Ovanti Partners with Shift4 to Deploy BNPL Services Across U.S. Merchant Network

Ovanti has entered into a multi-year agreement with U.S.-based payment processor Shift4 Payments to launch its buy-now-pay-later (BNPL) service in the North American market. The initial contract allows for up to three years, with options to extend annually. Under the partnership, Ovanti’s BNPL services will be distributed to Shift4’s network of more than 100,000 merchants across the U.S. and Canada.

The BNPL offering uses real-time cash flow and income data rather than traditional credit scoring models. The model is intended to provide access to financing for consumers who may not meet conventional FICO-based credit requirements. Ovanti’s settlement mechanism relies on stablecoins converted into fiat currency, aiming to streamline merchant settlements without relying on traditional debt facilities.

Shift4 processes over US$260 billion in annual transactions, providing Ovanti with access to an extensive merchant base. The collaboration also allows Ovanti to leverage debt warehouse facilities of up to US$100 million to support transaction volume.

Ovanti has reported a net loss of AUD 7.8 million in 2024, with a negative Altman Z-score of -0.92. The company raised AUD 6 million late in 2024, retaining a cash buffer of AUD 5.4 million for U.S. expansion. Ovanti’s market capitalization is AUD 8.1 million, with a stock price of AUD 0.002 at the time of reporting.

Leadership for the U.S. operations is under CEO Simon Keast, previously CFO of Zip Co U.S., while Ovanti’s board has added fintech-experienced directors to oversee strategy and execution. The company targets a total BNPL transaction volume of USD 500 million by 2025, with expansion plans to onboard additional merchants and enterprise partners.

The partnership represents Ovanti’s entry into the U.S. BNPL market and relies on alternative credit assessment models, merchant integration, and cash settlement mechanisms to establish operational capacity and expand its presence in North America.