Майбутнє Pix і методів оплати в Бразилії

Since its launch, Pix has modernised how Brazilians manage their money. Fast, free, and available 24 hours a day, the Central Bank's instant payment system has already established itself as the country's primary payment method. But the future promises even more transformations. The introduction of Pix Parcelado, Pix Garantido, and Pix Internacional marks the next stage of this journey of innovation.  

However, Pix is merely a kind of "tip of the spear" in a genuine revolution currently underway in the country's payment systems, with benefits in terms of practicality and security for the entire population and the economy as a whole.  

But let's start with Pix. The guaranteed mode (currently under development by the Central Bank, allowing scheduled or instalment payments via Pix even without available funds) will enable, as we mentioned, installment payments with a guarantee for the recipient, democratizing credit and eliminating the need for a card. We also spoke of International Pix, which will facilitate transfers between countries, broadening horizons for trade, tourism, and services. Clearly, for this innovation to work, it will be essential to overcome regulatory challenges, such as harmonising different exchange rate systems and compliance policies. In other words, the payment systems of the country sending the Pix will need to "communicate" with the system receiving those funds.  

Finally – and most immediately – we will now, in September, see the start of Pix Parcelado operations, a solution that will benefit recurring service businesses (e.g., gyms, schools, streaming services, internet providers), consumer services (water, telephone, gas, electricity), associations, condominiums, and other entities. For businesses, the new feature will bring benefits such as reduced bad debt and improved cash flow through quicker receipts. For consumers, the benefits relate to convenience, transparency, and flexibility for authorisations and cancellations.  

Alongside this evolution, the market is witnessing the rise of digital wallets (paying by card directly through your phone, using systems like Apple Pay and Google Wallet) and super apps, which combine functionalities such as accounts, cards, кешбек Credit in a single interface. These models deliver a smooth, user-centric experience, and put traditional banks in a pressing need for adaptation, particularly regarding technological integration and the use of real-time data. It's worth noting that, according to a Chroma Consulting survey, 54% of Brazilians already use these mobile payment systems.  

In physical retail, technologies like NFC (short for...) Near Field CommunicationAlternatively, in good Portuguese, payment by proximity) and QR Code continue to gain traction. NFC, popularized by digital wallets, transforms phones into card machines, while QR Code remains an accessible alternative, especially for low-value transactions (including Pix) and public transport. Both technologies drive financial inclusion and reduce transaction costs.  

In short, you might not be familiar with the acronym "NFC" or the term "digital wallet", for example, but you've most likely already used these technologies.  

Another silent protagonist in this transformation of payment methods is Open FinanceBy allowing the sharing of financial data between authorised institutions, the system enables hyper-personalised experiences, with dynamic limits and conditions, and contextualised credit. This directly impacts higher conversion rates, lower default rates, and consumer satisfaction.  

Simply put: when a bank is considering a loan or credit card application, if they have access to the applicant's full debt profile across the entire system – for example, whether they have a store card with institution X or a car loan with bank Y – rather than just looking at their own records, it's easier to assess potential risks and therefore tailor the offer. Everyone benefits.   

Big tech companies like Apple, Google, and Samsung are also increasingly present in the payments space. With global infrastructure and native integration into devices, these companies are accelerating innovation. However, they still face regulatory hurdles and need to adapt to local requirements, such as the LGPD (General Data Protection Law) and Central Bank regulations.  

Another model that should gain traction is the Купуйте зараз, платіть пізніше (BNPL, a type of fast and simplified digital instalment plan, designed for the online experience). Focused particularly on young, unbanked populations, BNPL combines flexibility and practicality. However, to be sustainable, it requires real-time risk assessment tools that prevent over-indebtedness and promote responsible credit usage.  

The future still holds the integration of payments with emerging technologies such as 5G and the Internet of Things (IoT – think about your Smartwatchwhich, in addition to clock and phone functions, likely incorporates features like heart rate and sleep monitoring, for example). Cars that pay tolls automatically, fridges that order groceries themselves, and smart vending machines are part of a scenario where payment becomes almost invisible – seamlessly integrated into the user's journey.  

Even cryptocurrencies, despite their volatility and lack of clear regulation, are starting to gain ground. The evolution of stablecoins (cryptocurrencies generally pegged to the variation of less volatile assets, such as gold, the dollar, and the euro) and their integration with digital wallets are creating more favourable conditions for their retail use, provided they are accompanied by stable rules and security mechanisms.  

A significant theme in the evolution of payment methods is biometrics, which presents itself not just as a security feature, but as part of a more seamless journey (in that it involves fewer steps) and greater convenience for the user. A good example is C&A Pay, from the fashion retail network, which allows payment using facial biometrics alone – with prior recognition via a mobile app, which then links facial features to the customer's profile.  

The Brazilian is, by definition, a ... Ранній адаптер Of new technologies, and it's not an exaggeration to imagine that, within a timeframe of about five years, this technology will be quite widespread – as some reports from specialist consultancies suggest.   

Finally, amidst all these advancements, security remains a priority. The recent case of Pix fraud – with billions of dollars in losses – has exposed the need for robust processes, intelligent monitoring, and a culture of prevention. Institutions need to invest not just in technology, but also in training, access controls, and rapid response channels, including direct communication with the Central Bank for emergency blocks.  

Brazil is experiencing a unique moment of transformation in payment systems. The combination of technology, regulation, and user experience promises a more accessible, competitive, and secure ecosystem, placing the country in a positive position to leverage global financial innovation.  

João Santos, CEO of Treeal