http://www.chargenational.com/ca/en/blog/ en webmaster@chargenational.com Copyright 2012 2012-02-01T16:46:44+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/nfc-market-to-reach-10-billion-by-2016-800698795/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/nfc-market-to-reach-10-billion-by-2016-800698795/ Demand for near field communications, particularly for mobile payment services and technologies, is expected to skyrocket in coming years, as tech firms plan to leverage NFC as a principle m-commerce tool. E-Commerce 2012-02-01T16:46:44+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/average-apr-on-credit-cards-drops-to-lowest-level-in-five-months-800698789/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/average-apr-on-credit-cards-drops-to-lowest-level-in-five-months-800698789/ Interest rates on new credit card offers have been on the decline since the beginning of the new year, reflecting an attempt by the industry to drive up interest in credit card processing as a payment option. Credit Card Processing 2012-02-01T16:45:44+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/merchants-beware-your-customers-are-using-phones-to-research-products-services-prices-800697411/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/merchants-beware-your-customers-are-using-phones-to-research-products-services-prices-800697411/ The evidence is clear: Consumers are using smartphones to inform their shopping decisions in-store. E-Commerce 2012-01-31T15:53:17+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/social-buying-space-sees-new-offers-from-big-banks-800696787/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/social-buying-space-sees-new-offers-from-big-banks-800696787/ Bank of America is in the planning phase of a new sort of "social coupon" program. E-Commerce 2012-01-31T09:51:55+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/new-credit-card-products-hitting-the-market-800696783/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/new-credit-card-products-hitting-the-market-800696783/ The concept behind the credit card is relatively straightforward, but that underlying idea is now giving way to a slew of new credit products for consumers. Credit Card Processing 2012-01-31T09:50:14+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/credit-cards-can-be-tools-for-personal-financial-health-800695354/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/credit-cards-can-be-tools-for-personal-financial-health-800695354/ There's been something of a backlash against credit cards in recent months, mainly as cash-strapped consumers turn to cash and debit as a means of making payments without incurring debt. Credit Card Processing 2012-01-30T09:26:53+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/sustainability-demand-likely-to-force-change-in-retail-sector-800694247/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/sustainability-demand-likely-to-force-change-in-retail-sector-800694247/ Retailers are adopting novel methods of improving sustainability as businesses increasingly view operational efficiency, environmental alignment and social compliance as growth opportunities instead of mere risk management concerns. Merchant Account 2012-01-27T09:24:35+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/prepaid-cards-gathering-steam-among-consumers-800693867/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/prepaid-cards-gathering-steam-among-consumers-800693867/ Prepaid debits cards are gaining traction once again, as consumers search for low-cost alternatives to traditional financing channels such as credit cards. Credit Card Processing 2012-01-26T17:35:27+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/protection-of-customer-financial-data-cannot-be-placed-squarely-on-it-800692678/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/protection-of-customer-financial-data-cannot-be-placed-squarely-on-it-800692678/ A report released earlier this week by CyberSource found that merchants are experiencing incidents of fraudulent purchases. Merchant Account 2012-01-25T17:18:57+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/mcommerce-and-online-retail-merge-to-combat-instore-checkout-lines-800692670/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/mcommerce-and-online-retail-merge-to-combat-instore-checkout-lines-800692670/ The diversity of the burgeoning m-commerce industry is simultaneously its greatest strength and greatest weakness. E-Commerce 2012-01-25T17:16:45+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/visa-moves-to-explain-pin-stipulations-of-emv-chip-cards-800690503/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/visa-moves-to-explain-pin-stipulations-of-emv-chip-cards-800690503/ Smart chip-based credit cards have already emerged in other parts of the world, but these devices, known as EMV cards, have been slower to take off in the United States. Credit Card Processing 2012-01-23T16:41:26+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/ibm-steps-up-innovation-in-mcommerce-sector-800690498/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/ibm-steps-up-innovation-in-mcommerce-sector-800690498/ IBM is moving to hasten the development of the burgeoning m-commerce industry. E-Commerce 2012-01-23T16:38:10+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/what-exactly-are-the-barriers-to-mobile-payment-adoption-800689964/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/what-exactly-are-the-barriers-to-mobile-payment-adoption-800689964/ As sensational as the fledgling mobile payments space is, it appears rife with logistical hurdles. E-Commerce 2012-01-23T09:33:24+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/how-sopa-would-impact-ecommerce-800689962/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/how-sopa-would-impact-ecommerce-800689962/ Wednesday's staged internet blackout by a number of major websites - including Wikipedia, Craigslist, Wired and Reddit, among others - appears to have been a success. E-Commerce 2012-01-23T09:31:51+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/payment-services-expected-to-blossom-in-2012-800688431/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/payment-services-expected-to-blossom-in-2012-800688431/ Direct carrier billing and mobile payment services are expected take off in 2012, as online merchants seek out novel ways of integrating their customer service and point-of-sale options. E-Commerce 2012-01-19T16:52:08+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/nrf-declares-support-for-presidents-visa-processing-idea-800688424/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/nrf-declares-support-for-presidents-visa-processing-idea-800688424/ The National Retail Federation has thrown its support behind a White House initiative to expedite the processing of visa applications and boost tourism to the United States. Credit Card Processing 2012-01-19T16:50:27+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/improving-job-market-may-indirectly-benefit-credit-sector-800687878/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/improving-job-market-may-indirectly-benefit-credit-sector-800687878/ Employment has been a major point of concern for the U.S. economy in recent years, but reports show conditions may be improving. Credit Card Processing 2012-01-19T09:31:04+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/mobile-transactions-may-be-most-beneficial-to-small-merchants-800687407/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/mobile-transactions-may-be-most-beneficial-to-small-merchants-800687407/ Most of the hype surrounding the emerging mobile payments sector involves the end-user, or the consumer. Credit Card Processing 2012-01-18T17:04:39+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/all-50-states-enjoy-dip-in-credit-card-debt-through-2011-800686394/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/all-50-states-enjoy-dip-in-credit-card-debt-through-2011-800686394/ Consumers continued to pay down their credit card balances in December, even as credit card processing climbed amid last month's holiday shopping mania. Credit Card Processing 2012-01-17T17:07:46+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/ibm-report-consumers-demand-customeroriented-retail-environment-800686388/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/ibm-report-consumers-demand-customeroriented-retail-environment-800686388/ Consumers are demanding a more targeted and smarter shopping experience from retailers, and they are willing to disclose valuable market insight in exchange, according to a new report from IBM. Point-of-Sale Terminals 2012-01-17T17:06:31+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/consumers-expect-payment-services-more-than-theyre-offered-800686383/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/consumers-expect-payment-services-more-than-theyre-offered-800686383/ A new report shows a disconnect has emerged between retailers and consumers, wherein shoppers are demanding more payment services and devices than merchants are providing. Point-of-Sale Terminals 2012-01-17T17:05:16+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/consumers-willing-to-pay-roughly-15-per-month-for-mobile-banking-services-800685289/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/consumers-willing-to-pay-roughly-15-per-month-for-mobile-banking-services-800685289/ A recent KPMG survey of finance and technology executives concluded that mobile payments will be mainstream by 2014. E-Commerce 2012-01-16T16:41:34+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/small-firms-leveraging-business-credit-cards-to-finance-growth-800685282/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/small-firms-leveraging-business-credit-cards-to-finance-growth-800685282/ Credit card companies are ramping up their offers for small business cards through a mix of new products, rewards programs and other incentives. Credit Card Processing 2012-01-16T16:39:33+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/fitch-prime-credit-card-abs-held-strong-performance-in-december-800684734/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/fitch-prime-credit-card-abs-held-strong-performance-in-december-800684734/ Delinquency rates and credit card chargeoffs remained low in December, as consumers maintained a more frugal spending attitude amid the busy holiday shopping season, according to the latest index from Fitch Ratings. Credit Card Processing 2012-01-16T09:30:59+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/more-than-half-of-americans-plan-to-reduce-their-personal-debt-this-year-800684731/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/more-than-half-of-americans-plan-to-reduce-their-personal-debt-this-year-800684731/ Even as consumers turned to their credit cards to finance their holiday shopping last month, most Americans appear determined to pay off their debts and save money in 2012. Credit Card Processing 2012-01-16T09:29:27+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/smartphone-adoption-to-run-parallel-to-mcommerce-trends-800684730/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/smartphone-adoption-to-run-parallel-to-mcommerce-trends-800684730/ While the mobile payments race is expected to continue through 2012, with no clear indication of winners and losers, mobile commerce will continue to rack up a larger share of the online shopping industry. E-Commerce 2012-01-16T09:28:08+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/increasingly-frugal-consumers-paying-off-debts-in-timely-fashion-800683193/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/increasingly-frugal-consumers-paying-off-debts-in-timely-fashion-800683193/ The recession appears to have instilled frugality in the average U.S. consumer, as Americans continue to pay off credit card balances and make timely payments. Credit Card Processing 2012-01-12T17:08:35+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/ces-shows-off-new-nfcbased-mobile-payment-services-800683185/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/ces-shows-off-new-nfcbased-mobile-payment-services-800683185/ Near field communications is widely accepted as the foremost technology powering the emerging mobile payments space. E-Commerce 2012-01-12T17:06:48+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/millennial-parents-use-mobile-devices-for-shopping-800682146/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/millennial-parents-use-mobile-devices-for-shopping-800682146/ The Millennial generation will soon be the largest living generation in the U.S., with 85 million members expected in 2015. E-Commerce 2012-01-11T16:57:25+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/consumers-less-enthusiastic-for-social-commerce-than-online-or-mobile-equivalents-800682142/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/consumers-less-enthusiastic-for-social-commerce-than-online-or-mobile-equivalents-800682142/ The term "ecommerce" is now more than decade old, and "m-commerce" is approaching a household level of familiarity. E-Commerce 2012-01-11T16:56:13+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/borrowing-soars-at-highest-monthly-rate-in-a-decade-800681068/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/borrowing-soars-at-highest-monthly-rate-in-a-decade-800681068/ Consumer credit soared in November at the highest rate in a decade, according to data released this week by the U.S. Federal Reserve. Credit Card Processing 2012-01-10T16:38:25+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/mcommerce-synonymous-with-comparison-shopping-800681062/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/mcommerce-synonymous-with-comparison-shopping-800681062/ Consumers are using their mobile devices to research goods and services and find top deals while shopping. E-Commerce 2012-01-10T16:36:59+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/mobile-payments-to-replace-cash-by-2016-800681055/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/mobile-payments-to-replace-cash-by-2016-800681055/ A recent survey of finance and technology executives estimated that mobile payment technology will become mainstream by 2013 or 2014. E-Commerce 2012-01-10T16:35:30+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/payment-industry-summit-to-address-mobile-payments-and-emv-cards-800680526/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/payment-industry-summit-to-address-mobile-payments-and-emv-cards-800680526/ A number of analysts have already heralded 2012 as the year of new payment technologies. Point-of-Sale Terminals 2012-01-10T09:37:01+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/us-retailers-suffer-through-postholiday-sales-hangover-800679940/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/us-retailers-suffer-through-postholiday-sales-hangover-800679940/ Retailers in the U.S. are facing the largest post-holiday depression since 2009, as merchants were forced to chip away at their profit margins in December with heavy discounts to attract customers. E-Commerce 2012-01-09T09:00:42+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/merchants-need-to-prepare-for-new-1099k-reporting-standard-this-month-80067/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/merchants-need-to-prepare-for-new-1099k-reporting-standard-this-month-80067/ Several million small businesses in the U.S. will need to acquaint themselves with a new federal reporting standard by the end of this month. Merchant Account 2012-01-06T09:00:23+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/2012-financial-resolution-lower-personal-debt-but-same-dependence-on-credit/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/2012-financial-resolution-lower-personal-debt-but-same-dependence-on-credit/ Even as consumers move to rein in their debt this year, merchants can expect a steady stream of credit card processing. Credit Card Processing 2012-01-06T09:00:03+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/2012-the-year-of-chipbased-emv-credit-cards-800678978/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/2012-the-year-of-chipbased-emv-credit-cards-800678978/ Payment technology is expected to continue its swift evolution this year, driven largely by mounting consumer demand and relaxed logistics barriers. Point-of-Sale Terminals 2012-01-06T06:00:41+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/uncertainty-over-consumer-spending-may-be-lifted-by-hiring-trends-800677978/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/uncertainty-over-consumer-spending-may-be-lifted-by-hiring-trends-800677978/ Retail sales in December exceeded analysts' expectations but were still somewhat modest, according to data released Thursday by Thomson Reuters. Merchant Account 2012-01-05T16:51:04+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/mcommerce-space-sets-its-focus-on-a-busy-2012-800677964/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/mcommerce-space-sets-its-focus-on-a-busy-2012-800677964/ Payment services, specifically consumer-based transactions, are to go undergo a dramatic shift in coming years, and 2012 is expected to be a defining year toward that end. E-Commerce 2012-01-05T16:48:54+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/surge-in-holiday-credit-card-use-to-drive-january-spending-lull-800676995/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/surge-in-holiday-credit-card-use-to-drive-january-spending-lull-800676995/ Consumer debt incurred during the holiday shopping season may stymie spending activity in January, according to a report released this week by America's Research Group. Credit Card Processing 2012-01-04T17:03:28+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/retail-sales-projections-for-december-revised-upward-800676979/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/retail-sales-projections-for-december-revised-upward-800676979/ December retail sales appear to have been stronger than originally projected. Merchant Account 2012-01-04T17:01:12+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/pci-standards-as-much-a-compliance-concern-as-a-pr-one-800674714/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/pci-standards-as-much-a-compliance-concern-as-a-pr-one-800674714/ A report released last month by research firm Gartner found nearly one-in-five merchants, credit card processing services and card issuers admit to not being compliant with payment card industry data security standards (PCI DSS). Point-of-Sale Terminals 2011-12-30T16:47:31+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/a-recap-of-2011-ecommerce-activity-800674710/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/a-recap-of-2011-ecommerce-activity-800674710/ This year's Cyber Monday (the Monday after Thanksgiving) saw the largest volume of online sales in a single day ever, according to a recent comScore report. In many ways, the uptick in spending served as a cap to an otherwise healthy year for ecommerce and online payment processing. E-Commerce 2011-12-30T16:45:15+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/how-will-mobile-payments-impact-credit-card-processing-800673648/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/how-will-mobile-payments-impact-credit-card-processing-800673648/ While much has been said about mobile payment technologies and how they stand to revolutionize the payment processing landscape, some experts are wondering how this trend will impact the credit card industry. Credit Card Processing 2011-12-29T17:23:40+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/moodys-credit-card-chargeoffs-rose-in-november-on-holiday-shopping-activity-800673631/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/moodys-credit-card-chargeoffs-rose-in-november-on-holiday-shopping-activity-800673631/ Credit card charge-offs increased in November, reflecting seasonal trends and the surge in consumer spending that begins with Thanksgiving weekend. Credit Card Processing 2011-12-29T17:20:00+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/nearly-onefifth-of-firms-not-compliant-with-pci-dss-800672485/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/nearly-onefifth-of-firms-not-compliant-with-pci-dss-800672485/ Payment Card Industry Data Security Standards have been adopted to protect critical consumer financial data in the retail and commerce sectors. Merchant Account 2011-12-28T17:14:05+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/a-few-myths-about-credit-card-health-800672473/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/a-few-myths-about-credit-card-health-800672473/ Although consumers are considerably more educated when it comes to finances than they were before the recession, many Americans are still in the dark about what sort of activity negatively or positively impacts their credit scores. Credit Card Processing 2011-12-28T17:12:33+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/shopping-season-continues-postchristmas-800671242/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/shopping-season-continues-postchristmas-800671242/ Merchants shouldn't begin assessing their holiday payment processing quite yet. While the holidays may just about be over, the shopping season continues. Credit Card Processing 2011-12-27T16:40:00+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/us-consumer-confidence-spikes-in-december-on-shopping-employment-hopes-800671237/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/us-consumer-confidence-spikes-in-december-on-shopping-employment-hopes-800671237/ U.S. consumers grew more confident this month, as holiday shopping, lower gas prices and surges in employment drove Americans to spend more. Credit Card Processing 2011-12-27T16:38:17+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/more-than-half-of-consumers-feel-pressured-into-buying-holiday-gifts-800670322/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/more-than-half-of-consumers-feel-pressured-into-buying-holiday-gifts-800670322/ Consumers may be turning to their credit cards to finance their holiday shopping, however reluctant they may be to do so. E-Commerce 2011-12-23T16:05:50+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/credit-scores-an-enigma-to-many-american-consumers-800669443/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/credit-scores-an-enigma-to-many-american-consumers-800669443/ More than one-fifth of Americans don't know what factors account for their respective credit scores, according to a report released this week by FreeScore.com. Credit Card Processing 2011-12-22T16:55:05+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/new-years-resolutions-for-credit-cardholders-800669436/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/new-years-resolutions-for-credit-cardholders-800669436/ Consumers facing a considerable amount of credit card debt should make a New Year's resolution to cut away at their balances. Credit Card Processing 2011-12-22T16:53:08+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/kpmg-survey-popularity-of-mobile-banking-continues-to-soar-800668366/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/kpmg-survey-popularity-of-mobile-banking-continues-to-soar-800668366/ Although online banking and visits to local branches remain the most common way for consumers to handle their finances, the popularity of mobile banking continues to skyrocket. E-Commerce 2011-12-21T16:38:38+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/how-banks-will-shift-their-credit-card-strategies-for-2012-800668345/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/how-banks-will-shift-their-credit-card-strategies-for-2012-800668345/ What can retailers and consumers expect from the credit card industry moving into 2012? Credit Card Processing 2011-12-21T16:33:08+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/motorola-more-than-twothirds-of-consumers-appreciate-mobileenabled-retail-associates-800667348/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/motorola-more-than-twothirds-of-consumers-appreciate-mobileenabled-retail-associates-800667348/ Mobile technology, with its burgeoning payment systems and capabilities, helps improve customer experiences, a new report by Motorola shows. E-Commerce 2011-12-20T16:47:52+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/ims-35-million-nfcenabled-phones-delivered-in-2011-800667339/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/ims-35-million-nfcenabled-phones-delivered-in-2011-800667339/ Mobile payments are becoming more and more of a reality, despite a series of logistical hiccups that have stalled widespread adoption in the U.S. and Canada. E-Commerce 2011-12-20T16:45:49+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/tips-for-tackling-credit-card-debt-this-holiday-season-800666347/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/tips-for-tackling-credit-card-debt-this-holiday-season-800666347/ It's not exactly news that consumers tend to rack up debts during the busy holiday shopping season. Credit Card Processing 2011-12-19T17:02:10+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/moodys-2012-credit-card-securitization-to-match-this-years-levels-800665268/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/moodys-2012-credit-card-securitization-to-match-this-years-levels-800665268/ As credit card companies continue to loosen their requirements and issue new accounts, the quality of securitized credit card debt is likely to improve in 2012. Credit Card Processing 2011-12-16T16:11:55+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/credit-card-defaults-continue-to-plummet-800665264/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/credit-card-defaults-continue-to-plummet-800665264/ The number of U.S. credit card defaults plummeted this year, marking a trend that may prompt banks to broaden their card offerings and account openings in 2012. Credit Card Processing 2011-12-16T16:09:23+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/mobile-payment-services-ideal-for-grocery-retailers-800664348/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/mobile-payment-services-ideal-for-grocery-retailers-800664348/ The fast-paced shopping environment of grocery stores highlights the immense potential of mobile payment services, known for their speedy transaction capabilities. E-Commerce 2011-12-15T16:33:44+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/consumer-credit-card-debt-whats-the-deal-800664343/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/consumer-credit-card-debt-whats-the-deal-800664343/ There's been some confusion over the state of the U.S. credit market in recent months. Credit Card Processing 2011-12-15T16:32:01+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/study-nearly-a-quarter-of-adults-admit-to-retail-therapy-800663347/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/study-nearly-a-quarter-of-adults-admit-to-retail-therapy-800663347/ Retail therapy may not be a myth after all, as a new study shows a surprising percentage of consumers make purchases solely because they are in a bad mood. E-Commerce 2011-12-14T16:59:17+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/holiday-shopping-trailing-behind-last-years-figures-800663276/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/holiday-shopping-trailing-behind-last-years-figures-800663276/ With only a few weeks left in the 2011 holiday shopping season, retail analysts are weighing this year's activity compared to 2010. Merchant Account 2011-12-14T16:46:36+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/do-consumers-prefer-mobile-payments-to-credit-cards-800662269/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/do-consumers-prefer-mobile-payments-to-credit-cards-800662269/ Much debate has been heard regarding the security of mobile payment apps and networks. E-Commerce 2011-12-13T16:49:59+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/financial-institutions-to-expand-mobile-banking-services-next-year-800662231/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/financial-institutions-to-expand-mobile-banking-services-next-year-800662231/ Banks and financial institutions are moving to deliver increasingly sophisticated mobile payment and banking systems to meet mounting consumer demand. E-Commerce 2011-12-13T16:47:06+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/majority-of-small-businesses-experiencing-late-payments-800661213/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/majority-of-small-businesses-experiencing-late-payments-800661213/ Capital availability is one of the greatest impediments to growth in U.S. markets - be it through credit opportunities or business assets. Merchant Account 2011-12-12T16:46:00+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/study-more-unencrypted-payment-cards-in-2011-than-previous-year-800661205/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/study-more-unencrypted-payment-cards-in-2011-than-previous-year-800661205/ A larger number of merchants were non-compliant with payment card encryption standards this year, according to a survey released last week by SecurityMetrics. Credit Card Processing 2011-12-12T16:44:09+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/us-consumers-rely-on-a-variety-of-payment-channels-to-pay-bills-800660224/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/us-consumers-rely-on-a-variety-of-payment-channels-to-pay-bills-800660224/ Consumers appear to be diversifying their payment channels when it comes to paying bills, underscoring the value of offering integrated payment services and devices to customers and clients. Merchant Account 2011-12-09T16:19:51+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/november-shows-continued-surge-in-debit-and-credit-card-use-800660220/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/november-shows-continued-surge-in-debit-and-credit-card-use-800660220/ Growth in debit card use outpaced credit in November, suggesting consumers are still somewhat hesitant to return to their credit cards, even with the launch of the holiday shopping season. Credit Card Processing 2011-12-09T16:18:26+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/canadians-demand-right-to-choose-their-payment-option-survey-finds-800659499/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/canadians-demand-right-to-choose-their-payment-option-survey-finds-800659499/ Consumers have grown increasingly frustrated with banks in recent months. Merchant Account 2011-12-08T16:48:22+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/optimize-the-use-of-rewards-programs-this-holiday-season-800659462/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/optimize-the-use-of-rewards-programs-this-holiday-season-800659462/ If the recession did anything to consumers, it made them more frugal. Credit Card Processing 2011-12-08T16:45:40+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/consumers-turning-to-comparison-shopping-apps-800658587/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/consumers-turning-to-comparison-shopping-apps-800658587/ While mobile phones are increasingly used by consumers to pay for items - either through mobile banking and transactions services or physical point of sale terminals - the popularity of comparison shopping apps is also on the rise. E-Commerce 2011-12-07T17:48:06+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/despite-pr-crisis-customers-satisfied-overall-with-banks-credit-unions-800658580/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/despite-pr-crisis-customers-satisfied-overall-with-banks-credit-unions-800658580/ Recent uproar over U.S. banks' plans to implement fees on debit card use was palpable. Merchant Account 2011-12-07T17:45:55+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/the-relativity-of-value-in-regards-to-cash-and-credit-800657780/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/the-relativity-of-value-in-regards-to-cash-and-credit-800657780/ Credit card owners often bypass the so-called "pain of payment" when making a purchase with plastic. Credit Card Processing 2011-12-07T09:43:47+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/consumers-out-with-debit-in-with-credit-800657777/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/consumers-out-with-debit-in-with-credit-800657777/ Credit card companies are enjoying a surge of customer activity, as improvements in the economy, particularly consumer confidence, are encouraging people to use their credit cards again. Credit Card Processing 2011-12-07T09:42:09+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/retailers-want-further-regulations-on-debit-fees-800656711/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/retailers-want-further-regulations-on-debit-fees-800656711/ Merchants, the U.S. federal government and credit card companies have been at odds for years over the costs of processing credit and debit card transactions. Credit Card Processing 2011-12-06T09:54:28+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/cyber-monday-sales-point-to-further-needs-of-ecommerce-sector-this-season-800656253/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/cyber-monday-sales-point-to-further-needs-of-ecommerce-sector-this-season-800656253/ Online sales traffic soared over Black Friday weekend, providing a much needed boost to the U.S. economy and helping to make Cyber Monday the biggest day for online shopping ever. E-Commerce 2011-12-05T17:04:36+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/what-is-the-personality-behind-big-ticket-purchases-800655404/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/what-is-the-personality-behind-big-ticket-purchases-800655404/ When it comes to big-ticket purchases, consumers tend to vary in their shopping habits. E-Commerce 2011-12-02T17:19:18+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/smartphones-acquire-40-percent-of-canadian-mobile-market-share-800654766/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/smartphones-acquire-40-percent-of-canadian-mobile-market-share-800654766/ As a major contributor of high-tech innovation and entrepreneurial activity, Canada has firmly positioned itself in anticipation of the mobile payment revolution. E-Commerce 2011-12-02T09:31:15+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/idaho-cities-see-benefit-in-of-credit-card-processing-800654768/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/idaho-cities-see-benefit-in-of-credit-card-processing-800654768/ Credit card processing is now available through many platforms, such as traditional swipe cards, mobile payments through via smartphones or cards equipped with near field communication technology. Credit Card Processing 2011-12-02T09:29:39+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/trust-security-to-become-key-drivers-in-mobile-payment-adoption-800654734/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/trust-security-to-become-key-drivers-in-mobile-payment-adoption-800654734/ A recent Juniper Research study found that the volume of mobile payments for all digital and physical goods, money transfers and other transactions will reach close to $630 billion by 2014. E-Commerce 2011-12-02T09:29:05+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/bill-to-close-ecommerce-sales-tax-loophole-may-have-bipartisan-support-800654317/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/bill-to-close-ecommerce-sales-tax-loophole-may-have-bipartisan-support-800654317/ While the bipartisan impasse in the U.S. Congress has prevented lawmakers from agreeing on just about anything, there is one basic argument that's tough to refute: The government is in dire need of some revenue. E-Commerce 2011-12-01T17:07:19+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/credit-card-companies-see-rise-in-reward-redemptions-800654306/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/credit-card-companies-see-rise-in-reward-redemptions-800654306/ Many credit card customers find that rewards programs are an added bonus to this method of payment processing. These rewards often come in the form of cash back, airline miles and gift cards. Credit Card Processing 2011-12-01T17:04:10+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/borrowers-get-more-access-despite-bad-credit-while-late-payments-decrease-800648244/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/borrowers-get-more-access-despite-bad-credit-while-late-payments-decrease-800648244/ Consumers with low credit scores are often met with rejection as they look to find affordable lines of credit. Credit Card Processing 2011-11-22T17:32:17+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/russia-and-turkey-lead-europe-in-mobile-payment-use-800648163/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/russia-and-turkey-lead-europe-in-mobile-payment-use-800648163/ While the use of mobile payment services in the U.S. continues to trudge along, Europe has shown striking adoption rates and may serve as a market influence for its neighbors across the Atlantic. E-Commerce 2011-11-22T17:16:26+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/malls-will-introduce-mobile-tracking-to-observe-shoppers-trends-800648156/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/malls-will-introduce-mobile-tracking-to-observe-shoppers-trends-800648156/ Retailers at two U.S. malls in southern California and Richmond, Virginia, will harness location-based mobile data to track consumers' movements this holiday season. E-Commerce 2011-11-22T17:14:29+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/personal-and-business-credit-cards-develop-unique-uses-800648150/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/personal-and-business-credit-cards-develop-unique-uses-800648150/ The Credit CARD Act of 2009 established a number of key protective measures for consumers, the brunt of which were aimed at staving off "small print" rate hikes, lending schemes and undisclosed fees. Credit Card Processing 2011-11-22T17:13:11+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/the-key-to-finding-the-perfect-merchant-account-800648098/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/the-key-to-finding-the-perfect-merchant-account-800648098/ In today's economy, it is nearly impossible for a merchant to stay competitive without the ability to process credit card transactions from customers. For small businesses, credit card processing allows better competition with larger ventures. Merchant Account 2011-11-22T17:00:19+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/chase-to-release-emvenabled-card-for-us-travelers-800646959/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/chase-to-release-emvenabled-card-for-us-travelers-800646959/ JPMorgan Chase is rolling out a new credit card that makes use of "smart" chip technology for storing financial data, as opposed to the traditional magnetic stripe. Point-of-Sale Terminals 2011-11-21T17:05:53+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/consumers-spending-and-payment-plans-for-holidays-may-vary-800646954/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/consumers-spending-and-payment-plans-for-holidays-may-vary-800646954/ Black Friday, November 25, and the following weekend are likely to be a major test for online retailers, as consumers are expected to balance their shopping plans across mobile, ecommerce and in-store venues in light of tightened financial situations. Merchant Account 2011-11-21T17:03:33+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/americans-worse-off-financially-than-a-year-ago-800646946/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/americans-worse-off-financially-than-a-year-ago-800646946/ While economists have largely stymied projections of a double-dip recession - citing a number of recent improvements in consumer activity, trade growth and factory output - Americans remain troubled by the effects of the recession and continue to face challenges to recovery. E-Commerce 2011-11-21T17:00:39+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/credit-card-issuers-dropping-some-fees-increasing-rewards-800645983/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/credit-card-issuers-dropping-some-fees-increasing-rewards-800645983/ The uncertain economy has hit many industries hard, but the financial unrest in the credit card and banking industries has been particularly well documented, perhaps in part due to the impact these struggles can have on consumers' wallets. Credit Card Processing 2011-11-18T17:33:15+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/consumers-looking-for-cash-gifts-this-holiday-season-800645834/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/consumers-looking-for-cash-gifts-this-holiday-season-800645834/ As consumers nationwide struggle with high debt, slow wage growth and rampant unemployment, it's no surprise that many individuals are looking for cash, gift cards and prepaid debit cards this holiday season. Merchant Account 2011-11-18T17:03:20+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/visa-launches-mobile-banking-program-for-developing-economies-800645830/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/visa-launches-mobile-banking-program-for-developing-economies-800645830/ While the burgeoning mobile payments space has been slow to take off in the U.S., other regions of the globe have already begun adopting m-commerce solutions in droves. Merchant Account 2011-11-18T17:01:26+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/credit-card-rates-remain-level-in-first-half-of-november-800645826/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/credit-card-rates-remain-level-in-first-half-of-november-800645826/ The U.S. Federal Reserve has held interest rates at record lows in recent months in hopes of driving spending and investment among consumers and businesses alike. Credit Card Processing 2011-11-18T17:00:13+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/credit-card-processing-for-a-good-cause-800645326/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/credit-card-processing-for-a-good-cause-800645326/ The bells ringing from Salvation Army donation kettles are almost as synonymous with the holiday season as sleighs, snow and Santa. Credit Card Processing 2011-11-18T10:48:13+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/is-there-a-correlation-between-weather-and-credit-card-payment-800645274/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/is-there-a-correlation-between-weather-and-credit-card-payment-800645274/ Does wintry weather provoke consumers to pay off their credit cards debts in a more timely fashion? Credit Card Processing 2011-11-18T09:45:53+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/amex-teams-up-with-target-for-prepaid-debit-card-offer-800645271/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/amex-teams-up-with-target-for-prepaid-debit-card-offer-800645271/ In a move to broaden its customer base beyond affluent cardholders, American Express is introducing a series of prepaid debit cards that will be available only in Target stores. Credit Card Processing 2011-11-18T09:43:45+00:00 http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/jump-in-retail-sales-heralds-coming-holiday-shopping-season-800643636/ http://www.chargenational.com/ca/blog/jump-in-retail-sales-heralds-coming-holiday-shopping-season-800643636/ U.S. retailers enjoyed a boost in sales activity last month, as data released this week by the Department of Commerce showed a 0.5 percent uptick in retail sales. Credit Card Processing 2011-11-16T16:47:22+00:00