Payments executives view AI and embedded finance as strategic tools

Payments executives are shifting their focus toward artificial intelligence as a strategic competitive tool rather than just a productivity enhancer. Nandan Sheth, CEO of Splitit, suggests that while using AI to automate workflows is becoming standard, the true competitive threat lies in rivals using the technology to eliminate market friction, costs, and intermediaries.

Simultaneously, the role of payments is evolving from basic financial plumbing into core product infrastructure. Ron Griswold of WEX notes that embedded payments and instant rails are driving product roadmaps and customer retention. However, this shift toward faster, real-time payments introduces new complexities regarding fraud and regulatory exposure, as the speed of transactions can reduce the window for due diligence.