utu partners with Dubai’s iconic Gold Souk to launch a new tourist refund voucher programme
Travel fintech utu launched the region’s first downtown tourist refund voucher program in Dubai’s iconic Gold Souk.
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Travelex extends tenure at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol
Travelex has extended its presence at Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport by five years – building on a two-decade partnership with mainland Europe’s leading aviation hub.
Sabre enters new agreement with payment tech firm CellPoint Digital
Global travel tech firm Sabre Corporation announced that it has entered an agreement with payment orchestration solutions company CellPoint Digital.
Thomas Cook India’s forex business appoints actor Kartik Aaryan as Brand Ambassador
Thomas Cook (India) Limited, India’s foreign exchange services provider has appointed Bollywood’s youth icon Kartik Aaryan as its Brand Ambassador.
Philippine Airlines presents 2024 annual report
Philippine Airlines (PAL) affirmed the continued progress of its corporate transformation journey as it released its annual financials for 2024.
Silk Road Samarkand hosts inaugural EU-Central Asia Summit and Samarkand Climate Forum
Central Asia’s largest tourist complex Silk Road Samarkand is currently hosting two history-making events: the inaugural EU-Central Asia Summit and the Samarkand Climate Forum.
New accommodation tax approved in 11 locations in Japan
The introduction of accommodation taxes in nine cities and two prefectures in Japan was approved by its government on Friday, 21st March.
American Express and Singapore Airlines add new benefits to their joint business credit card
American Express and Singapore Airlines announced the introduction of new benefits to the American Express Singapore Airlines Business Credit Card today, 24th March.
Jazz Tech partners with Sabre Direct Pay
Sabre Corporation announced a multi-year agreement with Jazz Tech, a Brazilian fintech company backed by Arbi Bank, under which Jazz Tech will serve as the virtual card issuer for Sabre …
Thailand introduces TAGTHAi EASY PAY for foreign travellers
International visitors in Thailand may now enjoy hassle-free, cashless transactions throughout the country with TAGTHAi EASY PAY.
H World Group Ltd releases 2024 financials
Global hospitality firm H World Group Limited released its unaudited financial results for the fourth quarter and full year ended 31st December 2024.
Eastern Visayas reports PHP 39.33 billion in tourism revenues for 2024
The Eastern Visayas regional office of the Philippine Department of Tourism (DOT) reports that the Central Philippine region earned PHP 39.33 billion in tourism revenues in 2024.
Stock Exchange of Thailand reports tourism sector excelled in 2024
In its annual report released on Thursday, 13th March, the Stock Exchange of Thailand reported that the surging tourism sector drove listed companies to record growth throughout 2024.
Zoom Travel Insurance says travel still a top priority for young Australians
A new report released by Zoom Travel Insurance reveals that travel remains a top priority for young Australians despite current economic issues, including a weakening Australian dollar.
Thomas Cook India launches the Borderless Prepaid Multi-Currency Travel Card
India's outbound travel saw a record in overseas travel spending of $17 billion in FY24, marking a 25% increase y-o-y (accounting for 54% of all international spending)1 and is projected to…
Business Travel Show Asia Pacific comes to Singapore this April
The BTN Group which has organised the Business Travel Show Europe for three decades brings the same world-class sourcing, networking and educational programme to the Asia Pacific this April.
Cathay Group reports on solid performance in 2024
The Cathay Group announced its annual results for the year 2024 on Wednesday, 12th March.
SIHOT delivers hotel reservations to Apple and Google Wallets
SIHOT, a hotel management systems, has digitalised booking information, enabling guests to add hotel reservations to their Apple or Google Wallets.
Philippine government optimistic on ongoing rise in tourism revenue
The Philippine government expressed its optimism that tourism revenues in the country will continue to rise based on the Department of Tourism (DOT)’s excellent report on arrivals and…
Bursa Securities approves Capital A’s proposed regularisation plan
AirAsia’s parent firm Capital A Berhad marked a new milestone in its financial transformation journey with the approval of its Proposed Regularisation Plan by Bursa Malaysia Securities…
Philippine Department of Tourism invites Hollywood to film in the country
The Philippine Department of Tourism (DOT) extended an invitation to Hollywood executives to film in the country.
Pakistan takes part in ITB Berlin 2025
Pakistan tourism officials and professionals made their way to this year’s ITB Berlin, actively promoting their nation in Europe.
A stronger yen could curb Korean arrivals in Japan
As Japan continues to battle with overtourism, it may soon see a significant reduction in the number of Korean arrivals into the country.
Singapore Residents’ Year End and Lunar New Year travel spending hit new highs: Visa
Visa, shared that Singapore residents continue to prioritise travel, with outbound spending surging in December last year, as well as the recent Lunar New Year holiday week.
Japan mulls imposition of new tax to combat overtourism
Japan may currently be the leading destination of choice for most of the world, but overtourism is significantly impacting the country in an adverse manner.
Travelex launches four new stores at Dubai International (DXB)
Foreign Exchange brand Travelex has opened four new stores at Dubai International (DXB), as the airport saw a record number of passengers pass through its terminals in 2024.
S Hotels and Resorts reports record-breaking revenues in 2024
Singha Estate PCL’s hospitality arm S Hotels and Resorts PCL announced its 2024 financial results, revealing a record revenue of 10.352 billion baht.
HBX’s Alexander Stutely on travel insurance products in today’s world
At the recently concluded MarketHub 2025 forum held by the HBX Group in Macau, its insurance strategy director Alexander Stutely cast the travel insurance sector into the spotlight.
Accelya renews partnership with IATA
Aviation technology solutions provider Accelya formally renewed its long-term partnership with the International Air Transport Association (IATA) which represents over 340 airlines globally.…
Rusutsu Resort Tech and Kamori Kanko team up to meet evolving challenges in Japan’s ski industry
With the rapid evolution of the Japanese ski industry in the face of changing global tourism trends, Rusutsu Resort Tech (RRT) and Kamori Kanko Co Ltd have teamed up to develop a new…
American Express and Alipay to enable seamless payments for international travellers in China
American Express and Alipay announced a new feature aimed at enhancing payment convenience for international travelers in China.
Etiqa Insurance Singapore returns to NATAS Travel Fair as its official travel insurer
General and life insurer Etiqa Insurance Singapore returns to this year’s National Association of Travel Agents Singapore (NATAS) Travel Fair as its official travel insurer.
AirAsia X adds internal targets to its financial disclosures
As a way of reinforcing its commitment to transparency and accountability, AirAsia X (AAX) is adding its internal targets to its financial disclosures.
UN Tourism to host two flagship events at Japan Expo 2025
UN Tourism announced its participation at the upcoming Japan Expo 2025 this April, along with two game-changing events.
CapitaLand Investment launches paper on health and wellness real estate in Southeast Asia
Singapore’s CapitaLand Investment (CLI) recently published a new research report detailing its views regarding growing opportunities for wellness real estate in Southeast Asia.
Kazakhstan launches new visa categories
Kazakhstan recently introduced new visa categories as a way of attracting fresh investments and manpower to boost the national economy.
Indonesia Ministry of Tourism reveals targets for 2025
Indonesian tourism minister Widiyanti Putri Wardhana recently addressed the country's House of Representatives regarding the ministry's targets for this year.
Niseko residents concerned as prices rise in the wake of tourism boom
Japanese ski resort district Niseko is now feeling the adverse impact of overtourism.
Minor International lauds creation of the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone
International hospitality and real estate firm Minor International welcomed the creation of the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ).
Skytrans goes for Maxamation Aviator Revenue Management System
Australian regional carrier Skytrans recently opted for Maxamation, specifically its Aviator Revenue Management System.
HBX Group begins trading on the Spanish Stock Exchanges
B2B travel technologies firm HBX Group International plc began trading as a listed company on the Barcelona, Bilbao, Madrid and Valencia Stock Exchanges (Spanish Stock Exchanges) today, 13th…
Travelport expands partnership with Chase Travel Group
Booking technologies developer Travelport announced the expansion of their partnership with JPMorganChase’s Chase Travel Group on Tuesday, 11th January.
Major Japanese airlines report record sales highs for end-2024
Japanese flag-carrier Japan Airlines Co and ANA Holdings Inc both posted significantly higher sales throughout the later three quarters of 2024.
DBS Hong Kong offers clients DBS Culinary Delights
DBS Bank (Hong Kong) Limited (DBS Hong Kong) reveals its latest marketing and customer engagement initiative: DBS Culinary Delights.
Surge in China inbound and outbound travel spending for 2025 Chinese New Year: Alipay
During the 2025 Chinese New Year, Alipay recorded a significant increase in China’s outbound and inbound travel spending.
Royal Caribbean Group discloses financial results for 2024
Royal Caribbean Group released its 2024 financial results on 28th January, reporting Earnings per Share (EPS) of $10.94 and Adjusted EPS of $11.80 at the end of the year.
Hotel101-Global takes another step towards NASDAQ listing
Hotel101-Global, the hospitality arm of DoubleDragon Corporation in the Philippines, formally filed its F-4 Registration Statement in New York on Friday, 31st January.
Union Budget 2025
Union Minister of Finance and Corporate Affairs Nirmala Sitharaman presented the Union Budget 2025-26 in Parliament on 1st Feb 2025.
Seamless payments via Alipay+ boost global travel for the Lunar New Year
Right on time for the Lunar New Year, Alipay+ teamed up with leading global merchants to launch exclusive campaigns for those travelling during the festive season.
Ministry of Tourism, Govt of India has been allocated INR2,541.06 crore for 2025-26
Union Minister of Finance and Corporate Affairs Nirmala Sitharaman presented the Union Budget 2025-26 in Parliament on 1st Feb 2025.
Vietnam seeks to boost wellness tourism sector
Thanks to increasing interest in holistic wellness, Vietnam reports that its wellness tourism sector is working to be at par with and to even surpass its regional peers.
GMT Pay launches as first Payment Gateway for everyone to use Web3 earnings
FSL, the Web3 development studio behind the powerhouse Web3 lifestyle app STEPN, is excited to announce the launch of GMT Pay, an innovative payment solution.
American Express and Singapore Airlines offer limited edition rewards for 25 years of partnership
American Express and Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer celebrate 25 years of partnership by offering exclusive limited-time rewards for new and existing American Express Singapore Airlines…
Sompo Insurance Thailand teams up with Collinson International for Sompo Smart Delay
Airport experience solutions provider Collinson International has partnered with Sompo Insurance Thailand (Sompo) for Sompo Smart Delay.
Japan reports 36.87 million arrivals for 2024
Japan reported an all-time high in terms of foreign tourist arrivals for 2024, register 36.87 million travellers in the past year.
Vietnam and Laos launch cross-border QR payment system
Laos and Vietnam recently launched a cross-border QR code payment system that has the potential to boost trade and tourism between the two countries.
JCB and Taiwan Rakuten Card introduce the JCB Panda Card
JCB International Co Ltd officially launched the new JCB Panda Card in collaboration with Taiwan Rakuten Card today, 15th January.
Marina Bay Sands to pay Singapore Tourism Board an additional US$1 billion
Marina Bay Sands (MBS) will make an additional upfront payment of US$1 billion to the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) with regard to design revisions made to its upcoming expansion project,…
Sri Lanka reports US$3.17B in tourism revenues for 2024
Sri Lanka’s tourism sector reports that it earned around US$3.17 billion in 2024.
Avolon sees APAC growth to drive global airline revenues over US$1T this year
A new report from aviation finance firm Avalon forecasts that growth in the Asia-Pacific region will help drive global airline revenue over the US$1 trillion mark for the first time this…
Cebu Pacific secures sustainability-linked loan to purchase A321NEO aircraft
Philippine low-cost carrier Cebu Pacific formally closed a sustainability-linked Japanese Operating Lease with Call Option (JOLCO) for its new Airbus A321NEO, marking its first-ever…
Alton Aviation Consultancy reports record growth in 2024
Alton Aviation Consultancy reports another year of record growth in 2024 and looks forward to meeting the rising demand for high-quality aviation consulting services for this year.
AirAsia MOVE teams up with Antom
Southeast Asian travel booking app and online travel platform AirAsia MOVE (MOVE) formally signed an agreement with Ant International’s Antom on Tuesday, 7th January.
Travelsoft launches Travelsoft Services
Travelsoft launches Travelsoft Services, a white-label multi-consolidator for all customers of the group's platforms.
Travelex unveils new Qatar store as Middle East expansion accelerates
Foreign Exchange company Travelex has unveiled a new retail location at Hamad International Airport – reflecting the brand’s ongoing expansion across the State of Qatar.
Paytm to make travel to Singapore and Thailand more affordable
One97 Communications Limited (OCL), parent company of Indian payments and financial services distribution firm Paytm, announced a series of exciting travel discounts for those planning to…
AirAsia and Tune Protect bring Comprehensive Travel Plus to Vietnam
AirAsia partnered with Tune Protect to introduce the Comprehensive Travel Plus package for Vietnamese travellers.
Laos and China to introduce QR code system connecting their payment networks
Laos' Lao National Payment Network Company Limited (LAPNet) and China’s UnionPay International (UPI) formally signed an agreement to introduce a QR code-based system connecting the two…
New developmental blueprint could exponentially boost tourism growth in Hong Kong
The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) seeks to increase the additional value generated by tourism to US$15.46 billion by 2029.
ANA Holdings takes full ownership of Peach Aviation
All Nippon Airways’ parent firm ANA Holdings recently acquired the remaining seven percent stake in Osaka-based low-cost carrier Peach Aviation from First Eastern Aviation Holdings in Hong…
AirAsia parent Capital A submits regularisation plan to Bursa Malaysia
Capital A Berhad submitted its Proposed Regularisation Plan to Bursa Malaysia Securities Berhad on 23rd December.
UPDATE: Jeju Air to face extensive investigation, share prices drop in wake of crash
The South Korean government held a press briefing at 9:30am, BKK time, today, 30th December, announcing the pending investigation into the safety practices of low-cost carrier Jeju Air…
Japan Airlines invests in Heirloom Carbon Technologies
Japan Airlines Co, Ltd (JAL) announced its investment in California-based decarbonisation developer Heirloom Carbon Technologies, Inc.
IATA: Airline profitability to grow in 2025 despite supply chain issues
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced its financial outlook for the global airline industry in 2025, which shows a slight strengthening of profitability amid ongoing…
JCB Cards may now be used to pay UK ETA application fees
Japan’s JCB International Co Ltd announced that JCB Cards may now be accepted for paying the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) application fee for JCB Cardmembers travelling to the…
Mexico holds off implementation of new cruise tax
The Mexican government announced that changes to its Federal Law of Rights tax aimed at cruise passengers has been put off until June 2025.
IATA: Governments blocked US$1.7 billion in airline funds
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) reports several governments have blocked up to $1.7 billion in airline funds from repatriation as of the end of October 2024.
JCB and Kobe Tourism Bureau to develop Indonesia-centric tourism promotion strategies
JCB Co Ltd formally signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Kobe Tourism Bureau to promote inbound tourism to Japan from Indonesia.
KKday raises US$70 million for global expansion
Innovative online travel platform KKday announced that it has raised about $70 million in funding, marking a significant milestone in the company's global expansion strategy.
Tourism Malaysia launches its 2024 Malaysia Year-End Sales Campaign
Tourism Malaysia’s 2024 Malaysia Year-End Sales (MYES 2024) campaign is currently in full swing and is on until 1st January 2025.
ATIA upholds commitment to safeguard members’ data
The Australian Travel Industry Association (ATIA) reaffirms its commitment to safeguarding the sensitive financial data of its members in light of ongoing preparations for the FY24…
ForwardKeys announces plans to produce regular travel retail intelligence
Global travel analyst ForwardKeys announced a new partnership with The Moodie Davitt Report to produce regular business intelligence to serve partners across the travel retail ecosystem.
Pavilion Kuala Lumpur teams up with Alipay+ and Tourism Malaysia for Malaysia Year-End Sale
Pavilion Kuala Lumpur teamed up with Alipay+ and Tourism Malaysia for the highly-anticipated return of the nationwide Malaysia Year-End Sale.
Mastercard Academy launches online course
Mastercard Academy, one of the leading providers of world-class training solutions in the payments space, has unveiled a free online financial literacy course: ‘Master Your Card: Finance…
Maxamation’s Aviator system boosts fastjet’s revenues
Africa’s leading low-cost airline fastjet is currently reaping the benefits of using Maxamation’s Aviator revenue management systems.
MakeMyTrip introduces multi-currency payment options
MakeMyTrip recently announced its compliance with GDPR, enabling accessibility to the MMT Platform from more than 150 countries.
GlobalData reports 10 percent decrease in travel and tourism deal activity
GlobalData released it's most recent report on global travel and tourism deal activity, noting a 10.4 percent year-on-year decrease in merger and acquisition activities.
Alipay joins Nihao! China Tourism Partnership Programme
Alipay announced the launch of a China Travel Voucher Pack for international travelers in collaboration with several partners, including online travel agencies Fliggy and DiDi, today,…
Cambodian tourism minister makes courtesy call to Shanxi’s director-general of foreign affairs
Cambodian minister of tourism Hout Hak was recently in China for a courtesy call with Dong Xiaolin, director-general of the People’s Government of Shanxi Province’s Foreign Affairs Office…
Indonesia seeks to boost tourism sector’s contribution to national economy
Indonesia’s minister for national development planning declared that the government seeks to amp up the contribution of the tourism sector to the country’s economy.
Indonesian government invites UAE to invest in Indo tourism
The Indonesian government has called upon the United Arab Emirates to invest in Indonesia’s evolving tourism sector.
Traveloka’s Caesar Indra shares insights regarding fraud prevention in travel
Traveloka president Caesar Indra shared his thoughts regarding the need for fraud prevention in the global travel sector in a recent op-ed piece he shared online.
Henley & Partners to host 18th annual Global Citizenship Conference in Singapore
Over 400 delegates from over 50 countries are expected to attend the 18th annual Global Citizenship Conference hosted by Henley & Partners in Singapore this month.
Travelex launches NCR Atleos
Travelex, a foreign exchange brand, has launched a major refresh of its international ATM estate, replacing the hardware and software of its entire portfolio of 600 ATMs across eight…
Mastercard partners with Emirates NBD
Emirates NBD, a banking group in the MENAT (Middle East, North Africa and Türkiye) region and Mastercard have partnered to introduce the Emirates NBD Wholesale
Alipay+ expands partnership with Japan’s PayPay
Japanese QR payment operator PayPay announced an expanded partnership with Ant International’s cross-border mobile payment solution Alipay+.
Bhutan Airlines partners with payment orchestration platform FinMont
Bhutan Airlines recently entered a new partnership with FinMont, a global payment orchestration platform, to streamline its payment system.
Chinese market supports the booming retail tourism sector
This year’s China Retail Tourism Development Report shows that the retail tourism sector in the country is looking into various opportunities.
ANA Future Frontier Fund to invest in Sakana AI
ANA Future Frontier Fund LP, the corporate venture capital fund of ANA Holdings Inc, announced its investment in Tokyo-based artificial intelligence (AI) research firm Sakana AI KK on…
Air Astana releases Q3-2024 financial and operational results
Air Astana Joint Stock Company announced its financial and operational results for the third quarter and nine months ended 30 September on Tuesday, 5th November.
Nium partners with HyperGuest
Nium, the global infrastructure for real-time cross-border payments, today announced a strategic partnership with HyperGuest, a premier B2B marketplace for the travel and hospitality…
Chris Flynn voted vice-chair of World Rural Tourism Conference
World Tourism Association for Culture and Heritage executive chair Chris Flynn was recently elected vice-chair of the World Rural Tourism Conference (WRTC) for the Asia Pacific Region.
Travelex undertakes major UAE expansion
Travelex, a market leading foreign exchange brand, has undertaken a major expansion in the UAE with the launch of 13 new stores across Abu Dhabi and Dubai airports.
In Photos: IATA World Financial Symposium and World Passenger Symposium 2024
The joint IATA World Financial Symposium and World Passenger Symposium 2024 were set against the dynamic backdrop of Bangkok, Thailand, a global capital that is working to become one of the…
Javier Orejas discusses IATA Pay
Travel Daily Media caught up with IATA's head of global banking Javier Orejas who gave us a closer look at IATA Pay and how it works.
Tourism Authority of Thailand signs memorandum of understanding with Visa
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and global payments leader Visa recently signed a new memorandum of understanding.
How IATA Easy Pay helps agents with their work
IATA Easy Pay is a fast and secure service that today’s travel agents need to make their work easier and their transactions safer.
Singapore’s Trust Bank and Income Insurance Limited team up for TravelShiok
Singapore’s Trust Bank teamed up with Income Insurance Ltd for TravelShiok, a new travel insurance product exclusively for the bank’s customers.
IATA to offer digital currencies in financial settlement systems
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced that it will offer digital currencies in the financial settlement systems it operates for the aviation industry.
IATA World Finance Symposium and IATA World Passenger Symposium start today in Bangkok
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) formally kicks off two major events today, 30th October, at the Centara Grand & Bangkok Convention Centre at CentralWorld in Bangkok,…
WYSE Travel Confederation announces results of New Horizons travel study
The World Youth Student and Educational (WYSE) Travel Confederation announced the publication of results from its fifth global study of youth and student travel, New Horizons 5: A global…
SUNRATE presents white paper on cross-border B2B travel payments at Travel Tech Asia
SUNRATE announced the release of a new white paper titled Navigating the Complexities of Cross-Border B2B Travel Payments: Practical Insights for Travel Intermediaries
Marriott Bonvoy HDFC Bank Credit Card unveils festive offers with Exciting Double Points Rewards
Marriott Bonvoy, Marriott International’s award-winning travel program and HDFC Bank unveil irresistible offers on India's first-ever co-branded hotel credit card, the Marriott Bonvoy HDFC…
Visa partners with The Bicester Collection and Tourism Office of Spain
Visa, the global leader in digital payments, announced its collaboration with Tourism Office of Spain (Turespaña) through a showcase of opulent experiences for affluent consumers at The…
Recent travel boom shows China’s openness and appeal to foreign travellers
China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs remarked that a recent increase in foreign travellers to the country showcases its openness and appeal.
WTTC report shows Oceania tourism could give Asia Pacific economy a major boost
The latest report from the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) hints that Oceania’s travel and tourism sector could boost the Asia-Pacific economy by US$112 billion by the end of the…
CapitaLand Ascott Trust’s Citadines Karasuma-Gojo Kyoto divested for JPY6.18 billion
CapitaLand Ascott Trust (CLAS) divested Citadines Karasuma-Gojo Kyoto in Japan to an unrelated third party for about JPY6.18 billion.
Capella Hotel Group begins accepting digital payments at flagship properties
Capella Hotel Group announced that it now accepts digital payment tokens (DPTs) at its flagship properties Capella Singapore and Patina Maldives, Fari Islands.
Growth in Brits’ non-essential spending reaches 2024-high
Consumer card spending increased 1.2 per cent year-on-year in September, after returning to growth in August, but remained lower than the latest CPIH inflation rate of 3.1 per cent
Alipay reports surge in tourism transactions throughout Golden Week
Chinese mobile payment service Alipay reported a surge in outbound and inbound tourism transactions during the country’s weeklong celebration of its National Day.
Emirates Skywards and HSBC announce new co-branded credit cards in the UAE
Emirates Skywards has partnered with HSBC Bank Middle East to launch new cobranded credit cards in the UAE.
Asian properties dominate this year’s top ten world’s best hotels
Asian hotels dominated William Reed’s list of the 50 best hotels in the world, taking seven of the slots in the top ten.
ICICI Bank and MakeMyTrip launch a co-branded credit card for travel enthusiasts
ICICI Bank has partnered with MakeMyTrip (MMT), the country’sonline travel company, to launch a premium co-branded credit card, specially curated for the aspirational travellers of the…
Travel eSIM provider Truely completes latest financing round
Truely announced that it just completed a US$3.5 million round of financing led by 1982 Ventures with participation from Beenext, and Kopital Ventures.
Aiello completes latest funding round for its Asian expansion
Aiello announced today, 2nd October, the successful completion of its latest US$5 million funding round.
SBI Card partners with Singapore Airlines
SBI Card, India’s largest pure-play credit card issuer, in partnership with Singapore Airlines Limited (SIA), the national carrier of Singapore, has launched the KrisFlyer SBI Card.
Two US destinations implement cruise passenger fees
Two ports in the United States are slated to charge modified cruise passenger fees beginning in 2025.
ATIA lauds Qatar Airways’ investment into Virgin Australia
The Australian Travel Industry Association (ATIA) extended appreciative comments regarding Qatar Airways’ impending investment into Virgin Australia.
Paytm announces Travel Carnival
One97 Communications Limited (OCL) that owns the brand Paytm, India’s payments and financial services distribution company and the pioneer of QR, Soundbox and mobile payments, has announced…
Philippine senator believes VAT refund bill could boost country’s tourism sector
Filipino senator Sherwin Gatchalian expressed his optimism over an upcoming value-added tax (VAT) refund bill that could give the country’s tourism sector a much-needed boost.
Virgin Red introduces first-of-its-kind U.S. credit card
Virgin Red has teamed together with Virgin Atlantic, Virgin Hotels and Virgin Voyages to land members more epic travel rewards, all on one unique card.
Scapia turns lounge privileges into airport privileges
Scapia, India’s travel fintech, announced a bouquet of product launches as part of their Monsoon Release 2024, enhancing the overall travel experience for Indians, including a…
Travelsoft unveils Travelsoft Pay
Travelsoft – the global travel software-as-a-service (SaaS) player whose technologies are used by travel agents and tour operators to package and distribute travel – announces that it has…
Avolon to acquire a portfolio of 118 aircraft
Avolon, a global aviation finance company, announces an agreement to acquire Castlelake Aviation Limited (‘CA Ltd’), an entity managed by Castlelake L.P., the global alternative investment…
Collinsons report shows Asians willing to spend for travel
Travel engagement solutions firm Collinson International just released its 2024 Travel Benefits and Customer Engagement Report.
Influx of cruise arrivals raises overtourism concerns in Greece
The Greek government expressed serious worries regarding overtourism in light of a growing number of cruise passengers entering the country.
Melian Airport releases interim report for 2024
Hainan Meilan International Airport Company Limited (Melian Airport) released its interim results for 2024.
Cathay enters agreement to buy back warrants issued to Hong Kong government
Cathay Pacific Airways Limited announced that it entered into an agreement to buy back all of the warrants it previously issued to the Hong Kong SAR (HKSAR) Government.
AirAsia X releases financials for Q2-2024
AirAsia X Berhad maintained its momentum in the second quarter of this year as it delivered a robust financial performance throughout the period which ended on 30 June 2024.
Air New Zealand releases 2024 annual report
Air New Zealand released its annual report for the year ending 30 June 2024 with results reflecting the challenges of the past year.
Qantas Group posts strong results in 2024 report
Qantas Group, which covers Australian carriers Qantas and Jetstar, released its 2024 annual report, achieving an underlying profit before tax of $2.08 billion and a statutory profit after…
Thai Airways releases Q2-2024 operational performance report
Thai Airways International Public Company Limited released its second quarter operational performance report for this year.
Alipay enhances travel experience with upgraded 16-language app
Alipay now supports 16 languages on its mobile application, enhancing the travel experience of foreign travellers making their way through China.
Indonesia launches tourism investment initiative
Indonesia launched a new programme for enhancing communication among investors, policymakers and local authorities called the Indonesia Tourism Investor Club
Travelex launches new redesigned app for the Travelex Money Card, powered by Mastercard
Travelex, a foreign exchange brand, has launched a new Travelex Money Card (TMC) app that offers a more simple, efficient and secure experience for customers worldwide.
AKTG secures $500 Million of financing from Citi to fund its continued expansion
Abercrombie & Kent Travel Group (AKTG) announced that it has secured and signed a definitive financing agreement for up to $500 million to fund its continued expansion of its Abercrombie…
Air New Zealand introduces new Airpoints experience
Over 4.6 million Air New Zealand Airpoints users stand to enjoy a new digitised experience as the airline rolls out the first phase of its improved membership programme.
Fitch Ratings reports resilience of Chinese airports in off-season
A new report from Fitch Ratings shows how China’s airports maintained resilient air passenger volumes during its traditional off-season.
S Hotels and Resorts reports robust performance in its interim report
Singha Estate PCL’s hospitality arm S Hotels and Resorts reported robust second-quarter 2024 results, with a total revenue of 2,469.1 million baht.
Hostelworld releases interim report for 2024
Hostelworld released its interim financial report for this year, showing strong financial delivery in the first six months of the year.
Virgin Red has teamed together with Virgin Atlantic, Virgin Hotels and Virgin Voyages to launch new U.S. credit card
Turn your everyday spending into amazing Virgin travel experiences with extra perks with the brand-new Virgin Red Rewards Mastercard®.
HappyEasyGo partners with Primer to accelerate regional expansion in Southeast Asia
HappyEasyGo, one of India’s largest Online Travel Agencies (OTAs), has announced a strategic partnership with Primer, the unified infrastructure for global payments, to support its regional…
Thomas Cook India partners with NPCI (National Payments Corporation of India)
Outbound travel from India is witnessing a strong growth, especially to short hauls like UAE: visitors to Dubai from India have grown by 12% YoY (Q1 2024).
Central Retail joins Alipay x TAT’s Amazing Thailand app
Thailand’s Central Retail Corporation Public Company Ltd (CRC) continues to lead in the fields of retail and wholesale through its engagement of tourists via a strategic partnership with…
MGM China releases financials for first half of 2024
MGM China Holdings Limited (MGM China) released selected aspects of its financial data for the first half of 2024.
AXA, Trip.com team up for new Travel Smart programme
AXA and global travel services provider Trip.com jointly launched Trip.com Travel Smart, a custom-made travel insurance product.
Turkish Airlines adds Chinese yuan to its financing portfolio
Turkish Airlines has added Chinese yuan to its financing portfolio in line with its natural currency hedging policy, thanks to its diversified revenue structure.
Alipay+ expands to serve 90 million global merchants in 2024 summer campaign
Over 30% increase in tourists paying with their preferred home payment app in Europe via Alipay+ during UEFA EURO 2024.
Alshaya Group partners with Mastercard
Alshaya Group, one of the international retail franchise operators, has partnered with Mastercard to expand its award-winning loyalty programme, Aura.
BigPay expands financial network into Thailand
BigPay recently expanded its digital financial services network into Thailand, bringing in a new-generation solution that both locals and travellers can use.
Travelex wins new tender, set to expand presence at Changi Airport
Foreign exchange services provider Travelex won the tender for a new five-year contract at Singapore Changi Airport.
FlixBus announces strategic partnership with Paytm, to expand distribution network
FlixBus, a global leader in affordable and sustainable travel, which entered India earlier this year, has now announced a strategic partnership with Paytm, the country’s leading payments and…
SIA’s Pelago ties up with global payment solutions firm Primer
The partnership between Pelago and Primer aims to give global travellers a smarter and more secure way to pay anywhere in the world
Travelex expands pre-paid card currency offering
Travelex foreign exchange brand, has added a further seven currencies to its pre-paid currency card, the Travelex Money Card (TMC).
Inefficient payment systems decrease Singapore travel execs’ profits
Eight out of ten Singaporean travel executives report lower profit margins due to inefficient payment systems and slow transaction times
Over 65 Million Qantas points earned by agents With TravelPay
Travel agents and businesses have earned over 65 million Qantas Points since 2019 simply for receiving payments via TravelPay payment solutions.
Nium and Air France-KLM take off to power airline payments
Nium, the global leader in real-time global payments, announced a collaboration with Air France and KLM to power “closed loop” electronic payments between the airlines and selected travel…
WeTravel launches Academy dedicated to multi-day travel product development
WeTravel has launched a new vertical within its WeTravel Academy, the Multi-Day Product Development Hub, designed to support travel product managers, destination managers and marketers in…
European Travel Survey reveals almost 50% of consumers have abandoned bookings due to complex payment processes
Global payment orchestration platform FinMont recently commissioned a survey* to European consumers to understand how they are purchasing travel online, what they expect during the process…
eurochange announces partnership with Holiday Extras to offer one-stop currency and travel essentials
Travel money provider, eurochange, has announced a partnership with award-winning travel extras portal, Holiday Extras. Now, eurochange customers can now conveniently book a host of handy …
Ant Group, Mastercard, e-wallets launch International Consumer Friendly Zones program in Shanghai to drive inbound tourism to China
Ant Group and Mastercard, along with 12 overseas payment partners of Alipay+ and other major international card organizations, have launched the International Consumer Friendly Zones program…
Asia’s first modern prop trading firm expands to Thailand after successful market dominance showcase
MPFunds, Asia’s First Trading Performance Programme, announces its strategic expansion into Thailand, solidifying its position as the leading modern prop trading firm in Asia.
Tourist expenditures blossom by 50 percent in Japan as Sakura blooms
As the captivating beauty of Japan's Sakura (cherry blossom) season comes to an end this year, Visa, a global leader in payments, revealed data demonstrating the vast impact of the Sakura…
The Collinson Group announces new global JV with FitTech leader, WithU Global
The Collinson Group announces a new global Joint Venture (JV) with WithU Global, the leading FitTech disruptor.
China’s 2024 Labor Day sees 77% rise in outbound travel transactions and 700% surge in inbound spending YoY via Alipay
Alipay's data indicates a significant uptick in both outbound and inbound tourism spending in China during the 2024 Labor Day holiday.
Alipay+ partners with Korea Easy Payment Foundation and Jeju Tourism Organization
Alipay+, a global cross-border mobile payment and digitalization technology platform operated by Ant International, today announced it signed a business agreement with the Korea Easy Payment…
Alipay partners with Huangshan Tourism Group to launch “International Visitor Friendly Scenic Spot”
Huangshan Tourism Group, which operates “the loveliest mountain of China” Huangshan, announced its partnership with Alipay, the leading digital payment and lifestyle service platform, to…
Alipay+ enables digital payment of 14 overseas e-wallets from 9 countries and regions in Hong Kong to support city’s global travel drive
Users of 14 popular overseas e-wallets from 9 countries and regions can now make payments in Hong Kong using their home apps through Alipay+, a suite of cross-border mobile payment and…
Travelex launches bank partnerships across Japan
Travelex, a market leading foreign exchange brand, has launched an FX affiliate referral programme with over 60 local banks across Japan, with over 30,000 of these banks’ customers having…
Ant Group launches partnership on International Consumer Friendly Zones
Ant Group, along with 11 overseas payment partners of Alipay+ and major international card organizations, launched in Beijing a nation-wide Program to build International Consumer Friendly…
Scott Dunn selects Nium to improve hotel cash flow management with virtual card payments
Nium, the leader in real-time cross-border payments, today announced its partnership with luxury tour operator Scott Dunn to issue virtual cards to its global network of hotel providers.
Travelex wins Munich Airport tender
Travelex, a market leading foreign exchange brand, has won the tender to operate foreign exchange and tax refund services for the Terminal 1 non-Schengen Terminal at Munich Airport.
Network International leverages Mastercard’s AI-powered Brighterion solution to protect over 60,000 merchants from fraud
Network International, the leading enabler of digital commerce across the Middle East and Africa, has extended the benefits of Mastercard’s Brighterion fraud prevention solution, powered by…
Amadeus acquires travel payments expert Voxel
Amadeus announces the acquisition of Voxel, a leading provider of electronic invoice and B2B payment solutions for travel sellers, hotels, and other travel players.
Travelex launches seven stores at Zayed International Airport Terminal A
Travelex, the global travel money brand, has launched seven stores and eight ATMs at Zayed International Airport – Terminal A.
JCB and Keisei Electric Railway launch Keisei Skyliner promotion for JCB cardmembers
JCB International Co., Ltd., the international operations subsidiary of JCB Co., Ltd., Japan’s only international payment brand, announces the launch of a discount promotion for JCB…
eurochange announces travel insurance offering in partnership with battleface
Battleface, has announced a partnership with eurochange to create a visionary new offering: eurochange Travel Insurance.
China Outbound and Inbound Tourism Spending rebounds on Alipay+
Data from Ant Group shows a robust rebound of consumer spending during the first back-to-normal Chinese New Year (CNY) travel season after the Covid-19 pandemic, especially in cross-border…
Travelex revenue surges as global travel returns
Travelex International announces its full-year results for the year ended 31 December 2023, reporting strong revenue and underlying EBITDA growth across all business segments and a positive…
Wise unveils ATM withdrawal fees across top APAC travel destinations
Wise, the global technology company building the best way to move and manage the world’s money, has revealed crucial insights into ATM withdrawal fees for Indian travellers visiting popular…
Alipay+ Begins 2024 Global Travel Campaigns with Chinese New Year Drive for 8 million International Merchants
As Singapore, Thailand and more countries open borders visa-free to Chinese travellers, Alipay+, the cross-border mobile payments and marketing platform operated by Ant International, steps…
Travelex relaunches online FX services with Commonwealth Bank of Australia
Travelex, the market leading travel money brand in Australia, has relaunched online foreign exchange (FX) cash services for Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA), the country’s largest bank.
Club Med and Uplift announce partnership to offer guests “Buy Now Pay Later Payment Options”
Uplift, the leading Buy Now Pay Later solution for the world's travel brands, announced today a partnership with Club Med, the pioneer of the all-inclusive concept, to provide their guests…
Mastercard partners with CarbonSifr to advance climate action in MENA region
Mastercard has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with CarbonSifr, a UAE-based climate tech company, to explore opportunities to accelerate climate action in the MENA region.
MobiKwik partners with Adani One to offer exclusive discounts on travel
E MOBIKWIK SYSTEMS LIMITED (MobiKwik), a fintech company, has partnered with the Adani Group’s travel booking app, Adani One, to offer exclusive deals on flight tickets and duty-free…
Mastercard collaborates with 4thWave to drive B2B Payments Across EEMEA
Mastercard has partnered with 4thWave, an innovative finance and Banking-as-a-Service (BaaS) digital platform provider, to streamline business-to-business (B2B) payment flows.
Top six predictions for fintech in 2024
Financial technology, or fintech, is undergoing rapid and transformative changes. As we look ahead to 2024, several key trends are poised to shape the landscape of the booming industry.
Alipay+ and E-Wallets drive sustainable travel in year-end global campaign
Alipay+, a cross-border mobile payment digital platform under Ant International, today announced a year-end campaign to promote sustainable cross-border travel with a series of incentives…
ADCB introduces the region’s first Mastercard Carbon Calculator to support sustainability ambitions of business clients
Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank (ADCB) introduced the region’s first Mastercard Carbon Calculator, an innovative tool that supports the sustainability ambitions of businesses by providing data on…
Travelex launches more than 75 new international bureaux, kiosks and ATMs worldwide
Travelex, the market leading foreign exchange brand, is investing in more than 75 new bureaux, kiosks and ATMs internationally as global travel continues to rebound.
