<<...electronic debit is already very prevalent in Europe. Like 25% share of the payments system, vs 2% in US. The opportunity for a CF type middlemen would therefore appear to be smaller, and it certainly would be more chopped up with local currencies, customs, etc.
Thanks Brian, I'm getting a better understanding of it now. How about Asia? Or close to the same thing? >>
Excluding Japan, where the numbers are approaching US levels, Asia has a far lower percentage PC ownership, far fewer consumers online, lower penetration of bank accounts generally, and much lower percent of companies offering electronic debit (initiated by the merchant, rather than the consumer) as a way to settle one's account.
So maybe Asia is a wide open market but not yet ripe for the picking??? I recall reading a while back that the wait time to get a phone line installed in China is years, not months...We should count our blessings.
I could see a potential opportunity for CF to cross license its methods and technology and agree to future connectivity deals with foreign domiciled partners. Similar to what E*Trade is doing in Japan, Australia, France, etc....
Personally, I believe Pete and company have their hands full at home for now, answering the immediate competitive threats.
Sure have been enjoying the stock action lately.
Brian
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