Transaction Trends

With ETA’s Strategic Leadership Forum just around the corner, here are seven key highlights to watch for next week in beautiful Dana Point, California at the event that offers the superior point of contact in the payments technology industry.

7. Linking up on the Links

Sponsored by ETA member Wells Fargo, the ETA SLF Golf Tournament is sure to be a memorable way to tee-off this year’s forum. Taking place along the dramatic bluffs of Southern California at the Monarch Beach Golf Links, this challenging par-70 championship oceanfront golf course will provide attendees a compelling and competitive introduction to the Strategic Leadership Forum. Not to mention a key opportunity to do business and make connections. Tee times will start at 8:30 am, and shuttles will be available to take players to the course at 7:15 am from the entrance of the Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort and Spa.

6. Taking Note of the Merchant Perspective on Payments

As part of ETA SLF’s leading-edge agenda, speakers from leading retailers Aaron’s Inc. and Maverik Store will discuss the changes retailers are facing and how they are using technology to drive sales and increase market share – and how their payments providers can help them addresses these challenges and opportunities. From sales channel leaders, to processors, to acquirers and issuers, this panel will provide an important touchpoint on the merchant perspective.

5. 5. Thinking Forward with New Technologies

Maximizing and leveraging technology has brought about significant changes to the payments industry. Most importantly, technology will continue to redefine commerce and support interoperability for payments in truly new ways. Similarly, it’s no secret that the convergence of software and the payments industry has flourished given the value it brings to enhancing commerce. ETA SLF will feature myriad panels that take a wholistic approach to addressing the new frontiers of payments technology.

4. Taking in a Luxurious Resort Setting

The Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort and Spa located in Dana Point, Southern California is the perfect setting for the top echelon of a $6 trillion industry. Located right on the California coast and steps from the Pacific Ocean, this luxury resort and spa offers a blend of executive appointments and beachfront splendor. Between sessions, enjoy beautiful oceanfront views, a 14,000-square-foot spa with fully customizable treatments and sophisticated dining and bar experiences. Or, reserve one of the resort’s private conference rooms to meet privately with fellow industry leaders.

3. Focusing on a Holistic View of Leadership

Fostering and enhancing business success depends on more than savvy deal-making and deft maneuvering. As many industry leaders know, it also depends on smart leadership. ETA SLF’s agenda will take a holistic look at how leadership skills can power ingenuity, growth and success for one’s business and employees. On Wednesday morning, a panel sponsored by WNET will take a look at how using diversity as a strength in this ever changing political, regulatory and business environment is the key to profitability and longevity. Leaders and experts in diversity will share how they have adapted and communicated throughout their careers to build powerful and competitive companies in payments technology. SLF’s closing keynote will explore strategies for payments leaders to have a clear vision for his or her team, while constantly surveying the technology landscape and considering how new innovations might help or hurt their company culture, customer experience, and overarching brand. This Keynote will provide insights into leading your organization through change and disruption. In every industry across the globe, one constant is change. It’s how leaders respond to change that determines their success.

2. A Timely Keynote Discussion from Top Leaders

The payments industry is in a merger and acquisition frenzy. As an industry leader, do you see your business buying, selling, or going it alone? Make an informed decision and learn where our industry is headed. The opening keynote panel — featuring recognized leaders who have made the crucial businesses decisions that you face today — will provide actionable insight on making the right choice to prosper and thrive in the payments industry.

1. Unrivaled Networking Opportunity

At the end of the day, the classic adage always rings true: it’s all about who you know. The payments technology industry is built on lasting partnerships, strong connections and savvy networking. At ETA SLF, the experience has been meticulously curated to create a networking experience unrivaled in the payments technology industry. Built into its agenda are networking receptions and luncheons sponsored by J.P. Morgan, Visa and Vantiv; a hallmark of its location are myriad settings to connect with payments’ top echelon. Enjoy facilitated introductions from ETA’s expert concierge service. At SLF, C-suite leaders, emerging innovators and thought-leaders will cut through the noise by getting to the point.