ACI Worldwide study has revealed that real-time payments are set to increase global GDP by USD 285.8 billion and create 167 million new bank accountholders by 2028. The report was released by ACI Worldwide, a provider of global payments technology, in partnership with The Centre for Economics and Business Research (Cebr).

Real-time payments linked to financial inclusion ACI Worldwide's report highlights a link between real-time payments and financial inclusion across 40 countries. The findings suggest that access to affordable financial services through real-time payments can drive economic growth and help reduce poverty. Moreover, the rise in real-time transactions offers financial institutions significant new revenue opportunities.

Key findings Real-time payments assist market efficiencies by enabling instant money transfers, reducing transaction costs, and formalising the cash-based economy. Key points include: In 2023, real-time payments contributed USD 164 billion to GDP, equating to the output of 12 million workers; By 2028, GDP contributions are projected to reach USD 285.8 billion, a 74.2% increase, equivalent to 16.9 million workers; Net savings for consumers and businesses amounted to USD 116.9 billion in 2023 and are expected to grow to USD 245.8 billion by 2028. Real-time payments help financial inclusion, particularly for younger individuals (18-24 years), women, and low-income groups (40% of the lowest earners).

By 2028, 167.2 million previously unbanked individuals in 28 countries could gain bank accounts. The top five countries for increased financial inclusion are: Pakistan: 63.5 million; India: 25.5 million; Philippines: 20.9 million; Nigeria: 13.8 million; China: 13.8 million. Furthermore, the expansion of real-time payments, along with the increase in financial inclusion, offers banks a substantial profit opportunity.

The leading five markets for potential profit are: Pakistan – USD 173.0 billion; Nigeria – USD 40.4 billion; Philippines – USD 28.7 billion; India – USD 24.6 billion; China – USD 21.2 billion. Cebr officials stated that they observe that the adoption of real-time payments is anticipated to bring advantages for individuals, the financial sector, and the broader economy. Source: Link .