WorldFirst: 300% Growth in Emerging Markets

WorldFirst Achieves 300% Transaction Growth in Emerging Markets

Ant International's WorldFirst has announced a remarkable 300% surge in transaction volumes within emerging markets during the first half of 2025. This significant growth is coupled with the establishment of expanded bank partnerships and the deployment of new AI-powered tools designed to enhance security and efficiency. The announcement was made at the company’s Financial Partners Day in London, an event that hosted over 60 representatives from more than 30 financial institutions.

WorldFirst, a prominent provider of cross-border payment and treasury account services, has significantly strengthened its banking network. It now includes eight global systemically important banks, featuring industry leaders such as J.P. Morgan, Standard Chartered, Barclays, HSBC, and Citibank. These partnerships underscore WorldFirst's commitment to providing secure and reliable financial solutions to its clients operating in the global marketplace.

In Europe, BNP Paribas stands out as a key strategic partner. Together, they are working to deliver cutting-edge digital trade finance and cash management solutions. This collaboration highlights the importance of strategic alliances in the fintech sector, enabling companies to offer comprehensive services tailored to the evolving needs of businesses engaged in international trade.

AI-Driven Innovation for Enhanced Security and Efficiency

To fortify its security infrastructure and enhance operational efficiency, WorldFirst has implemented AI-driven risk management systems. These systems integrate advanced machine learning algorithms, enabling the company to maintain a fraud rate below 0.01% while simultaneously streamlining compliance processes. This proactive approach to risk management ensures that WorldFirst remains at the forefront of secure financial transactions.

Further enhancing its service offerings, WorldFirst has launched Anthea, a 24/7 multilingual AI assistant. Anthea is designed to assist businesses in overcoming cross-cultural barriers, language gaps, and navigating local payment preferences. This innovative tool exemplifies WorldFirst's dedication to providing user-friendly solutions that cater to the diverse needs of its global clientele.

Strategic Expansion and Local Support

WorldFirst has strategically expanded its physical presence this year, establishing new offices in Kuala Lumpur, Mexico, the UAE, and Saudi Arabia. This expansion is aimed at bolstering its local support network across key growth regions, ensuring that clients receive personalized assistance and tailored solutions to meet their specific market needs.

Clara Shi, CEO of WorldFirst, emphasized the significance of fintech-bank collaboration, stating: "The power of fintech-bank collaboration lies in building a more robust and inclusive financial ecosystem. This synergy enables us to deliver solutions with global coverage, efficiency, and security to SMEs engaged in cross-border commerce. In turn, it provides our financial partners with a strategic gateway to the vibrant—and often hard-to-reach—SME economy."

Key Takeaways

• WorldFirst reports a 300% increase in transaction volumes in emerging markets.
• Expanded bank partnerships now include eight global systemically important banks.
• AI-driven risk management systems maintain a fraud rate below 0.01%.
• Launch of Anthea, a 24/7 multilingual AI assistant.
• New offices opened in Kuala Lumpur, Mexico, the UAE, and Saudi Arabia.

WorldFirst's recent achievements underscore its commitment to innovation, strategic partnerships, and global expansion. By leveraging cutting-edge technology and fostering collaboration within the financial ecosystem, WorldFirst is well-positioned to continue its growth trajectory and provide unparalleled services to businesses engaged in cross-border commerce.