Visa has launched a new “flexible credential” payment feature across the US and UAE markets, aiming to enhance transaction convenience and meet the growing demand for diverse payment options. The feature, already available in multiple Asian countries, allows customers to use a single card for payments from multiple funding sources, a move designed to simplify financial management.
Visa’s UAE rollout is in collaboration with Liv Bank, while the US implementation is supported by fintech company Affirm. According to Visa, a recent study found that 51% of cardholders prefer the ability to access various accounts and funding through a single credential, reflecting the shift toward convenience-driven financial tools amid the surge of e-commerce activity.
Odysseas Papadimitriou, CEO of WalletHub, highlighted the importance of flexible payment options: “Breaking down the cost of an item helps people make better financial decisions and supports retailers in increasing sales.”
Visa’s partnership with Affirm in the US also demonstrates the growing collaborations between traditional financial entities and fintech firms, which are reshaping the industry by merging innovation with established practices. Affirm CEO Max Levchin emphasized the value of providing products that integrate debit and credit without hidden fees, enhancing consumer trust.
The rollout, expected to expand to Europe soon, represents Visa’s efforts to stay competitive in a market influenced by digital transformation and evolving consumer preferences.