Welcome to What’s Trending In Payments – a weekly look at the most popular, irreverent and important stories the payments industry had to offer over the past five days. Which companies grabbed the most headlines – for better or for worse – this week, and which topics have the industry abuzz with intrigue, laughter or disbelief? Featuring breakdowns from the PYMNTS.com staff and commentary by Karen Webster, here’s our take on what all of you payments peeps thought.
Pinterest Steals Facebook’s eCommerce Crown
Why It’s Hot – Facebook has long been the perceived as the social platform that would help deliver more eCommerce to masses, but in just four years, Pinterest has edged it out to reach number one.
Karen’s Commentary – Not surprising. Eighty-four percent of Pinterest users are women with an average income of $100k – an AVERAGE income of $100k – and we all know that women do the shopping. They are the big spenders – oh, and Pinterest doesn’t have to convince users that the world (or most importantly their husbands…) won’t find out that they just bought that red ponyhair bag with grommets from Burberry. Put a in Pin in that one …
PYMNTS Commentary – Our big takeaway? This proves that King Facebook isn’t bulletproof after all, and that the social space might just have more room for the taking. Kind of makes you want to give up being a doctor, doesn’t it?
VCs See Double With Twin Loop Fundings
Why It’s Hot – We were seeing double yesterday when it was revealed that Loop and Loop commerce both received new funding rounds, and the release had us checking more than a few facts before the dust settled. Could a battle of the Loops be near?
Karen’s Commentary – Well, it’s a very good thing that we weren’t out of the loop on this one … hehe
PYMNTS Commentary – While both Loops seem promising, we’re giving the edge to Loop over Loop Commerce. Online gifting is nice, but cracking mobile payments? That’s a gift that keeps on giving.
Homeless Coder Releases Feel Good App Of The Season
Why It’s Hot – Because if you were thinking your excuse for not having a mobile app was a good one, you were wrong.
Karen’s Commentary – Reading this story made me want to thank the guy who dedicated his time to helping his homeless protégée learn a skill. And to scream at those who used the power of the media to criticize him for not doing “enough.” Like they’ve probably done so much – or anything – themselves. There will always be people who live in those glass houses and keep throwing stones because they know no other way, what a shame for them.
PYMNTS Commentary – Not only does this go to show the power the mobile, but doesn’t everyone love a heartwarming story in time for the holidays?
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