Fintech Insider Podcast by 11:FS cover image

Fintech Insider Podcast by 11:FS

957. News: Global Payments bags Worldpay, Circle launches cross-border network, and is Starling for sale?

Apr 28, 2025
Nick Philpott, co-founder of Zodia Markets, discusses the significant acquisition of Worldpay by Global Payments, predicting a shift in payment solutions dynamics. Hannah Baynham from Haboo Money shares insights on their flexible repayment platform and the cultural shift needed to treat borrowers with greater dignity. Meanwhile, Doug Mackenzie highlights the potential of Circle's Payments Network in revolutionizing cross-border payments using stablecoins. The guests delve into the growth of fintech in MENA, particularly how Saudi Arabia is leading the venture capital charge.
01:07:25

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Global Payments' acquisition of Worldpay for $24 billion represents a significant shift towards becoming a pure merchant solutions company, enhancing e-commerce capabilities.
  • The surge in venture capital funding within the MENA region, primarily driven by Saudi Arabia, marks a crucial opportunity for fintech startups to thrive in less mature markets.

Deep dives

Global Payments Acquires WorldPay

Global Payments is set to acquire WorldPay in a notable $24 billion deal, which includes selling its issuer solutions unit to FIS for $13.5 billion simultaneously. This dual transaction will transition Global Payments into a pure merchant solutions company, enhancing its e-commerce capabilities and servicing over 6 million customers across 175 countries. The strategic employment of debt and stock to facilitate this acquisition reflects an ambition to streamline operations and bolster market presence, possibly marking a pivotal point in the global payments landscape. The transaction showcases the ongoing trend and growing interest within financial technology sectors, emphasizing the importance of adaptability in a rapidly evolving market.

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