Europe

Mastercard is stepping up its involvement with cryptocurrencies by inviting digital payment operators to launch crypto cards through its platform, beginning with U.K.-based Wirex.

A staged implementation rolling up national systems offers EPI its best prospects. Still, it’s a long shot, says Intrepid Ventures’ Eric Grover.

Tokyo-based payment card network JCB International is positioning itself for post-pandemic tourism growth by signing a deal with 3C Payments to expand payment acceptance in Europe, beginning in Spain.

About 78% of Mastercard’s European transactions are now contactless, and the company expects the shift in payment choice will be permanent.

PSD2 compliance remains a necessary step to protect data and ID even if the coronavirus presents more challenges, says GlobalSign's Arvid Vermote.

The potential for a new card scheme throughout Europe has been a discussion point surrounding the Single Euro Payment Area since its inception more than a decade ago. A new proposal could bring this concept into reality.

Mastercard has promoted divisional president Mark Barnett as its new European president to succeed Javier Perez, who is retiring at the end of the year.

Worldline has acquired a 53% stake in Czech Republic-based GoPay, furthering an Eastern European expansion effort with an option to acquire the remaining shares in 2022.

CaixaBank and Global Payments are building on a series of partnerships to build a joint prepaid venture in Europe.

Mastercard is part of an expanding trend toward easing restrictions to entice consumers to choose contactless payments over cash and plastic during the coronavirus.