An acquiring service enables physical and online businesses to accept electronic payments. While credit, debit, and prepaid cards are the most common payment methods, acquirers also process other types of transactions. In this context, frictionless payments are a major innovation in the acquiring industry.

Acquiring is a process that involves several steps to ensure that electronic payments are processed securely and efficiently. When a customer makes a purchase using a card, the acquirer captures the payment data through a terminal, validates it with the card network, obtains authorization from the issuing bank, and finally transfers the funds to the merchant.

The process begins with payment acceptance, where the transaction data is captured by payment terminals. Next comes authorization, where the transaction is validated. After that, settlement confirms the payment amounts, and finally, financial clearing transfers the funds to the merchant’s account, completing the process safely and efficiently.

In recent years, the acquiring market has evolved significantly due to new regulations and technological advancements. These changes have opened the door for new players to enter the market. A key factor driving growth is the rise 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, acquirers must be authorized by the Central Bank. They primarily serve commercial establishments by enabling the acceptance 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 don’t need to build their own payment processing infrastructure. Instead, they rely on specialized providers — such as Dock — that offer the tools and services required for acquiring operations.

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.

Several businesses can benefit from an acquiring solution, from physical and digital retailers to banks and franchises that want 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.

Acting as an acquirer can be highly profitable. In addition to processing transactions between merchants, banks, and card networks, acquirers generate revenue from transaction fees, equipment rentals, and interest on advance payments. With a high volume of operations, this business model offers substantial revenue potential and strengthens a company’s position in the financial ecosystem.

In digital acquiring, the payment process begins when a customer makes an online purchase via a website or app. The acquirer collects and validates the transaction data, confirms its authenticity with the card network, and once approved, processes the payment and transfers the amount to the merchant.

In physical transactions, the process typically involves capturing data via card machines 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.