Mastercard's digital solutions drive innovation and strengthen SMEs' confidence in Brazil, research shows

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are rapidly digitizing — and the adoption of digital solutions has been essential in this process. According to a new study by MasterCard, 91% of Brazilian SMEs that use digital payment solutions report significant business growth, reinforcing the strategic role of digitization.

The study, which heard 150 owners and directors of SMEs in Brazil as part of a regional survey in 14 countries, reveals that 92% of Brazilian SMEs who accept digital payments consider them essential or very important for their operation. Data also indicates that digitization is not just a competitive advantage — it is a necessity: 64% They claim that their business would not exist without accepting digital payments.

“ Digital payments are redefining the way SMEs operate, grow and connect with customers and suppliers. This study shows that digital acceptance goes beyond convenience — it is vital for the sustainability of business”, says Marcelo Tangioni, president of Mastercard Brasil.

The study's main insights include:

• Operational efficiency: 951TP3 t of SMEs who use digital payment methods say that the modality saves time and money.
• pent-up demand: Among those that have not yet adopted digital acceptance, 86% are interested in implementing the solution, and 57% claim to lose customers monthly because they do not offer this option.
• Digitization of B2B Relations: 88% of SMEs use electronic payments to pay suppliers, with 60% having international suppliers.
• more than payment: 991TP3 t of companies that use digital payment solutions know the additional services offered by their providers — such as credit facilitation (used by 51%), fraud monitoring (48%) and cybersecurity (45%).

What do SMEs look for in a digital payment solutions provider?
The most valued characteristics by entrepreneurs are:

• Security (94%)
• Ability to handle multiple payment methods (94%)
• Customer Service (92%)
• Reliability (90%) — reinforcing the importance of trust in the solutions offered.

“ Mastercard has been consistently working to support the digitization of SMEs in Latin America, with initiatives that combine technology, innovation and financial inclusion – fundamental pillars for the sustainable development of small businesses”, highlights Marcelo Tangioni. In this scenario, MasterCard has invested in specific solutions that support the real challenges faced by Brazilian SMEs, such as:

• tap on phone: Turns smartphones into payment terminals, allowing small retailers to accept cards by approach and digital wallets in a simple, accessible and secure way — an innovative solution that reduces entry barriers and expands digital inclusion.
• click to pay: Online payment solution that does not require the typing of data at each purchase, offering a more fluid checkout experience, with a direct impact on sales conversion and the confidence of the final consumer. With just one click, the purchase is made — an optimized journey that reduces the average checkout time by up to 50%.
• MasterCard Surprise Companies: Loyalty program aimed at entrepreneurs, with benefits and partnerships that support digitalization and the day-to-day business, such as DocuSign, NordVPN and Spedy. The initiative reinforces Mastercard's commitment to innovation applied to the needs of SMEs.