The report, titled “The Global Credit Card Shift: Next-Gen Platforms Bypass Legacy Limits,” highlights a significant transformation in consumer behavior that is reshaping the global credit market. This transition impacts regions such as APAC, Europe, the Middle East and Africa, North America, and LATAM.

Consumers are increasingly demanding digital-first experiences with their credit cards, leading to higher usage of these tools. They expect rapid issuance, enhanced spending control, personalized rewards, and better financial management capabilities.

Key Findings

Traditional institutions using outdated platforms face mounting pressure from fintechs, neobanks, and digital lenders, which are setting new standards for customer journeys that prioritize mobile access. These newer players leverage innovative technologies to surpass established competitors in terms of product design and speed to market.

The report underscores the ongoing relevance of credit cards but suggests that only issuers equipped with modern technology can seize growth opportunities. It also notes a shift towards embedded credit at checkout points and card designs without traditional numbers, altering how consumers think about borrowing and making payments.

Modern capabilities such as instant digital issuance, immediate wallet provisioning, flexible payment plans, personalized rewards, and real-time spending controls are now expected by consumers. These features require an issuer-processing platform paired with advanced credit ledgers that support real-time data processing, adaptable solutions, and dynamic credit management.

The study concludes that issuers who can build infrastructure for speed, flexibility, and real-time intelligence will be best positioned to succeed in the evolving landscape of credit. Cloud-first processors are essential as legacy systems struggle to handle digital issuance, complex credit models, and flexible installment plans.

Datos Insights conducted this research with support from Paymentology, drawing insights from extensive global market data, interviews, and analysis of evolving credit ecosystems across more than 12 key markets. It provides valuable guidance for both traditional issuers and new players on how to modernize their credit infrastructure, roll out digital features swiftly, and compete effectively in rapidly changing environments.