Seamless, embedded payment capabilities are emerging as a critical growth flywheel for tech platforms. This, as Meta pilots in-app business payment capabilities for WhatsApp users and merchants in Brazil, and Elon Musk ends Twitter’s run as an independent organization by merging the social platform with...
America’s biggest banks are reportedly setting aside cash in anticipation of first-quarter losses. The banking giants that helped shore up struggling First Republic Bank with a $30 billion infusion last month have put aside roughly $100 million each in quarterly earnings to protect against losses,...
Unconventional partnerships have transformed the retail industry, disrupting traditional business models and creating new opportunities for growth and success. From Shopify and TikTok to Target and Ulta Beauty, companies are joining forces to offer innovative shopping experiences for customers. Here’s a look into how some...
Mid-priced apparel, accessories and footwear retailer Buckle reported a drop in sales in March. The 439-store firm’s comparable store net sales for March were down 10.1% from the same period the previous year, and its net sales for the month were down 9.2% year over...
In recent years, the concept of quiet luxury has become a trend in the fashion industry. The term refers to the subtle but expensive garments offered by high-end brands like Loro Piana and Brunello Cucinelli, which convey an understated elegance and refinement. But is it...
Walmart has shuttered half its Chicago stores while facing heavy competition for grocery customers. The move, announced Tuesday (April 11), brings the number of Walmart stores in America’s third largest city from eight down to four, and is happening as the country’s largest brick-and-mortar retailer...
As funding evaporates, venture capital firms are seeking an oasis in the Middle East. Groups like Andreessen Horowitz, Tiger Global and IVP have in the past weeks sent teams to Qatar, the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia, the Financial Times (FT) reported Wednesday (April...
Elizabeth Graham, product manager at Entersekt, said false declines carry significant risks for banks and merchants, where consumer loyalty is critical. Merchants and issuers are losing money through the false declines, as a result — more money than would have been lost to potential fraud, said...
In response to widespread demand for convenience, nonfinancial companies are using banking-as-a-service (BaaS) to seamlessly integrate financial products into traditionally nonfinancial platforms and experiences. Known as embedded finance, this integration of financial services has become immensely popular: In 2021, businesses and consumers spent $2.6 trillion...