While 44% of Brazilians remain unbanked, the way the nation spends its money is evolving. Already comfortable with mobile payments and online banking, people are increasingly embracing credit and debit cards because they are more secure than cash.
Times are tough in Brazil in 2016, with the worst national recession in several decades slowing spending across the board. But while the majority of industries are in decline – from luxury items to essentials like food – sales of premium beer and make-up are as strong as ever.
Consumer banks are racing to leverage social media and win over younger customers. But with 44% of Gen Yers believing that banks don’t understand them, they’ve had little success. In Brazil, Banco Original – for ‘people who don’t need banks, but need banking’ – is about to show them how it’s done.
As people become accustomed to using their mobile phones for common everyday tasks like shopping, social media, and getting around, mobile finance services are also gaining traction. In Brazil, mobile banking accounts for a third of all transactions made.
Mobile commerce is becoming increasingly popular. As the sixth-biggest smartphone nation in the world, with one in ten online purchases made on a mobile, it’s a shift that’s hit Brazil in a big way. And now, thanks to Visa Checkout, Brazil’s football fans will be able to buy tickets seamlessly.