Nigeria’s blockchain payments platform Bitmama Inc. has successfully acquired Payday, a virtual card service provider.
The acquisition, facilitated through Bitmama’s cross-border payments product, Changera, signals a pivotal shift in the industry and consolidated the blockchain payment platform by acquiring 100% of Payday’s customer base.
Launched in 2021, Changera is set to absorb key personnel from Payday, spanning various departments like marketing, customer service, and engineering.
While specific details of the financial terms remain undisclosed, a source close to the matter revealed that the acquisition process is approximately “85% complete.”
For the over 300,000 customers formerly under Payday’s purview, the transition to Changera’s care promises a seamless experience, with minimal noticeable changes.
Despite Payday CEO Favour Ori’s integration into Bitmama’s team remaining uncertain, Changera is well-positioned with an established leadership and a robust technical team.
A senior member of Bitmama’s management assured that Payday’s brand will persist but will now operate under the broader umbrella of Changera, supported by its stablecoin infrastructure.
This integration aims to address operational challenges faced by Payday, such as industry-wide charge-back fraud, disruptions in Mastercard services, and the departure of senior team members.
Post-acquisition, Bitmama plans to embark on an ambitious roadmap, including the development of a new solution enhancing foreign exchange (FX) transactions for African businesses.
Anticipated for launch in Q1 2024, this solution aims to facilitate smoother and more efficient B2B cross-border financial interactions.
The acquisition of Payday by Bitmama aligns with the broader trend of strategic consolidations within the fintech industry, reflecting a pattern where companies seek partnerships and acquisitions to overcome market challenges and scale operations.
This move mirrors similar strategic consolidations, including the acquisition of Chaka by Risevest in September 2023, underscoring the industry’s drive towards collaborative growth.