• OtherPay is pioneering safer shopping and stronger authentication with unique payment card and mobile integrated solutions.
• Change Financial and Fintech Actuator partnered with Mastercard in August 2024 to launch an incubator program to support innovation – turning bold ideas into reality.

Brisbane-based fintech, Change Financial, has today announced OtherPay as the latest participant in its Prepaid Incubator program. OtherPay is a fast-growing fintech platform revolutionising electronic payments and consumer authentication.

Focused on ending purchase and identity fraud, OtherPay aims to bridge the gap between traditional banking and the evolving needs of modern consumers. By participating in the incubator, OtherPay will introduce prepaid card functionality into its platform, enhancing its offering with new tools and features for purchase and identity protection.  

Simon Hewitt, Chief Executive & Innovations Officer at OtherPay said “We’re proud to be part of the program and to work alongside Change Financial and Fintech Actuator. This collaboration provides us with a valuable opportunity to accelerate the development and launch of our unique payment card features where we believe that innovation meets common sense and where both purchase and identity fraud can be prevented.”

Tim Boucaut, CEO, of Fintech Actuator commented: “OtherPay is building a solution with the potential to put an end to purchase and identity fraud. We’re excited to support their journey and bring their innovation to market through this program.”

In this alliance, Change Financial will issue Mastercard prepaid cards, with Fintech Actuator managing the program, aiding FinTechs with comprehensive guidance from onboarding to design and execution.  

The incubator program, which launched last year, saw Change Financial and Mastercard create an environment that empowers emerging FinTechs to innovate by running small scale prepaid card solutions to test their products in market, without the cost and extensive processes involved in launching their own custom card programs. 

Each program runs for a period of six to nine months, providing continuous support and guidance to the participating FinTechs. 

“This innovative incubator program was crafted with a vision to accelerate the growth and innovation of Australian FinTechs, ensuring they have the necessary tools and support to navigate through the initial stages of development and market testing. This latest partnership with OtherPay is this vision in action,” said Tony Sheehan, Chief Executive Officer of Change Financial. 

• Accountedfor.com.au delivers a complete business accountant service – in the palm of your hand.
• Change Financial and Fintech Actuator partnered with Mastercard in August 2024 to launch an incubator program to support innovation – turning bold ideas into reality.

Brisbane-based global fintech, Change Financial, has today announced the next participant in their Prepaid Incubator program – Accountedfor, a platform redefining how professional services firms engage with clients and deliver integrated financial solutions.

Accountedfor is a modern financial services platform that empowers accounting and advisory firms to deliver streamlined, real-time financial services to their clients. With an emphasis on automation, transparency, and user experience, Accountedfor is pioneering the next generation of account practice management – including integrated spend control via prepaid card solutions.

David Thornton, Co-Founder of Accountedfor said “We’re excited to be part of the Incubator program and work closely with Change Financial and Fintech Actuator. This partnership provides us with an opportunity to integrate prepaid card capabilities into our platform and deliver greater value and innovation to our clients.”

Tim Boucaut, CEO, Fintech Actuator commented: “Accountedfor brings a fresh perspective to the professional services space, and their vision aligns perfectly with our goal of supporting emerging FinTech’s. We’re thrilled to partner with them to help bring their solution to market.”

In this alliance, Change Financial will issue Mastercard prepaid cards, with Fintech Actuator managing the program, aiding FinTechs with comprehensive guidance from onboarding to design and execution.  

The incubator program, which launched last year, saw Change Financial and Mastercard create an environment that empowers emerging FinTechs to innovate by running small scale prepaid card solutions to test their products in market, without the cost and extensive processes involved in launching their own custom card programs. 

Each program runs for a period of six to nine months, providing continuous support and guidance to the participating FinTechs. 

“This innovative incubator program was crafted with a vision to accelerate the growth and innovation of Australian FinTechs, ensuring they have the necessary tools and support to navigate through the initial stages of development and market testing. This latest partnership with Accountedfor is this vision in action” said Tony Sheehan, Chief Executive Officer of Change Financial.  

• Change has signed a new flagship PaaS client in New Zealand – Unity Credit Union 

• Over 20,000 Unity Credit Union debit cards will be issued on Change’s Vertexon Platform 

• Change has now signed six New Zealand financial institutions, including the two largest credit unions in New Zealand, representing over 65,000 account holders  

Change Financial Limited (Change), a leading ASX listed (CCA) Australian payments fintech, has signed a new Payments as a Service (PaaS) contract with Unity Credit Union (Unity), one of the largest credit unions in New Zealand, to provide direct issuing, processing and card management solutions via its Vertexon platform. 

Change has commenced the onboarding process, with Unity expecting to have approximately 20,000 debit cards, in circulation by December.   

Change Financial CEO, Tony Sheehan said, “It’s great to see a large and well-respected credit union like Unity choose Change Financial in New Zealand for fast, reliable, and seamless consumer card solutions. We have made significant investment in our platform and like our other financial institution clients in New Zealand, Unity is making the switch to Change to take advantage of advanced features and services that allow them to deliver superior payments experiences to their customers.  

“We now have a significant presence in the New Zealand market with our platform servicing the two largest credit unions.” 

“With our Vertexon platform fully operational, it is highly encouraging to secure another significant client as we build scale and momentum.” Mr Sheehan said. 

Unity will use Change partner Finzsoft Solutions Limited (Finzsoft) as their core banking platform provider, so given these synergies the development work for the onboarding process has already substantially been completed, creating immediate efficiencies for all parties. The addition of another credit union to Change’s suite of customers throughout the New Zealand market is further recognition of the strong partnership and combined value offering of Change and Finzsoft.  

Unity Credit Union CFO and acting CEO, Bruce Morrin said, “Change’s product and service offering will enable us to improve the payments experience for our customers. From being able to offer enhanced features such as Apple Pay and Google Pay, to having superior controls that reduce fraud and other operational costs, we can provide modern card features that rival the major banks, a significant and unique value proposition for non-bank financial institutions like us.” 

Change has now secured the two largest credit unions in NZ as Vertexon PaaS clients in addition to several other NZ financial institutions and fintechs. Once the migration with Unity is complete, it will take the total number of account holders serviced via the Vertexon platform within New Zealand to over 65,000. 

Mr Sheehan added, “Change Financial is continuing to expand its presence within the New Zealand market, which comes at a time when it is still quite difficult for smaller to medium sized New Zealand businesses to access consumer card programs, beyond those offered by major banks. By addressing this gap in the market, we will continue to build our presence whilst also improving the payments experience for consumers.” 

When deciding on a new card payment platform, it’s crucial to consider the technical features that will ensure a seamless, convenient and secure experience. Here are five essential features to prioritise when evaluating card payment platforms.

Payment Platform Features

Integration with Digital Wallets: 

As digital wallet platforms like Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay gain popularity, it’s important to choose a card payment platform that seamlessly integrates with these systems. This integration allows customers to make payments using their digital wallet, offering both convenience and enhanced security compared to traditional physical cards.

APIs for Mobile Development and Integration:

If you’re a developer or plan to incorporate the payment platform into your mobile or web-based application, look for a platform that provides robust APIs (Application Programming Interfaces). These APIs enable easy integration, allowing you to customise the payment experience and create a seamless connection within your app.

Cardholder Self-Service:

Empower cardholders with greater control and convenience by opting for a payment platform that offers self-service features:

• PIN Reset: Allow users to reset their PIN securely.
• Card Blocking: Enable cardholders to block a lost or stolen card immediately.
• Temporary Card Pausing: Let users lock their card temporarily—for those times when they need a break from card usage.

These features prove especially valuable during emergencies or when managing card security.

Security and Fraud Protection:

Prioritise a payment platform that goes the extra mile in safeguarding transactions. Key security measures include:

• 3D Secure (3DS): Implement this security protocol to protect online card transactions.
• Encrypted Data Transmission: Ensure that sensitive information remains confidential during communication.
• Secure Servers: Host transactions on secure servers to prevent unauthorised access.
• Regular Security Updates: Stay ahead of potential threats by keeping security protocols up to date.

Virtual Cards:

Another useful feature to consider is the ability to create virtual cards. Virtual cards are digital versions of physical cards that can be used for online transactions. Virtual cards have several advantages including:

• Organised Finances: Create separate virtual cards for different purposes (e.g., online shopping, family expenses).
• Loss and Theft Prevention: Virtual cards cannot be physically lost or stolen.

Discover Vertexon: Delivering Modern Card Payment Solutions

Vertexon, a Payment as a Service (PaaS) platform developed by Change Financial, stands out in delivering modern and digital payment experiences for both businesses and consumers. 

Vertexon excels in its integration with digital wallets, supporting popular options like Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay, allowing end users to make payments online or in-store using their mobile device.

The platform also offers APIs for businesses to seamlessly integrate Vertexon into their systems, fostering customised payment experiences for their customers.

Cardholder self-service is a notable feature of Vertexon, empowering users to manage their cards and PINs while accessing their transaction history.

Security is a top priority, with Vertexon implementing multiple layers of protection, including encryption, secure authentication, and real-time monitoring to combat fraud and unauthorised transactions.

Adding to its versatility, Vertexon supports the use of virtual cards, catering to businesses with frequent online payment needs. These cards can be easily generated and managed through the Vertexon platform.

For businesses seeking to modernise their card platform with these essential features, our sales team is ready to assist.

Explore all the features of Vertexon by checking out our comprehensive roadmap and elevate your payment experience with Vertexon today!

• Simply Zibra is launching AI-powered virtual cards through Change Financial to empower consumers to spend in a smarter way.
• Simply Zibra seeks to drive better financial outcomes for consumers by using AI to source loyalty program benefits, low fees, cashback incentives and rewards points on everyday payments – automatically.
• Change Financial will provide Mastercard card issuing to provide the payments capability in market

Brisbane, 15 August 2023: Change Financial Limited (Change), a leading ASX-listed (CCA) Australian payments fintech, today announced it will provide Mastercard card issuing to Simply Zibra, an AI-driven digital wallet that helps consumers get the most out of their money. Using AI, the system optimises every payment made via the Change issued Mastercard through analysing the transaction in real time and selecting the card that will provide the most benefits for the consumer. These benefits can include lower foreign exchange fees and interest, frequent flyer miles, cashback opportunities and rewards points, depending on the preferences and goals of the user.

Change Financial Chief Executive Officer, Tony Sheehan, said the partnership aims to offer unprecedented benefits for consumers, by allowing them to automatically receive third party savings that they may not otherwise be aware of. “We are proud to be powering Simply Zibra’s innovative technology with our card issuing capabilities. Their commitment to supporting financial optimisation through AI-driven personalisation is a breakthrough for Australian consumers.” said Mr Sheehan. “Our card issuing capabilities have helped bring this innovation to market and it will facilitate the use of this technology for online and in-person payments, with consumers able to reap the rewards in a matter of seconds.”

The platform links all of a consumer’s accounts including debit cards, credit cards and saving accounts, to ensure that the AI process can work efficiently, by drawing on spending habits and information from a broader range of sources. Simply Zibra upholds data security by partnering with licensed entities to safely store financial data. The company does not hold a customer’s funds and has ‘read-only’ access to information.

Simply Zibra Chief Executive Officer, Trina Ray Choudhury, said by connecting a user’s existing suite of cards and accounts to automate payments, they can deliver greater financial outcomes for consumers through harnessing the benefits of AI. “We are delighted to join forces with Change Financial. Together we’re able to bring a pioneering payments tool to market that redefines how consumers manage and use their finances. This venture brings us one step closer to our goal of enhancing the financial lives of Australians.” Mrs Ray Choudhury said.

“Consumers are often missing hundreds of dollars in potential savings and by using AI, our technology works in the background, automatically applying relevant savings or even earning hidden rewards, without the consumer having to spend hours sorting through information.

This product and service will be available to the market towards the end of 2023.

• Change Financial (Change) and Fintech Actuator are partnering with Mastercard to launch an incubator program for Australian fintechs to trial prepaid card solutions.
• Under the partnership, Change will issue Mastercard prepaid cards and Fintech Actuator will act as the program manager to assist fintechs with onboarding, scope and design.

August, 1st 2023: Brisbane-based global fintech and payments as a service (PaaS) provider, Change Financial, has partnered with Mastercard and Fintech Actuator to make card programs more affordable and accessible to local fintechs and startups.

Under the program, Australian companies will be able to run small scale prepaid card solutions to test their products in market, without the cost and extensive processes involved in launching their own custom card programs.

Chief Executive Officer of Change Financial, Tony Sheehan, said the partnership was one of the first of its kind in Australia and will nurture startups by providing greater access to enabling card programs, previously unattainable.

“Australia continues to be a popular global fintech hub and we see many of these new businesses unable to complement their product offering with a card program because they don’t have the capital, expertise or understanding of the process,” Mr Sheehan said.

“This partnership with Mastercard and Fintech Actuator will significantly reduce these barriers to entry for startups creating greater opportunities for local fintechs.”

The advantage of the program is that it will offer low-cost onboarding and holistic support and guidance services throughout the establishment, testing and rollout stages.

Dan Martin, vice president and head of digital partnerships, Australia at Mastercard, said that as the fintech market in Australia continues to evolve and expand, collaboration between likeminded organisations can drive real impact in helping new entrants scale quickly.

“Speed to market, testing and increased agility are paramount in driving innovation and propelling smaller fintechs forward. Mastercard’s aim is to foster an ecosystem that allows fintech startups to thrive, contributing to the overall advancement of the Australian fintech industry. Mastercard supports fintechs with the industry experience, technology and connections that it has built across many decades,” said Martin.

Each program will run for between six and nine months and at Mastercard and Change Financials’ discretion, fintechs will have the opportunity to roll out a prepaid card program that is serviced through Change Financial and Mastercard.

Fintech Actuator’s Tim Boucaut commented “Startups and many smaller companies don’t meet the scale and volume requirements to launch a card program, and this partnership changes that. By guiding businesses through the process and providing support to test and validate an idea, we are enabling more local innovations to successfully launch in the ever-growing payments space.”

The program will commence in September 2023.

You can find more information at https://www.fintechactuator.com/

Having just returned from my first international vacation since COVID, I’m sharing my views on the changing cashless payments in Japan.

It’s my sixth trip to the Land of the Rising Sun since 2004 and it’s been interesting to see how the country and society has developed over those years. 

• I used to feel like the tallest person on the Tokyo Metro, but the younger generation are growing taller
• I still marvel at the infrastructure and technology, especially their highspeed Shinkansen railway and innovative car scene
• Their ability to intertwine other cultures and yet remain quintessentially Japanese, is amazing to witness

Despite the advanced nature of their society, Japan curiously lags in digital payments.

The Japanese Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) released a plan in 2018 called the “Cashless Vision,” which outlines measures to increase the use of digital payments in the country. The goal of the plan is to increase cashless transactions to 40% by 2025 in an effort to move Japan towards becoming a cashless society. Yet Australia was already sitting at less 63% cashless transactions back in 2019. It’s a strange situation.

So, on my travels through Japan’s major metropolises, regional cities and small towns, I made note of my payment experiences. Maybe COVID had accelerated cashless options, like it had in Australia.

Cash is king

I did not find one venue, store, vending machine or hotel where I couldn’t pay in cash. At one of the large US coffee chains stores, they refused to take any card payment, cash only!

There was not a day where didn’t get cash out of my wallet or fish through my pockets for loose change. Compared to Australia, where many venues are cashless, it’s a jarring experience. 

Card payments abound – but it’s inconsistent

Card payments (my weapon of choice was Mastercard plastic) were widely available, with swipe and insert the preferred method.

Most transactions were auto approved but some required signatures, which I haven’t used in Australia for more than a year. I don’t remember using my PIN but signed at least 5 receipts. Thankfully I had no rejected card payments over during my travels.

EMV and NFC – sort of, sometimes

The EMV symbol was visible at most point of sales, however it often wasn’t working or not offered as an option. I’d usually be ushered to insert the card, or they’d simply say it wasn’t available. 

I tried to use my Mastercard via Apple Pay and shocked some retail assistants when it worked. I’d show them my card on the phone, just to confirm it was a legitimate card payment. Suffice to say, they aren’t big on digital pays.  The Japanese love their signage at POS but there were very few that had the Apple Pay, Google Pay or Samsung Pay logos.

Alternative payments – IC a future here.

I started to use my transport card PASMO card for some payments. PASMO is one of the many regional options for IC (integrated circuit) cards, which are RFID based cards that dominate the transport payment space. The acceptance levels were high, especially in vending machines and retail chains. 

Whereas Australian public transport is moving towards open loop card payments, Japan’s existing transport payment infrastructure could help drive cashless payments in the medium term.

There were a variety of other payment options too, but again no dominate method had the consistency of acceptance quite like cash.

Cash and coins still required

Unfortunately, those wanting a completely cashless experience in Japan, you’ll be waiting a while.

You could navigate a path without using cash, but it’s just easier to have a couple of 1000s and a fistful of coins to ensure you can always transact.

When it comes to choosing a new card payment platform, there are certain technical features that are essential for ensuring a smooth, convenient, and secure experience. Here are the five essential technical features to look for in a card payment platform:

Features

1. Integration with digital wallets: Digital wallet platforms like Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay are becoming increasingly popular, and it’s important to choose a card payment platform that can integrate with these systems. This will allow you to make payments using your digital wallet, which can be more convenient and secure than using a physical card.
2. APIs for mobile development and integration: If you’re a developer or you plan to integrate the payment platform into your own mobile or web-based application, it’s important to choose a platform that offers APIs (Application Programming Interfaces) for easy integration. This will allow you to customize the payment experience and build a seamless integration into your application.
3. Cardholder self-service: To give cardholders more control and convenience, look for a card payment platform that offers self-service features such as the ability to reset a PIN, block a lost or stolen card, or pause a card temporarily. These features can be especially useful in the event of a lost or stolen card, or if you need to take a break from using your card for a while.
4. Security and fraud protection: Finally, it’s essential to choose a card payment platform that offers robust security and fraud protection measures. This can include features like 3D Secure (3DS), which is a security protocol that helps to protect online card transactions, as well as encrypted data transmission, secure servers, and regular security updates.
5. Virtual cards: Another useful feature to look for is the ability to create virtual cards. Virtual cards are digital versions of physical cards that can be used for online transactions, and they offer a number of benefits. For example, you can create separate virtual cards for different types of purchases or for different family members, which can help to keep your finances organized and separate. Virtual cards also offer an extra layer of security, as they can’t be lost or stolen like physical cards can.

Vertexon: delivering modern card payment solutions

Vertexon is a Payment as a Service (PaaS) platform developed by Change Financial. It is designed to provide modern and digital payment experiences for businesses and consumers.

One of the key features of Vertexon is its integration with digital wallets. This allows users to store and manage their payment information in a digital wallet, such as Apple Pay, Google Pay or Samsung, and make payments online or in-store using their mobile device.

Vertexon also includes APIs (Application Programming Interfaces) that allow businesses to integrate the platform into their own systems and processes. This can enable them to create customised payment experiences for their customers.

Cardholder self-service is another feature of Vertexon. This allows cardholders to manage their own card and PIN, and check their transaction history.

Security and fraud protection are also important considerations for any payment platform. Vertexon includes multiple layers of security to protect against fraud and unauthorized transactions, including encryption, secure authentication, and real-time monitoring.

Finally, Vertexon supports the use of virtual cards. Virtual cards can be especially useful for businesses that need to make frequent online payments, as they can be easily generated and managed through the Vertexon platform.

Are you looking for these essential features to modernise your card platform, reach out to our sales team.

To see all the features of Vertexon, check out our roadmap.

Change Financial (CCA) has announced it has been granted a Mastercard Principal Issuer licence for Prepaid and Debit cards in New Zealand.

Being a Mastercard Principal Issuer allows Change to deliver card programs to banks, credit unions, fintechs and other businesses, looking to offer digital and physical card payments to their customers.

In March 2022, Change announced an exclusive agreement to partner with Mastercard to issue prepaid and debit card products in Australia and New Zealand. 

Change CEO, Alastair Wilkie commented, “We are excited to be a Mastercard Principal Issuer in New Zealand for Prepaid and Debit cards. To be granted our licence less than 6 months after our Mastercard partnership announcement is a wonderful result for both parties.” 

Wilkie continued, “Our business has a long New Zealand heritage and it’s a proud moment for our business, especially our Auckland based team members. Our new capability will allow us to lower the barrier of entry for New Zealand banks, credit unions, fintechs and business to deliver innovative card solutions to their customers.”

Change also recently announced they would be issuing Mastercard debit cards for First Credit Union, Nelson Building Society, Police and Families Credit Union and Westforce Credit Union.

• Change is powering card capabilities in the underserviced New Zealand market, providing mutuals greater access to digital and card payment solutions.
• More than 35,000 debit cards across four programs will be issued on the Mastercard network and processed through Change’s Vertexon platform.
• The announcement comes as New Zealand’s e-commerce market is projected to grow by 38% before 2025.

Australian based global fintech and Payments as a Service (PaaS) provider, Change Financial (Change), announced it has partnered with fellow fintech solutions provider Finzsoft to sign agreements with four New Zealand mutuals to offer direct issuing, processing, and card management solutions via its Vertexon platform. This partnership makes card payment solutions more accessible to the underserviced New Zealand payments space.  

The instant issuance of digital cards and integrated cardholder API software are not widely accessible in the New Zealand market and First Credit Union, Nelson Building Society, Westforce Credit Union and Police Credit Union will leverage these technologies using Change’s Vertexon platform to improve efficiency and the overall user experience. 

This follows Change’s recent partnership announcement with Mastercard, enabling them to deliver direct issuing capabilities for their Australian and New Zealand clients. More than 35,000 debit cards will be issued on the Mastercard network and processed through Change’s Vertexon platform. 

Demand for digital and physical card payments capabilities in New Zealand is set to rise as their e-commerce market is projected to grow 38 percent between now and 2025, reaching $8.8 billion (USD), according to the March 2022 Global Payments Report. In addition to this, the report reveals buy now, pay later (BNPL) is the fastest growing online payment method and set to account for 17 percent of e-commerce transaction value by 2025.  

Change CEO and Managing Director, Alastair Wilkie said, businesses and consumers across New Zealand currently have limited access to contemporary card technologies and this partnership will expand available opportunities to advance the market overall. 

“Change is among the first to offer digital wallets and modern payment solutions in New Zealand. Our landmark partnership with Finzsoft will address a clear shortcoming in the market by expanding the availability of card solutions outside of the major bank providers,” Mr Wilkie said. 

Credit unions and traditional finance lenders are turning to alternative card providers, outside of the major banks for fast, reliable, and well-integrated exchanges. “By expanding this section of the market, businesses and consumers will have greater access to modern products and services,” Mr Wilkie remarked. 

The instant issuance of digital cards will be available for consumers at launch and Change is already investigating opportunities to add Apple Pay, Google Pay and buy now pay later (BNPL) capabilities. 

“BNPL is projected to be the fastest growing e-commerce payment platform before 2025 and by increasing consumer access to digital cards and payment solutions, we are creating equity in the market while rivalling the services offered by major banks and traditional card lenders,” Mr Wilkie concluded. 

Change will partner with Finzsoft, who will deliver core banking and mobile banking apps to the four mutuals. 

Finzsoft Chief Executive, Helen Hatchard noted, “The partnership will allow these credit unions to offer a modern digital payment experience to their members and allow them to strongly compete with major banks and fintechs. 

We are excited to be partnering with Change once again to deliver digital transactions for accounts, lending and cards.  

Change’s payments experience, product roadmap and strong New Zealand presence will create a truly modern and innovative digital experience for members,” Ms Hatchard said. 

First Credit Union General Manager, Simon Scott said, “By accessing Change’s Vertexon PaaS, Mastercard issuing and card holder API systems, we can provide modern card features that rival the major banks and fintechs.”  

Nelson Building Society CEO, Tony Cadigan said, “Change’s digital payment features, and services will enable us to develop new payment products to retain and attract new clients.”  

Westforce Credit Union General Manager, Victor Martick said, “This partnership will benefit our members by providing modern card features.” 

Police Credit Union CEO, Craig Pomare said, “Digital payments are now an essential part of the global economy, so we are excited to work with Change and Finzsoft to co-develop innovative card products for our members.”  

According to the third edition of Prime Time for Real Time 2022, published by ACI Worldwide, (NASDAQ: ACIW), in partnership with GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company, and the Centre for Economics and Business Research, Australia and New Zealand are looking to a new era of real-time payments with a renewed sense of urgency and need to modernise to stay competitive.