Visa
Networks & roles
The largest global card network, headquartered in the US. Operates open-loop card processing with a worldwide network of issuers and acquirers. Sets interchange rates, dispute rules, and the VAMP merchant-monitoring program. The dominant network in most European markets.
In practice.
Visa matters to merchants chiefly through its rules and programs: VAMP monitoring, registration requirements for specific models, and its share of your card mix in most Western markets. Visa and Mastercard thresholds and dispute flows differ in detail, so compliance work has to track both.
Related terms: Mastercard · American Express · VAMP
Networks & roles