Smart money management - the Visa Debit and Prepaid cards

This Case Study introduces to students to Visa Inc., the world's largest retail electronic payments network. It outlines the features of Visa Debit and Prepaid cards, and their usefulness in assisting an individual’s financial management. Visa's recent technological innovations to improve card security are also examined.

As a result of reading this Case Study the student should be able to:

• Appreciate the role Visa plays in global electronic payments and data transmission
• Understand the critical elements of Visa Debit and Prepaid cards 
• Outline the importance of financial literacy knowledge and skills
• Explain recent technological innovations in card security.

Introduction

Visa Inc. is the world's largest retail electronic payments network. Visa provides transaction-based services to financial institutions and merchant customers.

Visa Inc's business structure

In March 2008 Visa was listed on the New York Stock Exchange. Visa's initial public offering raised $US19.1 billion - the largest domestic IPO in United States history, and the second largest worldwide.

The product concepts

A Visa Debit card is a globally-accepted product that allows a consumer to make an electronic payment for goods and services using funds from their bank account, rather than a line of credit, at the time of purchase.

Improving financial knowledge

The financial world is becoming increasingly complex. Lack of financial literacy can make it difficult for young people to achieve financial independence.

Changing financial needs

Payment methods have evolved to accommodate changes in the global economy. More and more businesses offer online options and specialised online suppliers have become more common.

Conclusion

The transformation from paper to electronic payments has stimulated economic growth, spurred business innovation, and increased efficiency.