For decades, payment cards were simple tools. They connected consumers to one account, like debit or credit. This system worked in an analog world. However, times have changed, and so have consumer needs.
Visa has introduced the Flexible Credential to adapt to this shift. It’s not just another card—it’s a game-changer. This innovative solution allows users to choose how they pay for purchases.
With a single card, they can access multiple funding sources, simplifying financial decisions for millions of people.
Today, Visa announced the global expansion of this technology. It is now available in the United States and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). It marks a significant milestone in Visa’s journey to modernize payments worldwide.
Collaborating with Affirm in the U.S. and Liv in the UAE, Visa delivers tailored solutions to these markets.
Jack Forestell, Chief Product and Strategy Officer, believes in meeting consumer needs.
He explained, “The Visa Flexible Credential all started with a simple idea that consumers should easily be able to choose how they want to pay.”
He emphasized that partnerships with innovative companies like Affirm, Liv, and others help realize this vision.
In the United States, Visa is working with Affirm to deliver this next-generation solution. Affirm users can now enjoy the benefits of the Flexible Credential through the Affirm Card.
This card allows payments upfront or over time. It seamlessly combines debit and credit features into one product.
Max Levchin, Affirm’s CEO, shared his excitement about this partnership.
He stated, “Part of building better financial products also means giving consumers more control and flexibility.” Transparency remains central to Affirm’s mission.
The card includes no hidden fees or late payment penalties, creating a worry-free user experience.
Over 1.4 million Americans already use the Affirm Card, and this expansion will introduce the product to millions more. The ability to pay in whole or installments adds flexibility for these users, helping them confidently manage their finances.
Visa is addressing different needs worldwide in the UAE. Here, cross-border transactions are increasing. The UAE is among Visa’s largest markets for international payments.
Visa partnered with Liv, the UAE’s first digital bank, to address this.
Liv now offers a flexible solution for multi-currency transactions. Clients can handle several accounts using one card.
The Flexible Credential automatically routes transactions to the appropriate account, eliminating the hassle of manually choosing accounts for international purchases.
Liv customers can transact in five major currencies: the U.S. Dollar, British Pound, Euro, Canadian Dollar, and Australian Dollar. With the Liv app, users can easily switch between accounts, making cross-border payments seamless and transparent.
Pedro Sousa Cardoso, Liv’s Chief Digital Officer, sees great value in this partnership.
He said, “As the UAE’s first digital bank, we are pleased to collaborate with Visa to offer our customers a simple, flexible card solution.”
Liv customers benefit from increased convenience and financial control. They can now spend confidently across currencies without added stress.
Visa’s Flexible Credentials also found early success in Japan. Last year, Visa launched the Olive Card in partnership with Sumitomo Mitsui Card Company, Limited (SMCC).
Since then, over 3 million Olive account holders have embraced this innovative solution. Most use the card to switch between debit, credit, and prepaid accounts.
The Olive Card also introduced a unique feature for small businesses. Business owners can toggle between personal and business accounts on the same card, providing them with a powerful tool to manage cash flow.
It eliminates the need for multiple cards while streamlining financial management.
Small businesses often need more credit options. The Olive Card addresses this issue directly. Visa plans to test this feature further in Japan and, once refined, expand it to other markets.
Visa’s innovation goes beyond solving financial problems for individuals. It also strengthens partnerships with banks and fintech companies, enabling these institutions to offer more tailored solutions to their customers.
The Flexible Credential provides an opportunity to deepen these relationships and grow their user base.
Through these solutions, consumers enjoy better financial control. They can select how and when to pay without restrictions. Businesses benefit from streamlined options to manage their finances effectively.
Institutions gain tools to stay competitive and relevant in a fast-evolving market.
The Flexible Credential simplifies payment processes in ways that were previously unimaginable. It merges convenience, transparency, and flexibility into one product. The process remains smooth whether someone pays upfront, over time, or in another currency.
Visa’s global expansion demonstrates its commitment to innovation. The company’s collaborations with Affirm, Liv, and SMCC highlight its ability to meet diverse needs.
Visa understands that financial tools must evolve alongside consumer expectations.
As Forestell explained, Visa’s vision started with a simple idea. Now, this idea is transforming the global payments landscape. Consumers gain more control, businesses receive more innovative tools, and financial institutions build stronger relationships.
The future of payments is here, and Visa is leading the way.