Wise Expands Real-Time Payout Network Across Central Asia

Wise has announced a significant expansion of its cross-border payment infrastructure in Central Asia, targeting faster settlement times and lower transaction costs for businesses and consumers alike. The move comes as demand for real-time international payments continues to surge across the corridor, driven by growing e-commerce activity and an expanding gig economy workforce. The company's latest infrastructure investment includes direct connections to local banking networks and mobile money platforms, bypassing traditional correspondent banking chains that have historically added days of latency and multiple layers of fees. By establishing direct settlement rails, Wise aims to deliver funds within minutes rather than the industry standard of two to three business days. Industry analysts note that the Central Asia corridor has become one of the most competitive battlegrounds in global payments. Multiple fintech companies have launched or expanded operations in the region over the past twelve months, each vying for market share in a corridor estimated to process over 12 billion dollars annually. The intensifying competition is driving down costs for end users, with average transfer fees falling below three percent for the first time. For small and medium enterprises operating across borders, the improved infrastructure translates directly into better cash flow management and reduced currency conversion costs. Wise's platform now supports 65 currency pairs for the corridor, with real-time exchange rate transparency that eliminates the hidden markups common in traditional banking channels.