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Archive · February 11, 2026

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Story 01

Amazon Launches Pay by Bank in the UK, Challenging Traditional Payment Methods

Amazon has introduced a 'Pay by Bank' feature in the UK, allowing customers to make purchases and set up Prime memberships through direct connections to their bank accounts. This move pressures competitors to offer similar payment options, aligning with the trend of embedded finance and reducing reliance on traditional card networks. As a result, payment processors may need to adapt their strategies to accommodate this shift towards bank-linked payments.

Source: Finextra
Also Worth Knowing
№02

UK's New BNPL Affordability Checks Signal Regulatory Shift in Consumer Protection

The UK's Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) announced new consumer protections for Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) services, effective July 15, 2026. This regulatory move compels BNPL providers to adjust their business models, potentially increasing operational costs and reflecting a broader trend towards safeguarding in the payments industry. Smaller players may struggle to comply, leading to consolidation in the sector as larger firms adapt more easily.

Source: PYMNTS
№03

Stripe's USDC Integration on Base Enhances Crypto Payment Capabilities

Stripe has launched x402-based USDC agent payments on Base, enhancing its crypto payment capabilities and challenging traditional payment processors. This integration signifies a step towards mainstream adoption of stablecoins, as it allows businesses to accept USDC more seamlessly. The move may accelerate discussions around regulatory frameworks for stablecoins, impacting how payment systems evolve in the coming years.

Source: The Block
№04

MoonPay Partners with Deel to Enable Stablecoin Salary Payments

MoonPay has partnered with Deel to facilitate stablecoin salary payments, expanding its crypto payment infrastructure and challenging traditional salary payment methods. This partnership enhances MoonPay's position in the payroll sector and reflects the growing trend of stablecoins integrating into everyday financial transactions. As adoption increases, it could influence tax and regulatory policies surrounding payroll practices.

Source: Finextra
№05

Betterment Data Breach Highlights Need for Enhanced Cybersecurity Measures

A data breach at Betterment has potentially compromised the personal information of 1.4 million customers, raising concerns about operational resilience in fintech. This incident may damage Betterment's reputation and benefit competitors, while also prompting increased investment in cybersecurity across the financial sector. The breach underscores the critical importance of safeguarding customer data in an increasingly digital landscape.

Source: Finextra
The Long Memory
“Did you know that the first electronic funds transfer (EFT) system was introduced in 1970 by the Bank of America? It allowed customers to transfer money electronically, paving the way for modern digital payment systems we rely on today.

Filed under: Payments History · The Long Memory

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