Global Mobile Payment Transactions to Total $945B in 2015 – a 30-Fold Jump from 2010

September 07, 2011 01:00 PM Eastern Daylight Time 

VANCOUVER, British Columbia--(BUSINESS WIRE)--IE Market Research Corporation (IEMR), the Canadian-based provider of market intelligence services, announced today the release of its 3Q.2011 Global Mobile Payment Market Forecast 2011- 2015.

“Our usage surveys reflect a trend of mobile payments growing commonplace in the Western world, corroborated by the fact North American and Western European markets are geared up for the beginning stages of a full-fledged adoption of the digital wallet.”

IEMR forecasts the gross value of global mobile payment transactions to reach $945 billion in 2015, about a 30-fold increase from the comparable figure of $31.5 billion for 2010. The surge underscores IEMR's expectation that mobile payments are positioned to become mainstream between 2012 and 2014.

“M-commerce and mobile contactless transactions, driven by their allure of convenience, are poised to promote ‘less-cash’ societies all over the world,” said Nizar Assanie, Vice President (Research) at IEMR. “Our usage surveys reflect a trend of mobile payments growing commonplace in the Western world, corroborated by the fact North American and Western European markets are geared up for the beginning stages of a full-fledged adoption of the digital wallet.”

IEMR’s Global Mobile Payment Market Forecast covers annual forecasts of mobile payment users, transactions by technology (NFC, SMS, WAP, USSD), and by type of purchase (merchandise, digital products, ticketing, mobile money transfers, bill payments, and pre-paid top-ups). The report is based on IEMR’s Global Consumer Telecommunications Survey of 50,000 mobile users in 50 markets worldwide. It is the most extensive country-specific forecast of its kind.

IEMR’s latest report illustrates a declining trend in SMS transactions relative to the growing adoption of NFC technology in developed markets, particularly Western Europe and North America. NFC offers the potential “sweet spot” of access to millions of retail point-of-sale terminals, a transaction technology that SMS falls short of.

The report also found that mobile payments are promising in emerging markets because of the dearth of wired infrastructure, which makes purchase transactions with a mobile device convenient.

According to IEMR, there were 1.5 billion NFC transactions globally in 2010. It forecast the comparable figure to jump to 55.3 billion in 2015, a compound annual growth rate of 105.2%.

This report can be purchased at:

https://www.iemarketresearch.com/Members/Reports/3Q-2011-Global-Mobile-Payment-Market-Forecast-2009--2015-Global-mobile-payments-users-to-hit-893-million-in-2015-with-945-billion-in-transaction-value-RID2639-1.aspx

Clients who subscribe to IEMR’s research services can have access to this and thousands of other IEMR reports for only $199 per month per seat.

Telecoms Fraud is a Crime on the Rise - TUFF speak to Telecoms IQ on how to Combat it

LONDON, September 7, 2011 /PRNewswire/ --

The birth and growth of mobile smart phones and devices has opened up a whole new realm of opportunity for criminals in the telecoms fraud market - as well as new challenges for revenue assurance professionals.  With PBX hacking alone said to be worth millions of euros, companies cannot risk not being up-to-date with the latest anti-fraud strategies.

Jack Wraith, CEO of the Telecommunications UK Fraud Forum (TUFF), believes that the way to combat telecoms fraud is through information sharing.  In an exclusive podcast with Telecoms IQ Jack said, "in order for legitimate communication service providers to combat the attacks against them and their systems, it is critical that information is shared between operators on a much wider basis than traditionally has been done."

Jack will be chairing the first day of the conference at Telecoms Fraud and Risk Management (http://www.telecomsfraudandriskmanagement.com)in December looking at how to how to develop the preventive measures required to tackle the fraud risks resulting from the explosion in new technologies, handsets and NFC / mobile payment services.

The full podcast with Jack on the new types of telecoms fraud operating within the industry and how operators can take action to combat them can be downloaded at http://www.telecomsfraudandriskmanagement.com/Event.aspx?id=575476

Telecoms Fraud and Risk Management (http://www.telecomsfraudandriskmanagement.com) will bring together senior fraud, risk and revenue assurance professionals from mobile and fixed operators across Europe and beyond to discuss the best strategies to identify, monitor and reduce fraud and revenue leakage across their organisations.

Telecoms Fraud and Risk Management (http://www.telecomsfraudandriskmanagement.com) will showcase thought leaders in the field, including:

• Daniele Gulinatti, VP Fraud Management & Revenue Assurance, Telecom Italia
• Daniele Mensi, Fraud & Credit Manager, Orange Switzerland
• Radu Niculiu, Director Fraud Prevention & Security, Vodafone Romania
• Mike Chalmers-Hunt, Head of Revenue Protection Operations, BT
• Adam Falus, Senior Head of Fraud Management, T-Mobile, Czech Republic

The Telecoms Fraud and Risk Management (http://www.telecomsfraudandriskmanagement.com/Event.aspx?id=575476) download centre features complimentary fraud and risk articles and podcasts.

Notes to Editors:

Telecoms Fraud and Risk Management (http://www.telecomsfraudandriskmanagement.com) will be held from 5th-8th December 2011 at the Sheraton Park Lane, London

For further information on Telecoms Fraud and Risk Management (http://www.telecomsfraudandriskmanagement.com) contact Telecoms IQ on +44 (0)20-7368-9737 or email telecoms@iqpc.co.uk

SOURCE Telecoms IQ

Mobile Payment & Banking Solutions to be Discussed by Monster Offers & ZalaPay CEO at Daily Deal Media Conference

Paul Gain to Discuss the Importance of Mobile Payment Solutions in Improving the Daily Deal Experience

SAN DIEGO, Sept. 7, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Paul Gain, CEO of Monster Offers (OTCBB: MONT) and ZalaPay, will be a featured speaker at the Daily Deal Media Conference, discussing how Mobile Payment and Banking solutions will play a critical role in improving the Daily Deal experience for customers, merchants and deal providers. Gain will be speaking on a panel discussion titled Mobile Solutions Sept. 9 at 10:30 a.m.

Leading Daily Deal analytics and aggregation company Monster Offers recently announced a new social mobile payment and banking solutions platform that will be managed as a subsidiary of Monster Offers called ZalaPay.

ZalaPay mobile financial services include "EZ-Click" Mobile Cashier, Redemption, Loyalty, Daily Deal Wallet, P2P Mobile Money, and Pre-Paid Debit Cards. Company representatives will be available at the Monster Offers/ZalaPay booth #201 at the Daily Deal Media Conference.

The Daily Deal Media Conference runs Sept. 8-9, 2011 at the Chicago Hilton.

MONSTER OFFERS QUOTE

"The Daily Deal industry is still quite young and right now Daily Deal providers need to focus on how to make deals easier to buy, redeem, track, not to mention how to develop and implement customer loyalty programs. Recent mobile banking solutions are making this possible and the Daily Deal Media Conference is the perfect forum to discuss the nuances of mobile and how it will affect daily deals and overall consumer behavior."

- Paul Gain, Monster Offers CEO

About Monster Offers:

Monster Offers is a leading mobile banking solutions company and Daily Deal aggregator, collecting daily deals from multiple sites in local communities across the U.S. and Canada. Focused on providing innovation and utility for Daily Deal consumers and providers, the company collects and publishes thousands of daily deals and allows consumers to organize these deals by geography or product categories, or to personalize the results using keyword search. The company will introduce new mobile technology in 2011 to address unmet category needs in areas such as loyalty, rewards, payment processing, merchant services, and a Daily Deal eWallet. Monster Offers recently launched its Hyper-Local Daily Deal Reporting Program, designed to help providers improve the revenue and profits of local and regional Daily Deal programs. More information can be found by visitinghttp://www.monsteroffers.com.

Any statements contained in this press release that relate to future plans, events or performance are forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties, including, but not limited to, the risks associated with the management appointment described in this press release, and other risks identified in the filings by Monster Offers (MONT), with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Further information on risks faced by MONT are detailed in the Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2010, and in its subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q. These filings are or will become available on a website maintained by the Securities and Exchange Commission at http://www.sec.gov. The information contained in this press release is accurate as of the date indicated. Actual results, events or performance may differ materially. Monster Offers does not undertake any obligation to publicly release the result of any revision to these forward-looking statements that may be made to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.

Contacts
For Monster Offers
Public Relations
Brad Rutledge, 801-824-6218
brad@rutledgeconsultinggroup.com

STMicroelectronics Enables New Consumer Conveniences with Combination of Innovative Wireless Memory and NFC Technology

Android app demonstrates compatibility of ST's dual-interface EEPROM with NFC smartphones, introducing innovative user benefits in a wide range of applications

GENEVA, Sept. 5, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- STMicroelectronics (NYSE: STM), a global semiconductor leader serving customers across the spectrum of electronics applications, and a leading supplier of EEPROM memories, announced the strengthening of its position in the Near-Field Communication (NFC) market by extending user's ability to read, write and transfer information on ST's dual-interface Memory to a broad range of industrial and consumer applications.

ST's M24LR64 wireless memory has the unique ability to transmit and receive information from the heart of an application to a smartphone containing NFC technology or to an industrial RFID (Radio-Frequency Identification) reader, allowing for transactions, data exchange, object identification and tracking to occur rapidly. NFC is a short-range technology operating at 13.56MHz that is being implemented on smartphones to enable customers to make payments, such as for public transit and in convenience stores, using their mobile devices. The technology can also permit communication between NFC-enabled devices. Partnerships already announced between major US wireless carriers and credit-card companies will drive NFC technology into 30.5% of all handsets shipped in 2015, according to market-research firm IHS iSuppli.

A new App called Dual EE, which operates on the Android operating system, delivers full compatibility with ST's M24LR64 wireless memory. The app connects an NFC-enabled smartphone to a prototype temperature recorder featuring ST's unique M24LR64 wireless memory and demonstrates data transfer and storage. These capabilities are easily transferable to a broad range of products, including medical devices, home appliances, consumer electronic products and meters. Adoption of NFC technology and ST's innovative memory will cut the cord and grant users more freedom in saving and exchanging information wherever they want.

"The combination of this new Android app and our innovative dual-interface wireless EEPROM memory will allow users to communicate with a wide range of electronic devices via their NFC-enabled smartphones," said Benoit Rodrigues, General Manager of ST's Memories Division. "The introduction of the unique memory and the Android app is further evidence of ST's ability to develop new and innovative technologies and solutions for the fast-growing NFC market, complementing our world-leading product portfolio for NFC, which also includes secure elements, SIM ICs and NFC controllers for mobile devices."

Together, the dual-interface EEPROM and Android app provide a launch pad for consumer-tech innovations offering users new types of benefits via NFC. The memory can also operate with RFID equipment used in the supply chain.  The Dual EE app can be downloaded free of charge from the Android Market, and has already been validated on leading smartphones. The source code of this sample application is available on the ST website at www.st.com giving developers a head start to designing their own Android NFC applications that are able to communicate with dual-interface EEPROM products.

Further Information on NFC technology

NFC is a short-range wireless standard for communication over distances up to around 10cm that is supported natively in the Android operating system (from issue 2.3.3), and will enable enhanced services for users of NFC-enabled smartphones. These could include receiving coupons from retailers upon entering a store, or sharing contacts or photos, in addition to making mobile payments and collecting data from medical monitors, smart meters or other equipment containing ST's dual-interface EEPROM. ST offers a strong portfolio of solutions for NFC applications, including the ST21NFCA NFC controller and secure elements based on ST's ST33 secure MCU.

Further Information on ST's Dual-Interface EEPROM

ST's M24LR64 is a dual-interface EEPROM that can be connected directly to a wireless antenna as used in an RFID tag to transfer data through the energy in radio waves between the RFID or NFC reader and an electric tag attached to an object, allowing the equipment to be read or updated without being switched on. It is the only product of its type in the market able to communicate with RFID and ISO15693-capable NFC readers, as well as the system's own processor. This dual interface simplifies the design of products that provide new features for NFC users, and that can also be managed easily in the supply chain using RFID. ST's dual-interface EEPROM products also feature a 32-bit password data protection scheme, enabling control of wireless read-and-write memory access.

RFID is increasingly being used within supply chains and is especially useful in managing inventory, as it drastically reduces the amount of time used in the past to count items. Electronic products containing an ST wireless EEPROM such as the M24LR64 can be identified individually, activated on safe delivery, and updated with regional settings or new firmware at the point of sale. Since the tags can be read from inside the devices, all this can be carried out without opening packaging or breaking manufacturers' seals. These capabilities enhance security, control, flexibility and convenience for OEMs and retailers.

Major features of the M24LR64

• NFC/RFID compatible ISO15693 wireless interface operating at 13.56MHz
• Low-power wired I2C interface to MCU or chipset
• 64-Kbit memory density
• 32-bit password scheme

M24LR64 is available now priced at $0.72 for 1000 units. Alternative pricing options are available for larger quantities. ST plans to introduce additional members of its dual-interface EEPROM family in the fourth quarter of 2011.

About STMicroelectronics

STMicroelectronics is a global leader serving customers across the spectrum of electronics applications with innovative semiconductor solutions. ST aims to be the undisputed leader in multimedia convergence and power applications leveraging its vast array of technologies, design expertise and combination of intellectual property portfolio, strategic partnerships and manufacturing strength. In 2010, the Company's net revenues were $10.35 billion. Further information on ST can be found atwww.st.com. 

SOURCE STMicroelectronics

Technology Credit Union Partners with Online Banking Solutions (OBS) to Make Secure Business Banking More Convenient

September 07, 2011 08:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time 

ATLANTA--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Online Banking Solutions (OBS) today announced that Technology Credit Union completed implementation of the OBS Messenger Financial Center© for the delivery of business information and payment services online. OBS Messenger Financial Center runs on the proven Online Messenger Platform, which operates on LINUX and uses private cloud technologies and Web 2.0 applications to better facilitate integration requirements and to enable scale, multi-channel services and greater security. In addition, the platform features fully integrated application a hardened browser, and a receiver-based payments model.

“Because many of them come from the high-tech ecosystem, our clients are accustomed to using the latest, most convenient technology”

OBS Messenger Financial Center provides transaction initiation including stop payments and account-to-account transfers and payment initiation of ACH transactions including vendor payments, tax payments, and payroll and wire transfers. Tech CU will also be implementing OBS’ Messenger Mobile Banking solution in the near future, which provides the ability to leverage and deliver information and payment services through the mobile channel.

The credit union re-launched its Commercial and Business Banking division last year with a more comprehensive suite of commercial and business banking services (including SBA and other business loans) and a renewed focus on driving growth by connecting with young companies and startups in the high-tech market.

“Because many of them come from the high-tech ecosystem, our clients are accustomed to using the latest, most convenient technology,” said Herman White, Tech CU’s SVP of Commercial and Business Banking. “That’s why our online and business banking platforms are so important to our strategy. We need to give our clients the ability to securely do their banking in as many ways as possible — whether at home, on the go, or in one of our branches.”

For enhanced security, Technology Credit Union members will utilize the OBS M-Secure Browser for secure access to reports, data and single sign-on to other secure cash management applications without the need for a hard token. The hardened browser relies on integrated two-factor and mutual authentication provided on downloaded software tokens for device and user authentication, as well as confirmation of authenticity of other web sites.

Dan Myers, CEO and founder of OBS added, “Leveraging our deep experience with cash management, business banking, payments and technology for commercial banks, OBS is now focused on providing secure, competitive ebanking and mobile solutions to the credit union market.”

About OBS

Founded in 2002 by a management team that pioneered Web cash management and business banking technology, after launching two other successful financial technology companies, Online Banking Solutions (OBS) provides contemporary ebanking products including multi-channeled reporting, transaction and file delivery services to commercial banks (including 11 of the top 100 U.S. commercial bank holding companies), community banks and credit unions. Private, profitable and based on the philosophy of over servicing clients, OBS offers financial institutions the benefits of a large-scale technology provider, and the tenacity of an entrepreneurial, service-driven organization.

About Technology Credit Union

Founded in 1960 by the employees of Fairchild Camera and Instrument Semiconductor Division, Technology Credit Union has served the high tech workforce in Silicon Valley for 50 years. Today, Tech CU has extended its membership benefits to small businesses and individuals who live and work in the greater Bay Area. The credit union is recognized as one of the best-managed and strongest financial institutions in the country. Tech CU's 74,000 members have access to 60,000 surcharge-free ATMs nationwide, online and mobile banking, 9 full-service branches in the Bay Area, and comprehensive wealth management and small business services. To learn more, visit www.techcu.com.

ScanSource, Inc. Launches Global Corporate Communications Group

September 06, 2011 08:30 AM Eastern Daylight Time 

Bobby McLain to serve as EVP of new department

GREENVILLE, S.C.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--ScanSource, Inc., (NASDAQ: SCSC), the leading international value-added distributor of specialty technology products, has announced the creation of a new Corporate Communications group designed to ensure all key stakeholders are actively engaged with the company on a global level. With the creation of this new group, ScanSource also announced the promotion of Vice President of Marketing Bobby McLain to Executive Vice President of Corporate Communications. In this role, McLain will provide executive management and oversight of the company’s global communications strategy.

“Bobby has effectively led our Marketing team for more than 14 years”

Through the formation of this new group, McLain is charged with developing and executing on the company’s comprehensive communications strategies among all of its internal and external audiences and stakeholders, including reseller customers, vendor partners and the trade media. Investor relations, community relations, social media, web strategies, and global brand management of ScanSource, Inc. and its sales units will also be part of the Corporate Communications group’s strategic focus.

“Bobby has effectively led our Marketing team for more than 14 years,” said Mike Baur, CEO, ScanSource, Inc. “His experience and leadership make him a natural to lead this new business unit as we continue to focus on the growth and opportunity of our company on an international level.”

McLain has been with ScanSource since 1997, where he has served as Vice President of Marketing. Prior to joining the Company, he served as President of Transition Marketing, Inc., a majority-owned subsidiary of the Company. He also previously served as Director of Marketing with Gates Arrow.

McLain can be reached at bobby.mclain@scansource.com. For more information about ScanSource, Inc., please visitwww.scansourceinc.com.

About ScanSource, Inc.

ScanSource, Inc. (NASDAQ: SCSC) is the leading international distributor of specialty technology products, consisting of seven sales units in North America, Latin America and Europe.

ScanSource POS and Barcoding in North America, Latin America and Europe delivers AIDC and POS solutions; Catalyst Telecom in the US, and ScanSource Communications in North America and Europe, provide voice, video and converged communications equipment; and ScanSource Security in North America offers physical security solutions. Founded in 1992, the company ranks #839 on the Fortune 1000. For more information, call the toll-free sales telephone number at 800.944.2432 or visit www.scansourceinc.com.

Contacts

ScanSource, Inc.
Melissa Andrews, 864-286-4425
melissa.andrews@scansource.com

Isobar “Create 48” Challenges Developers and Designers to Push the Envelope on NFC Technology at FutureM

September 07, 2011 09:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time 

BOSTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Isobar, a global communications agency and Aegis Media company, announced today it is hosting its inaugural “Create 48” event. This event will be the first "hackathon" of its kind to explore the Near Field Communication (NFC) technology inside next generation consumer devices like the Google Nexus S. The event is being held from Tuesday, September 13, 2011 -Thursday, September 15, 2011 at Space with a Soul and is part of Boston’s FutureM, which draws hundreds of marketing and technology practitioners from around the world each year to discover what’s new and debate what’s next in marketing.

“NFC technology will let us make transactions, exchange digital content, and connect our devices like never before”

Today, the NFC thought-scape is dominated by mobile payments. Isobar Create 48 is geared to developers, creators and makers who want to help define the broader future of NFC and find creative uses for this exciting new technology. Experts from Nokia and the MIT Enterprise Forum/Boston NFC Hub will be on hand to demo applications and show how to program for NFC. After 48 hours of development, participants will submit their applications to judges from Google, WHERE.com, Nokia and Isobar, who will determine and celebrate the top three "creations".

“NFC technology will let us make transactions, exchange digital content, and connect our devices like never before,” stated Michael Nicholas, Chief Strategy Officer at Isobar. “With NFC, your phone can be everything from your credit card to your boarding pass, to your hotel room key or even your coupons at the supermarket... and we believe it's the convergence of these previously separate things that will bring brands and people together like never before. Technology is evolving the way we interact at an ever increasing pace, and we’re excited to contribute to that innovation. The Create 48 is designed to be a forum for 'creatives and creators' to push the envelope with emerging technologies like NFC, and we’re anxious to see what creations emerge from this event.”

Isobar Create 48, Invent Something, Change Everything. The event is free to participants with registration. For more details, visithttp://na.isobar.com/create48.

About Isobar

Isobar is a global communications agency that brings people and brands together like never before. We fuse creative thinking with technology know-how to uncover the best ideas and execute them across any platform or channel anywhere in the world. Our unique combination of creatives and creators ensures the best ideas never end up on the cutting room floor, empowering us to consistently deliver innovative and intensely relevant brand experiences for the world's largest brands. With locations in Boston, New York and San Francisco, Isobar US is an Aegis Media Group Company and part of the global Isobar network of over 2,200 people in 32 markets. For more information, please visit http://us.isobar.com.

Contacts

Tier One Partners
Sue Parente, 781-642-7788
sparente@tieronepr.com

DebitSavvy.org Helps Millennials Get Smarter About Their Money

September 07, 2011 09:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time 

Website Offers Facts and Advice on Debit Cards

HOUSTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--PULSE introduces DebitSavvy.org, an interactive website designed specifically as a resource for millennials to manage their money through debit cards. DebitSavvy.org explores all facets of debit card use while providing financial institutions a source to help educate their customers about the benefits of debit.

“DebitSavvy.org delivers sound debit guidance in a way that fits the millennial generation’s lifestyle.”

DebitSavvy.org offers quick-read insights, updates on the latest debit news and a “click-to-ask” question and answer section tailored to the lifestyle of the largest demographic of debit card users – millennials. Key areas of focus include:

• Debit Q&A: Offers site visitors the opportunity to ask questions and get answers about debit
• Debit Card Conversations: Helpful news and information
• Intro to Debit: Explanations of debit card and transaction types
• Debit Savvy Lifestyle: Real-life examples of debit card use, protections and responsibilities

According to the 2010 Study of Consumer Payment Preferences, millennials, defined by the study as individuals between the ages of 18 and 34, use debit more than any other group and more than any other form of payment. In fact, they rarely use checks and prefer the safety, speed, convenience and financial security of debit.

“Millennials are by far the biggest users of debit and can benefit from reliable information on how to continue to use their debit cards wisely. And, they want that information where they spend a significant amount of their time – online,” said Steve Sievert, senior vice president, PULSE. “DebitSavvy.org delivers sound debit guidance in a way that fits the millennial generation’s lifestyle.”

The site allows quick navigation, the ability to easily share debit information with family and friends through Facebook, Twitter and social-networking channels, and will soon feature campaigns to engage visitors in conversations about how they use debit cards.

PULSE also launched DebitSavvy.org to help financial institutions augment their existing debit program messaging. The site features “Expert Articles,” in which subject matter experts can share their insights and discuss the benefits of debit card use.

DebitSavvy.org is a redesign of PULSE’s previous consumer resource website, DebitFacts.org, launched in 2008. The site has been revamped to appeal more to the “super users” of debit.

For more information, visit www.DebitSavvy.org. Follow DebitSavvy.org on Twitter at @DebitSavvy (twitter.com/debitsavvy), or visit DebitSavvy.org on Facebook (DebitSavvy.org).

About PULSE

PULSE, a Discover Financial Services (NYSE:DFS) company, is a leading debit/ATM network, serving more than 4,400 banks, credit unions and savings institutions across the United States. The network links cardholders with ATMs and POS terminals at retail locations nationwide. Through its global ATM network, PULSE provides worldwide cash access for Diners Club and Discover cardholders through hundreds of thousands of ATM locations. The company also is a source of electronic payments research and is committed to providing its participants with education on emerging products, services and trends in the payments industry. For more information, visitwww.pulsenetwork.com.

Contacts

PULSE
Patty Sendelbach, (832) 214-0395
patty.sendelbach@pulsenetwork.com
or
GolinHarris
Ryanne Dalton, (972) 341-2529
rdalton@golinharris.com

Discover U.S. Spending Monitor Consumer Confidence Falls for Third Straight Month in August, but Spending Intentions Hold Steady

September 07, 2011 07:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time 

Middle-Aged Consumers More Pessimistic About Economy Than Other Age Groups

RIVERWOODS, Ill.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Consumer confidence fell in August for the third straight month, as the Discover U.S. Spending Monitor^SM dropped to its lowest level since March 2009. Since January, the Monitor has been in a freefall, dropping nearly 13 points over the last eight months. The daily poll that tracks economic confidence and spending intentions of around 8,200 consumers a month now stands at 80.5, 2.2 points lower than July.

The monitor continues to show increased concerns from Americans about the broader economy. Uncertainty over the debt crisis and wild swings in the stock market may have played into those concerns last month. In August, 64 percent of Americans rated the economy as poor, up from 62 percent in July; 64 percent of consumers say economic conditions are worsening, which is a 5-point jump from July.

But while consumers continue to be down on the economy, they were feeling slightly better about their own finances. In August, 33 percent of consumers rated their finances as good or excellent, 3 points higher than the month prior. However, for the third straight month, over half, 53 percent, of consumers feel their finances are getting worse, 1 point lower than July.

Middle-Aged Consumers ages 40-64 More Pessimistic About the Economy than Other Age Groups

The biggest driver of the Monitor’s decline in August came from middle-aged consumers. For example:

• 69 percent of consumers ages 40-64 rated the economy as poor, a 5-point jump from July, compared to 61 percent of consumers ages 18-39 who rated the economy as poor, 1 point lower than July, and 63 percent of consumers ages 65 and above who share that concern, just 2 points higher than July.

• 68 percent of consumers ages 40-64 felt economic conditions were worsening, 6 points higher than July’s number, compared to 60 percent of consumers ages 18-39, 4 points higher than July, and 65 percent of consumers 65 and older, 5 points higher than July.

Consumer Spending Intentions Hold Steady In August

The number of consumers planning to cut discretionary spending in categories surveyed in the Monitor fell in August after an increase in July. Instead, consumers plan to spend the same over the next 30 days in the following areas:

• 36 percent plan to spend the same in the month ahead on going out to dinner, movies and sporting events, 1 point higher than July

• 31 percent plan on spending the same next month on home improvement projects, 3 points higher than the prior month, and

• 34 percent plan on spending the same on a major purchase, such as a vacation

In addition, 45 percent of consumers said they plan on saving or investing the same amount over the next 30 days, 1 point higher than July. Forty-two percent plan on saving less, down 3 points from July’s record high. Nine percent of consumers plan to save and invest more in the month ahead, 1 point higher than last month and the first increase the Monitor has reported since January.

More Consumers Planning to Have Money Left Over, No Additional Expenses in the Month Ahead

August also brought an increase in the number of consumers planning to have money left over after paying monthly bills. Forty-seven percent of consumers said they planned on having money left over, compared to 45 percent in July. However, it’s been 29 straight months since this number topped 50 percent.

Another sign that consumers may be feeling a little less pressure on their budgets was a rise in the number of consumers not expecting an added expense or income shortfall over the next 30 days. Forty-five percent said they were not expecting any additional expenses in the month ahead, up 2 points from July. Forty-one percent said they are anticipating additional expenses, down 1 point from July, but August was the sixth straight month this figure has been over 40 percent.

For more Discover U.S. Spending Monitor survey data, charts and information, please visit
http://www.discoverfinancial.com/surveys/spending.shtml.

About Discover U.S. Spending Monitor

The Discover U.S. Spending Monitor^SM is a monthly index of consumer spending intentions and capacity that is based on interviews with a random sample of 8,200 U.S. adults conducted at a rate of 275 per night. In addition to spending, the survey asks consumers their opinions on the U.S. economy and their personal finances. The Monitor began in May 2007 with a base index of 100. Surveys are conducted by Rasmussen Reports, an independent survey research firm (http://www.rasmussenreports.com).

About Discover

Discover Financial Services (NYSE: DFS) is a direct banking and payment services company with one of the most recognized brands in U.S. financial services. Since its inception in 1986, the company has become one of the largest card issuers in the United States. The company operates the Discover card, America's cash rewards pioneer, and offers personal and student loans, online savings accounts, certificates of deposit and money market accounts through its Discover Bank subsidiary. Its payment businesses consist of Discover Network, with millions of merchant and cash access locations; PULSE, one of the nation's leading ATM/debit networks; and Diners Club International, a global payments network with acceptance in more than 185 countries and territories. For more information, visithttp://www.discoverfinancial.com.

TSYS Partners With IE to Launch Mobile App in Europe

September 07, 2011 02:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time 

COLUMBUS, Ga. & LONDON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--TSYS today announced that it has signed an agreement with IE, Parseq plc’s software division, to provide European cardholders with a mobile application.

“The industry-wide interest in our mobile banking proposition is an exciting testament to our progress in this fast moving market.”

TSYS and IE have developed the TSYS Mobile App, a dedicated mobile application to help cardholders keep track of their credit card spend, which can be accessed through their smartphone. The solution will be integrated with TS2^®, TSYS’ processing platform, and will allow cardholders to view account details on demand as well as receive notifications.

“TSYS continues to look at additional value-added products for our customers and their cardholders to ensure that we offer the latest payment technologies,” said Bob Evans, managing director of Europe, TSYS International. “We have seen demand from our European clients for a TSYS mobile application and we chose IE as our partner to help us deliver a quality product and service offering to the end consumer.”

“We are delighted to be partnering with a high profile partner like TSYS,” said Phillip Blundell, chief financial officer, Parseq plc. “The industry-wide interest in our mobile banking proposition is an exciting testament to our progress in this fast moving market.”

TSYS is currently offering the solution to existing and prospective European clients.

About TSYS

TSYS (NYSE: TSS) is reshaping a new era in digital commerce, connecting consumers, merchants, financial institutions, businesses and governments. Through unmatched customer service and industry insight, TSYS creates a better experience for buyers and sellers, supporting cross-border payments in more than 85 countries. Offering merchant payment-acceptance solutions as well as services in credit, debit, prepaid, mobile, chip, healthcare, installments, money transfer and more, TSYS makes it possible for those in the global marketplace to conduct safe and secure electronic transactions with trust and convenience.

TSYS’ headquarters are located in Columbus, Georgia, with local offices spread across the Americas, EMEA and Asia-Pacific. TSYS provides services to more than half of the top 20 international banks. For more information, please visit us at www.tsys.com.

About Parseq

Parseq plc is a leading provider of technology led outsourcing solutions and digital banking software services, with a key sector focus on financial services. The company provides a wide range of value-add services, from payments and applications processing, through inbound and outbound voice services, to business intelligence and data analytics. It services a blue chip client base which includes Barclays, British Gas, British Energy, BP, Deutsche Bank, FedEx, Johnson & Johnson, Lloyds Banking Group, National Australia Group, HSBC, Orange, RBS Group, Santander, Shell and Vodafone. Its online banking platform, NetFinance and mobile banking platform, mobinetic, are in use by Barclaycard, Generali, HRG, HSBC, Laser UK.

Contacts

TSYS Media Relations
Cyle Mims, +1-706-644-3110
cylemims@tsys.com
or
TSYS Investor Relations
Shawn Roberts, +1-706-644-6081
shawnroberts@tsys.com
or
TSYS International
Victoria Winn, +44.1904.562.577
victoriawinn@tsys.com

TSYS Extends Processing Services Agreement with Clearent

Image via CrunchBase

September 07, 2011 09:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time 

COLUMBUS, Ga.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--TSYS (NYSE: TSS) announced today that it has signed a long-term agreement with Clearent, LLC, to continue their current and well established merchant services processing relationship.

“This new agreement reaffirms our commitment to Clearent’s success and our pledge to be a trusted provider of product and technology solutions for merchant acquirers”

Under the agreement, TSYS will provide authorizations and other payment services for Clearent’s merchants using TSYS’ proven and reliable platforms. This enables Clearent to leverage the flexible and efficient technology offered by TSYS and benefit from a wide array of cost-saving and revenue-generating products and services. Clearent is on pace for another record-setting year for its credit card processing services and attributes their triple digit growth rates to advantages such as those afforded by the relationship with TSYS.

“This new agreement reaffirms our commitment to Clearent’s success and our pledge to be a trusted provider of product and technology solutions for merchant acquirers,” said Mark Pyke, president of TSYS Acquiring Solutions. “We are thrilled to continue our partnership with Clearent.”

“Our ongoing relationship with TSYS is based upon the partnership we have developed since the initial agreement,” said Dan Geraty, chief executive officer of Clearent. “TSYS supports the widest range of point-of-sale solutions coupled with world class customer service for Clearent and our merchants.”

About Clearent, LLC

Clearent is a payment processor whose proprietary technology and responsive support enable financial institutions, ISOs and merchants to maximize the value of their merchant services program. Clearent’s intuitive, web-based systems are simple to use and provide at-a-glance business intelligence not available from other providers. To learn more, visit www.clearent.com or call +1-866-205-4721.

About TSYS

TSYS (NYSE: TSS) is reshaping a new era in digital commerce, connecting consumers, merchants, financial institutions, businesses and governments. Through unmatched customer service and industry insight, TSYS creates a better experience for buyers and sellers, supporting cross-border payments in more than 85 countries. Offering merchant payment-acceptance solutions as well as services in credit, debit, prepaid, mobile, chip, healthcare, installments, money transfer and more, TSYS makes it possible for those in the global marketplace to conduct safe and secure electronic transactions with trust and convenience.

TSYS’ headquarters are located in Columbus, Georgia, with local offices spread across the Americas, EMEA and Asia-Pacific. TSYS provides services to more than half of the top 20 international banks. For more information, please visit us at www.tsys.com.

Contacts

TSYS Media Relations
Cyle Mims, +1-706-644-3110
cylemims@tsys.com
or
TSYS Investor Relations
Shawn Roberts, +1-706-644-6081
shawnroberts@tsys.com

Related articles

• TSYS Announces Third-Quarter 2011 Dividend (nfcdata.com)
• Tsys partners with iE to launch mobile app in Europe (epaymentnews.2blog4.com)
• TSYS Names New Head of Global Product (epaymentnews.blogspot.com)
• TSYS Reports Second Quarter 2011 Results (epaymentnews.2blog4.com)
• TSYS appoints Paul Bridgewater as Group Executive of Global Product (epaymentnews.2blog4.com)