Visa and HSBC launch Zing, a pioneering international payments app

Visa (NYSE: V) and HSBC (LON: HSBA) have unveiled a major advancement in digital finance with the launch of Zing, a comprehensive international payments application. Initially rolled out in the U.K. in January 2024, Zing allows users to hold, send, and manage funds in over 30 currencies and perform transactions across more than 200 countries and territories, all from a single app accompanied by a smart multi-currency card.

The successful launch of Zing in the U.K. marks the beginning of a wider rollout planned for additional markets in the near future. This expansion is underpinned by a strategic collaboration with Visa, which provided a unified point of contact throughout the project. Zing integrates sophisticated technologies such as a multi-currency wallet powered by Currencycloud and versatile account topping options including ‘quick bank transfer’ facilitated by Tink—both firms being part of the Visa family. This integration ensures that Zing offers a seamless, low-cost, and transparent currency exchange experience, enriched with features like financial management, instant collections, real-time exchange rates, and peer-to-peer (P2P) payments.

Currencycloud and Tink have significantly accelerated Zing’s market launch by integrating ready-made solutions into Zing’s core infrastructure. This strategic approach not only sped up development but also minimized the costs related to building and maintaining bespoke systems. James Allan, CEO and Founder of Zing, emphasized the modern approach of the app, combining the agility and intuitiveness of fintech innovations with the robust experience of HSBC’s 150 years in international finance.

The partnership between Visa and HSBC through Zing exemplifies a shift towards more agile and user-focused financial services. Serge Elkiner, Global Head of Product, Money Movement Solutions at Visa, highlighted the modern consumer’s need for simplicity in global financial transactions, akin to sending a text message. By leveraging the global reach and technological prowess of Visa, alongside the financial expertise of HSBC, Zing is poised to transform how consumers and businesses manage their international financial activities.

The global agreement between Visa and HSBC sets the stage for future enhancements of Zing, with plans to introduce new features, support additional currencies, and expand into more international markets. This ongoing development promises to further refine and enhance the capabilities of Zing, ensuring it remains at the forefront of global financial solutions, facilitating secure, efficient, and innovative international money movement for users worldwide.

As Zing continues to evolve, it exemplifies the potential of collaborative innovations in the fintech sector, redefining the possibilities for global finance and supporting consumers and businesses in navigating the complexities of the global economy.