Why virtual cards are crucial for 21st century commerce

The global virtual cards market is ready for blast-off 

The last few years have ushered in huge changes in the way we pay, all over the world. Global markets have experienced vast growth in digital payments along with an increased demand for greater security. Consumers and businesses are turning toward a solution: virtual cards.  

This modern payments solution is taking over the world because they are more secure, convenient, and innovative than traditional payment methods. They are also more adaptable to the changing needs and preferences of consumers and businesses in the 21st century. 

The global virtual cards market is projected to increase from $411 billion in 2023 to $1.3 trillion in 2032, with a CAGR of 12%. The uptick in use of smart phones globally has changed the way people pay in every region, as they look for seamless solutions to an increasingly digital marketplace. The post-pandemic era also has also seen widespread adoption of virtual cards, as many customers and businesses pivoted to contactless payment options out of safety and necessity. Ultimately, consumers and businesses alike have adapted to the new way to pay, and virtual cards are here to stay.  

North America is leading the way in virtual card market growth, along with large increases in the APAC region. Additionally, governments in the APAC region (China, Japan, India) have promoted companies’ adoption of virtual card solutions to provide more secure payment options for customers. This positions the APAC region as primed for a major increase in virtual cards users.  

A future-ready platform to maximize your data 

Future-ready reporting technology provides instant access to your data. By gaining access to comprehensive standard reports that deliver essential information and tailored insights, you can use that information to optimize your payment operations. A modern platform will allow you to customize the frequency of each report to align to your business’ specific needs. Reports are delivered via SFTP or to an S3 bucket to seamlessly integrate with existing processes. 

Virtual cards are vital in the 21st century because they offer many benefits over traditional payment methods, such as physical cards, checks, invoices, or cash. These benefits include: 

• Security: Virtual cards can reduce the risk of fraud and identity theft by generating a unique card number for each transaction or vendor. This way, the cardholder’s personal and financial information is not exposed or compromised. If a virtual card is lost, stolen, or hacked, it can be easily canceled or replaced without affecting the other cards1 
• Control: Virtual cards can enable more granular and flexible control over spending by allowing the cardholder to set limits, restrictions, and expiration dates for each card. For example, a virtual card can be created for a specific amount, purpose, or time period. This can help prevent unauthorized or excessive charges, as well as manage budgets and cash flow1. 
• Convenience: Virtual cards can make purchasing easier and faster for both consumers and businesses. Virtual cards can be created and used instantly, without waiting for physical delivery or activation. They can also be integrated with digital wallets, mobile apps, or online platforms for seamless transactions. Virtual cards can eliminate the need for paper receipts, invoices, or expense reports by providing real-time data and automated reconciliation 2. 
• Innovation: Virtual cards can support the development and adoption of new technologies and business models in the 21st century. Virtual cards can facilitate online shopping, e-commerce, digital banking, fintech, and other emerging sectors that rely on secure and convenient payment solutions. Virtual cards can also enable new features and functionalities that enhance the user experience and customer satisfaction. 

The benefits of virtual cards—security, control, convenience, and innovation—make them an indispensable tool for both businesses and consumers. They not only address the challenges posed by traditional payment methods but also align with the future of digital commerce. As the market continues to evolve, businesses that leverage the advantages of virtual cards will be well-positioned to thrive in this dynamic landscape. 

Embracing virtual cards is a strategic move towards a more secure, efficient, and innovative payment ecosystem. As we look ahead, virtual cards will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping the future of commerce, offering a seamless and enhanced payment experience. Download our white paper, Payments at the Speed of the Future, to learn more about how virtual cards can take your business into the future. 

Future-powered payments, today with Episode Six 

The payments market is constantly changing, and your clients need a modern solution. With TRITIUM®, you can provide a real-time solution that meets this important need.  

With future-driven payments, anything is possible. Advance your payment offerings into the 21st century by placing the power of payments in your customers’ hands, no card necessary. E6 virtual cards offer a quick, secure, and ready to use solution.  

Offer the speed and convenience your clients want with a product you can launch in a matter of months. Our virtual card solution can be implemented quickly, so you can tap into this growing market by cross-selling or up-selling your existing clients.  

Access real-time data on cards, accounts, exchanges, and every type of payment activity with our digital payment solutions. With E6 standard reports, you can pivot to make adjustments to streamline your customer’s experience, and make the changes you need instantly. 

With E6 virtual cards and reporting, the power of the future is in your hands.