Guest Analysis: In FinTech, With Great Power Comes Great Responsibility
By Cleveland Brown
As the CEO and co-founder of Payscout, a global payment processing provider, I am keenly aware of the significant impact of financial and technological tools. When those tools are deployed responsibly, they can be of tremendous value to members of underserved communities.
I was encouraged to read the ETA’s recent white paper on how their member companies have introduced new products and services that expand access to underserved communities. Providing ATM access for the disabled, enabling remote check depositing for the elderly, and expanding access to credit for small business owners are just a few examples of those products and services.
The white paper is a testament to the significant progress financial institutions and the fintech industry are making to achieve an inclusive financial system that addresses the financial needs of underserved consumers.
At Payscout, our Vision, Mission, and Cultural Attributes are inspired by our Belief Statement: “Every individual has a social responsibility to make the world a better place.”
This Belief Statement guides all of our decision-making, and the ETA’s white paper suggests our membership puts us in like-minded company.
We recently announced a partnership with the Jefferson Awards Foundation to serve as one of the Foundation’s “champions” and support their impactful community service programs. One of those programs is called GlobeChangers — an incubator for young social entrepreneurs that provides the training and mentorship needed to translate their ideas into national or global service projects. The partnership is a part of Payscout Gives – a series of community outreach initiatives that focus on supporting education and social entrepreneurship.
By partnering with the Jefferson Awards Foundation, Payscout is poised to expand the scope and reach of these initiatives – and build a culture of service among our nation’s youth.
The electronic payments industry plays a fundamental role in global ecommerce. As the scope and influence of the industry expands, I hope more fintech companies will follow the ETA’s leadership and serve as a force for good in the world.
Cleveland Brown is CEO of Payscout, a global payment processing provider covering six continents by connecting merchants and consumers via credit, debit, ATM and alternative payment networks. For more information, visit www.payscout.com.