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Archive · March 14, 2026

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Story 01

Wizz Financial Completes First Cross-Border Stablecoin Transaction

Wizz Financial, in partnership with BitGo, has completed its first stablecoin-powered cross-border transaction from the US to 80 countries. This achievement positions Wizz Financial as a pioneer in stablecoin cross-border payments, challenging traditional remittance services. The impact: increased competition in the stablecoin remittance space may lead to heightened regulatory scrutiny as the market evolves.

Also Worth Knowing
02

Airwallex Invests $1 Billion in EMEA Expansion

Airwallex is investing over $1 billion in the UK and EMEA to drive regional expansion by 2030. This investment could disrupt local payment providers and increase competition in the region, potentially leading to partnerships with local fintechs. However, the investment might face challenges due to regional economic instability, impacting expected returns.

Source: Finextra
03

Truist Taps Plaid to Expand Open Banking Offerings

Truist and Plaid have announced a data-access agreement to enhance open banking capabilities for Truist customers. This partnership strengthens Truist's position in open banking, potentially attracting more tech-savvy customers. Increased competition among banks to offer open banking solutions is expected as a result, but data privacy concerns could hinder user adoption.

Source: Finextra
04

US Senate Passes Bill Banning Issuance of CBDCs

The US Senate has voted to ban the Federal Reserve from issuing CBDCs until after 2030. This decision could slow down CBDC development in the US, affecting global CBDC competition and increasing focus on private stablecoins and alternative digital currencies. The ban might push innovation in CBDC-like solutions outside the US, reshaping the competitive landscape.

Source: Finextra
05

Currency.com Launches Crypto-Native Card

Currency.com has announced a new crypto-native card product for its clients, powered by Rain’s infrastructure. This launch positions Currency.com as a leader in crypto payments, challenging traditional card providers. However, regulatory challenges could limit the card's adoption and usage, leading to increased competition in the crypto payments space.

Source: Finextra
The Long Memory
Did you know that in 1979, the first electronic payment system known as the Automated Clearing House (ACH) was established in the United States? This system revolutionized how individuals and businesses processed payments by allowing for the electronic transfer of funds, significantly enhancing efficiency in the banking and payments landscape.

Filed under: Payments History · The Long Memory

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