Could B2B Payments Reach $224 Trillion Valuation By 2030?

Business-to-business payments are set to top $224 trillion worldwide in 2030, compared with $186 trillion in 2025. This projection comes from Juniper Research, which released its study today. The 20% growth is expected as trade activity builds in fast developing markets.

Virtual cards are predicted to be the fastest growing payment tool. Juniper Research said their transaction value will increase 370% in the next 5 years. Their flexibility and use in procurement systems make them especially attractive for businesses wanting better control.

“Unlocking card acceptance in emerging markets is the linchpin for the next wave of B2B card transaction growth. Supplier acceptance remains a major hurdle, but deploying low-cost acceptance solutions across key supply chain networks will accelerate adoption. This strategy positions virtual cards to ride the strong growth trajectory of emerging markets,” explained Michael Greenwood, Senior Research Analyst at Juniper Research.

The study also ranked the strongest players in the market. Visa, American Express, Mastercard, Discover and FIS came out on top in 2025. These companies are building new card features and extending how virtual cards can be used.

Juniper’s research is based on data from 61 countries, split into domestic and cross-border transactions. It covers different business sizes and payment methods such as cash, cheque, wire transfer, card and instant payments.

 

What Is Driving Account-to-Account Payments?

 

Account-to-account payments are also expected to grow rapidly. According to Juniper Research’s report on 22 September, global A2A transaction value will more than double from $91.5 trillion to $195 trillion in 2030.

The spread of real-time payment systems is the main reason. These systems make payroll, bill settlement and other services possible on the spot. Businesses also benefit from better data sharing, which allows automation and closer control of cash flow.

Recurring payments are another feature on the rise. In the UK, Variable Recurring Payments are being developed for businesses. These allow multiple payments under agreed rules, easing administration. Juniper Research pointed to Brazil, where Pix Automático has seen strong uptake of similar tools.

The A2A research analysed more than 40,000 statistics across 60 countries. It also compared 19 providers and covered hurdles such as limited public knowledge, fraud risks and compatibility with existing systems.

 

 

Which Regions Are Leading The Growth?

 

Developing markets are central to growth in both B2B and A2A systems. Juniper Research said trade and business activity in these regions will push transaction values higher. Cross-border B2B payments are forecast to reach 18 billion by 2030, even as tariffs continue.

Countries that have invested in real-time settlement are more likely to see faster A2A adoption. Where instant systems exist, both consumer-to-business and business-to-business use has grown much faster.

Automation also plays a role. Enhanced data sharing makes it easier for companies to predict cash needs and manage working capital. These services are useful for large corporations and smaller businesses alike.

 

What Does This Mean For Startups?

 

Startups in the payments field are facing one of the largest growth windows in years. Juniper Research included a Future Leaders Index in its B2B study, identifying 18 newer entrants that are gaining attention. These companies are experimenting with cross-border tools, virtual card innovations and digital-first platforms.

For smaller businesses, the fastest way to gain ground is often in niche markets. Startups can develop services for specific sectors such as logistics, e-commerce, or payroll systems, where large providers have been slower to adapt. They can also move quickly in developing economies, which Juniper Research described as the main growth engine for transaction values.

Recurring payments in A2A systems also open a door. Since full deployment is lagging in places like the UK, startups that create reliable solutions could win adoption among businesses looking to cut administrative time. Brazil’s Pix Automático shows that when recurring systems work, uptake is faster.

 

Who Are The Key Players?

 

In B2B payments, Visa, American Express, Mastercard, Discover and FIS lead the field. Juniper Research described them as investing heavily in virtual card features. Their size and reach give them strong influence over payment standards.

“To differentiate, specialists must offer tools that battle the many inefficiencies within B2B payments. B2B payments systems must reduce complexity, not increase it, or vendors will lose out to faster-moving rivals,” Greenwood concluded.

The A2A market is more fragmented. Juniper Research reviewed 19 providers, noting that those building recurring payment tools and stronger data systems are best placed to grow.

According to Thomas Wilson, Research Analyst at Juniper Research: “VRPs represent a scalable recurring payment solution for businesses that will empower them to improve liquidity and optimise cash flow. Beyond VRPs, recurring payments are a key capability that must be developed to better compete with existing payment methods. By targeting emerging markets, vendors can capitalise by aligning with developing regulatory and market trends.”

Both reports from Juniper Research show that the way money moves between businesses is changing fast. Advances in card systems, real-time payments and data-driven services are really evolving how global commerce is conducted.