In payment parlance, every Acquirer must sit under a Sponsor bank that accepts settlement risk and enforces network rules. Most FinTech processors therefore depend on an external institution—which inserts extra fees, latency, and oversight. Adyen flips that script. As a principal member and licensed acquirer of both Visa and Mastercard, the company is its own sponsor. That status, rare among non-bank technology platforms, removes an entire layer of intermediation.

The payments industry is foundational and evergreen because it serves the fundamental exchange of value for goods and services. As a result interest in investment remain at high levels regardless of economic conditions. Even when confronted with challenges the payments industry demonstrates remarkable resilience. By quickly integrating emerging technologies such as mobile wallets and real-time payments we have been able to not only maintain market relevance but set new standards for efficiency, security, and the customer experience.

Yet through all these changes, one truth endures: successful strategies require more than just a spark of insight. They demand dedicated teams ready to execute and adapt.

As someone who has been fortunate to see and shape several transformations first- hand, I’m excited for what comes next. We’ve come a long way since 1987, and if the past is any indication, the future of payments promises even more dynamic and groundbreaking advances.

Over the years, the Merchant of Record (MoR) model has resurfaced repeatedly in the payments industry, driven by evolving regulations, global tax requirements, and the growing complexity of compliance obligations. Initially overshadowed by third-party processors and payment service providers, the MoR structure is reemerging as a strategic solution for e-commerce businesses seeking to streamline their billing and reduce operational overhead. By taking legal responsibility for the sale, MoR providers handle tax calculations, currency conversions, and liability management, simplifying processes for merchants across multiple markets.

In a recent turn of events, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) revealed plans to rescind its May 2024 interpretive rule that would have classified some Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) products under the same regulatory framework as credit cards. This decision has left many in the FinTech and retail sectors wondering about the ramifications for compliance, product design, and consumer experiences.

All Acquirers must satisfy the control requirements under AACQ, irrespective of any additional archetype(s). This fundamental principle ensures that, no matter what the operating model, every Acquirer consistently adheres to the baseline standards needed to safeguard the payments ecosystem. Moreover, Acquirers must also meet the additional control requirements specific to their respective archetypes, reflecting the nuanced risks and obligations each model entails.

Colorado's proposed move to exclude sales tax from interchange fee calculations while hoping to save merchants on fees introduces a complex logistical challenge. While the intention is to help businesses, the execution demands careful consideration to avoid creating a new set of operational headaches. It also may harm other businesses like local banks and credit unions.

The payments industry stands as a cornerstone of global commerce, experiencing a period of unprecedented transformation fueled by rapid technological advancements and evolving consumer behaviors.

This overview will explore the global payments industry's dynamic and rapidly evolving landscape, shaped by technological advancements, shifting consumer preferences, and changing regulatory frameworks.

As of this writing, there is no finalized “Credit Card Competition Act 2025.” What has existed are various proposals, often referred to under this name, introduced in several congressional sessions. The following points assume a future scenario in which an expanded version of this Act is passed, leading to significant implications for Acquirers.

Ultimately, the new Risk Taxonomy in the Visa Acceptance Risk Standards exemplifies Visa’s proactive stance on protecting the integrity of global commerce. By clearly defining and compartmentalizing risks, this framework encourages a more resilient, cohesive, and forward-thinking payments ecosystem—one where acquirers, issuers, and merchants can operate with greater confidence and agility.

In an era of increasing cyber threats and complex regulatory expectations, understanding the difference between mandatory and recommended controls is pivotal. Compliance with mandatory requirements is non-negotiable, but leveraging recommended controls can elevate a business’s risk management strategy. By integrating both sets of controls, merchants underscore their dedication to a safer transaction environment—ultimately benefiting their brand, their customers, and the broader payments ecosystem. In the future, the payments industry that adopt recommended measures will be better positioned to adapt to evolving threats and maintain trust across the digital commerce landscape. An integrated approach ensures businesses remain resilient in an evolving ecosystem.