Global provider of localised payment solutions, Boku, has received a Payment Institution licence from the Central Bank of Brazil (BCB). This authorization permits the company to operate as both a payment initiator and an emoney issuer, reinforcing its position in Brazil’s market and Open Finance ecosystem. With this licence, Boku plans to launch Pix Automático for merchants in early 2026.

Next-Gen Payment Experiences

Boku now has the capability to support individuals without credit cards in the LATAM region through secure recurring payments for streaming services, subscriptions, and digital goods. This move supports Brazil’s push towards digitalization in the payments sector and broader financial inclusion.

Pix, introduced by the BCB, is widely used in Brazil with more than 76% of individuals relying on it as their preferred payment method, especially among younger consumers who use digital-first platforms like Nubank. Since its launch, Pix accounts for a significant 45% of all payments and 30% of e-commerce transactions in the country, contributing to 20% of Brazil’s transaction value.

Pix Automático is designed to facilitate recurring automated payments for subscriptions and regular bills, catering to customer demand for convenience. This aligns with Boku’s 2024-2029 Global Ecommerce Report, which notes that 78% of Brazilian respondents would consider switching payment methods if they offer benefits such as lower fees, enhanced security, and ease of use.

Boku emphasized that Pix Automático is a key step in expanding local payment options in Brazil, promoting financial inclusion and simplifying everyday transactions. With Brazil leading a payments revolution, Boku aims to enable secure and accessible alternatives to credit cards for global merchants. Backed by its new Payment Institution licence, Pix Automático is scheduled to launch early in 2026, solidifying Boku’s dedication to innovation and choice in local payments.