Real-time payment solution unveiled by ING: competitor to PayPal named Wero launched
As of late November, ING Germany has integrated Wero, a European alternative to PayPal, into its banking app. This move marks a significant step towards enhancing customer experience and promoting the development of European payment systems.
Integration Details
In August 2025, ING Germany announced its plans to introduce Wero to its app, making it one of the first major German banks to fully integrate the service [1]. Wero allows users to transfer money in real-time using a mobile number or email address, eliminating the need for IBAN numbers [1][3].
Transfers are processed within seconds, without the need for intermediaries or wallets. This feature is part of ING's strategy to enhance customer experience through seamless transactions [3].
Benefits to Customers
By integrating Wero directly into the ING app, customers can manage their finances more easily, as they don't need separate apps for money transfers [3]. Transactions are processed rapidly, allowing recipients to receive funds almost instantly [1][3].
Wero is expected to expand beyond person-to-person transactions, enabling online and in-store payments by 2026, further enhancing its utility for customers [1][3].
A Step Towards European Financial Independence
ING Germany's CEO, Stoy, stated that Europeans should develop their own payment systems to reduce dependence on others [2]. The integration of Wero into ING's app aligns with this vision, offering German customers a convenient, fast, and flexible way to manage their money, in line with ING's goal of providing innovative financial services.
With Wero currently available in Germany, France, and Belgium, and negotiations for Austria underway, the service is poised to become a significant player in the European payment landscape. As of now, PayPal has 35 million active customer accounts in Germany alone, compared to EPI's total registered users [4]. However, with its focus on Europe and its commitment to customer convenience, Wero presents a compelling alternative.
[1] - ING Germany Introduces Wero to Its Banking App [2] - ING Germany CEO Calls for European Payment Systems Independence [3] - ING Germany Enhances Customer Experience with Wero Integration [4] - EPI: The Service Behind Wero Reaches 42.5 Million Registered Users
- The integration of Wero into ING Germany's banking app is part of their economic and social policy, aimed at promoting the development of European payment systems and providing customers with a more convenient, fast, and flexible way to manage their finances, thereby reducing Europe's dependence on other payment systems.
- As ING Germany continues to expand the uses of Wero, such as online and in-store payments, it will not only enhance its utility for customers but also challenge players like PayPal in the European financial market, particularly in Germany where PayPal has a significant presence.
