In today’s top payments news around the world, Checkout.com has brought its valuation to $15 billion after the closing of a $450 million Series C funding round, while Pakistan has debuted a government-run instant digital payment infrastructure. Plus, Delivery Hero is launching an early-stage venture capital (VC) firm.
Checkout.com Closes $450 Million Series C For $15 Billion Valuation
Checkout.com, a U.K.-based digital payments firm, has increased its valuation to $15 billion following the closing of a Tiger Global Management-led $450 million Series C funding round. Checkout.com, which was started in 2012, recently brought an office to New York City. It also has a California office, which opened in 2017, and has plans for a Colorado office.
Pakistan Launches Payment System To Boost Financial Inclusion
Pakistan has introduced a government-run instant digital payment system to assist with financial inclusion and government revenue called “Raast” or “direct way.” The system was created over years through an effort involving the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and the State Bank of Pakistan, with help from the United Nations, the U.K. and the World Bank.
Germany’s Delivery Hero Introduces Its Own Venture Capital Fund
Delivery Hero, the German food delivery platform that operates in 50 nations, is rolling out an early-stage VC firm called DX Ventures that will be managed independently to concentrate on furthering upstarts led by founders. The VC firm will aim to bring international insights and local knowledge together to help upstarts expand, while building long-term partnerships with founders.
Mobileye Expands Self-Driving Vehicle Tests To Detroit, Tokyo, Paris, Shanghai
Mobileye, an Intel subsidiary, is working on revisions for its self-driving vehicle effort, as it reportedly intends to roll out test fleets in Shanghai, Paris, Tokyo and Detroit. Amnon Shashua, the subsidiary’s CEO, also she he’s considering testing in New York City if the company can get the green light, according to a published report.