Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are increasingly expanding into global markets, yet cross-border transactions pose significant challenges, including high costs, compliance complexities, and security risks. Fintech innovations like WorldFirst are transforming international business by streamlining payments and offering secure, cost-effective digital financial solutions.
Simplifying International Payments for SMEs
WorldFirst, a leading cross-border payment service provider, plays a vital role in supporting SMEs expanding internationally. In 2024 alone, the company processed $100 billion (Dh367 billion) in transactions—four times its 2020 volume. The platform has now surpassed $300 billion in total payment volume, reflecting its global expansion beyond Asia and Europe.
“Cross-border payments present multiple challenges, especially for SMEs that lack dedicated financial teams.“
says Clara Shi, CEO of WorldFirst and Vice President of Ant International.
“To address these challenges, businesses require efficient, secure, and globally connected financial solutions.”
With e-commerce sales projected to hit $7.9 trillion by 2030, businesses require seamless financial tools for international trade. WorldFirst’s partnerships with global banks—including Citi, HSBC, and JPMorgan—enable SMEs to transact in 100+ currencies across 200 countries.
- Quick online setup for a global business account
- Multi-currency payment & collection in 30+ currencies
- Integrated treasury services to manage liquidity
- Priority store openings on platforms like Amazon & Walmart Marketplace
With 60+ financial licenses, 30 offices worldwide, and partnerships with 130+ e-commerce platforms, WorldFirst ensures compliance while providing localized support to global businesses.
Cost-Effective Solutions for Cross-Border Trade
Traditional international payment systems impose high transaction fees and lengthy onboarding processes, with costs ranging from 5% to 10%, as per McKinsey’s Global Payments Report. According to the World Bank’s Doing Business Report, opening an international business account can take up to four weeks.
WorldFirst provides an efficient digital alternative, reducing costs and enabling quick setups within minutes. The company’s strong reputation is reflected in its Trustpilot rating, where nearly 3,000 users rank it as “great.”
As financial fraud and cyber threats evolve, businesses must ensure secure digital transactions. WorldFirst leverages AI-driven fraud detection tools, developed by Ant International, to protect financial activities.
- e-KYC technology has a 99% deepfake detection success rate
- Fraud levels remain below 1bps, ensuring zero account theft
Beyond security, AI is transforming customer service—WorldFirst’s AI-powered agents handle 50% of inquiries, offering multilingual assistance and faster resolutions.
Middle East Expansion & Future Growth
Recognizing the Middle East as a key growth market, Ant International launched its first office in Saudi Arabia in February 2025. The expansion aims to introduce cutting-edge fintech solutions and strengthen regional business partnerships.
Recently separated from Ant Group, Ant International now operates independently, supporting 90+ million merchants across 200 global markets. Services like Alipay+, Antom, and embedded finance continue driving financial digitization worldwide.
As global trade accelerates, platforms like WorldFirst are making international transactions more accessible, secure, and cost-effective, empowering SMEs to compete globally.
For More Information, Visit:
