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Crypto and Blockchain: Shaping the Future of Payments in Africa

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Cryptocurrency and Blockchain: Shaping the Future of Payments in Africa

Cryptocurrency and blockchain technology are revolutionizing how payments and financial transactions are conducted worldwide, and Africa is no exception: “Crypto & Blockchain: Shaping the Future of Payments in Africa.”

With Africa’s limited traditional banking infrastructure, millions of people are excluded from financial services, leading to slow business and economic growth.

However, with the high rate of cryptocurrency adoption in many African countries, noticeable changes are taking place. People initially excluded from the financial system participate in digital transactions, making cross-border payments and investments, ultimately changing their lives and positively impacting the economy.

This article discusses different ways cryptocurrency and blockchain technology are shaping the future of payments in Africa.

How Cryptocurrency and Blockchain are Shaping the Future of Payments in Africa

Financial Inclusion and Access to Capital

Financial exclusion, that is, lack of access to capital and other financial services, is one of the major problems facing the African payment infrastructure. The World Bank reported in 2014 that over 350 million African adults had no bank account.

That number has decreased in recent years due to the success of mobile money programs. But a recent BPC fintech report shows there’s a lot more to be done, as it reported that 57% of Africans do not have access to any kind of bank account, including mobile money accounts.

This is where cryptocurrency and blockchain stepped in and are already contributing massively to the payment revolution in Africa. Cryptocurrency became popular in Africa in the heat of the COVID-19 period, recording an adoption rate of 1200% between 2020 and 2021.

Individuals initially excluded from the traditional financial systems are now actively participating in the crypto market with just their phone and internet connection. The availability of crypto ATMs and over-the-counter (OTC) markets where you can trade cryptocurrency and receive cash has made it possible for people in underserved communities to access financial services.

Cross-Border Payments

African countries engage massively in international trade within themselves and with other continents. Many small businesses in Africa export goods in different quantities and import them to resell or for production. However, traditional cross-border payments can be expensive and slow due to the fragmented financial landscape of the continent and the use of different currencies.

According to the World Bank, the average cost of sending $200 was 6.2% in Q4 2022, with mobile money being the cheapest at 4.5%. That’s between $9 and $12 in transfer fees for a payment of just $200. And it could be more, especially if the sender uses a traditional bank (11.8%) or a money transfer operator (5.4%). The cost could be quite unbearable when the exchange rate and preferred transfer speed are factored in.

Cryptocurrencies, such as bitcoin, ETH, BNB, and stablecoins, are facilitating borderless and cost-effective international money transfers, reducing the fees and time involved. Transferring cryptocurrency from one wallet to another is one of the cheapest ways to make cross-border payments or remittances, and transactions are completed in 24 hours or less. For example, the average cost of sending Bitcoin to another wallet is $4.05, while Ethereum costs $0.73 per transaction.

Store of Value

The inflation rate in most African countries is skyrocketing daily, eroding the value of their currencies and making imports and even internal purchases expensive. For example, in Nigeria, the dollar price in the parallel market went from N736 in January to N1300 in October 2023. That shows a 76.6% increase in the dollar’s value within ten months.

According to Business Insider Africa, many African countries are experiencing a prolonged period of high inflation. In the list, Zimbabwe stands top with an inflation rate of 101%. Others are Serra Leone (44.81%), Ghana (43.1%), Egypt (36.5%) and Ethiopia (28.8%). Nigeria, the largest African country, also made the list with an inflation rate of 24.08%.

The rising inflation in many African countries has led individuals and businesses to look for a reliable way to save money without losing value. Cryptocurrencies, especially stablecoins, have proven to be a good store of value and a reliable alternative for financial transactions.

Integration with Mobile Payments

Many Africans use mobile phones for payments and transactions, and cryptocurrencies can integrate seamlessly with mobile payment platforms, making it easy for people to transact with them.

Mobile payment platforms like Google Pay, BitPesa, Blockonomics, PayPal, and more allow users to make payments in cryptocurrencies for purchases on digital platforms.

People bypass many unnecessary fees by transacting in cryptocurrencies, especially when making purchases on international platforms. Many crypto-integrated mobile payment apps also allow users to save, invest, and perform other financial services with their smartphones.

Remittances

Remittances are a significant source of income for many African families. Africans working abroad love sending money to their families at home, either for their upkeep or investments.

The World Bank’s Migration and Development Brief shows how remittances grew in Sub-Saharan Africa by 6.1% in 2022, totaling $53 billion. Many countries had significant growth in their remittances, with Tanzania (25%), Rwanda (21%), and Uganda (17%) being the top three. Nigeria accounted for 38% of the total remittance inflows to the region despite having a growth rate of only 3.3%.

Many factors contributed to this remittance growth in Africa, including the low cost of cryptocurrency transactions and mobile money payments.

Conclusion

The adoption of cryptocurrency and blockchain technology is rapidly reshaping the African payment system, creating a future of massive financial inclusion, efficiency, economic development, and empowerment.

The advantages of these assets are clear, as individuals, businesses, and governments can benefit massively from them. Cryptocurrencies facilitate borderless and cost-effective cross-border payments, enable individuals and businesses to hedge against hyperinflation, and make mobile payments more efficient.

Despite already having significant success in Africa, its future impact is expected to be much more revolutionary. Cryptocurrency and blockchain technology will open new opportunities for investment and trade and pave the way for a brighter economic future across the African continent. See More!

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FINTECH

How the Logistics Sector Can Improve On Payment Collection In Nigeria

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How the Logistics Sector Can Improve On Payment Collection In Nigeria

How the Logistics Sector Can Improve On Payment Collection In Nigeria

 

The logistics sector in Nigeria continues to gather momentum, especially in the urban centers that are densely populated with people of varying demands. This business is a critical part of the supply chain as it collects, transports, and delivers products to customers. Hence making it a lucrative venture in Nigeria.

 

However, the advent of technology has amplified the logistics sector as it now tends to leverage digital tools to attract customers seeking to employ the service for product delivery to different parts of the country. This has increased online presence through websites and social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and X (Twitter).

How the Logistics Sector Can Improve On Payment Collection In Nigeria

Notably, the logistics sector already has a synergy with other sectors like the e-commerce industry, which is primarily populated by small and medium-scale enterprises (SMEs).

 

Therefore, its relevance becomes germane to fostering the customer experience of any business. This is because a timely delivery of products is the hallmark of any logistic business.

 

However, payment structure plays a significant role in the effectiveness and efficiency of the business as this propels it to pick up products and get them delivered to people. So, product delivery will always be delayed when a firm payment agreement between an SME and the logistic business is not met. While this can affect the reputation of the SME, it can also reduce the patronage of such logistics.

 

In light of bolstering the operation of the logistics sector in Nigeria, it is imperative to employ payment methods that are easy and simple to use such that it does not lead to delays that hamper related businesses. Therefore, Fincra has put in place sustainable payment innovation to boost the growth of the logistics business in the country.

 

Notable as one of the leading fintech companies in Nigeria, Fincra is a payment gateway committed to improving the payment strategy of different sectors in Nigeria, including the logistics business.

 

Ways Logistics Sector Can Collect Payments On Fincra

 

1. Virtual Account

 

Logistics businesses can create a naira (NGN) virtual account on Fincra, which enables them to collect payments from clients across Nigeria. This virtual account can be temporary in the instance of a one-off transaction or a permanent one, which can be used to collect payments like the local bank account.

 

This Fincra virtual account allows easy reconciliation and effective payment management for businesses and logistics.

 

2. Payment Link

 

There is a Fincra payment link that logistics businesses can quickly generate to collect payments from clients. This link can be customized and shared across various messaging tools – social media platforms and text messages. It includes all the necessary information, including the account details of the logistics business for their clients to make payment via bank transfer or cards.

 

3. E-wallet

 

This is using the Fincra wallet to collect payment by the logistic business. However, it is only conditioned that the other client has a Fincra account to facilitate this transaction. This is another effective way of collecting payments because it is simple and instant.

 

Therefore, logistics may need to create a Fincra account and encourage their clients to create the account to enable a seamless completion of payment without delay. This will be a win-win situation for both businesses.

 

4. Card Payment

 

This involves the use of credit or debit cards to make payments. As such, there is a Fincra POS terminal that logistics businesses can employ to collect card payments from their clients. This is a mode of agency banking designed by Fincra to increase the coverage for the payment system in Nigeria.

 

It facilitates an in-person transaction that ensures quick completion of payments between the logistics business and its clients.

 

Conclusion

 

Nigeria’s logistics sector is a booming economy, with many entities foraying onto the landscape. But as this sector continues to become competitive to stay afloat, it is important to adopt better payment strategies that would push the business to the fore of attracting more clients.

 

Fincra provides different options to collect payments for logistics businesses. You can take advantage of that when you create a Fincra account now.

 

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FINTECH

How E-commerce Businesses Can Build Trust With Fincra Payment Collection Methods In Nigeria

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How E-commerce Businesses Can Build Trust With Fincra Payment Collection Methods In Nigeria

How E-commerce Businesses Can Build Trust With Fincra Payment Collection Methods In Nigeria

 

E-commerce is a burgeoning sector in Nigeria, with small and medium-scale businesses continuously entering the market to attract teeming online users who are potential customers. This can be owed to the widespread adoption of technology, which businesses are leveraging to grow sales.

 

Today, there is a proliferation of e-commerce platforms or stores across Nigeria designed to meet the purchasing needs of the larger Nigerian population. This has given rise to a competitive market with businesses adopting strategies that would give them a better position of generating and retaining leads (customers) in the dynamic business landscape.

How E-commerce Businesses Can Build Trust With Fincra Payment Collection Methods In Nigeria

There are many strategies e-commerce businesses employ in Nigeria and worldwide – from a user-friendly online storefront that is easy to navigate to a payment system at checkout. These are some significant factors customers consider to inform their buying decisions on an e-commerce platform.

 

We can not overemphasize the role of payment collection in e-commerce, as customers are always keen on ensuring that a system makes their payment at checkout seamless. This reinforces customers’ trust and confidence in completing their purchases on the e-commerce platform.

 

But, while bank transfers, card payments, and e-wallets are currently the popular methods of collecting payments in Nigeria, e-commerce businesses can harness different payment options on Fincra.

 

Payment Collection Methods On Fincra For E-commerce Businesses

 

Fincra is a leading fintech company in Nigeria that has become a trusted and reliable payment gateway for various business niches. As such, e-commerce businesses can use the payment options on Fincra or, better still, integrate with the payment API on the platform to ease the payment process on their respective platforms.

 

However, you can directly collect payments from customers across Nigeria on your Fincra account. You can achieve this with payment options that include:

 

  • Virtual account: this is a virtual naira account on Fincra that enables you to collect payment through bank transfers from your customers.

 

  • Payment link: there is a Fincra Payment Link, which is customizable – enabling you to share account details with product descriptions with customers on social or messaging platforms.

 

  • Direct API: this is a fully optimized payment system that provides a class array of different options on your e-commerce platform.

 

  • Checkout: a Fincra checkout can be tailored to your e-commerce platform, supporting your customers’ devices to provide an improved experience for your customers.

 

By and large, all these payment collection methods on Fincra are important to the payment strategy of any e-commerce business in Nigeria. They provide your company with a positive outlook to gain trust and confidence.

 

Benefits Of Payment Collection On Fincra By E-commerce Businesses

 

1. Low Fee

 

The fee is relatively low when you collect payments on the Fincra. It provides one of the industry’s best pricing such that you save more for your business while using the platform. This is with the understanding that the sole aim of business is to make profits. Therefore, Fincra is committed to maximizing your gains with its low fee structure on the platform.

 

2. Advanced Security

 

Fincra employs a state-of-the-art security system to keep your funds safe when collecting payments on the platform. It complies with industry standards to keep your financial information and funds from unauthorized access. Therefore, Fincra protects you from identity theft that could lead to a possible loss of funds.

 

3. Multiple Payment Methods

 

As a reputable payment gateway in Nigeria, e-commerce businesses can collect payment via different options that best suit them on Fincra. These are naira (NGN) virtual accounts, payment links, checkout, and direct API. Therefore, these make your business more trusted as you gain more customers.

 

Conclusion

 

People continue to use e-commerce platforms to buy their preferred products in Nigeria, even as others also offer a range of services. But the integral part of e-commerce is the payment system that is the best fit for customers. That is why these businesses need to use the various options on Fincra to collect payments in Nigeria.

 

You can create a Fincra account now to use different payment methods for your e-commerce business.

 

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FINTECH

AAS TOKEN (AAST): The Power of Early Cryptocurrency Investment

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AAS TOKEN AAST The Power of Early Cryptocurrency Investment

AAS TOKEN (AAST): The Power of Early Cryptocurrency Investment

In the dynamic landscape of finance, one phenomenon has consistently captured the attention of risk-takers and forward thinkers alike — the world of cryptocurrency. Stories of astronomical gains and heartbreaking losses fill the digital realm, but amidst this volatility, a strategy stands out: investing in cryptocurrency at launch. This article delves into the advantages of being an early adopter, exploring the potential for substantial profits and the unique benefits that come with it.

AAS TOKEN AAST The Power of Early Cryptocurrency Investment

The First Mover Advantage: The undeniable perk of diving into a new cryptocurrency at launch is the first-mover advantage. Early investors gain exclusive access to potential gains before the wider market catches on. Securing tokens at lower prices paves the way for significant profits as the project gains traction and demand. This early entry positions investors at the forefront of groundbreaking digital currencies, offering a unique edge in the volatile crypto market.

Discovering Hidden Gems: Investing in cryptocurrency at launch opens the door to discovering hidden gems amidst the sea of digital assets. While established players like Bitcoin and Ethereum dominate headlines, emerging projects can provide unique features and innovative solutions to real-life problems. Being an early investor allows individuals to identify and capitalize on the next big thing before it becomes common knowledge, potentially reaping substantial rewards.

Timing the Market Waves: Timing is crucial in the cryptocurrency market, and investing at launch provides a unique opportunity to ride the initial market waves. As a project gains attention and momentum, early investors can strategically capitalize on price fluctuations, buying and selling to maximize returns. While navigating early market dynamics requires an understanding of volatility, the potential rewards outweigh the risks for savvy investors.

The Token Launch: A Privileged Opportunity: Introducing a token launch that presents a privileged opportunity for early investors. Pre-sale information is shared, including the dates (19th and 20th of November 2023) and the corresponding prices for each phase (15 cents, 20 cents, and 25 cents). The token’s total supply is highlighted as 10 billion, with 50% in circulation and the remaining 25% allocated for liquidity provisions, business development, and special projects.

Economics of the Token: A breakdown of the AAS token’s economic structure is provided, detailing the allocation of the 10 billion tokens. Categories include liquidity provisions, business development, special projects, an arbitrage system team, and marketing and operational costs. The reserve purposes are emphasized as a security measure, instilling confidence in potential investors.

Building a Long-Lasting Investment through AAST: The article emphasizes the advantages of being part of an early investment in the mentioned token through the AAS platform. The early investors are encouraged to sign up and leverage the potential benefits of being among the first to access the token when it hits the open market. The minimum registration amount is disclosed, and the article stresses the opportunity to earn a weekly return on investment.

Conclusion: In conclusion, the article is meant urges readers to seize the opportunity presented by the upcoming AAS token launch. Drawing parallels to the early days of Bitcoin and other successful cryptocurrencies, the author highlights the potential for substantial profits and the chance to be part of a revolutionary investment. The call to action encourages readers to subscribe, like, comment, and sign up for the AAS platform to embark on a journey of financial growth and success.

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