Become an acquirer and explore new revenue opportunities

Acquiring is the process that enables physical and online businesses to accept electronic payments. While credit, debit, and prepaid cards are the most common, other transactions are also processed by acquirers. In this context, frictionless payments are a significant innovation in the acquiring industry.

Acquiring is a process that involves several steps to ensure that electronic payments occur securely and quickly. When a customer makes a card purchase, for instance, the acquirer captures the data through payment terminals, validates it with the card network, authorizes the payment with the issuing bank, and finally transfers the funds to the merchant.

First, the payment is accepted, with data captured through payment terminals. Next, the transaction is authorized, validating the purchase. Then, settlement confirms the amounts, and finally, financial clearing transfers the funds to the merchant’s account, completing the process securely and efficiently.

In recent years, the acquiring market has undergone significant changes due to new regulations and technological advancements. This has opened space for new players to enter the sector. Another key factor driving this growth has been the popularization of the Acquiring as a Service (AaaS) model.

The acquirer is the company responsible for managing the entire payment process, from identification to the completion of the transaction between the consumer and the merchant. This process typically begins at the time of purchase, using a payment terminal provided by the acquirer or another capture method.

To operate legally, the acquirer must be authorized by the Brazilian Central Bank and primarily serves commercial establishments, facilitating the receipt of electronic payments.

To become an acquirer, it is necessary, among other requirements, to obtain authorization from the Central Bank and establish agreements with card networks, complying with all market regulations. A simplified way to enter this market is through the Acquiring as a Service (AaaS) model, which offers ready-to-use and scalable solutions, allowing companies to provide acquiring services without having to invest in their own infrastructure.

An acquiring company facilitates payments for merchants, enabling them to accept cards and other payment methods they have agreements with. It can also enable sub-acquirers, who act as intermediaries between merchants and the acquirer. Additionally, it is responsible for installing payment terminals, such as card machines, which are sold or rented to merchants. Finally, the company processes and settles transactions, ensuring that payments are correctly transferred to merchants.

In the Acquiring as a Service (AaaS) model, companies do not need to invest in their own infrastructure to process payments. Instead, they can rely on a specialized provider, such as Dock, which offers all the necessary tools for this operation.

This provider assumes responsibility for regulatory compliance, obtaining licenses, and integrating with card networks, in addition to providing a technological platform to ensure secure and efficient transactions.

Various businesses can benefit from an acquiring solution, from physical and digital retailers to banks and franchises looking to expand their services. With the Acquiring as a Service model, companies in sectors such as healthcare, construction, and e-commerce can offer faster payments and improve customer experience.

Operating as an acquirer in the acquiring market can be highly profitable. In addition to facilitating transactions between merchants, card networks, and banks, acquirers earn revenue from fees charged per processed payment, terminal rentals, and interest on early settlements. With a high transaction volume, this business model can generate significant revenues and strengthen the company’s position in the financial sector.

In digital transactions, acquiring begins when a consumer makes an online purchase through a website or app. The acquirer collects and validates the transaction details, confirming its authenticity with the card network or another payment method. Once approved, the payment is processed, and the amount is transferred to the merchant.

For physical transactions, the process generally involves using payment terminals, such as card machines, to capture data at the point of sale.

A payment gateway is the technology that connects merchants, customers, and banks, ensuring that transaction data is processed securely. The acquirer, on the other hand, is the company responsible for finalizing the transaction by authorizing and settling the payment. While the gateway facilitates communication between the parties, the acquirer completes the financial transaction.

The difference between an acquirer and a sub-acquirer lies in operational control. The acquirer deals directly with card networks and sets transaction fees and conditions. A sub-acquirer, however, acts as an intermediary, depending on an acquirer to process payments and lacking full operational autonomy. Being an acquirer allows for greater customization and revenue opportunities.

Yes, to accept credit or debit card payments in an e-commerce store, an acquirer is essential. This company acts as an intermediary between the merchant, banks, and card networks, processing transactions securely and efficiently. Moreover, having a robust acquiring service helps prevent fraud and ensures the correct transfer of funds.

Payments can be captured in two ways: physical and online. In the physical model, the customer makes an in-person payment using a terminal, such as a card machine, commonly used in stores and restaurants. The online model occurs in purchases made over the internet, where there is no direct contact between the buyer and seller. This model is used in e-commerce and apps, offering payment options such as credit cards, bank slips, and digital wallets. Each format serves different consumer profiles, providing greater convenience for both parties.

A payment link, or checkout link, is a practical way to receive payments. This personalized URL directs the customer to a secure checkout page to complete the purchase and can be shared via WhatsApp, email, or social media. Besides the link format, it can also appear as a buy button on websites or as a QR Code.

Yes, Pix can be integrated into an acquiring solution, expanding payment options for customers. With this integration, it is possible to accept Pix payments in both physical and online stores, as well as in payment links. This innovation provides greater convenience for buyers and improves efficiency for sellers, enhancing user experience and increasing conversion rates.