Denmark & Singapore Lead 2026 Global Payments Interoperability
Holographic display shows data streams between Denmark and Singapore
Key Highlights
Denmark and Singapore top the 2026 Global Payments Interoperability Index by Thunes, showcasing advancements in cross-border payment efficiency and innovation.
Denmark & Singapore Lead Global Payment Interoperability
A new report by Thunes, the Cross-Border Payments Interoperability Index 2026, reveals Denmark and Singapore as global leaders. These nations are setting new benchmarks in how seamlessly money moves across borders.
Key Findings from the Index
- Denmark secured the top spot, driven by its advanced domestic payment infrastructure and strong integration with European systems like SEPA.
- Singapore ranked second globally, achieving a perfect score in Market Dynamics and Progress. This is largely due to its pioneering multilateral payment linkage projects, including its PayNow system and involvement in Project Nexus by the Bank for International Settlements (BIS).
Europe’s Network & Emerging Market Innovation
Europe, particularly through the SEPA network, demonstrates strong regional interoperability. This facilitates instant euro transfers across over 40 countries. However, significant inefficiencies and higher costs emerge when transactions extend beyond the EU.
Emerging markets like Brazil and India are redefining financial inclusion. They leverage mobile and internet adoption to introduce innovative solutions such as mobile money accounts and real-time payment systems.
- Brazil’s Pix and India’s UPI are prime examples, built on modern payment ecosystems.
- Despite domestic success, both Brazil and India face challenges in cross-border connectivity, ranking 24th and 30th respectively in the index.
ASEAN economies are also actively advancing cross-border payment interoperability, with Singapore leading these efforts.