Definition ∞ An Instant Payment refers to a financial transaction where funds are transferred from the payer’s account to the payee’s account almost immediately, with confirmation provided within seconds. These systems operate 24/7, enabling real-time availability of funds for the recipient. Instant payments contrast with traditional payment methods that may involve delays of hours or days. They are designed to enhance liquidity and accelerate economic activity.
Context ∞ The expansion of instant payment systems is a global trend, with many countries developing or implementing their own real-time gross settlement infrastructure. Digital assets, particularly stablecoins, are frequently discussed as a means to facilitate instant payments, especially across borders, due to their inherent speed and lower transaction costs. Debates often center on interoperability between traditional instant payment rails and blockchain-based solutions. The shift towards instant payments is reshaping consumer and business expectations for financial transfers.
Blockchain Knowledge
Cryptocurrency Foundation
Cryptospace Newsfeed
