Karsten Wenzlaff, Advisor
August 26th, 2025
Innovation | Jan 30, 2024

Image: Revolut's website
Initially available for UK and most European (EEA) customers, it allows transfers to Bangladesh (bKash) and Kenya (M-Pesa), with plans to expand to more routes. This service aims to simplify remittances, reduce risks associated with traditional payment methods, and cater to the needs of expats and international students. It offers an easy (low friction), low-cost transfer option, aligning with the evolving digital economy's demands.
Akshat Mittal, General Manager for Revolut International Payments:
We’re delighted to launch Mobile Wallets so that Revolut customers can send money in a flash. Sending money home is a problem many expats face and so it is essential to provide a service that simplifies this and facilitates affordable and convenient international money transfers.
Revolut's Mobile Wallets feature, designed to simplify and expedite international money transfers, does not specifically mention any insurance or guarantees for the transfers. This new feature allows users to send money abroad quickly using only recipient IDs, such as their name along with their phone number or email address, reducing the risk of sending money to the wrong account by eliminating the need for detailed account numbers and bank details.
The service follows Revolut's standard pricing structure for international bank transfers, with a typical delivery time of instant processing, and the recipient's wallet receiving the funds within about 30 minutes. This feature is particularly beneficial for expats and international students, providing a convenient and efficient way to manage cross-border finance.
It's important for users to understand the terms and conditions of Revolut's services, including any protections or lack thereof for transferred funds. For detailed information on this aspect, it would be advisable to consult Revolut's official customer service or review their terms of service directly.
The National Crowdfunding & Fintech Association (NCFA Canada) is a financial innovation ecosystem that provides education, market intelligence, industry stewardship, networking and funding opportunities and services to thousands of community members and works closely with industry, government, partners and affiliates to create a vibrant and innovative fintech and funding industry in Canada. Decentralized and distributed, NCFA is engaged with global stakeholders and helps incubate projects and investment in fintech, alternative finance, crowdfunding, peer-to-peer finance, payments, digital assets and tokens, artificial intelligence, blockchain, cryptocurrency, regtech, and insurtech sectors. Join Canada's Fintech & Funding Community today FREE! Or become a contributing member and get perks. For more information, please visit: www.ncfacanada.org
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Jan 23, 2024

Image: Pixabay/merhanhaval22
Bank cards find use in all forms of purchases today, including gaming at online casino sites. Such a card could be a prepaid, debit, credit, or gift card. In this article, we will focus on casinos that accept prepaid Visa cards. You will get a few tips on how to use a Visa prepaid card at an online casino and we will round up with a quick discussion on top online casinos in Canada where the card is accepted.
As you probably know, a prepaid card is a bank card that allows you to spend money that already has a stored monetary value within the card. In other words, it only allows you to use money that you have and unlike a debit card, it is not linked to a bank account. This is probably one reason why online casinos mainly accept prepaid cards instead of credit cards. To start playing at an online casino with a Visa prepaid card, there are a few things you must do first.
When you newly acquire a Visa prepaid card, it has to be activated before any payments can be made. This can be done by calling the customer service number provided on the card or by visiting the website or app of the card issuer. In both cases, you will be given specific instructions on how to activate the card. Remember to safely keep your card information as the security of your funds may be compromised if such sensitive information falls into dubious hands.
As earlier said, prepaid cards at not linked to any form of bank account which means they have to be recharged before use. When putting money into your account, include the applicable fees as specified by the card issuer. If you’re not sure how to charge your card, visit an approved retailer and they’ll do the needful. Alternatively, you can visit a branch of your card supplier if they are connected to a traditional bank.
Once you’ve put sufficient funds into your Visa prepaid card, you can use it for deposits at any casino that accepts such payments. The standard procedure for Visa prepaid online casino deposits is as follows:
When depositing, you will only be asked to provide information like your billing address and name if it is your first attempt at using the card at the casino. Once the deposit is completed, the casino automatically stores your information for future payments. One other thing worth noting is that the minimum deposit allowed via Visa prepaid cards will be specific to the casino.
Players in Canada are lucky to have access to some of the best real money gaming sites that accept Visa prepaid card payments. Below are a few such casinos in partnership with Casimoose.ca, one of the most reliable affiliate sites in the country.
In terms of experience and reputation, very few casinos compete with Jackpot City Casino. It is an eCogra-certified site licensed by the Kahnawake Gaming Commission. If you’re a mobile gamer, you should be pleased with the casino’s mobile app which is destined for Android and iOS mobiles. JackpotCity is a low minimum deposit site where payments starting from $5 are accepted through Visa and several other banking options. The average withdrawal time at the casino is 1 – 3 days while deposits are instantly completed. Currently, the operator has a welcome bonus worth up to $1,600, spread over the first four $10 minimum deposits made by new players. In addition, 10 spins are awarded daily for a chance to win a million dollars.
Would you like a casino that allows withdrawals of up to 6,000 CAD? Then visit Playamo Casino. Here, transactions typically range from 10 to 6,000 CAD. In the case of Visa, deposits start from C$20 and withdrawals from C$25 while the maximum for both is C$6,000. The casino processes both payments free of charge and up to 3 days may be required for Visa withdrawals. New players need to deposit at least 20 CAD if they would like to redeem the casino’s sign-up bonus: up to C$1,500 plus 150 spins. If you need another reason to join Playamo Casino, think of its game list which brings 3,500+ games from over 40 game developers.
Home to multiple bonuses including special bingo and live casino promos, Crystal Slots is one of the top casinos to visit for Visa prepaid transactions. The operator makes it easy for new visitors to become members by allowing deposits as low as $5. If such a deposit is the very first made by the player, it could lead to a 1,000% match deposit bonus. Withdrawals are only processed on banking days and a verification will be required for your first cashout. The casino holds two licenses: one from the Alderney Gambling Control Commission and the other from the UKGC.
Before we leave, I would like to remind you that since Visa prepaid cards are not attached to a bank account, they can only be used for casino deposits. The withdrawal times mentioned above are those that apply when withdrawing with a Visa debit card. An alternative payment service will therefore be needed to withdraw funds from your casino account.
The National Crowdfunding & Fintech Association (NCFA Canada) is a financial innovation ecosystem that provides education, market intelligence, industry stewardship, networking and funding opportunities and services to thousands of community members and works closely with industry, government, partners and affiliates to create a vibrant and innovative fintech and funding industry in Canada. Decentralized and distributed, NCFA is engaged with global stakeholders and helps incubate projects and investment in fintech, alternative finance, crowdfunding, peer-to-peer finance, payments, digital assets and tokens, artificial intelligence, blockchain, cryptocurrency, regtech, and insurtech sectors. Join Canada's Fintech & Funding Community today FREE! Or become a contributing member and get perks. For more information, please visit: www.ncfacanada.org
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Report Insights | Jan 18, 2024

Image by Freepik
In a recent episode of The McKinsey Podcast, senior partners Alex Edlich and Reinhard Hüll, along with editorial director Roberta Fusaro, delve into the findings of McKinsey's 2023 Global Banking Annual Review. The discussion centers on the evolving landscape for banks, highlighting the profitable yet challenging period for the global banking industry. Below we highlight the key trends on the changing landscape for banks have significant implications for fintechs and investors.
The report underscores a major asset shift in the banking sector: a substantial portion of assets, over $402 trillion globally, now resides outside traditional bank balance sheets. This transition, largely towards mutual funds, insurance, pension funds, and private capital, marks a significant change in the financial ecosystem.
While rapidly rising interest rates has resulted in the higher profits for the global banking industry (best period since 2007), it's crucial for banks to recognize and adapt to the ongoing structural and macroeconomic changes, and look to evolve with market dynamics. The rise in interest rates also presents an opportunity for fintechs.
The podcast also touches on the increasing role of consumer digital payments and embedded finance, indicating a shift towards more mobile and web-based banking interactions. This transition necessitates banks to rethink their distribution strategies, potentially leveraging third-party platforms and enhancing their technological capabilities.
Prioritize technological integration and innovation, focusing on digital transformation and customer-centric services. Embrace the shift towards digital and mobile banking, leveraging AI and data analytics to enhance customer experience and operational efficiency.
Actively explore partnerships with fintechs to stay ahead in the rapidly evolving financial landscape, ensuring our bank remains competitive, resilient, and adaptable to the changing needs and behaviors of our customers. This strategic focus is not just about keeping pace; it's about leading the industry into its next chapter.
Fintechs should focus on strategic collaborations and niche market innovation. Capitalize on your agility and technological edge to create solutions that address gaps in traditional banking, particularly in areas like digital payments, personalized financial services, and cybersecurity. Forge strategic partnerships with established banks to gain scale and market access, while maintaining your innovative spirit. This approach will not only enhance your value proposition but also position you as indispensable players in the evolving financial ecosystem, driving the future of finance through innovation and customer-centric solutions.
With over half of global financial assets moving outside traditional bank balance sheets, rising interest rates boosting profits, and a significant shift towards third-party distribution channels, the landscape is rapidly evolving. These trends not only challenge the status quo of traditional banking but also open up unprecedented opportunities for fintechs and investors.
In conclusion, the future of banking and finance is being rewritten, with technology and innovation at its core. Both banks and fintechs have pivotal roles to play in this new era. For investors, this represents a landscape ripe with opportunities for those who can navigate these changes effectively. As the industry continues to evolve, the focus should be on adaptability, innovation, and strategic collaboration, driving the future of finance through customer-centric solutions and technological advancements.
The National Crowdfunding & Fintech Association (NCFA Canada) is a financial innovation ecosystem that provides education, market intelligence, industry stewardship, networking and funding opportunities and services to thousands of community members and works closely with industry, government, partners and affiliates to create a vibrant and innovative fintech and funding industry in Canada. Decentralized and distributed, NCFA is engaged with global stakeholders and helps incubate projects and investment in fintech, alternative finance, crowdfunding, peer-to-peer finance, payments, digital assets and tokens, artificial intelligence, blockchain, cryptocurrency, regtech, and insurtech sectors. Join Canada's Fintech & Funding Community today FREE! Or become a contributing member and get perks. For more information, please visit: www.ncfacanada.org
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IP Innovation and Strategy | Dec 20, 2023

Image: Yunan Huang, CEIPI, Masters of IP Law and Management
In FinTech, two giants stand out and are worth of deep comparison: Apple Pay and Alipay. For both of these platforms, Intellectual Property (IP) has been instrumental in shaping their business models and strategic approaches. This article compares the two approaches, drawing insights from a research project conducted by Yanan Huang, a graduate of the Master of Intellectual Property Law and Management at CEIPI, University of Strasbourg.
Launched in 2014, Apple Pay has become a cornerstone of Apple's FinTech offerings and offers a simple yet secure transaction method. It leverages Near Field Communication (NFC) technology, which has been the subject of numerous patents. Apple's focus on making transactions secure and seamless has driven its innovation and patent applications in this area. Its business model, as detailed in the research, is built around providing customers with a trustworthy payment option. This is achieved through strategic partnerships with vendors and banks, leveraging Apple's premium brand and IP rights. The Business Model Canvas for Apple Pay highlights its value proposition of security and convenience, which has been a significant factor in gaining customer trust.
Apple places a strong emphasis on security and privacy, which is critical in the financial sector. Patents related to secure authentication methods, encryption, and data protection are a significant part of Apple's IP strategy. Technologies like Touch ID and Face ID, which have applications in financial transactions, are underpinned by a robust patent portfolio.
The Apple Card, a credit card offering created in partnership with Goldman Sachs, showcases Apple's interest in expanding its financial services. The integration of Apple Card with Apple Pay and the Wallet app involves patented technologies that enhance user experience and security.
Beyond just payment processing, Apple Wallet allows users to store and manage digital versions of tickets, boarding passes, and loyalty cards. The technology behind this digital wallet, including its integration with other Apple services, is protected by a range of patents.
Apple continues to explore innovations in payment technologies, including peer-to-peer payment systems and contactless payments through Apple Pay Cash and potentially in areas like cryptocurrency and digital wallets.
In summary, while Apple may not be a FinTech company in the traditional sense, its influence in this sector, driven by its IP strategy and innovative payment technologies, is significant. Apple's foray into financial services with products like Apple Pay and Apple Card, backed by a strong patent portfolio, underscores its role as a key player in the global FinTech landscape.
Alipay is not just a payment service; it's part of a larger ecosystem that includes e-commerce, cloud computing, and other financial services like insurance and investment products. Patents related to the integration of these services ensure a seamless user experience and strengthen the ecosystem. Alipay's slogan, "EVERYTHING, IMMEDIATE, EVERYWHERE," encapsulates its approach.
Alipay's core service is digital payments, and the company holds numerous patents related to online payment technologies. These include patents for secure transaction processing, QR code payments, biometric verification methods like facial recognition, and more.
Ant Group has been a pioneer in applying blockchain technology to financial services. They have developed and patented several blockchain solutions aimed at enhancing the efficiency, transparency, and security of financial transactions. This includes patents for blockchain-based cross-border payment systems and supply chain financing solutions.
Alipay leverages AI and big data analytics to improve user experience and security. Their patents in this area include fraud detection algorithms, credit scoring models, and personalized financial product recommendations, all of which are crucial for maintaining the integrity and competitiveness of their platform.
The research project also sheds light on the marketing strategies of both platforms. Apple Pay focuses on three pillars: Apple Wallet, Apple Pay, and Apple Card, promoting these services across physical, digital, and social media channels. In contrast, Alipay's TechFin ecosystem includes payment, insurance, financial planning, lending, trading, investment, data analysis, and security services, including blockchain technology.
From a FinTech perspective the research concludes that Alipay seems to have an edge over Apple Pay. It operates independently from Alibaba, aiming to encapsulate a complete FinTech ecosystem, whereas Apple Pay is more of a complementary service within Apple's broader product range. Market-wise, both platforms dominate in their respective domestic markets but face challenges in international expansion. Apple Pay's single-service approach contrasts with Alipay's comprehensive range of financial services.
Beyond intellectual property, key players have a multi-pronged approaches to their business model and strategic positioning. Ultimately, companies must execute efficiently and manage evolving market, geopolitical, and regulatory risks to remain on top, including:
-> Continuous investment in research and development is key to staying ahead in the FinTech patent race. These companies invest heavily in exploring new technologies and their applications in finance.
-> Companies like Alibaba and PayPal process billions of transactions, providing them with vast amounts of data. This data is crucial to garnish insights and develop new financial technologies and services.
-> These leaders do not just focus on one aspect of FinTech but explore, innovate, and operate across diverse dimensions like payment processing, cybersecurity, blockchain, and AI, ensuring a broad and impactful patent portfolio.
-> Many of these companies actively acquire startups with promising technologies or collaborate with other industry players to expand their technological capabilities.
-> Having a global footprint allows these companies to understand and innovate according to the diverse needs of different markets, making their patents more globally relevant.
-> Understanding and navigating the complex regulatory environments in different regions is crucial for FinTech innovation. These leaders are adept at aligning their patent strategies with regulatory requirements.
While Apple Pay capitalizes on the strength of Apple's brand and its secure, user-friendly payment service, Alipay's comprehensive ecosystem approach, backed by robust technology and a wide range of services, sets a different standard in the industry. Which company will emerge as the dominant force in the future of FinTech, Apple Pay or Alipay, and why? In what ways can new players in the FinTech space leverage IP to challenge the dominance of established giants?
The National Crowdfunding & Fintech Association (NCFA Canada) is a financial innovation ecosystem that provides education, market intelligence, industry stewardship, networking and funding opportunities and services to thousands of community members and works closely with industry, government, partners and affiliates to create a vibrant and innovative fintech and funding industry in Canada. Decentralized and distributed, NCFA is engaged with global stakeholders and helps incubate projects and investment in fintech, alternative finance, crowdfunding, peer-to-peer finance, payments, digital assets and tokens, artificial intelligence, blockchain, cryptocurrency, regtech, and insurtech sectors. Join Canada's Fintech & Funding Community today FREE! Or become a contributing member and get perks. For more information, please visit: www.ncfacanada.org
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December 14, 2023

Image by starline on Freepik
While fintech and related technologies launched less than two decades ago, it has impacted many industries, especially banking, wealth management, and e-commerce. But recently, fintech technologies have permeated the gambling sector and revolutionized online casinos.
For instance, today, most reputable casinos have adopted popular payment services like PayPal for secure and convenient gaming. Because of that, they can optimize player safety, offer reduced transaction fees, and guarantee unmatched experiences.
However, fintech's impact on online casinos doesn't end at PayPal integration. Let's explore more positive changes this concept has brought to online casino gaming.
Most gamblers are likely to stick with online casinos that facilitate quicker transactions. No single online casino player may want to sign up for a provider with lagging deposits and withdrawal speeds.
Luckily, thanks to fintech, online casinos can now facilitate instant transactions. This technology has enabled gambling platforms to leverage the fantastic speeds of modern payment methods like e-wallets and cryptocurrencies. And players couldn’t be happier.
Fintech solutions like mobile payments, electronic wallets, and digital currencies are helping online casinos boost player security. But how? For one, they require players to secure their accounts with biometrics and multifactor authentication protocols.
Fintech companies also use SSL encryption and other security measures to protect casino user data from malicious entities. That has proven indispensable in an era where breaches compromise 44 records every second of every day.
Countless online casinos are fighting for the same clientele. In a bid to outdo each other, they are using different ammos, with deals and promotions on top of the list. These include welcome bonuses, free spins, and special programs.
Fintech is helping the savviest establishments attract customers through personalized deals and offers. It’s also enabled such platforms to credit bonuses to claimants instantly and automate bonus tracking.
Security is a critical issue today for players and providers in the online casino industry, and no stone is left unturned. That is why, besides leveraging standard solutions like SSL, many are harnessing the incredible power of blockchain technology, and fintech solutions are also playing a critical role in this quest.
For example, online casinos are leveraging the power of fintech solutions into their security protocols through cryptocurrency integration. Remember, most cryptos are based on blockchain technology. Fintech is helping online casinos reap immensely from blockchain by facilitating crypto payments.
The last impact that fintech has on casino gaming relates to fairness and transparency. By making blockchain integration more seamless, finance technology is encouraging more and more casinos to adopt decentralized ledgers that players can check whenever necessary. That makes everything immutably transparent.
On top of everything, fintech is helping online gambling platforms implement smart contracts. These act like digital arbiters that ensure players have access to fair casino games and are safe from fraud and manipulation.
The impact of financial technology on online casinos is undeniable. Today, casino enthusiasts are enjoying numerous benefits courtesy of Fintech. These include better security, personalized offers, and faster transactions.
As fintech continues driving efficiency and enhancing online casinos, the future is set to bring better tidings besides the ones discussed here. Keep an eye out for them.
The National Crowdfunding & Fintech Association (NCFA Canada) is a financial innovation ecosystem that provides education, market intelligence, industry stewardship, networking and funding opportunities and services to thousands of community members and works closely with industry, government, partners and affiliates to create a vibrant and innovative fintech and funding industry in Canada. Decentralized and distributed, NCFA is engaged with global stakeholders and helps incubate projects and investment in fintech, alternative finance, crowdfunding, peer-to-peer finance, payments, digital assets and tokens, artificial intelligence, blockchain, cryptocurrency, regtech, and insurtech sectors. Join Canada's Fintech & Funding Community today FREE! Or become a contributing member and get perks. For more information, please visit: www.ncfacanada.org
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