Cross-Border Payments Innovation & Strategy | Mick Fennell

Why It Matters

Accelerating cross‑border payment efficiency reduces costs and opens new revenue streams, positioning banks and fintechs for growth in a globally connected economy.

Key Takeaways

• G20 aims faster, cheaper cross‑border payments by 2028
• Instant payment standards gaining global adoption
• Stablecoins emerging as settlement layer
• Fintech partnerships accelerate banks' innovation cycles
• Regulatory frameworks driving interoperability

Pulse Analysis

The global payments ecosystem is at a turning point, driven by coordinated policy goals such as the G20’s 2028 agenda for faster, cheaper cross‑border transactions. Regulators worldwide are harmonizing rules to promote transparency, reduce friction, and ensure consumer protection, creating a fertile environment for innovation. This regulatory momentum not only addresses legacy inefficiencies but also sets the stage for new market entrants to compete on a level playing field.

Technological advances are rapidly filling the gaps left by traditional correspondent banking. Instant payment standards, already deployed in domestic markets, are being extended internationally, enabling near‑real‑time settlement across borders. Meanwhile, stablecoins are emerging as a reliable, low‑volatility bridge currency, offering a digital settlement layer that bypasses legacy rails. Fintech firms, leveraging agile development cycles, are partnering with banks to integrate these solutions, delivering seamless user experiences and unlocking new use cases such as cross‑border e‑commerce and remittances.

For incumbent banks, the message is clear: collaboration and adaptability are no longer optional. By aligning with fintech partners and adopting open‑banking APIs, banks can modernize legacy infrastructure, meet regulatory expectations, and capture emerging revenue streams. The convergence of policy, technology, and partnership ecosystems promises a more inclusive, efficient global payments network, positioning early adopters to lead the market as the 2028 G20 objectives materialize.

Original Description

At TCF 2025, Mick Fennell from Temenos discusses how innovation, regulation, and partnerships are reshaping the global payments ecosystem.

The conversation explores cross-border payments strategy, instant payment standards, stablecoins, and the role of fintech partnerships in helping banks adapt to a rapidly evolving financial landscape.

Fennell also highlights the industry push toward the G20’s 2028 goals for faster, cheaper, and more accessible cross-border payments.

Read the full interview on FF News :

https://ffnews.com/fintech-tv/event/event-videos-2025/temenos-community-forum-2025/temenos-mick-fennell-talks-payments-innovation-cross-border-strategy-at-tcf-2025/

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