“We are not a payments company, we are a technology company.” So began Mastercard’s Country Director Inge M. Kjønnøy as member representatives gathered virtually for AmCham’s latest Digitalization Forum. Founded by a group of banks over 50 years ago, Mastercard’s technology and expertise now enable transactions in more than 210 countries and 150 currencies – connecting 2,7 billion customers worldwide. With Mastercard’s recent acquisition of Nets and others, the company’s Oslo and Nordic offices have expanded significantly.
Kjønnøy went on to provide insights on the company’s transition within processing, open banking, data analytics, cyber and intelligence, digital rewards, and its vast commitment to sustainability – including a 2021 $600B bond framework pledge. Well recognized for payment reliability and trust, Mastercard’s sonic brand identity further piqued cross-industry participants’ imaginations. An engaging discussion ensued, led by Next Step CEO Jennifer Vessels and AmCham’s Jason Turflinger.