Dual-Network Cards and Mobile Wallet Technology December 2016

Following consideration by the Payments System Board at its November 2016 meeting, the Reserve Bank has released a consultation paper on Dual-Network Cards and Mobile Wallet Technology. Some stakeholders have recently raised concerns about possible restrictions on competition in the mobile wallet sphere, specifically about conduct that may prevent or make it more difficult for both networks on dual-network cards to be enabled to make payments on a mobile device. This conduct could have the effect of reducing choice and convenience for cardholders in making mobile payments and of reducing the ability of merchants to encourage the use of lower-cost payment methods. This consultation paper discusses these issues and raises a number of specific questions for consultation. Interested parties were invited to make submissions on the consultation paper by 7 February 2017.