Digital payment ecosystems expand across Argentina and Chile

Digital payment ecosystems are experiencing significant growth and transformation across South America. In Argentina, the COELSA indicator reports that the digital ecosystem reached over 354 million accounts during the second quarter of 2026. This includes 190.5 million bank accounts (CBU) and 163.5 million virtual accounts (CVU), representing a 4.22% quarterly growth. The expansion is driven largely by Millennials and Centennials, who opened 70% of new accounts. Additionally, immediate transfers saw a 23% year-on-year increase, with approximately $190 trillion processed over four months.

In Chile, digital payments have increased by 15%, according to the Central Bank of Chile, averaging 435 annual transactions per person over the age of 15. The market is seeing increased competition and diversification; the number of payment operators has grown from one to nine, reducing market concentration by more than 50% compared to 2019. Innovations such as multi-acquirer capabilities, mobile payment solutions, and features like direct bill splitting at terminals are enhancing the retail experience and reducing friction for consumers and merchants.