BOSTON–In what is being called the “instant economy,” how fast money moves determines “how people work, spend and stay loyal,” according to a new report.
The report, “Money Mobility Ecosystem: Meeting Recipient Expectations in the Instant Economy,” was published by a collaboration between PYMNTS Intelligence and Ingo Payments, and reveals that speed is no longer a differentiator; “it’s a demand,” the organizations said.
“Based on surveys of 340 U.S. business executives and 4,170 U.S. consumers, the report maps the widening gap between how quickly people expect to receive their money and how often businesses actually deliver,” PYMNTS said in releasing the findings. “Nearly nine in 10 companies have used instant payments for at least one payout type, but most still deploy them inconsistently—a costly blind spot in an era when workers, renters and consumers alike expect their funds now, not later.”
The organizations said the data reveals a “simple story with major implications: speed equals satisfaction.”
The Findings
Among the findings in the research:
65% of tip earners, 54% of gig workers and 55% of property owners need same-day access to their funds—and when given the option, they overwhelmingly choose instant.
Only 36% of platforms consistently offer that option, signaling untapped potential to strengthen relationships, improve retention and recycle funds more quickly through the same ecosystem.
“The findings underscore how making instant the default can transform not only customer experience but also business performance across industries,” PYMNTS stated.
What Can be Learned
According to PYMNTS, in “Money Mobility Ecosystem: Meeting Recipient Expectations in the Instant Economy,” readers can learn how:
Instant access builds ecosystems of trust. “When payments arrive in seconds, workers, vendors and consumers are more likely to stay, spend and re-engage.”
Businesses misjudge payout priorities. “Companies often offer instant payment for low-stakes rebates and rewards but overlook critical income disbursements where it matters most.
Closing the instant gap creates a competitive advantage. Firms that align payment speed with recipient expectations can convert payouts into powerful tools for loyalty, differentiation and growth.”
The CU Daily recently featured related remarks on the importance of instant payments by Brad Ganey of Catalyst Corporate here.
