- Payment Methods 2025-2030: electronic transactions expected to triple in 5 Years
- The six megatrends that will shape the future of payment methods
Payment methods 2025-2030: electronic transactions expected to triple globally
By 2030, the number of payment methods and electronic transactions is expected to triple worldwide, surpassing 3 trillion annual transactions, according to PwC’s Payments 2025 & Beyond report.
This increase represents not only a massive adoption of digital payments but also a profound restructuring in how financial systems and technology converge.
Between 2020 and 2025, electronic transactions are projected to grow by 82%, rising from 1 trillion to 1.8 trillion operations. From 2025 to 2030, an additional growth of 61% is expected, reaching the 3 trillion mark. This phenomenon is driven by accelerated digitalization and growing confidence in cashless payment solutions.
Asia-Pacific leads payment method growth: 2025-2030
Geographically, the Asia-Pacific region stands out as the fastest-growing area, with an increase of 109% through 2025 and 76% between 2025 and 2030.
Technological innovation and the penetration of super apps like Alipay and WeChat Pay in China are prime examples of how the region is driving new business models.
Africa and Europe also show promising figures, though at different rates: 78% and 64% for Africa, and 64% and 39% for Europe, respectively. Meanwhile, the United States and Canada are expected to experience more moderate growth, at 43% and 35%.
Concerns on the horizon
Despite the explosive growth of digital payments, concerns related to security and regulation are emerging.
Data privacy and cybersecurity are the leading concerns in the industry, according to 48% of the executives surveyed.
The risks associated with digital identity and economic crimes stemming from the intensive use of digital wallets and open banking further complicate the landscape.
Both positive and negative trends are outlined below.
The six megatrends that will define payment methods 2025-2030
- Inclusion and trust
Financial inclusion remains a key goal for international organizations like the World Bank. By 2025, it is expected that 80% of the global population will have access to smartphones, a crucial tool for accessing digital payment methods. However, a significant gap remains in developing regions, where access to financial infrastructure is limited, and mobile devices are becoming the gateway to the financial system. - Digital currencies
Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs) and cryptocurrencies are emerging as disruptive forces in the payments ecosystem. 60% of central banks are already considering the use of CBDCs, with 14% having launched pilot programs. Private companies like Mastercard and Visa are also preparing their infrastructure to integrate these currencies, signaling a shift in the perception of cryptocurrencies as viable and secure players in the financial system. - Digital wallets
The rise of digital wallets is undeniable. In 2020, global usage grew by 7%, and it is projected that by 2024, more than half of all e-commerce transactions will be made through these platforms. Chinese super apps and the relaunch of services like Google Pay demonstrate how these solutions are redefining the front-end of payment methods. Additionally, 86% of industry leaders expect collaborations between traditional providers and fintechs to foster innovation in this space. - The battle of the rails
The infrastructure underpinning electronic payments, the “pipes” of processing, is undergoing significant transformation. Account-to-account payments are replacing card-based transactions, driven by regulations that strengthen local infrastructures. In emerging markets, consumers are directly adopting mobile wallets, bypassing physical cards in favor of more agile and digital solutions. - Cross-border payments
Global trade and connectivity have highlighted the inefficiencies of the traditional banking system for cross-border transactions, which are often slow and costly. In response, the adoption of standards such as ISO 20022 and the emergence of new non-bank players are driving greater agility in these transactions. A notable example is a pilot project in the UK, where an international payment was completed in just 36 seconds. - Economic crimes
The growth of digital payment methods has also led to an increase in fraud and economic crime risks. In 2020, fraud in digital purchases rose by 70% compared to 2019. Open banking, while promoting competition and innovation, also expands the attack surface for cybercriminals. As a result, banks and fintechs are being forced to prioritize security and regulatory compliance.
Conclusion
The future of payment methods from 2025 to 2030 presents significant opportunities and challenges. The expansion of digital payments will continue to drive economic growth, fostering inclusion and global connectivity.
However, industry players must navigate an increasingly stringent regulatory environment and address concerns related to privacy and cybersecurity. Collaboration among banks, fintechs, and government entities will be crucial in building a payment ecosystem that is secure, inclusive, and efficient for all.