In today’s top news, stimulus check distribution began Tuesday, and 9 out of 10 Christmas phone activations were iPhone models. Plus, a “K-shaped” recovery is defining the world’s economic rebound, as big companies continue to grow, and SMBs struggle.
Mnuchin Says COVID-19 Stimulus Check Distribution Underway
Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said the $600 individual checks passed by Congress were to start going out Tuesday evening (Dec. 29) by direct deposit. Mnuchin has touted the money as a fast way to get recirculated into the economy and help create new benefits for small businesses.
Data: 9 Out Of 10 Christmas Activations Were iPhones
iPhones dominated the Christmas Day market for new phone activations, representing 9 out of 10 handset activations. But they weren’t all the newest Apple model. Leading the pack was the iPhone 11, released in 2019.
Report: ‘K-Shaped’ Recovery Divides Corporates, SMBs
The world’s economic rebound is being defined by a disparate “K-shaped” recovery, as the biggest brands in the U.S. are expected to get even bigger post-pandemic, while small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) fight for survival.
Ant Group’s Restructuring Could Slash Its Valuation, Slow Its Growth
Chinese giant Ant Group’s plan to put its online financial businesses into a holding company to satisfy regulators could slash the firm’s valuation, require billions of dollars in reserves and force Ant to retain big shares of loans it currently sells off.
What 36 Payments Executives Wish For The World In 2021
After a year that no one could have ever predicted nor ever imagined we could survive, we wondered what the C-suite at some of most innovative companies in payments and the connected economy might wish for in the new year to come. So we asked 36 of them. Their answers are hopeful, unpredictable, inspiring and decidedly digital-first.
Installment Payment Plans To Spur Merchant Growth In 2021
A lack of access to flexible payment options is a deal breaker for nearly half of shoppers who prefer such options online and in stores. In this month’s Buy Now, Pay Later Tracker, PYMNTS examines how a growing consumer appreciation for installment payment plans boosted their popularity during the holiday shopping season — and what this means for retailers heading into 2021.
Curbside Pickup Gets The Nod From Santa
Even Santa went for curbside pickup this holiday season. But now the holiday season is now over, and the COVID-19 pandemic is (hopefully) drawing to a close as vaccines are being distributed. But curbside pickup and its popularity as a tool of convenience for consumers is here to stay.
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