Technology
Visa Buys Stake in Interswitch to Raise Value to $1bn
By Modupe Gbadeyanka
World leader in digital payments, Visa Incorporated, has invested millions of Dollars in leading technology-driven company in Nigeria, Interswitch Limited to raise the valuation of the valuable African FinTech business to $1 billion.
A statement from Interswitch confirmed that Visa is joining its fold as a minority shareholder, with the transactions, expected to close by Q1 2020, subject to relevant regulatory approvals.
There had been reports that Visa invested about $200 million in Interswitch to take 20 percent controlling stake in the Nigerian firm, but Interswitch, which did not confirm this, said the strategic partnership between both organisations will further advance the digital payments ecosystem across Africa.
However, it noted that Visa will join globally renowned investors, Helios Investment Partners, TA Associates and IFC, as shareholders in Interswitch, alongside company management.
The statement said the deal will create an instant acceptance network across Africa to benefit consumers and merchants and facilitate greater connectivity for communities. Both parties will also retain their respective independent solutions, and Interswitch will retain its scheme neutral strategy.
Founder and CEO of Interswitch, Mr Mitchell Elegbe, stated that, “Sub-Saharan Africa is the fastest growing payments market in the world, with growth driven by a young and dynamic population, rapidly evolving consumer behaviour, and an increasing desire for payment solutions that can be accepted across the continent and abroad. I am delighted that Interswitch has formed a partnership with Visa, with whom we plan to drive the next phase of transformation in the African payments landscape.”
On his part, Regional President of CEMEA at Visa, Mr Andrew Torre, said, “Africa is a priority region for us, and we continually seek strategic partnerships with local players to further strengthen our leadership position and enhance the payments ecosystem across the continent.
“This partnership aligns with our global strategy to work with and invest in innovative partners, and we look forward to working with Interswitch to provide new consumer and merchant experiences and support the rapid growth of digital commerce across Africa.”
Co-founder and Managing Partner of Helios, Mr Babatunde Soyoye, noted that, “A strategic investment by Visa, the world’s leader in digital payments, into Interswitch is a substantial endorsement of the Company’s expertise in African payments.
“As an active investor in leading African payments businesses, we see tremendous opportunities to digitise payments across the continent and have worked closely with Interswitch’s management team to build a high quality and scalable platform geared to address some of these opportunities. We look forward to further collaboration with the Company alongside Visa.”
Founded in 2002, Interswitch disrupted the traditional cash-based payments value chain in Nigeria by introducing electronic payments processing and switching services.
Today, Interswitch is a leading player in Nigeria’s developing financial ecosystem with omni-channel capabilities across the payments value chain, processing over 500 million transactions per month in May 2019.
In 2018, electronic payments in Africa accounted for only 12 percent of transactions by volume, compared to 54 per cent in Europe and 79 per cent in North America. Sub-Saharan Africa is the fastest-growing digital payments market in the world, with electronic payment volume expected to grow at a CAGR of approximately 35 percent from 2018 to 2023 in the region (excluding South Africa). This progress is expected to be driven by the deepening payments infrastructure, population and urbanisation growth, GDP growth above the global average, increased mobile and internet penetration, as well as a supportive regulatory landscape for electronic payments and financial inclusion.
Interswitch’s core market, Nigeria, is the largest economy in Africa with a rapidly growing electronic payments market. Point of Sale (POS) and ATM transactions per adult grew at a CAGR of 94 percent and 59 percent from 2013 to 2018, respectively.
In Nigeria, there were only 11 card transactions per adult per annum in 2018 compared to 92 in markets like South Africa, 126 in Brazil and 465 in the UK. Despite this market under-penetration, POS card transactions in Nigeria are expected to grow at a CAGR of 63 percent between 2018 and 2023.
In addition to its switching and processing services, Interswitch owns Verve, the largest domestic debit card scheme in Africa with more than 19 million cards activated on its network as of May 2019.
The business also operates Quickteller, a leading multichannel consumer payments platform, driving financial inclusion across Nigeria with over 270,000 access points, as of 2018, from which consumers can initiate peer-to-peer transfers, bill payments, airtime purchases, and other e-commerce transactions, processing over 42 million transactions monthly as of July 31, 2019 (equivalent to over N560 billion ($1.5 billion) through direct, indirect and Paypoint channels).
Interswitch’s unique market capabilities and strong consumer proposition, has enabled it to deliver consecutive years of sustainable profitable growth.
A new virtual server arrives almost empty, but it is already reachable from the internet. After choosing a plan through antihost.com, the first hour should create safe access, patch the system, restrict traffic, and establish recovery. This vps setup guide follows that order. It gives you a clean base for a website, application, bot, or private service.
Establish Safe SSH Access
Log in through the provider’s initial method, then create a named user with sudo rights. Add an SSH public key for that account. Open a second terminal and test the key before changing root or password settings.
After the new login works, disable direct root access. Password authentication can also be disabled when every administrator has a tested key. Keep the provider’s recovery console documented in case a firewall rule or SSH change goes wrong.
Patch the operating system before installing applications. Remove packages you do not need. Set the correct time zone and confirm time synchronization, since inaccurate clocks make logs and certificates harder to troubleshoot.
This vps setup tutorial uses a simple sequence:
- Create an administrator and test sudo.
- Configure SSH keys and a recovery path.
- Install security updates and reboot if required.
- Enable a default-deny firewall policy.
- Install only the services the project needs.
- Configure backups and basic monitoring.
Add the Firewall, Domain, and TLS
Allow SSH before enabling the firewall. Then open only application ports. A web server normally needs TCP 80 and 443. A database should usually listen on a private interface or local socket.
Ubuntu’s firewall guide explains that UFW is its default firewall configuration tool. It can create host rules for IPv4 and IPv6 while hiding much of the lower-level syntax. Always review the resulting status after a change.
Point the domain’s DNS records to the server address. DNS updates can take time to appear across resolvers. Once the name resolves correctly, request a TLS certificate and enable automatic renewal. Test renewal rather than assuming the timer works.
| Step | Success signal | Recovery option |
| SSH key | New session opens | Provider console |
| Firewall | Required ports respond | Existing shell session |
| DNS | Name resolves to VPS | Restore previous record |
| TLS | Trusted certificate loads | Review web-server logs |
Finish With Backups and Monitoring
Store backups outside the VPS. Include application data, configuration files, and the database. Keep several versions and run a real restoration on a test machine. Snapshots are convenient, but they should not be the only copy.
Monitoring should answer a few basic questions. Is the service reachable? Is disk space shrinking quickly? Are memory pressure, failed logins, or repeated restarts increasing? Send alerts somewhere the team actually watches.
Set a modest alert threshold at first, then tune it from real usage. Too many harmless notifications train people to ignore the one message that matters.
Modern cloud images often use cloud-init during their early boot stages. The cloud-init documentation describes how it discovers its data source, configures networking, and applies user configuration. Review provider startup scripts so later automation does not overwrite manual choices.
For market context, current VPS hosting recommendations may highlight provider concerns worth testing. Still, a recommendation cannot replace a restore drill or latency check.
A dependable vps setup stays understandable. Record users, ports, DNS changes, backup locations, and renewal jobs. Revisit this vps setup guide after major deployments. When the basics remain documented and tested, later growth becomes routine rather than a rescue mission.
CurseForge makes building a custom Minecraft world surprisingly easy. You can learn how to make a modded Minecraft server with CurseForge extremely fast, as it’s a piece of cake. The article explains creating a modpack, checking mod dependencies, and exporting files for server use. By the end, launching a custom world feels quick and stress-free.
Building Your Modpack Inside the CurseForge App
Getting started means opening the CurseForge launcher first. Create a new custom profile and pick a Minecraft version. This becomes the base for the whole modpack.
Browsing mods comes next, and CurseForge hosts thousands of options. Searching through the best minecraft mods curseforge offers helps narrow down solid choices fast. Categories like tech, magic, and adventure make filtering simple.
Adding mods takes one click inside the launcher. Each mod gets added straight to the custom profile automatically. Building a balanced pack works better with a clear theme in mind.
Anyone planning a bigger project should look into minecraft forge server hosting early. Knowing hosting limits helps decide how many mods fit comfortably.
Checking Dependencies So Mods Don’t Break Each Other
Mods often rely on shared libraries to function properly. Missing one library causes crashes right at launch. CurseForge flags these dependency issues automatically inside the launcher.
A yellow warning icon usually signals a missing dependency. Clicking it shows exactly which library needs adding. Installing the suggested fix takes seconds most of the time.
Conflicts happen when two mods edit the same game feature. These clashes cause crashes or strange glitches during gameplay. Removing one mod at a time helps identify the real problem.
| Issue Type | Common Cause | Fix |
| Missing Dependency | Shared library not installed | Add suggested library |
| Mod Conflict | Two mods edit same feature | Remove one mod |
| Version Mismatch | Mod built for different version | Update or replace mod |
Testing the modpack locally before moving to a server saves time. Many minecraft server hosting services also run compatibility checks during upload.
Exporting Your Modpack for Server Use
Once the pack runs smoothly, exporting comes next. CurseForge includes a built-in export tool for server files. This generates a separate server pack automatically.
The export process skips client-only files like resource packs. Only server-required mods and configs get included. This keeps the final package lean and focused.
Vazkii once shared thoughts on modding freedom. In an interview with CurseForge, Vazkii said “The primary benefit of being a modder is the sheer level of flexibility and agility you have when it comes to scheduling and implementation.” That flexibility shows up in how CurseForge handles exports.
After exporting, a zip file appears with everything needed. This file becomes the foundation for the live server setup.
Moving the Modpack to Your Server and Launching It
Uploading the exported files starts the final stage. Most control panels allow drag-and-drop uploads or FTP transfers. Extracting the zip file inside the server folder comes next.
Running the included install script sets up the loader automatically. This step also downloads any remaining server-side files needed. Patience helps here, since larger packs take a few minutes.
Once installation finishes, starting the server becomes simple. The start command launches the world using the custom modpack. Checking the console log confirms everything loaded correctly.
Choosing solid minecraft server hosting custom modpack support makes this whole process smoother. Good hosts handle memory allocation and updates without much manual work.
Building a server with CurseForge turns a complex task into something manageable. Anyone can now confidently handle how to make a modded Minecraft server with CurseForge. With a tested modpack, clean export, and smooth upload, a custom world becomes ready to explore.
Player safety sits at the core of every session on Xe8. From the moment you register, the platform applies bank-grade encryption, independent fraud screening, and built-in responsible gaming tools so you stay in control of your time and funds. Licensed under the Curaçao Gaming Control Board, Xe8 keeps player balances in segregated accounts and requires identity checks before withdrawals. You can explore every safeguard yourself when by visiting xe8.com directly.
Responsible Gaming Protocols Supporting Fair Player Protection
Xe8 builds protection into the account from day one rather than treating it as an optional extra. These measures reduce fraud risk, help you manage spending, and give vulnerable players a clear way to step back. Read the complete safety guidelines for the full picture of how the platform operates here xe8.com/en/player-safety/.
Mandatory KYC Verification for Fraud Mitigation
Identity verification (KYC) is required before your first withdrawal. This standard anti-money-laundering step confirms you are of legal age (21 or older) and that the account belongs to the real person behind it. Completing KYC early prevents unauthorized withdrawals and protects both you and the platform from account takeover. Submit documents through Account Settings → Account Verification; the process is straightforward and keeps your funds secure once approved.
Automated Deposit Limits and Session Reminders
Every account includes deposit limits you can set for daily, weekly or monthly periods. Once the limit is reached, further deposits are blocked until the period resets. Session reminders appear during play to show how long you have been active, giving you a natural pause point. These tools take effect immediately when you activate them and sit in your account controls, ready whenever you decide to use them.
Self-Control Tools for Vulnerable Gambling Users
Self-exclusion and time-outs let you pause activity for a chosen period. During exclusion you cannot deposit or play, though you can still withdraw remaining balances after any required checks. The feature is available from registration and takes effect as soon as you turn it on. Support can guide you through activation if you prefer help setting it up.
Essential Steps to Secure Your Mobile Wallet Profile
Your mobile wallet and login details are high-value targets for scammers, so a few consistent habits make a real difference. Follow these practical steps to keep your profile locked down and reduce the chance of unauthorised access.
- Always start at xe8.com, select your region, and follow the official links to the play platform. Never type unfamiliar addresses or trust ads and forwarded messages.
- Install the official app only from the dedicated download page. Avoid any APK shared in Telegram groups, forums or ads that ask you to “allow unknown sources.”
- Create a strong, unique password and enable any available two-factor options. Never reuse the same password on other sites.
- Complete KYC early so withdrawals can process smoothly and the account is fully verified against fraud.
- Log out after each session on shared devices and keep your device software updated. Watch for any login alerts and act on them immediately.
- Never share passwords, OTPs or account details in chat. Genuine Xe8 support will never ask for them.
These habits align with the platform’s own advice: the strongest protection is a player who can recognise the real Xe8 and keeps credentials private.
Key Player Protection Features Overview
Xe8 layers several independent safeguards around every account. Each one addresses a different risk, and all of them work quietly in the background so you can focus on the games. Here is what each feature does and why it matters.
- 256-bit SSL Encryption: Every login, deposit and withdrawal travels under 256-bit SSL, the same standard banks use. This encrypts data in transit so it cannot be read if intercepted. Enable it simply by using the official site or app; the protection is automatic and continuous.
- ThreatMetrix Fraud Screening: Sessions are checked by ThreatMetrix for suspicious devices and behaviour patterns that signal account takeover. The system acts before a threat reaches your balance. You do not need to configure anything; the screening runs on every session by default.
- Segregated Player Funds: Your balance sits in accounts kept separate from the company’s operating money. This licensing requirement means your funds remain yours even if the business faces operational issues. The separation is automatic once you deposit.
- Independently Tested Games: Games come from licensed studios and are certified by GLI, iTech Labs and BMM. Outcomes are produced by the studio’s software, not by Xe8, so no result can be altered. Check the providers page for the full list of audited titles.
- Responsible Gaming Controls: Deposit limits, loss limits, session reminders, time-outs and exclusion period sit inside every account from registration. Activate them in Account Settings whenever you want boundaries; they take effect at once and are respected without pressure to reverse them.
How Official Customer Support Assists with Security Issues
Last but not least, real people staff Xe8 support every day in English, Bahasa Malaysia and Simplified Chinese. They handle security questions, verification helps, problem gambling risks, and reports of suspicious activity through live chat, WhatsApp and Telegram. Here is how they typically assist.
Verifying Official XE8 Channels
If a link, message or app looks off, contact support through the official live chat or Telegram handle. They confirm the genuine addresses and can flag look-alike sites for removal. Acting early stops most phishing attempts before damage occurs.
Guiding KYC Completion
Support walks players through document upload and common rejection reasons. Completing verification early avoids delays on the first withdrawal and strengthens the account against fraud. Reach them via live chat for the quickest response.
Handling Unfamiliar Login Alerts
Report any unexpected login attempt immediately. Support can help lock the account, force a password reset and review recent activity. Quick reporting limits exposure and restores control faster.
Activating Self-Exclusion or Limits
If you need a break, support can confirm the self-exclusion or deposit-limit steps and ensure the block is active. They will not pressure you to stay; the process is designed to honour your choice at once.
Reporting Fake Sites or Impersonators
Send screenshots, URLs or message details through official channels. The team works to have fraudulent pages taken down and warns other players. Keeping evidence helps both you and the wider community.
Conclusion
Xe8 treats player safety as a structural requirement rather than a marketing claim. Licensed oversight, bank-grade encryption, independent game testing and always-available responsible gaming tools work together to keep control in your hands. Start with the official channels, complete verification early, and use the built-in limits whenever you need them. The result is an environment where entertainment stays entertainment.
FAQ
What should I do if I notice an unfamiliar login attempt on my account?
Stop any further activity, change your password immediately through the official site or app, and contact support via live chat or Telegram with the details. They can review the session, lock the account if needed, and guide you through securing it. Also change the password on any other site where you reused it.
Is personal verification data stored securely on the network servers?
Yes. All data travels under 256-bit SSL encryption, and sessions are screened by ThreatMetrix. Payment credentials are processed through secure provider APIs rather than stored on Xe8 servers, and player funds remain in segregated accounts. Identity documents submitted for KYC follow the same protected handling required by the licence.
How does the self-exclusion process work if a player needs a temporary break?
Log into your account, go to the responsible gambling or account settings section, and select the self-exclusion or cooling-off period you need. The restriction takes effect immediately: you cannot deposit or play, though you can still request withdrawal of any remaining balance after checks. Support can confirm activation if you prefer assistance, and marketing to the account is paused for the duration.
Business Information
Name: Xe8
Website: https://xe8.com/
Address: 36A, Jln Diplomatik, Presint 15, 62000 Putrajaya, Wilayah Persekutuan Putrajaya
Phone: +60193537524
