Letter from the Chairman

For many in the payments industry, these are difficult times. The global economy is in turmoil, and consumers, policy-makers and investors are looking for sharp executives to lead the financial industry out of distress.

A stressed credit market and poor decision-making were key factors that led to big names in the payments industry, namely Wachovia and Washington Mutual, to disappear. Both faced dire financial circumstances that led to their being acquired by other organizations, namely Wells Fargo and JPMorgan Chase, respectively.

Indeed, executives’ decision-making is coming under increased scrutiny. This is why it is crucial to gain a full understanding of the trends affecting the payments industry and interact with others facing similar mandates to right their ships.

Card Forum & Expo is designed to fulfill those requirements. We can do this together. Take a look at this year’s agenda. In it you’ll see presentations that provide guidance to work through the current legal climate and credit crisis and on how to manage payments strategies in the new economy.

Importantly, the difficulties facing some in the industry also are producing opportunities for others. With more consumers trying to avoid debt, many are turning to debit cards as a means to budget their finances more effectively. More companies also are turning to payroll debit cards to eliminate the need to distribute costly paper checks.

At this year’s Card Forum & Expo, attendees will learn how to use debit card programs to drive profits and relationships and how to bring prepaid initiatives into their revenue mix. Attendees also will learn, among many other things, how mobile banking and payments can play a role in securing customer relationships.

So please consider this my invitation to you to attend the 21st annual Card Forum & Expo. Make your reservations now and join us April 20 to 22 at the Marco Island Marriott Beach Resort in Florida.

Jeffrey Green
Editor-in-Chief
Cards&Payments