Money in motion: What it takes for banks and fintechs to win in the next era of cross-border payments

Cross-border payments are no longer just a transaction. They are increasingly shaping how small and medium-sized businesses choose, trust and stay with financial providers.

For banks and fintechs, the implications are significant. As more SMEs expand internationally and do so earlier in their business lifecycle, expectations around speed, transparency and reliability are rising rapidly. ”Money in motion,” our latest research with Bain & Company, reveals a market in transition, where providers that deliver the experiences SMEs value most will be best positioned to win loyalty, deepen relationships and drive growth. 

Trust and speed are now the most important factors when selecting a cross-border payments provider, followed closely by transparency in cost, according to “Money in motion,” which is based on insights from than 1,000 SME decision-makers across 11 markets.

At the same time, SMEs are becoming more willing to reassess provider relationships, with 9 in 10 considering switching providers in the next two years, and most are already using multiple providers. 

SMEs are looking beyond the transaction itself and placing greater value on visibility, predictability and control, as well as value-added services that help them manage risk, liquidity and growth, according to the report. The findings point to a clear opportunity. Cross-border payments are increasingly becoming the front door to broader financial relationships. Providers that meet those expectations can strengthen loyalty and create opportunities across a wider range of financial needs.

As the industry gathers at Sibos, the Mastercard Move team will be sharing insights from “Money in motion” and discussing what these trends mean for banks and fintechs. If you're attending, we'd welcome the opportunity to continue the conversation and explore how evolving SME expectations may shape your cross-border payments strategy.