MasterCard Worldwide has announced the launch of a new online domestic-focused travel platform where cardholders planning their next vacation getaway can find travel offers -- all in one place -- at http://www.priceless.com/travel. According to MasterCard, the exclusive offers for MasterCard cardholders focus on five of the most popular travel destinations in the United States: California, Hawaii, Florida, Nevada and New York.   » Continue Reading

JPMorgan Chase has announced that it will purchase an undivided interest in Target’s credit card receivables for approximately $3.6 billion in cash representing approximately 47 percent of the principal amount of Target’s outstanding receivables.   » Continue Reading

We mentioned the Pen or PIN program in Australia earlier today. The Pen or PIN website includes several resources explaining what's happening including a general backgrounder, one for retailers, another for cardholders, and an FAQ for media. "From 4 June 2008, most American Express, Diners Club, MasterCard and Visa cardholders will have the choice to use a Personal Identification Number (PIN) to authorise transactions when using these cards in person. The introduction of PIN on these cards follows an industry-wide collaboration involving all major banks, financial institutions and card schemes operating in Australia."

NACHA has announced that Secure Vault Payments is now a live alternative payment option. The ACH-based Internet payments network allows consumers to conduct e-commerce and bill payment transactions without sharing personal account information.   » Continue Reading

PaySimple has announced the availability of PaySimple 2.0 that the company says 'helps small businesses bridge the technology gap, and to grow with the efficiency and cost-savings that large companies have, but with the customization and personal touch that small companies need.' With PaySimple Solution 2.0's Payment Processing Center, users have the ability to electronically collect payments via eCheck/ACH or credit card as well as pay their vendors via those channels from one system.   » Continue Reading

Will Wade reports for the American Banker (subscription required) that Capital One is shutting down two merchant pilots of its decoupled debit card product that was announced last May.

Heartland Payment Systems has announced it has signed a definitive agreement to acquire the Network Services business of Alliance Data Systems Corporation. 'According to the most recent Nilson report, Alliance Data’s Network Services is one of the industry’s 20 largest payment processors, handling over $17 billion of total annual bank card volume and 604 million transactions in 2007.'   » Continue Reading

The Sydney Morning Herald reports on the "Pen or PIN" project underway in Australia that will allow shoppers using credit cards to either sign their receipts as they've always done or choose to use a PIN instead beginning June 4. A spokesman said: 'The introduction of PIN on credit and debit cards will give cardholders a quick and easy alternative to signature authorisation when making purchases in person.' Meanwhile, the Herald Sun reports that a consumer group is concerned that a move to PINs 'could result in consumers being unable to dispute credit charges.' More details here.

paybox and Globe Telecom have announced they are teaming up to extend the reach of their remittance network solutions and offering overseas Filipinos worldwide a cheaper and more convenient way to send money home.   » Continue Reading

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