The 6 most important payment trends in 2026:

1. Agentic commerce: the security framework for automated transactions is strengthened

In 2025, generative artificial intelligence went beyond the role of recommendation systems: solutions that can manage transactions on behalf of consumers and businesses appeared. In 2026, so-called agentic commerce is expected to continue to develop, but the focus is on the conditions under which this operation can be integrated into payment processes. The industry is focusing on how to identify an actor initiating an automated transaction, how to strengthen authentication and fraud prevention in such an environment, and how to record and track user intent if an automated transaction does not go as planned. The technology can automate commercial processes, but building trust remains a fundamental industry issue.

2. Crypto: simplifying the connection of digital assets to financial systems

The widespread, everyday use of crypto assets has remained limited so far, but in recent times, the regulatory environment for stablecoins – crypto assets tied to state currencies – has been cleared in the United States and Europe, creating greater security for the financial sector. In 2026, this could lead to increased collaboration between traditional financial players and the crypto ecosystem. The focus is primarily on practical applications: facilitating payments to stablecoin-based wallets, supporting purchases made on the blockchain, and making settlement processes across borders and currencies more efficient. The goal is not to introduce new payment instruments, but to strengthen the connection between existing financial systems and digital assets.

3. Digital identity: the reliability of online identification continues to increase

As digital services spread, ensuring that consumers and businesses can reliably identify each other is becoming increasingly important. According to Mastercard research, a significant proportion of consumers have already encountered a fraud attempt, which draws attention to the role of stronger, yet easy-to-use identity verification solutions. In 2026, digital identity solutions that facilitate access to financial, government and other digital services, such as age verification or authenticated digital IDs, may come to the fore. In the case of crypto transactions, the use of verified digital aliases can reduce the risk of fraud by replacing complex technical identifiers. In emerging markets, digital identity solutions can also contribute to more people joining the electronic economy. The goal is to create a digital identity environment that is as natural and trusted for users as payment itself.

4. Circular consumption: payments support models based on reuse

Consumption models based on the principles of the circular economy are gaining increasing attention, especially among younger generations. These models are based on the use of resources for as long as possible, through the practice of refilling, reusing and redeeming. Payments in this environment are not just the closure of the transaction, but become an active part of the process. In practice, this is reflected in solutions such as refill-based systems, redemption or take-back programs, and deposit models related to reusable packaging. Easy-to-use microtransactions and fast, secure peer-to-peer payments are essential for their operation. For consumers, this can mean more convenient use, and for merchants, it can result in cost savings and stronger customer loyalty.

5. Personalized payments: solutions are more flexibly adapted to individual situations

Payment and banking services are increasingly adapted to the habits and financial goals of users. Solutions are emerging that allow the payment method to be dynamic