Use Cases of Instant Settlement Payment Gateway in Vietnam
Imagine yourself as a seller on international e-commerce platforms like Amazon, eBay, Etsy, and others. What would you need?
- Quality and competitive products,
- market and trend insights,
- efficient shipping and logistics processes,
- inventory management, and more.
However, above all, a fast and secure payment method is something that both you and other participants in the global e-commerce market undoubtedly desire.
Another scenario is that you are a seller engaged in drop shipping or affiliate marketing in the Vietnamese market for a particular brand, and you have to wait more than a week to receive your commission after all reports have been approved.
This delay is due to cross-border money transfers through banks, which take a long to process a payment. How would you feel in such a situation?
These two issues are extremely common for individuals earning money online through international e-commerce platforms in Vietnam.
Alongside these, many other challenges such as a trip to Vietnam or bills need to be paid in the country.
So, what is the solution for these situations? Let’s explore with FinFan in the following article to understand the practical use cases of instant settlement payment gateways in Vietnam.
What is an Instant Settlement Payment Gateway?
As discussed in the article 'What is Instant Settlement – 3 Benefits That Instant Settlement Service Brings to Businesses,' we explored the concept of instant settlement and the advantages of applying it to business payments.
So, what exactly is an Instant Settlement Payment Gateway?
An instant settlement payment gateway is a payment processing solution that enables businesses to receive funds immediately after a transaction is completed, without the delays typically associated with traditional payment systems.
Key Features of an Instant Settlement Payment Gateway
Here are 3 purposes of uses of the instant settlement payment gateway in Vietnam:
- Real-time Fund Transfer: The payment is transferred to the merchant's account almost instantly, often within seconds or minutes, rather than waiting for days as with traditional bank settlements.
- Reduced Processing Delays: Instant settlement eliminates the waiting period that occurs between when a customer pays and when the business can access the funds, improving cash flow.
- Enhanced Cash Flow Management: Businesses, especially in e-commerce or high-frequency transaction environments, benefit from the ability to reinvest or use the funds for operational needs quickly.
How it Differs from Traditional Payment Gateways:
As FinFan noticed above, traditional gateways may require settlement cycles that can last from 1 to 7 business days or more, depending on the bank and payment processors involved.
Instant settlement gateways, however, use advanced technology (like real-time payment systems, blockchain, or faster clearing methods) to ensure immediate fund availability.
Use Cases of Instant Settlement Payment Gateway in Vietnam
E-Commerce Transactions
As mentioned by FinFan, the purpose of integrating instant settlement payment gateways into e-commerce businesses is to facilitate cross-border money transfers from e-commerce platforms to sellers in Vietnam in a way that is “Faster - Safer - More Cost-Efficient”.
Examples of major e-commerce platforms using instant settlement payment gateways in Vietnam
Domestic E-commerce Platforms
- Tiki: Known for its extensive product range, Tiki offers instant payment to its sellers, facilitating quick access to funds after sales.
- Lazada: This platform supports instant settlements, enabling merchants to receive their payments rapidly, thus enhancing cash flow.
- Shopee: Shopee provides fast payment processing, allowing sellers to access their earnings almost immediately after a transaction is completed.
- Sen Đỏ (Sendo): A popular local e-commerce platform that ensures quick payments to sellers, helping them manage their finances effectively.
- Fado: Specializing in cross-border e-commerce, Fado utilizes instant settlement solutions to ensure timely payments for international sellers in the Vietnamese market.
These platforms help streamline transactions for sellers, promoting a more efficient e-commerce environment in Vietnam.
International E-commerce Platforms
- Amazon: While not directly selling in Vietnam, Amazon allows Vietnamese sellers to list products, and certain payment solutions provide instant settlements for cross-border transactions.
- eBay: Similar to Amazon, eBay enables Vietnamese sellers to participate in global commerce, with some integrated payment solutions offering instant settlement for quicker fund access.
- Etsy: For Vietnamese artisans and crafters selling on Etsy, some payment processors provide instant settlements, allowing sellers to access their earnings immediately.
- Alibaba: Through its platform for international trade, Alibaba facilitates instant settlements for Vietnamese businesses engaging in cross-border transactions, enhancing cash flow.
- Shopify: Many Vietnamese businesses use Shopify to set up online stores. By integrating with payment gateways that offer instant settlements, these merchants can access their funds rapidly.
These platforms leverage instant settlement payment gateways to enhance the selling experience for Vietnamese merchants engaged in international e-commerce.
Cross-Border Payments
Importance of instant settlement payment gateways for international trade and remittance to Vietnam
In previous articles, FinFan has provided updates on the issue of remittances to Vietnam being “Faster - Safer - More Cost-Efficient” through our collaboration with international remittance partners, as well as the banking and e-wallet systems in Vietnam.
Read more:
. How to Make Foreign Remittance from The US to Vietnam?
. How to Send Money from The UK To Vietnam?
. Send Money from Germany to Vietnam – 3 Ways to Make Remittances to Vietnam
. Send Money from France to Vietnam – 3 Ways of Remittance from France to Vietnam
. How to Make Foreign Remittances from Australia to Vietnam?
. How to Make Foreign Remittances from South Korea to Vietnam?
At that time, we emphasized that currently, expatriate Vietnamese or international customers only need to follow three simple steps to send remittances to Vietnam through three payment methods:
- receiving money at the counter of bank branches affiliated with FinFan,
- transferring money directly to the recipient's bank account in Vietnam,
- or sending money directly to the recipient's e-wallet account in Vietnam.
"The stories above illustrate the useful applications of instant settlement payment gateways in the process of sending and receiving international remittances to Vietnam.
They simplify the previously complex remittance process and allow it to occur more quickly. However, this solution does not overlook the crucial compliance steps involved in remittance transfers to Vietnam, such as AML checks and KYC/KYB for individuals or businesses receiving remittances, ensuring the safety of transactions.
Use cases in B2B e-commerce and freelancing platforms
B2B E-commerce Platforms
Here are some use cases of instant settlement payment gateways in B2B e-commerce platforms in Vietnam:
- Faster Transactions: Businesses can quickly receive payments for bulk orders, allowing them to reinvest in inventory or production without delay.
- Cash Flow Management: Instant settlements enable better cash flow forecasting and management, as companies know they can access funds immediately after sales.
- International Trade: For businesses engaging in cross-border transactions, instant settlement reduces the waiting time associated with traditional payment methods, facilitating smoother international trade.
- Incentives for Early Payments: Suppliers can offer discounts for early payments, knowing that the funds will be available instantly, thus encouraging quicker cash turnover.
Marketplace Integrations
"In another article discussing “Marketplace Payment Solutions”, FinFan emphasized the importance of instant cross-border payments for sellers and buyers on these platforms.
As a result, sellers can easily reach customers not only on e-commerce platforms but also on social media platforms like Facebook and TikTok.
At the same time, buyers can purchase their desired items or even buy them for resale (depending on their purpose) at more reasonable prices by eliminating the complex intermediaries that increase product costs, such as international transfer fees."
However, when using these platforms, both sellers and buyers must remain vigilant against sophisticated scams perpetrated by online fraudsters who impersonate sellers or buyers to steal information and, worse, illegally use their victims' money.
Gig Economy and Freelancers
Growth of the gig economy in Vietnam
The gig economy in Vietnam has been experiencing significant growth, driven by various factors and trends:
Increasing Digital Adoption
- Smartphone Penetration: With the rise in smartphone usage and internet access, more individuals are turning to gig platforms for job opportunities.
- E-commerce Growth: The expansion of e-commerce platforms has created a demand for gig workers in delivery services, customer support, and logistics.
Diverse Job Opportunities
- Freelancing Platforms: Websites like Upwork, Fiverr, and local platforms such as Timviecnhanh and Viec.co have made it easier for freelancers to connect with clients.
- Ride-hailing and Delivery Services: Companies like Grab and Gojek offer flexible job opportunities for drivers and delivery personnel, catering to the growing demand for on-demand services.
Flexibility and Autonomy
Many individuals are attracted to gig work for the flexibility it offers, allowing them to choose their hours and workloads. This appeals particularly to students, homemakers, and those seeking supplemental income.
Economic Factors
- Rising Unemployment: Economic challenges have driven many to seek alternative sources of income through gig work.
- Urbanization: As more people move to urban areas, the demand for gig services, like delivery and ride-sharing, has surged.
Supportive Government Policies
The Vietnamese government has been gradually recognizing and supporting the gig economy, exploring regulations that can enhance the rights and protections of gig workers.
Growing Startup Ecosystem
An increase in startups focused on tech and logistics has contributed to the gig economy's growth, creating platforms that facilitate various types of gig work.
Cultural Acceptance
There is a growing acceptance of gig work as a legitimate source of income, reducing the stigma previously associated with non-traditional employment.
Impact of COVID-19
The pandemic accelerated the shift toward gig work as many lost traditional jobs and sought alternative income sources. The demand for delivery and online services soared during this period.
SMEs and Startups
The application of instant settlement payment gateways can also assist SMEs and startups in timely receiving investment funds from foreign investment firms, enabling them to quickly advance the progress of their ongoing projects that are hindered by budget shortages.
This is a critical issue for many startups in the fundraising stages from Series A and beyond. A delay of just 1-2 days can hinder their projects, preventing them from progressing and attracting users in Vietnam.
This can lead to setbacks and missed opportunities for startups that have already invested significant resources in building their market during earlier pre-seed and seed funding rounds.
P2P Lending and Digital Wallets
P2P Lending
Recently, the Vietnamese government has begun experimenting with and implementing several projects related to P2P lending.
Since 2022, the number of companies operating or participating in providing services and fintech solutions in Vietnam has rapidly increased from about 40 companies at the end of 2016 to approximately 200 today.
These companies engage in various fields and activities, including payments, peer-to-peer lending, credit scoring, and personal financial management.
The integration of instant settlement payment gateways into P2P lending platforms can benefit both lenders and borrowers by allowing them to transfer and repay funds quickly, without having to go through the cumbersome steps and procedures traditionally associated with lending.
Digital Wallets or Ewallets
It can be said that the remarkable growth of the e-wallet industry recently marks a significant shift in payment methods in Vietnam.
According to experts, by the end of 2024, more than half of the population is expected to participate in the e-wallet market.
In terms of cross-border money transfers, e-wallets are also recognized as a noteworthy channel, with this market experiencing significant growth (three times compared to the same period in 2023), according to data collected by FinFan.
We are also making significant efforts to collaborate with cross-border remittance partners to integrate directly with these e-wallets in Vietnam.
Read more:
. 3 steps to make remittances from Remitly to Vietnam directly to ewallet
. 3 steps to make remittances from Ria Money Transfer directly to ZaloPay in Vietnam
. 3 steps to make remittances from Paysend directly to Viettel Money in Vietnam
Challenges of Implementing Instant Settlement Payment Gateways in Vietnam
Regulatory Compliance
- Complex Regulations: Navigating Vietnam’s financial regulations can be challenging, as they may require compliance with various laws governing payment systems, anti-money laundering (AML), and know your customer (KYC) requirements.
- Licensing Issues: Obtaining the necessary licenses from regulatory authorities for operating payment gateways can be a lengthy and complex process.
Infrastructure Development
- Technology Adoption: Many businesses may lack the necessary technological infrastructure or knowledge to implement instant settlement systems effectively.
- Integration with Existing Systems: Integrating new payment gateways with existing banking and financial systems can be technically challenging and resource-intensive.
Consumer Awareness and Trust
- Low Awareness: Many consumers may not be familiar with instant payment solutions or may prefer traditional methods due to concerns about security.
- Building Trust: Establishing trust in new payment systems is crucial, especially when it comes to handling sensitive financial data and ensuring transaction security.
Interoperability
- Lack of Standardization: The absence of standardized protocols across different platforms can hinder the seamless operation of instant settlement gateways.
- Collaboration with Financial Institutions: Effective collaboration with banks and financial institutions is necessary to ensure interoperability, which can sometimes be difficult to achieve.
Fraud and Security Concerns
- Increased Risk of Fraud: Instant settlement may increase the risk of fraud, requiring robust security measures and fraud detection systems to protect users.
- Data Privacy: Ensuring compliance with data protection regulations and safeguarding users’ personal information is critical.
Cost Implications
- Initial Investment: The costs associated with developing, implementing, and maintaining instant settlement payment systems can be significant, particularly for startups and SMEs.
- Transaction Fees: Balancing competitive transaction fees while maintaining profitability can be challenging for payment gateway providers.
Market Competition
- Intense Competition: The growing fintech landscape in Vietnam means that companies must differentiate themselves and continuously innovate to stay competitive.
Consumer Behavior
- Preference for Cash: Despite the growth of digital payments, cash remains a preferred payment method for many consumers in Vietnam, posing a barrier to widespread adoption of instant payment solutions.
Addressing these challenges requires collaboration between fintech companies, regulatory bodies, and financial institutions, as well as ongoing education and awareness efforts to foster consumer trust in new payment technologies.
The Future of Instant Settlement Payment Gateway in Vietnam
The future of instant settlement payment gateways in Vietnam is poised for significant transformation, shaped by various factors including technological advancements, regulatory support, and shifting consumer behaviors. Here are some key trends and predictions:
Regulatory Evolution
- Supportive Policies: The Vietnamese government is likely to introduce more supportive regulations to promote digital payments and instant settlements, enhancing compliance frameworks to protect consumers and businesses.
- Streamlined Licensing: Simplifying the licensing process for payment gateway providers can encourage more fintech startups to enter the market, increasing competition and innovation.
Technological Innovation
- Blockchain Integration: The adoption of blockchain technology can enhance the transparency and security of instant settlement processes, potentially reducing transaction times and costs.
- Artificial Intelligence: AI will play a crucial role in improving transaction monitoring, fraud detection, and customer service, ensuring safer and more efficient payment experiences.
Wider Adoption Across Sectors
- E-commerce and Retail Growth: As e-commerce continues to expand, instant settlement payment gateways will become essential for online transactions, facilitating faster payments for merchants and consumers.
- B2B Transactions: The rise of instant payments in B2B contexts will improve cash flow management and operational efficiency for businesses, enabling quicker payment processing for suppliers and service providers.
Enhanced User Experience
- Seamless Integrations: Future payment gateways will focus on seamless integration with existing financial systems and e-commerce platforms, providing a frictionless experience for users.
- Mobile Payment Solutions: The rise of mobile wallets and apps will drive the need for instant settlements, catering to the growing demand for convenient, on-the-go payment solutions.
Increased Consumer Trust
- Focus on Security: Ongoing enhancements in cybersecurity measures will be vital to building consumer trust in instant payment solutions, especially in an era of rising digital fraud.
- Consumer Education: Raising awareness about the benefits and safety of instant payment options will encourage wider adoption among users who may be hesitant about new technologies.
Global Trends Influencing Local Markets
- Cross-Border Transactions: As Vietnam's economy becomes more integrated with the global market, instant settlement solutions will facilitate smoother cross-border transactions, benefiting businesses and expatriates alike.
- Learning from International Best Practices: Adopting successful models from other countries with advanced instant payment systems can help Vietnam accelerate its own development in this area.
Sustainable Financial Practices
- Financial Inclusion: Instant settlement payment gateways can enhance financial inclusion by providing unbanked and underbanked populations with access to digital financial services, empowering more individuals and small businesses.
- Support for SMEs and Startups: Instant payments will be critical for startups and small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), allowing them to access funds quickly and efficiently, supporting innovation and growth.
Conclusion Regarding Use Cases of Instant Settlement Payment Gateway in Vietnam
The integration of instant settlement payment gateways in Vietnam represents a transformative shift in how financial transactions are conducted across various sectors.
Furthermore, the adoption of instant settlement payment gateways in Vietnam not only streamlines transactions but also opens up new opportunities for growth and innovation across various sectors.
As technology continues to advance and regulatory frameworks evolve, these gateways are set to play a crucial role in shaping the future of payments in Vietnam, fostering a more connected and efficient economy.
Emphasizing security, interoperability, and consumer education will be essential to maximizing the benefits of this transformative technology.