Five Financial Institutions Join EPI Network
The European Payments Initiative (EPI) has welcomed five new Belgian members – Argenta, Bank Van Breda, Beobank, Crelan, and vdk bank. This expansion significantly strengthens the consortium’s position as it prepares for Wero wallet’s full 2025 launch across Europe.
Wero Wallet Gains Strategic Partners
These banks will implement Wero through:
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Direct integration into existing mobile banking apps
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Optional standalone payment application
Koen Spinoy of Beobank commented: “With mobile banking usage tripling since 2019, Wero’s instant P2P capabilities perfectly complement our digital transformation strategy.”
Three-Way Benefits of the Expansion
Consumers gain:
✓ Frictionless cross-border transfers
✓ Growing merchant acceptance
✓ Future e-commerce functionality
Participating banks benefit from:
✔ Reduced infrastructure costs
✔ Enhanced digital offerings
✔ Greater payment independence
For EPI, this means:
→ Expanded user base (40M+ currently)
→ Stronger network effects
→ Increased market credibility
Phased Rollout of Advanced Features
While currently focused on P2P payments, Wero’s development roadmap includes:
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Online checkout functionality (Late 2024)
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In-store QR code payments (2025)
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Subscription management tools (2026)
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Integrated loyalty programs (2026)
EPI CEO Martina Weimert explained: “Our phased approach ensures we deliver reliable, user-friendly solutions at each stage.”
Building Pan-European Payment Momentum
The Belgian expansion follows other significant developments:
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Luxembourg bank partnerships (Q2 2024)
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Revolut platform integration
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Rapid adoption across three countries
“Each new partner enhances Wero’s value proposition,” Weimert added. “Local financial institutions bring crucial market expertise.”
Redefining European Payment Infrastructure
This collaboration represents:
• A major step toward payment sovereignty
• A viable alternative to global schemes
• Foundation for future innovations
With the 2025 launch approaching, EPI continues building critical mass to transform European payments.