跨境支付“卷”出海，拿牌竞赛的高成本博弈

Core Viewpoint - The cross-border payment industry is entering a new phase characterized by a significant trend of "going global," with companies actively seeking overseas licenses to enhance their competitive edge in the market [1][3][4]. Group 1: License Acquisition - CoGoLinks International has officially obtained a "money service license" in the UAE, allowing it to operate payment accounts, process transactions, and issue payment tools [3][4]. - The company is the first Chinese cross-border payment platform to receive a formal payment license in the UAE, which is a key financial and trade hub in the Middle East [3][4]. - CoGoLinks has also secured licenses in Hong Kong, the US, and is in the process of preparing for a large payment institution license in Singapore [4][5]. Group 2: Market Trends - The competition among payment institutions has shifted from a "channel war" to a "license arms race," with firms intensively applying for and acquiring licenses globally [4][5]. - Major players like LianLian Digital and PingPong hold numerous licenses across various markets, indicating a trend towards building a robust compliance foundation [4][5]. - The focus of license acquisition is on mature markets like Europe and the US, as well as emerging markets in Southeast Asia and the Middle East [5][8]. Group 3: Business Expansion - Payment institutions are diversifying their services beyond simple payment processing to include local acquiring, multi-currency settlement, and foreign exchange management [7][8]. - CoGoLinks has developed a product suite that combines platform collection, foreign trade collection, and service trade collection, enhancing its service capabilities [7][8]. - The target clientele for these institutions includes both Chinese enterprises going abroad and local consumers in foreign markets [7][8]. Group 4: Challenges and Considerations - Obtaining overseas licenses is complex and time-consuming, often requiring extensive communication with local regulators and a deep understanding of market conditions [8][9]. - Companies face challenges such as differing regulatory policies and cultural nuances, which can complicate the license application process [9][10]. - There is a risk of license revocation if market performance metrics are not met within specified timeframes after obtaining the license [10][11]. Group 5: Future Outlook - The next phase of competition in cross-border payments will focus on comprehensive service capabilities and compliance technology, moving beyond mere license acquisition [11]. - Companies are encouraged to transform into comprehensive service providers that address the integrated needs of businesses, including fund management and local compliance [11]. - The growth potential for payment institutions that leverage technology and provide seamless, value-added services is expected to be significant in the evolving market landscape [11].