Digital consumption with cards grows 15%: see the opportunities and risks
In recent years, the digitalization of purchasing has gained momentum in virtually every sector. Recent reports from financial institutions indicate that digital consumption with card grows 15% compared to the previous year.
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This movement reveals not only the consolidation of e-commerce, but also a profound change in consumer behavior, which increasingly prefers the convenience and security of digital payments.
This growth shows how cards have become central tools in the economic and cultural transformation of consumption.
Today, it's not just about paying for a purchase, but about participating in a digital ecosystem that offers rewards, personalization, and new relationship models between companies and customers.
But what's behind this growth? What opportunities are opening up for businesses and consumers? And, most importantly, what risks need to be considered in this new scenario?
Summary
- The new dynamics of digital consumption
- The role of cards in transforming retail
- Growth opportunities for businesses and consumers
- Loyalty through benefits
- Financial inclusion and democratization of access
- Innovation in payment methods
- Risks and challenges of accelerated digital consumption
- Fraud and cybersecurity
- Uncontrolled debt and credit
- Regulatory Challenges and Data Privacy
- Practical examples and cases from the Brazilian market
- How companies can prepare for this change
- Conclusion
- Comparison table: physical vs. digital consumption
- Frequently Asked Questions
The new dynamics of digital consumption
The rise of digital consumption goes beyond convenience. Today, it represents a true ecosystem of interactions that connects companies, consumers, and financial intermediaries.
According to the Brazilian Association of Credit Card and Services Companies (Abecs), card transactions totaled more than R$1.4 trillion in 2024, with a large portion of this amount related to digital operations.
This data shows that cards are no longer just a means of payment, but have become central to the digital economy. Streaming platforms, transportation apps, subscription services, and even public services now rely on this method for convenience and traceability.
Furthermore, the pandemic accelerated digital transformation and consolidated online shopping habits.
Even after the return to in-person activities, consumers maintained their preference for digital, reinforcing that the convenience gained would not be easily abandoned.
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The role of cards in transforming retail
Cards have become protagonists of this revolution for three main reasons: widespread acceptance, security and technological integration.
The popularization of digital wallets, such as Apple Pay, Google Pay and local bank wallets, brought even more dynamism to this market.
An important point is that digital cards have reduced the need for physical cash, expanding the reach of digital consumption.
Today, the simple act of registering a card on a platform allows consumers to have immediate access to global purchases, breaking down geographical barriers and expanding consumption opportunities.
This transformation directly impacts physical retail. Stores that previously relied solely on local traffic can now operate as marketplaces, expanding their operations nationwide.
Integrating cards with omnichannel solutions further strengthens this scenario, making the shopping experience seamless in any environment.
Growth opportunities for businesses and consumers
Loyalty through benefits
Digital credit cards with points programs, cashback, and exclusive discounts have created a cycle of loyalty between consumers and brands.
For example, companies that offer 5% cashback on online purchases not only attract new customers but also ensure that consumers return to buy again.
Furthermore, more robust loyalty programs allow you to customize benefits according to the consumer profile.
This increases the feeling of exclusivity and engagement, creating emotional bonds that go beyond price.
When a customer feels they “gain” something in return, the likelihood of them switching to the competition decreases.
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Financial inclusion and democratization of access
Digital consumption is also opening doors for those who were previously excluded from the traditional financial system.
Prepaid cards, fintechs, and digital accounts allow millions of people to participate in the digital economy without relying on large banks.
This movement helps reduce inequalities and expand opportunities, especially in regions further away from large centers.
Microentrepreneurs, for example, can sell online and receive payments from customers anywhere in Brazil, strengthening the local economy.
Innovation in payment methods
The integration of cards with the Pix, smart installments and even “buy now, pay later” solutions (BNPL – Buy Now, Pay Later) expand the consumer's choice possibilities.
Companies that invest in these solutions stand out in an increasingly competitive market.
An example of this is the growth of fintechs that offer interest-free installments combined with cashback programs.
These initiatives combine convenience and financial advantage, strengthening consumers' preference for digital means over physical cash.
Risks and challenges of accelerated digital consumption
Fraud and cybersecurity
As digital card consumption grows 15%, the sophistication of online fraud also grows.
Brazil is among the countries with the highest number of phishing attempts, and this requires constant investment in authentication and monitoring.
Digital security experts emphasize that protection should not be the sole responsibility of companies.
Consumers also need to adopt good practices, such as avoiding public networks for shopping, using strong passwords, and enabling real-time notifications.
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Uncontrolled debt and credit
The ease of purchasing with just one click can turn into a trap.
According to data from the Central Bank, credit cards are one of the main sources of debt for Brazilian families, especially when they involve long installments and high interest rates.
This risk is exacerbated by digital advertising, which encourages immediate consumption. Many consumers end up buying on impulse, without assessing their true ability to pay, and enter debt cycles that are difficult to reverse.
Regulatory Challenges and Data Privacy
With digitalization, the amount of sensitive data shared online has increased exponentially.
This sparks debates about privacy, regulation, and the need for stricter laws, such as the LGPD in Brazil and the GDPR in Europe.
The challenge is balancing innovation with security. While data enables personalization and better offers, a breach can seriously compromise consumer trust and a company's reputation.
Practical examples and cases from the Brazilian market
A relevant example comes from the online supermarket sector. Chains like Pão de Açúcar and Carrefour have reported a significant increase in the use of digital cards in their apps.
Additionally, Brazilian fintechs like Nubank and Inter have rapidly expanded their customer base by offering cards with no annual fees and exclusive benefits for digital purchases.
Another interesting case is that of small entrepreneurs who use platforms such as iFood and Shopee.
With the integration of digital cards, even local businesses can compete with large retailers, strengthening the economy of micro and small business owners.
This movement also reveals an essential point: the democratization of digital consumption is not restricted to those with high purchasing power.
Even lower-income consumers now have access to digital credit and, consequently, to previously inaccessible products and services.
How companies can prepare for this change
Companies that want to stand out in this scenario need to go beyond simply accepting cards. Some effective strategies include:
- Investment in security: implement two-step authentication and digital security certifications.
- Transparency: educate consumers about fees, interest and installment conditions.
- User experience: optimize the purchasing journey, reducing friction at digital checkout.
- Data as a strategy: use consumption information to offer personalized recommendations, always respecting privacy.
Another key point is keeping up with global trends. Digital retail is constantly transforming, and practices such as integrating artificial intelligence and augmented reality into the purchasing process may become competitive differentiators in the coming years.
Conclusion
The fact that the digital consumption with card grows 15% is just the tip of the iceberg of a larger transformation: the consolidation of a consumption model centered on convenience, personalization and digital integration.
The opportunities are vast, but the risks also require attention. Companies need to adapt responsibly, while consumers must adopt conscious financial habits.
The future of consumption won't just be digital—it will be smart, safe, and inclusive.
Comparison table: physical vs. digital consumption
| Aspect | Physical Consumption | Digital Consumption with Card |
|---|---|---|
| Convenience | Limited by geography | 24/7 access anywhere |
| Security | Less traceable | Authentication and monitoring |
| Financial inclusion | Access restrictions | Prepaid cards and fintechs |
| Shopping experience | Traditional and in-person | Personalized and integrated |
| Debt risk | Moderate | High if poorly managed |
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What does the 15% growth in digital card consumption mean?
This growth represents the increase in the volume of transactions made online using credit, debit and prepaid cards, compared to the previous year.
2. Does this increase only benefit large companies?
No. Small entrepreneurs and even local businesses also benefit, as digital technology expands reach and simplifies payments.
3. What are the main risks for the consumer?
Risks include digital fraud, debt from excessive credit use, and concerns about personal data privacy.
4. How can I buy online safely with a card?
Choose trusted websites, enable two-step authentication, use virtual cards for specific transactions, and regularly monitor your bill.
5. Will digital card consumption continue to grow?
Everything indicates that it will. The trend is for digital media and cards to become even more integrated, with new solutions such as BNPL, digital wallets, and greater acceptance across different sectors.
