CUP Data Completes First-of-its-Kind Bankcard Conversion in China

Industry insiders call this event a first in the Chinese bankcard industry for three achievements― it was the first successful conversion from an overseas data center; the first Chinese conversion from a mainframe to an open platform; and the first Chinese conversion of more than a million accounts.

Recognized as one of the most prestigious banks in China, SPDB issued its first dual-currency credit card from an overseas data center in 2004. This conversion allows SPDB to better serve its Chinese cardholders by moving its card portfolio to the bank’s domestic data center in Shanghai.

“After an in-depth comparison of many large global players, SPDB chose our technology, which demonstrates our ability to meet their vision for the market,” said Mr. Chai Hong Feng, chief operating officer of CUP Data. “Because we understand our domestic market while meeting international standards, our client banks enjoy strong local support as well as strategic and scalable solutions to meet growth needs in the future. We are extremely proud of this accomplishment and our long-term relationship with SPDB.”

“China is a fast growing and unique market, and Chinese banks have learned very quickly what works best for them,” said Gaylon Jowers, president of TSYS International. “CUP Data not only provides banks with world-class technology that supports the distinctive characteristics of the Chinese bankcard industry, but also helps client banks make seamless transitions when they choose to adopt different technologies or processing models.”

“It’s indeed another milestone event in CUP Data’s history. Within a compact timeframe, CUP Data has completed a first-class conversion from both a technology and an implementation perspective, with no impacts or interruptions,” said Mr. David E. Duncan, managing director of TSYS Asia-Pacific, based in Shanghai. “Conversion is an extremely sophisticated process, but is part of the core competency of TSYS that we’ve been perfecting for 25 years with an impeccable success rate. TSYS will continue to help CUP Data to cement its position as the leading processor in China through investments in people, technology, and expertise.”