In 2025, Brazil’s payment landscape continues to evolve, driven by digital innovation, financial inclusion, and widespread smartphone adoption. Below are the most popular payment solutions shaping the market.

1. Pix

Pix, launched by Brazil’s Central Bank in 2020, remains the dominant payment method in 2025. This instant payment system allows 24/7 transfers between individuals, businesses, and government entities using QR codes, phone numbers, or email addresses. Its low cost, speed, and integration with major banks and fintechs have made it ubiquitous, with over 80% of Brazilians using Pix for daily transactions, from street vendors to e-commerce.

2. Digital Wallets

Digital wallets like PicPay, Mercado Pago, and Nubank’s NuPay are thriving. These platforms offer seamless payments, bill splitting, and cashback incentives. PicPay leads with its social payment features, while Mercado Pago dominates e-commerce and cross-border transactions. NuPay, integrated with Nubank’s ecosystem, appeals to younger users with its user-friendly interface and rewards.

3. Credit and Debit Cards

Cards remain popular, especially for higher-value purchases. Visa and Mastercard hold significant market share, but local player Elo is gaining traction. Contactless payments and card tokenization for online purchases have boosted adoption. Debit cards are widely used in physical stores, while credit cards dominate e-commerce, supported by installment payment options.

4. Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL)

BNPL services like Addi and Klarna are surging, particularly among Gen Z and Millennials. These platforms allow consumers to split purchases into interest-free installments, appealing to Brazil’s culture of parcelado (installment) payments. Retailers increasingly integrate BNPL at checkout, driving its growth in online and offline shopping.

5. Cryptocurrency and Stablecoins

While still niche, cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and stablecoins (e.g., USDT) are gaining traction in 2025, especially for remittances and investments. Platforms like Mercado Bitcoin and Binance offer crypto-to-fiat conversions, and some merchants in urban areas accept crypto via payment gateways. Regulatory advancements have bolstered consumer confidence.

Trends Shaping the Future

• Open Banking: Expanded data sharing enhances personalized financial services, boosting competition among fintechs.

• CBDC Exploration: Brazil’s Central Bank is piloting Drex, a digital real, which could reshape payments by 2026.

• Financial Inclusion: Payment solutions are reaching underserved rural areas, driven by mobile apps and agent networks.

Brazil’s payment ecosystem in 2025 is dynamic, blending instant payments, digital innovation, and traditional methods to cater to a diverse population.