Discussion on MDR Return to UPI: Allocation Among Banks, Fintechs, NPCI
A discussion is underway regarding the allocation of Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) among banks, fintech companies, and NPCI if it returns to UPI transactions.
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A discussion is underway regarding the allocation of Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) among banks, fintech companies, and NPCI if it returns to UPI transactions.
Nigerian banks and fintech companies filed 42,082 suspicious transaction reports with the NFIU, indicating increased compliance with anti-money laundering regulations.

Fraud cases involving fintech companies and payment service providers are increasing in Ghana as criminals exploit digital payment channels. Experts caution that the fight against digital fraud is an ongoing battle requiring continuous improvement rather than a definitive victory.

Galaxy Backbone is intensifying efforts to engage banks and fintechs as the Central Bank of Nigeria moves to enforce the local storage of payment transaction data.
Galaxy Backbone is intensifying efforts to attract banks and fintechs to its digital infrastructure services after the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) issued a directive on local data storage.
JPMorgan CEO Jamie Dimon is reportedly driving the bank to catch up with Europe's fintech companies, motivated by a 'jealousy' of their innovation and market position.

Experts in Africa’s financial technology ecosystem emphasized that fintech companies must evolve into stronger, better-governed institutions to attract long-term investment and sustain financial inclusion.
Banks are increasingly building partnerships with technology companies, e-commerce platforms, retail chains, and fintechs to reach new customers and achieve a goal of 100 million clients, moving beyond traditional competition.
The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has directed all banks and financial technology companies to localize the storage of payment data within the country. This order aims to ensure that all payment information is kept within Nigeria's borders.
Nigerian fintech companies are encouraged to effectively utilize data to drive growth and make informed decisions, emphasizing the need to build robust data infrastructure for sustainable success.

The Nigerian Army successfully rescued 92 civilians who had been kidnapped by terrorists in Borno State, neutralizing improvised explosive devices and engaging in operations against militants. This rescue operation was part of broader efforts to combat terrorism in the region.
Argentine banks and fintech companies are facing significant challenges as household defaults surge, impacting the country's financial sector.
BeInCrypto Institutional Research has identified 15 fintech companies that are actively working to bridge the gap between traditional fiat currencies and digital assets, showcasing innovation in the financial technology sector.

UBA championed deeper collaboration between banks and fintech companies at a recent pan-African conference. The event brought together over 20 leading fintechs and ecosystem stakeholders to discuss future partnerships.

European nations, led by France and the UK, are planning a multinational naval mission to secure the Strait of Hormuz. This initiative aims to ensure safe passage through the vital waterway, with Italy also expressing openness to contribute.

Ms. Susan Yawson, CFO of MobileMoney Fintech LTD (MMFL), emphasized that effective collaboration is essential for sustaining growth, trust, and innovation within Ghana’s rapidly expanding financial technology sector.

The Central Bank of Nigeria has mandated all banks and financial institutions, including fintechs, to submit detailed reports on their cybersecurity frameworks within three weeks to enhance oversight and protect the financial system.

A Nigerian Senate committee has advocated for legislation to explicitly place fintech operations under the supervision of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).
NextFin Asia has introduced a new dedicated fund as part of the Catapult: Inclusion SE Asia Program, aimed at scaling inclusive finance fintech companies across ASEAN.

Youths from the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Nigeria's South-West have rallied in support of President Tinubu's 2027 re-election bid, with the Lagos APC declaring its readiness for his campaign. The upcoming election is expected to put his party on trial, with various political figures commenting on the potential outcomes.

Quidax, Nigeria's first SEC-licensed digital assets exchange, has expanded its stablecoin infrastructure to over 21 countries, aiming to facilitate compliant value movement for businesses and fintechs across Africa and beyond.

In his first year as director general of the association that brings together eight banks and savings banks, he vindicates the social vocation of its members and calls for reducing sector regulation: "The excess...
An audit report reveals that counties are paying fintech vendors up to 15 percent of total collections for automation services, leading to stagnating county revenues. This costly automation process allows fintech companies to bag millions while local government finances suffer.
Nigeria's Galaxy Backbone is intensifying efforts to attract banks and fintechs to its digital infrastructure services, following a data localization directive from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). The move aims to boost local digital infrastructure adoption.
Elon Musk's new 'bank' has gone live, but analysts suggest it requires further development to pose a significant threat to established fintech companies.

A Stanbic Investment Management Services (SIMS) executive has called for stronger collaboration between rural and community banks, fintech firms, and mobile money operators to deepen financial inclusion and improve livelihoods across Ghana.

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has mandated banks, fintechs, and other payment operators to localize payment data and set caps on market dominance, with a compliance deadline of December 31, 2026.
Digital financial platforms are transforming the lives of millions in Africa by providing alternatives to outdated banking systems across the continent.
An analysis suggests that the United States represents the most significant market opportunity for international financial technology companies.
Investec is intensifying competition among lenders and fintechs by launching a £30 million private banking initiative aimed at wealthy customers in the UK.
Fintech companies in the UAE are intensifying their loyalty efforts, with Payit rolling out a new in-app rewards scheme. This initiative reflects a growing trend among UAE fintechs to enhance customer engagement through loyalty programs.
NatWest has chosen several fintech companies to participate in its upcoming 2026 AI-focused program. This initiative aims to foster innovation in artificial intelligence within the financial sector.
UBA Plc hosted a significant conference, bringing together fintech companies like OPay and PalmPay to foster collaboration over competition in securing the future of payments across Africa.
OPay's Chief Operating Officer advised fintech companies to shift their focus from transaction volume to improving user financial health, advocating for the use of data and AI for meaningful transformation.
The article discusses evolving avenues for financing, highlighting the roles of financial markets, fintech companies, and private investors in providing new capital pathways.
Fintech companies like Wise, which plans to launch current accounts, are intensifying their efforts to draw customers away from traditional high-street banks in the UK, following Klarna's successful pivot to a full-service bank.
London's financial services sector, encompassing banks, fintechs, and insurers, continues to thrive due to its diverse professional services and robust regulatory environment, helping the city retain its title as a leading global financial hub.

NextFin Asia has announced a new dedicated fund as part of the Catapult: Inclusion SE Asia Program, aimed at scaling inclusive finance fintechs across the ASEAN region.
NextFin Asia has launched a new dedicated fund for the Catapult: Inclusion SE Asia Program, aimed at further scaling inclusive finance fintechs across the ASEAN region.
Indian FinTech companies collectively raised USD 935.5 million across 10 deals in June 2026, according to a report.

Professor Godfred Bokpin, an economist, urged fintech companies in Ghana to enhance collaboration to strengthen the fight against digital fraud. He warned that fragmentation within the sector is hindering efforts to build a resilient digital economy.

Banks and fintech companies in Ghana are raising competing concerns over regulation in the digital financial sector, with each side suggesting the other operates under a lighter supervisory regime amidst growing fraud risks.

The United States conducted a new wave of extensive strikes against dozens of targets in Iran and reimposed oil sanctions in response to Iranian attacks in the Strait of Hormuz. This escalation led to a rise in oil prices and a promise of a 'decisive' response from Tehran.

The Bank of Ghana is advocating for an industry-wide system to combat fraud across banks, fintechs, and mobile money platforms, recognizing that digital payments can formalize the informal economy but are threatened by fraud. While technology can prevent hacking, the Bank of Ghana's Fintech Head notes that customers surrendering their PINs remains a significant vulnerability.

Experts in Africa's financial technology ecosystem highlighted the critical need for fintech companies to prioritize trust and establish stronger governance structures as the industry continues to mature and attract long-term investment.
Banks are increasingly forming partnerships with technology companies, e-commerce platforms, retail chains, and fintechs to expand their customer reach, while e-commerce platforms are entering the financial sector and banks are exploring retail. This trend highlights a growing convergence and competition in the realm of daily transactions.

Nigeria's Central Bank (CBN) has mandated banks and fintech companies to disclose their owners and store payment data within Nigeria, aiming to enhance transparency and reduce market risks.
Fintech company Ramp has successfully raised $750 million, achieving a $44 billion valuation, as investors show strong interest in fintechs with an AI narrative.
The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) has identified deficiencies in anti-money laundering (AML) practices at a New York bank. This bank is known for its partnerships with various fintech companies.

Minutes from the Federal Reserve's latest meeting indicate that a majority of officials are prepared to support additional interest rate hikes if inflation continues to prove persistent. The discussions also revealed a more hawkish stance among policymakers than previously perceived.
Fintech companies are increasingly drawing customers away from established legacy retail banks, signaling a shift in the financial services landscape.

South Africa is experiencing escalating xenophobic attacks, with reports of officials joining crackdowns on foreign nationals, prompting a mayor to reconsider foreign shop closures amid diplomatic pressure. Meanwhile, other African nations address economic development and regional security concerns.

UBA hosted a pan-African conference bringing together over 20 leading fintechs and stakeholders, including PalmPay, OPay, Mastercard, Visa, and the Central Bank of Nigeria, to discuss deeper collaboration between banks and fintech companies.
Discussions are underway regarding new avenues for financing, involving financial markets, fintech companies, and private investors.

•Unveil new payments vision as PSPC takes off By Babajide Komolafe The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), commercial banks and financial technology (fintech) operators have launched a joint industry…

Global hedge funds have been selling shares in bank, insurance, fintech, and trading companies, making financials the most sold stock sector this year, according to a Goldman Sachs note, as global market jitters grow.
The concept of acquiring BIN sponsorship is presented as a key strategy for European fintech companies to unlock new payment revenue streams and gain greater control over their payment operations.