The Week in FinTech: From Emojis to Big Bucks

Estimated read time 4 min read

Emoji-Powered Security? Yes, Please!

Say goodbye to boring old PIN codes! Intelligent Environments, a British company, has introduced an innovative emoji system as an alternative to the conventional four-digit PINs used for online banking. The company claims its Emoji Passcode is more secure since it allows for a staggering number of combinations with just 44 emojis compared to the paltry 10 digits. Never again will you have to remember that catchy number sequence! According to sources, some digital banks are already raising their eyebrows in curiosity about this colorful alternative.

Bond Street Hits the Jackpot

In the competitive world of non-bank lending, Bond Street has just raised a whopping $110 million in funding! With the backing of the venture capital titan Spark Capital and investment bank Jefferies, Bond Street is on the hunt for exciting partnerships. They want to collaborate with banks and tech companies alike, seeking to tap into algorithms that can revolutionize small business lending. And who wouldn’t want to launch a credit line product alongside term loans? Sounds like a small business borrower’s dream!

Who’s Winning in FinTech?

If you thought Europe was leading the FinTech revolution, think again! According to the Payment Innovations Report 2015, Asia and Africa are stealing the spotlight with their innovative payment solutions. The report suggests that emerging markets are embracing virtual card payments, while Europe finds itself lagging at the bottom of the ladder. Looks like it’s time for the old continent to take some notes from the rising stars!

The Currency Account: A New Exchange in Town

Based on Fleet Street in London, The Currency Account has arrived to disrupt the foreign exchange market. By providing a fast and efficient online currency exchange service, they’re giving both consumers and businesses a refreshing alternative to traditional banks. Customers can now manage multiple currencies seamlessly in one account, turning the foreign exchange process into a piece of cake. Finally, a hassle-free way to ensure you’ve got the right cash for your travels.

BitPay’s Strategic Pivot

In a significant shift, bitcoin payment processor BitPay is shifting their focus from serving merchants to striking deals with the big dogs—banks and financial institutions. They plan to leverage the same payment infrastructure that secured their accounting system to streamline credit card and bank settlements, making moving money as easy as pie. Essentially, it’s Bitcoin’s chance to shine in traditional finance.

Goldman Sachs Jumps into the FinTech Pool

Big news from Wall Street: Goldman Sachs is diving into the online lending waters to compete directly with FinTech disruptors like LendingClub. The investment giant is gearing up to extend loans to consumers and small businesses, realizing that the fintech wave is one they can’t afford to miss. With the industry threatening to steal trillions, it’s only logical for goldman to throw in their hats!

Dope’s Revolutionary Ticket Sales

And it’s not just about banking! The movie “Dope” has made headlines by becoming the world’s first movie to accept Bitcoin for ticket sales, thanks to a partnership that links it to 900 cinemas across the U.S. This bold move highlights the growing acceptance of Bitcoin as a genuine form of currency, offering moviegoers a chance to pay for their laughs without needing a credit card. Movie ticket sales just got a whole lot cooler!

Europe’s Digital Commerce Boost with Google

In a bid to help European merchants expand their reach, Google and Ingenico Payment Services have teamed up for an initiative called Export Accelerator. This program is designed to guide merchants in boosting their sales across borders. By targeting online search and optimizing transactions, they’re set to help local businesses become global players. It’s all about making waves in e-commerce!

The Future of FinTech Looks Bright

As we look toward 2016, the landscape of financial technology continues to evolve and innovate. Experts believe that with an increase in global transactions, a wider variety of payment solutions will emerge. Forget just PayPal and direct deposits; the FinTech World is reimagining how we pay and get paid. Buckle up, folks; it’s going to be an exhilarating ride!

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