Structural drivers of card networks charge ahead

The card networks have historically been considered among the best and highest quality business models in public markets. But more recently, the card network stocks have de-rated as investors have grown concerned about perceived threats, from legislation to AI. Matt O'Neill recently reinstated coverage of the payments group and he joins the podcast to discuss these risks and why he believes fears are generally overstated. Relatedly, he discusses what transactions may look like in the future if consumers employ AI agents to do more of their purchasing and how AI may help with product discovery more imminently. We also address Buy Now Pay Later, which may not be the upstart it once was, but it's a segment where we expect compelling growth ahead, as well as an evolving business model.

You may also enjoy listening to the Merrill Perspectives podcast, featuring conversations on the big stories, news and trends affecting your everyday financial life.

"Bank of America" and “BofA Securities” are the marketing names for the global banking businesses and global markets businesses (which includes BofA Global Research) of Bank of America Corporation. Lending, derivatives, and other commercial banking activities are performed globally by banking affiliates of Bank of America Corporation, including Bank of America, N.A., Member FDIC. Securities, trading, research, strategic advisory, and other investment banking and markets activities are performed globally by affiliates of Bank of America Corporation, including, in the United States, BofA Securities, Inc. a registered broker-dealer and Member of FINRA and SIPC, and, in other jurisdictions, by locally registered entities. ©2026 Bank of America Corporation. All rights reserved.

New payment tech unlikely to keep consumers from riding the rails