Block Inc - SQ STOCK NEWS

Afterpay has expanded its services into Canada, partnering with Sephora Canada to offer flexible payment options for over 340 beauty and skincare brands available on Sephora.ca. Canadian customers can now pay for their purchases in four instalments, enhancing accessibility for beauty products. The initiative aligns with Afterpay's mission to empower consumers with financial wellness while shopping. Over 20 million active users worldwide benefit from Afterpay's innovative payment model.

Square's Growth of Mobile and Conversational Commerce Report reveals that 40% of businesses are not leveraging mobile commerce technologies despite rising consumer demand. The report indicates that 98% of consumers prefer mobile interactions, and 30% expect to increase mobile shopping over the next year. Among businesses, 60% utilize mobile commerce, with 53% reporting enhanced customer relationship management. Square's Messages platform has seen a 3X increase in active merchants using it since March 2021, integrating advanced AI features to enhance customer communication.

Square has launched Tap to Pay on iPhone, enabling sellers in the U.S. to accept contactless payments directly via their iPhones, eliminating the need for additional hardware and costs. This solution enhances in-person commerce for a range of sellers, from mobile professionals to retailers, allowing them to conduct transactions seamlessly. The new feature aims to cater to evolving consumer preferences for contactless payment, supported by a security framework that ensures data privacy. Square's initiative highlights its commitment to facilitating accessible payment solutions for businesses of all sizes.

Square has launched its first integration with Afterpay in Canada, introducing "Buy Now, Pay Later" (BNPL) capabilities for its e-commerce sellers. This service enables sellers to attract customers and increase sales, with BNPL options reportedly boosting sales by 20-30%. Canadian BNPL payments are projected to reach $5.9 billion in 2022, significantly driven by Gen Z and millennials. Since the U.S. and Australia integration, sellers have seen a threefold increase in transaction sizes and a 180% rise in new Afterpay consumers. Square aims for global expansion through this collaboration.

Square has expanded its services to Spanish-speaking business owners in the United States, making over 35 products available in Spanish. This initiative is aimed at empowering the 4.65 million Hispanic-owned businesses, providing access to tools like Square Banking and Square for Restaurants. Square has also enhanced its customer support with Spanish-speaking employees and resources. This move addresses the challenges Hispanic entrepreneurs face, including lower loan approval rates, with the goal of making financial services more accessible.

Afterpay (NYSE: SQ), a leader in 'Buy Now Pay Later' payments, announces its partnership with New York Fashion Week (NYFW) from September 9-14, 2022. The initiative features immersive runway shows and live interactions, democratizing access to fashion. Notable collaborations include designer Kim Shui, who will showcase her collection to the public, and the first-ever crowdsourced runway garment made from public pixel submissions. Additionally, Area will host street projections of its runway show. Afterpay also presents a panel discussion on the future of fashion and art on September 12.

Afterpay (NYSE: SQ), a leader in BNPL payments, partners with top designers for New York Fashion Week, launching exclusive NFTs. These unique collectibles, priced at $100, allow consumers to experience fashion’s elite while splitting payments into four interest-free installments. Each NFT unlocks real-life perks from renowned designers, including limited edition products and exclusive event access. The initiative aims to integrate blockchain technology in fashion, with a portion of proceeds benefiting Free Arts NYC. Afterpay, part of Block, Inc., is transforming payment experiences globally.

Square has launched its first integration with Clearpay in the UK, enabling 'Buy Now, Pay Later' (BNPL) functionality for sellers in online and in-person commerce. This integration is a significant step following the acquisition of Afterpay by Block. Square sellers can now offer BNPL, allowing customers to make payments in four interest-free installments while merchants receive immediate payment. The BNPL model is the fastest-growing online payment method in the UK, projected to increase from £13 billion in 2021 to nearly £32 billion by 2025.

Square has released new research detailing the future of professional services in the UK. The report highlights challenges such as rising costs and complex regulations, shifting the focus from pandemic-related issues. Key findings show that 43% of businesses have expanded into new verticals, and 75% are utilizing an omnichannel approach. Additionally, 67% report improved practices through new working methods, and 61% plan to increase automation. Despite competitive pressure, the outlook for professional services remains optimistic, driven by technology and innovation.