The World Payments Report 2025, released today by the Capgemini Research Institute, highlights the growing importance of account-to-account (A2A) and instant payment solutions in reshaping the global payments ecosystem.

According to the report, non-cash transaction volumes reached 1,411 billion in 2023 and are projected to hit 1,650 billion in 2024. This trend is expected to continue, with forecasts suggesting non-cash transactions will reach 2,838 billion by 2028.

The Asia-Pacific region is leading in non-cash transaction growth, with a 20% year-on-year increase in 2024, compared to 16% in Europe and 6% in North America.

Jeroen Hölscher, Global Head of Payment Services at Capgemini, said: "The continued surge in non-cash transactions is a watershed moment for banks and payment service providers. The data indicates an inevitable shift to a future of payments that is instant and open."

The report suggests that A2A instant payment solutions could impact card transaction growth by 15-25%, potentially challenging the dominance of traditional payment cards.

However, the study found that only 5% of banks are fully prepared to lead the instant payment acceleration. Concerns about fraud and potential liquidity issues are deterring progress, with only 25% of banks currently able to receive instant payments and 53% fully capable of sending and receiving them.

The report also highlights the potential of open finance to empower consumers and businesses, though progress is currently limited due to differences in regulatory frameworks and market initiatives.

Capgemini's World Payments Report 2025 draws insights from surveys and interviews with over 200 senior payment executives from leading banks, financial service organizations, and industry associations across 15 markets.