Today In B2B: Western Union Boosts Business FX; Barclays Launches SMB Banking Package

Today in B2B payments, Western Union Business Solutions integrates SWIFT gpi, and Barclays launches a small business banking package. Plus, Mastercard teams with Deutsche Bank on business payments, Proxtera collaborates on escrow for B2B trade and Ageras secures funding to ramp up its B2B FinTech focus.

Western Union Boosts Business FX Payments

Western Union Business Solutions, the payments arm of Western Union, is looking at expanding its cross-border payment services for business customers, a press release says. According to the release, Western Union Business Solutions has integrated SWIFT Global Payments Initiative and also boosted its international currency options.

Barclays Introduces Support Package To Help UK SMBs

To assist with Britain’s economic recovery on a local level, Barclays is offering a customized support program to local companies. The package is initially geared toward Barclays’ Rebuilding Thriving Local Economies (RTLE) pilot regions, which include Great Yarmouth, Taunton Deane, Kilmarnock and Bury, according to an announcement. Barclays says the RTLE program will offer a spectrum of support to communities and companies, as the bank works with officials in education, commerce and government to offer hands-on skills at a local level.

Proxtera And Tazapay Collaborate On Digital Escrow For B2B Trade

Proxtera and Tazapay have teamed up to roll out Proxtera Protect, powered by Tazapay, to offer global purchasers and vendors a “secure and protected” payment service to simplify international trade, according to a Wednesday (Feb. 24) announcement. Tazapay is an online escrow service for international trade, while Proxtera is a network of business-to-business (B2B) marketplaces that supports international trade for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

Ageras Boosts Funding For B2B Accounting Services

Ageras Group, a group of companies offering mission-critical accounting software for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs), has raised $73 million to continue expanding its ecosystem into the world of B2B FinTech, a press release says. The money was invested by general investment fund Lugard Road Capital, and it will help the company acquire more B2B companies, along with beginning to build banking services directly into its current offerings.

Mastercard, Deutsche Bank Team On Digital Payments Innovation For Businesses

Mastercard and Deutsche Bank are linking up to develop “innovative digital payment solutions for companies.” According to a press release, the collaboration will target businesses, helping them reach new customers, “develop digital business models and expand sales channels in Germany and beyond.” The target market includes digital platforms that allow businesses to “offer their products directly to consumers,” the release said. For this, companies need “an efficient payment management system for mobile and digital payments” that allows for an integration of their financial and accounting systems.