The payments landscape is evolving at an unprecedented pace. Once primarily focused on efficiency, the current environment now features a competition between decentralized and centralized systems, alongside payments being integrated into devices and platforms beyond traditional banks. Payments are becoming the heart of financial services, generating an impressive revenue of approximately $2.5 trillion and facilitating around 3.6 trillion transactions globally. This transformation is particularly evident at events like NRF 2026, where gaming and retail intersect to explore the future of commerce.
As NRF 2026 kicks off in New York City, Remy Blaire had the pleasure of speaking with Yair Nechmad, the CEO of Nayax, an innovative global commerce enablement payments and loyalty platform. With over 20 years of industry experience, Nechmad’s insights provide a roadmap for emerging trends in payments, particularly in the self-service economy.
According to Nechmad, the transition towards a self-service economy is a major trend driven by consumer demands for reduced friction in payment processes. This “tap in and tap out” approach illustrates a shift toward unattended and cashless payment solutions. Combining these with self-service options is not just a temporary trend; it’s a long-term transformation in how retail, payments, and services are delivered.
In addition to a robust emphasis on loyalty, Nechmad spotlighted the company’s significant initiatives in the electric vehicle (EV) charger market. With over eight years of experience in this space, the integration of fast chargers and slow chargers with payment solutions signifies an important leap in consumer engagement. Nayax is uniquely positioned to deliver a comprehensive solution incorporating mobile app payments and charging stations, showcasing how innovation can drive success within a competitive market.
Nechmad elaborated on the importance of recurring revenue streams for sustaining growth. His company follows a three-pillar strategy, where location-based services, payment solutions, and hardware all converge to create value for customers. Notably, over 50% of their revenue comes from payment solutions, with more than 60-70% categorized as recurring revenue that grows by approximately 30% each year. This robust financial foundation showcases a sustainable business model that leverages innovative solutions to address dynamic market demands.
Nechmad also discussed the macroeconomic challenges of tariffs and their impact on the business landscape. With operations spanning over 120 countries, the company maintains resilience against rising costs primarily due to its diversified revenue streams and global presence. The focus on efficiency and customer-centric solutions is crucial for sustaining competitive advantages in an ever-changing financial ecosystem.
Nechmad concluded, the future of payments will hinge on the combination of payment and loyalty solutions. By creating a seamless consumer experience, companies can not only meet customer needs but also drive long-term business growth. This dual-focus strategy reflects a fundamental shift in consumer behavior, positioning businesses to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world.
As the payments sector continues to evolve, the insights from industry leaders like Yair Nechmad illuminate the strategies that can propel businesses forward. By embracing technological advancements and focusing on sustainability in their operations, companies can navigate the complexities of the modern financial environment. This is not just about making transactions easier; it’s about rethinking how businesses engage with and serve their customers in a digital, sustainable future.