Verve International Named Among Global Payments Power 50 for 2025
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Verve International, Africa’s pioneering and largest domestic payment scheme under the Interswitch Group, has secured a prestigious spot on the inaugural Global Payments Power 50 list. This recognition, curated by The Power 50, celebrates trailblazing companies that are redefining the global payments landscape through innovation and impact.
Recognizing Excellence in Payments Innovation
The Power 50, established in 2018, identifies organizations and thought leaders driving transformation within financial services. The Payments Power 50 list acknowledges both industry veterans and rising fintech disruptors who are shaping the future of digital transactions.
With a commitment to fostering a connected financial ecosystem, The Payments Power 50 serves as a benchmark for excellence, highlighting significant achievements across the sector.
Verve’s Rise as Africa’s Payment Powerhouse
Since its inception in 2009, Verve has grown exponentially, emerging as Africa’s first EMV chip-and-PIN payment card brand. From its origins in Nigeria, Verve has expanded to over 25 African countries, establishing itself as a dominant force in the region’s financial ecosystem.
Today, Verve payment cards boast over 70 million issued cards in Nigeria, the continent’s largest consumer market. The company’s rapid growth has been fueled by strategic partnerships across commercial banks, microfinance institutions, fintech firms, and regulatory bodies.
Expanding Global Acceptance
Beyond Africa, Verve has continuously strengthened its global reach. Over the last three years, the company has secured merchant acceptance on major international platforms, enabling African users to seamlessly access services such as Google, Spotify, Netflix, Showmax, Amazon Prime, Facebook, Microsoft, Uber, and Flywire—all in local currency.
By addressing Africa’s unique payment challenges with secure, cost-effective solutions, Verve is enhancing financial inclusion while bridging the gap between local and international markets.
Celebrating a Landmark Recognition
Expressing his excitement over the recognition, Vincent Ogbunude, Managing Director of Payment Cards and Tokens at Interswitch and CEO of Verve International, emphasized the company’s commitment to delivering world-class payment solutions tailored to the realities of African markets.
“We are thrilled at Verve International and Interswitch to be recognized on the Global Payments Power 50 list for 2025. This affirms our dedication to delivering innovative and globally relevant payment solutions while driving financial inclusion across Africa. We extend our gratitude to our customers, partners, and the incredible team at Verve and Interswitch whose relentless efforts have earned us this global acclaim.”
Jason Williams, CEO of The Power 50, noted:
“Each year, The Power 50 highlights industry-defining companies and leaders who are shaping the future of fintech. Securing a place on this list is a testament to Verve’s influence and impact on the global payments landscape.”
Celebrating the Power 50 in London
The 2025 Payments Power 50 honorees will be featured on The Power 50’s website and gain access to exclusive networking events, industry engagement opportunities, and specialized content.
Members of this inaugural cohort will be celebrated at the Payments Power 50 Launch Party in London at Blue Marlin Ibiza on Wednesday, March 26, 2025. The event is hosted in collaboration with Pay360, CCGroup, and Paymentology—bringing together top-tier innovators and decision-makers from across the global payments industry.
This recognition marks yet another milestone for Verve International, reinforcing its role as a key player in advancing Africa’s digital financial ecosystem and ensuring seamless, secure, and inclusive payments for millions.
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