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Archive · May 27, 2026

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Story 01

Google Pay Rolls Out Express Checkout for Android Apps, Targeting Wallet Dominance

Google has launched Express checkout for Android apps, letting developers tap into users’ Google Wallet credentials for one-click payments and autofill. This move streamlines in-app purchases and intensifies competition with PayPal and Apple Pay, especially as guest checkout use declines. Merchants on Android now have a frictionless path to higher conversion, while PayPal and Apple must accelerate wallet innovation or risk losing share.

Source: PYMNTS
Also Worth Knowing
№02

Tether to Issue Government-Backed GEL₾ Stablecoin for Georgia’s National Payments

Tether has been commissioned by Georgia’s government to develop GEL₾, a stablecoin pegged to the Georgian Lari, aiming to modernize the country’s payments infrastructure. This marks a rare case of a government directly partnering with a private stablecoin issuer for national currency digitization. If successful, Georgia could become a model for other countries considering public-private stablecoin projects.

Source: Finextra
№03

Circle and Nium Connect USDC to Global Payout Rails in 190 Countries

Circle and Nium have partnered to enable USDC stablecoin settlements across Nium’s global payout network, spanning 190 countries and 100 currencies. This integration positions USDC as a mainstream option for cross-border settlements, challenging banks and legacy processors on speed and cost. Payment processors and fintechs now face a new baseline for global treasury and payout solutions.

Source: The Block
№04

Riverty Secures EU Banking License, Expanding Fintech Competition in Luxembourg

Riverty, a Bertelsmann-backed fintech, has obtained an EU banking license and launched operations in Luxembourg. This move lets Riverty offer regulated financial services, putting it in direct competition with both incumbent banks and fintechs seeking full-stack capabilities. The entry of a media-backed player into licensed banking signals new cross-industry competition for digital challengers and traditional banks.

Source: Finextra
№05

Scapia Raises $63M to Expand Travel-Fintech Platform and Co-Branded Credit Cards

Indian fintech Scapia has raised $63 million led by General Catalyst to scale its travel booking and co-branded credit card offerings. The funding enables Scapia to deepen its integration of travel and payments, directly challenging established travel agencies and card issuers in India’s fast-growing market. Scapia’s expansion could accelerate the adoption of bundled travel and financial services among Indian consumers.

Source: Finextra
The Long Memory
“In 1983, Citibank introduced the first electronic funds transfer (EFT) system in the U.S., enabling consumers to access accounts and conduct ATM transactions nationwide.

Filed under: Payments History · The Long Memory

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