USD INR ₹ 86.00
GBP INR ₹ 110.35
CAD INR ₹ 61.76
News

Wise Partners With Visa For Global Expansion

Updated on February 08, 2021 11:19 am
Tranferwise

Wise announced a global collaboration with Visa to facilitate the expansion of its multi-currency debit cards in different regions including Europe, the US, Asia Pacific, Latin America, the Middle East, the Caribbean, and the UK.

Wise has more than 10 million customers and is moving nearly $6 billion in remittances every month.

Wise launched its multi-currency account that allows retail customers and businesses worldwide to hold and convert 55 currencies at the real exchange rate in 2018. Multi-currency accounts help people and businesses manage their money in different geographies across borders at much lower fees and favorable exchange rates.

Visa Cloud Connect is an innovative way for leading fintech companies around the world to integrate Visa's global processing network, VisaNet, including a unified certification and testing framework, Visa-hosted security services such as transaction encryption and PIN key management, and simplified settlement in local markets.

Wise is the first company to pilot the Visa Cloud Connect platform, which provides a secure cloud-based connection to VisaNet that also eliminates the need for expensive local infrastructure.



Generally, expanding into new markets requires significant investment in local data centers, telecommunications infrastructure, and specialized payment as well as coordination with local partners to adhere to regional standards. With Visa Cloud Connect, Wise can quickly establish a secure connection to VisaNet through its cloud provider, eliminating the need for expensive local connectivity and speeding up Wise's global expansion.

This partnership of Wise with Visa also marks the beginning of seamless global integration. It will accelerate Transfer Wise's plans to roll out the debit cards that accompany its multi-currency account in a host of new markets. The company has launched more than 1 million debit cards since its launch through different global partners.

Visa says the platform will be made available to other companies from August 2021, which will simplify global connectivity and testing, lower IT costs through cloud integration, and speed time to market for launching programs in new geographies.

Kristo Kaarmann, co-founder and CEO of Wise, said: "We've been working to remove borders in the world's financial networks. Cards should work the same across borders too. In Visa, we found a partner who shares our ambitions to make money work seamlessly no matter where you are. We're excited to see how the outcome of our collaboration impacts the next generation of multinational financial institutions across the globe.

"It was an exciting opportunity for us to partner with Wise and show how we're thinking and working differently to help today's fintech innovators scale up quickly. With Visa Cloud Connect, we've created an approach that lets Wise tap into Visa's global infrastructure, one of the most secure, reliable, and resilient systems in the world through a single integration. Through our work with Wise, we've created a blueprint for other fintech companies to quickly and securely connect with Visa's massive scale and reach," Jack Forestell, Executive Vice President and Chief Product Officer at Visa, said in a statement.

About Visa

Visa is a leader in digital payments. Their mission is to connect the world through the most innovative, reliable, and secure payment network - enabling individuals, businesses, and economies to thrive and scale to reshape the future of commerce.

Their advanced global processing network, VisaNet, provides secure and reliable payments around the world and is capable of handling more than 65,000 transaction messages a second. The company's relentless focus on innovation is a catalyst for the rapid growth of digital commerce on any device for everyone, everywhere.

 8892 views
Rate article:
(5.0)
 
 
Money Transfer FAQ's
Related Articles
UK to Philippines
How to Send Money from the UK to Philippines

Sending money from the UK to the Philippines is a significant financial transaction that requires careful consideration to ensure efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and security. As an immigrant or someone supporting family and loved ones back home, understanding the process and selecting the right remittance service is crucial. Do not worry. CompareRemit is here to guide you through all of your remittance needs. In this guide, we'll walk you through the essential steps, considerations, and top remittance providers to help you make informed decisions and maximize the value of your money transfers.Things to Consider Before Transferring Money from UK to PhilippinesBefore initiating a money transfer, it's crucial to grasp two essential factors: exchange rates and transfer fees. The exchange rate refers to the value of one currency relative to another. For example, if the GBP to PHP exchange rate is 1 GBP to 71.81 PHP, it means one British pound is equivalent to 71.81 Philippine pesos. Transfer fees, on the other hand, are charges imposed by remittance companies for their services.It's worth noting that exchange rates and transfer fees can vary significantly across different companies. While some providers may offer competitive exchange rates, they might compensate by charging higher transfer fees. Conversely, others may provide lower transfer fees but offer less favorable exchange rates.It's essential to find a balance between favorable exchange rates and reasonable transfer fees to maximize the value of your remittance. Some companies may offer promotional rates or discounts for first-time users, while others may have ongoing promotions or loyalty programs. Comparing different remittance providers using platforms like CompareRemit can help you find the best combination of rates and fees for your transfer.Will GBP to PHP Increase or Decrease?As of the latest data, the GBP to PHP exchange rate stands at 1 GBP to 71.81 PHP. CoinCodex forecasts a potential 9.43% rise in the GBP to PHP exchange rate over the next year, reaching approximately ₱ 78.22 at some point during the year. While exchange rate predictions provide valuable insights, they are subject to change based on various economic and geopolitical factors. Monitoring exchange rate trends regularly can help you identify favorable opportunities for sending money to the Philippines.When is the Best Time to Send Money from the UK to Philippines?Determining the best time to send money involves strategic planning and analysis of exchange rate fluctuations. Referencing forecast predictions and using comparison sites like CompareRemit can help you track the best exchange rates and promotional offers from top remittance companies. By timing your transfers during periods of favorable rates or promotions, you can optimize the value of your remittance and save on transfer costs.How to Transfer Money from the UK to PhilippinesOnce you've finished comparing and contrasting the top providers and selected the best remittance provider through CompareRemit’s Compare Tool, the next step is to initiate the money transfer. Remittance services typically offer various transfer methods, including online transfers, bank deposits, and cash pickups.Sign up: Create an account with your chosen remittance provider and complete any required verification steps.Enter recipient details: Provide the recipient's information, including their name, address, and contact details.Select transfer amount: Enter the amount you wish to send, ensuring it meets any minimum or maximum transfer limits.Choose delivery method: Select the preferred delivery method for the recipient, such as bank deposit or cash pickup.Review and confirm: Double-check the transaction details, including exchange rate and fees, before confirming the transfer.Complete the transfer: Submit your payment and wait for confirmation of the successful transfer.Top Remittance Providers for Transferring Money from the UK to the PhilippinesXe Money TransferXe offers competitive exchange rates, low fees, and fast transfers, making it an excellent choice for sending money from the UK to the Philippines. Their user-friendly platform ensures a seamless remittance experience for users.Wise Money Transfer Formerly known as TransferWise, Wise provides transparent exchange rates and minimal fees, allowing users to send money with confidence. With millions of satisfied customers worldwide, Wise offers a reliable and cost-effective solution for international transfers. Instarem Money TransferInstarem offers competitive rates, no hidden fees, and real-time tracking, ensuring transparency and security throughout the transfer process. With Instarem, users can send money to the Philippines quickly and conveniently.PassToPassTo specializes in tailored remittance solutions for migrants, offering flexibility, convenience, and personalized service. With a focus on customer satisfaction and reliability, PassTo is an excellent choice for sending money to the Philippines and beyond.Frequently Asked QuestionsQ: What are the best rates from GBP to PHP?A: As exchange rates fluctuate, it's advisable to monitor platforms like CompareRemit to find the best rates from GBP to PHP offered by various remittance providers.Q: When is the best time to transfer money from the UK to Philippines?A: Monitor exchange rate trends and utilize comparison tools to identify favorable transfer windows.Q: How can I compare money transfer services from the UK to Philippines?A: Utilize comparison sites like CompareRemit to compare money transfer services based on exchange rates, fees, transfer speed, and customer reviews.Q: What is the best way to transfer money to the Philippines online?A: The best way to transfer money to the Philippines online is to use a reputable remittance provider, ensuring competitive rates and secure transactions.Q: How can I ensure the safety and security of my money transfers?A: Choose reputable remittance providers with robust security measures in place to safeguard your transactions.

Insurance Risks
Risks That Travel Insurance Can Help Protect (2024)

When planning for an upcoming trip, deciding whether to invest in travel insurance is a significant choice that may be in your best interest not to overlook. Travel insurance serves as a financial safety net, protecting you from a myriad of potential risks during your journeys. As you begin your research, you will notice there are two types of travel insurance: trip insurance and travel medical insurance–also known as visitors insurance. It can be very confusing, we know. But don’t worry. In this guide, we'll delve into the advantages of travel insurance, clarify the distinctions between trip and travel insurance, and provide clarity and insight into its often-overlooked perks.How Important is Travel Insurance?Travel insurance works as a shield against the various financial risks associated with traveling. Whether it's a sudden illness, a missed flight, or lost baggage, having the right travel insurance can alleviate the financial burdens that may arise during your trip.What is the Difference Between Tip Insurance and Visitors Insurance?Long story short, the difference is simple, think of trip insurance as insurance for your trip itself while travel medical insurance–aka visitors insurance–serves as insurance for you while you are on the trip. While both types of insurance offer protection during travel, their primary purposes differ. Trip insurance safeguards your investment in the cost of your trip, while travel medical insurance prioritizes your health and well-being during the journey. Please note that only U.S. residents are eligible to purchase trip insurance, and coverage extends to both domestic and international travel.Exploring the Benefits of Travel InsuranceWhile common risks like trip cancellations and medical emergencies are well-known, there are several benefits that travel insurance offers which many don’t even know about, providing a broader safety net for travelers. Let's unravel just some of these often-overlooked advantages. Benefits of Trip Insurance1. Coverage Beyond Trip CancellationsTrip cancellations or interruptions are inevitable. Trip insurance, with its Trip Cancellation coverage, acts as a safeguard for your invested time and money. It can refund 100% of your trip expenses for covered reasons, including illness or death of you, a family member, or a travel companion, extreme weather, or terrorist attacks.Trip cancellations are a common concern, but travel insurance extends its coverage beyond this. It safeguards your prepaid and non-refundable trip expenses in case of unavoidable circumstances.2. Protection Against Flight DelaysFlight delays or missed connections can disrupt your travel plans. Trip insurance steps in to cover financial losses incurred due to delays caused by factors beyond your control, including extreme weather, natural disasters, plane breakdowns, or accidents on the way to the airport.3. Safeguarding Your BelongingsLost, damaged, or stolen baggage can add stress to your travel experience. Trip insurance offers coverage for delayed baggage, allowing you to claim expenses for essential items after a waiting period. In case of permanent loss or damage, reimbursement is provided to replace the lost items.4. Addressing Unconventional RisksFor situations not covered by standard plans, such as unconventional trip cancellations, opting for a "Cancel for Any Reason" insurance plan provides flexibility. Though relatively more expensive, this upgrade offers reimbursement for refundable trip costs and specific non-refundable deposits.You can also see a more detailed list of what can be covered by your trip insurance. Benefits of Travel Medical Insurance1. Comprehensive Medical CoverageTravel medical insurance largely serves to cover unexpected medical expenses during your journey. This includes reimbursement for medical treatments, ambulance services, and hospital charges in case of illness or injury. This aspect is particularly beneficial for elderly parents traveling to the U.S.2. Emergency EvacuationIn the case that those who are covered by the insurance need emergency medical evacuation some travel medical plans help cover the evacuation. Without this coverage, should you need to be airlifted or evacuated, you could be facing a cost upwards of ten thousand dollars.3. Emergency Medical ReunionIn the unfortunate case that you face a major medical emergency during your travels, travel medical insurance can cover the transportation of your loved ones from back home to be there with you during your hospitalization. 4. Trip InterruptionIf you have to cut your trip short, some travel medical insurance plans would cover their stated amount for the non-refundable, unused travel expenses that canceling your trip halfway would incur. Make sure you read the details of the plan you are planning to purchase thoroughly to see the extent of coverage if unexpected interruption is something you are concerned about. You can also see a more detailed list of what can be covered by your visitors insurance. Choosing the Right Travel InsuranceIt's crucial to recognize that different insurance providers offer varied coverage plans. Factors like non-refundability, traveler's age, pre-existing conditions, the value of luggage, and existing coverage from health insurance, life insurance, renters' insurance, or credit cards play a role in determining the best travel insurance plan.If you are someone who travels frequently or are purchasing travel insurance plans for parents who plan to make the same trip often, we also suggest looking for a travel insurance plan with easy renewal. Do not worry, most plans today have a very easy renewal system so you can travel again and again with no hassle. Who Should Opt for Travel Insurance?Trip Insurance: Opt for travel insurance if you're concerned about trip cancellations, interruptions, or non-medical incidents. It's ideal for travelers who have invested significant sums in their trip and want financial protection against unforeseen events.Travel Insurance: Choose travel medical insurance if your primary concern is health-related emergencies during your trip. It's essential for travelers who want comprehensive coverage for medical expenses abroad, ensuring access to quality healthcare without worrying about exorbitant costs.Visitors insurance is also the best option for those looking to purchase travel insurance for their parents visiting or traveling.  Related Article: Visitor Insurance for Parents Visiting USAConclusion: Empowering Your TravelsIn conclusion, travel insurance is not merely a safety net; it's a comprehensive companion that grants peace of mind during your journeys. As you plan your next adventure, take the time to understand the nuances of travel insurance, evaluate your options, and ensure you have the best travel insurance plan tailored to your specific needs.__FAQs: Demystifying Travel Insurance FearsWhat does travel insurance cover?Travel insurance typically covers a range of risks, including trip cancellations, medical emergencies, delayed or lost baggage, flight cancellations, and certain unexpected incidents.Does my health insurance cover international travel?Most health insurance policies have limited or no coverage for international travel. Travel medical insurance is specifically designed to address the unique risks associated with traveling abroad.Does travel insurance cover illnesses?Yes, visitors' insurance often covers medical expenses incurred due to new illnesses during your trip. This includes reimbursement for medical treatments, ambulance services, and hospital charges.Does travel insurance cover flight cancellations?Yes, trip insurance typically covers flight cancellations due to reasons such as illness, extreme weather, or other unforeseen circumstances. Reimbursement for prepaid and non-refundable trip expenses is common.Does travel insurance cover COVID-19?Many travel insurance plans provide coverage for COVID-19-related expenses, including medical treatments and trip cancellations. However, coverage details may vary, so it's essential to review your policy.What should travel insurance cover?It depends on whether you opt for travel medical insurance or trip insurance. Ideally, trip insurance should cover delayed or lost baggage, trip cancellations, etc. While travel medical insurance should cover a broad spectrum of medical risks, including medical emergencies, unexpected incidents, a necessary visit to urgent care, etc.. The coverage should align with your specific travel needs and potential risks.Does travel insurance cover hurricanes?Yes, trip insurance often covers trip cancellations, interruptions, or delays caused by hurricanes or other natural disasters. It's essential to check the policy details for specific coverage related to natural calamities.Does travel insurance cover rental cars?Travel insurance may offer coverage for rental cars, typically covering expenses related to theft or damage to the rented vehicle. It's advisable to check the specific coverage details in your travel insurance policy.Does insurance cover travel vaccines?Travel insurance usually does not cover the cost of travel vaccines. This expense is often considered a preventive measure and falls outside the scope of typical travel insurance coverage.How easy is it to renew visitor's insurance?Renewing visitor's insurance is generally a straightforward process. Opting for policies that allow easy renewal is advisable, as it saves time and ensures continuous coverage.

Union Budget 2024
Union Budget 2024: What Is In It For The NRIs?

The Indian Union Budget 2024, a significant event in the country's financial calendar, holds implications for Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) as well. Let's explore the key highlights of the budget announcement and how it may affect NRIs.Key Highlights of the Budget AnnouncementTaxation ReformsThe budget proposes various taxation reforms aimed at simplifying the tax structure and promoting investment. It includes changes in income tax slabs and rates, with the aim of reducing the tax burden on individuals.The two income tax slabs remain unchanged and taxpayers can continue to choose between the two. The most notable differences between the two slabs lies in the fact that the old tax regime allows taxpayers to avail exemptions under various sections of income tax rules. The new text regime, however, offers a fixed but lower tax rate than its predecessor. The finance minister, Nirmala Sitharaman, had announced in the 2023-2024 budget that there will be a hike in the income tax rebate limit from 5  lakh Indian rupees to 7 lakh Indian rupees under the new income tax regime. Furthermore, she also issues a hike in the lowest exemption limit under the new tax slab from 2.5 lakh Indian rupees to 3 lakh Indian rupees. Infrastructure DevelopmentWithout getting too deep in the nitty gritty details, significant allocations have been made towards infrastructure development projects, including transportation, energy, and urban infrastructure. These investments aim to boost economic growth and create employment opportunities.Boost to Healthcare The budget focuses on strengthening the healthcare sector by increasing allocations for healthcare infrastructure, research, and development. This could lead to improvements in healthcare facilities and services across the country.Promotion of Digital EconomyMeasures are proposed to promote the digital economy, including investments in digital infrastructure and the expansion of digital payment systems. This could facilitate greater financial inclusion and ease of transactions for NRIs.Impact on Non-Resident IndiansThe budget announcements could have several implications for NRIs:Tax Planning: NRIs should stay updated on changes in tax laws and assess their impact on their financial planning. Changes in income tax rates and exemptions may influence investment decisions and retirement planning for NRIs.Investment Opportunities: Investments in infrastructure projects present attractive opportunities for NRIs looking to invest in India. NRIs may consider diversifying their investment portfolio to include sectors such as real estate, infrastructure, and healthcare.Digital Transformation: The promotion of the digital economy could lead to the expansion of digital banking services and investment platforms, making it easier for NRIs to manage their finances and invest in India remotely.Understanding NRE and NRO AccountsOne of the most important decisions an NRI will need to make is which caliber of savings account they want to hold once they immigrate. If you have not made the decision just yet, make sure you tackle that before you start sending money to India or investing. India’s banking system offers two types of accounts tailored for Non-Resident Indians (NRIs): Non-Resident External (NRE Account) and Non-Resident Ordinary (NRO Account).Non-Resident External (NRE) Account: An NRE account allows NRIs to maintain foreign earnings in Indian rupees. It offers full repatriation of both principal and interest earned, making it ideal for parking foreign income.Non-Resident Ordinary (NRO) Account: An NRO account is used to manage income earned in India, such as rental income, dividends, or pension. While the principal amount is repatriable, the interest earned is subject to certain restrictions.To gain a more in-depth understanding of the various benefits and drawbacks of NRE Accounts vs. NRO Accounts, rest assured you can find all the information with CompareRemit.  To compare the top NRE and NRO accounts and find the best one for you, visit the NRE Account Compare Page or the NRO Account Compare Page.Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Are NRIs required to pay taxes in India?NRIs are liable to pay taxes in India on income earned or received in India. However, they may be eligible for certain exemptions or deductions under the Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA) or domestic tax laws.Can NRIs invest in Indian stocks and mutual funds?Yes, NRIs can invest in Indian stocks and mutual funds subject to certain regulations prescribed by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI).Can NRIs open joint accounts with Indian residents?NRIs can open joint accounts with Indian residents, subject to compliance with the rules and regulations specified by the respective banks.What is the procedure for repatriation of funds from NRE and NRO accounts?Funds from NRE accounts are fully repatriable, while funds from NRO accounts are subject to repatriation restrictions. NRIs need to follow the prescribed procedures and documentation requirements for repatriating funds from these accounts.How can NRIs stay updated on changes in Indian financial regulations?NRIs can stay informed about changes in Indian financial regulations by regularly monitoring updates from regulatory authorities such as the RBI, SEBI, and the Income Tax Department, as well as consulting financial advisors specializing in NRI services.

Download the CompareRemit App
Download the CompareRemit App
Personalize your CompareRemit experience with your preferred corridor and receive target exchange rate notifications, seamless transitions to partner apps, and real-time comparisons of top remittance providers at your fingertips.
Personalize your CompareRemit experience with your preferred corridor and receive target exchange rate notifications, seamless transitions to partner apps, and real-time comparisons of top remittance providers at your fingertips.

Get Listed or Advertise

Download Our Free App

Try our faster, enhanced mobile app for a better experience

CompareRemit App