PayPal Holdings, Inc. reports developments across its global digital payments platform for consumers and businesses in approximately 200 markets. News commonly covers PayPal checkout, merchant payment processing, Venmo money movement, Braintree and small-business processing, crypto capabilities including PYUSD, and product extensions such as Payment Links and PayPal Ads ID.
Company updates also include earnings releases, partnerships that embed PayPal or Venmo into ticketing, commerce and creator workflows, merchant acceptance additions, rewards programs, board and executive changes, and operating-structure announcements involving its consumer, merchant, processing and crypto businesses.
PayPal Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: PYPL) announced on March 8, 2021, that it will acquire Curv, a Tel Aviv-based provider of digital asset security infrastructure, to enhance its cryptocurrency initiatives. This acquisition aims to integrate Curv's technological expertise into PayPal's newly formed blockchain and digital currencies unit. The deal, expected to close in the first half of 2021, emphasizes PayPal's commitment to fostering a more inclusive financial system. Financial terms of the transaction have not been disclosed.
PayPal (NASDAQ: PYPL) has partnered with Uber (NYSE: UBER) to facilitate access to COVID-19 vaccines by providing free or discounted rides to vaccination sites in the U.S. The initiative, which follows Uber's previous commitment to offer 10 million rides, includes a $5 million donation from PayPal to enhance transportation access. This collaboration, supported by various organizations, aims to address transportation barriers in underserved communities and is part of PayPal's broader commitment to support minority and women-owned businesses, including a $535 million investment.
PayPal (NASDAQ: PYPL) has announced multi-year partnerships with CodeHouse, INROADS, and the National Association of Black Accountants to enhance the recruitment and career development of Black and diverse talent. This initiative is part of a larger $535 million commitment to bolster diversity, equity, and inclusion within the company. PayPal will support various programs, including scholarships and internships, aimed at creating sustainable career pathways for underrepresented communities. These partnerships align with PayPal's ongoing efforts to diversify its workforce and promote economic equality.
PayPal Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: PYPL) announced its fourth quarter and full year 2020 results on February 3, 2021. The company reported strong performance, contributing to a significant growth trajectory. Key metrics include an increase in active accounts, reaching over 375 million globally, and continued expansion in digital payments. The full results can be accessed on their investor relations website. A conference call to discuss these results was scheduled for 2:00 PM PT on the same day, with an archive available for 90 days.
PayPal announced a collaboration with actor Neil Patrick Harris to promote safe in-store shopping during the pandemic. This initiative includes sharing shopping tips and introducing touch-free QR code payments at over 8,200 CVS locations nationwide. The campaign aims to encourage safe practices, such as wearing masks and maintaining social distance. Customers can also participate in a contest for a chance to receive surprise payments. Users of PayPal and Venmo can earn a $10 reward for their first in-store purchase with QR codes until March 31, 2021.
PayPal has announced it is accepting applications for small business loans through the U.S. Small Business Administration's Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), aimed at supporting businesses impacted by COVID-19. The company previously facilitated over 75,000 PPP loans, averaging $28,000 each, positively affecting over 300,000 jobs. PayPal's commitment includes assisting borrowers with loan forgiveness processes. The initiative reflects PayPal's role in helping small businesses adapt during challenging times, as highlighted by success stories from various entrepreneurs.
Venmo has launched a new Cash a Check feature, allowing select customers to cash printed, payroll, and government checks directly via the Venmo app. This service aims to provide a quick and secure way to access funds, especially for those receiving government stimulus checks. Eligible users can receive funds in minutes with all associated fees waived for a limited time. The feature enhances accessibility for customers who prefer to avoid physical check-cashing locations during the pandemic.
PayPal (NASDAQ: PYPL) has announced that it will waive check-cashing fees for government stimulus check recipients, allowing users to cash checks through the app without visiting a physical location. This feature enables quicker access to funds, typically within minutes, enhancing safety during the COVID-19 pandemic. Customers who used Direct Deposit for the first round will automatically receive their second payments via PayPal or Venmo. The waived fees apply only to government-issued checks processed through the PayPal app, available for a limited time.
PayPal (NASDAQ: PYPL) announced a new $5 million grant program aimed at supporting Black-owned businesses in the U.S., extending its initial $10 million PayPal Empowerment Grant program introduced in June. The initiative is part of PayPal's broader $530 million commitment to enhance economic equality, particularly as COVID-19 continues to impact these communities. The program is expected to benefit both existing grant recipients and an additional 250 businesses. Recent studies indicate that nearly 40% of Black small business owners have had to cut jobs due to financial strain.
On Dec. 9, 2020, PayPal (NASDAQ: PYPL) reported a record-breaking $185 million processed in donations globally for GivingTuesday, marking a 40% increase from 2019. Over 1.75 million customers participated across 198 markets, making more than two million donations. Despite the pandemic's impact, the company announced enhancements to its Giving platform, including the new Generosity Network, allowing users to create fundraising campaigns and support various causes.