Waza unveils multi-currency banking platform for emerging markets

By Gloria Methri

B2B payment provider Waza has launched a new multi-currency account platform, Lync, that combines foreign exchange (FX) liquidity solutions with a cutting-edge banking experience to power global trade for emerging businesses in the US, UK or EU.

Despite being incorporated and having operations in the US, UK and EU, many businesses that serve emerging markets such as Africa have significant difficulty accessing financial services such as bank accounts and credit facilities due to arbitrary compliance thresholds, perceived risk appetite and other issues.

There have also been recent incidents where financial services providers have unexpectedly discontinued services for emerging market businesses, leading to substantial financial losses in the form of uncompleted transactions and disrupted trade flows.

Lync is designed to address these challenges and provide a viable alternative to the existing options for businesses that serve emerging markets. The platform offers multi-currency accounts, starting with USD, EUR, GBP, NGN and Stablecoins, with payments to more than 100 countries. These accounts are more than just wallets; they have fully featured accounts which support various payment methods, including ACH, Fedwire, SWIFT, and other local payment rails like Faster Payments in the UK, making it easier for businesses with operations across the world to effectively manage their payments and foreign exchange (FX) liquidity on one platform.

Funds held in these accounts are FDIC-insured, giving businesses the confidence to explore new markets and take on new opportunities. Additionally, Lync offers competitive foreign exchange (FX) rates, making it the ideal solution for companies looking to expand globally and manage their finances efficiently.

Businesses with existing international operations, large enterprises that require efficient cross-border payments, as well as technology companies with a US, UK or EU parent that need to manage multiple currencies and access to foreign exchange liquidity can take advantage of Lync. Businesses seeking to expand internationally and companies that regularly engage in international payments can also leverage the platform.

Speaking about the new platform, Maxwell Obi, CEO and Co-founder of Waza, said, “We created Lync to serve as a pivotal platform that will not only support business payments and liquidity but also drive broader economic growth and prosperity in emerging markets.  By unlocking access to essential financial services, we are confident that Lync will empower more businesses to expand, reach new markets and overcome longstanding financial barriers. We are incredibly excited about the potential of Lync to transform how businesses operate, making it easier for them to scale, optimize cash flow, and drive sustainable growth.”