations.

Source: Finextra
№03

Mastercard's Intelligent Agent Suite Enhances AI-Driven Payment Solutions

Mastercard is launching a suite of services to help banks and merchants integrate agentic AI into operations, enhancing payment processes. This strengthens Mastercard's position in AI-driven payment solutions and could set new industry standards. For payments teams, this means a potential acceleration in AI adoption, prompting competitors to develop similar offerings. However, the complexity of AI integration may deter smaller banks and merchants from fully embracing these solutions.

Source: Finextra
№04

Tether's USAT Stablecoin Launch Intensifies U.S. Market Competition

Tether has launched the USAT stablecoin, entering the regulated U.S. stablecoin market amid concerns about stablecoin fragmentation. This move could intensify competition in the U.S. stablecoin market, challenging existing players like USDC. Payments professionals should prepare for potential regulatory changes as fragmentation risks prompt authorities to expedite stablecoin regulations. The entry of Tether may also lead to inefficiencies and interoperability issues within the stablecoin ecosystem.

Source: PYMNTS
№05

Ripple's New Treasury Platform Enhances Digital Asset Management

Ripple has launched a new treasury platform that combines cash and digital asset management, following its $1 billion acquisition of GTreasury. This enhances Ripple's offerings in digital asset management and could attract more corporate clients. For payments teams, this signals a growing trend of integrating digital assets into mainstream financial operations, potentially driving broader adoption in corporate treasury functions. However, conservative financial managers may resist this integration.

Source: The Block
The Long Memory
“Did you know that the first credit card was made of cardboard? Diners Club introduced it in 1950 after founder Frank McNamara forgot his wallet at a restaurant, paving the way for the modern credit system we know today.

Filed under: Payments History · The Long Memory

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