Shifting to electronic distribution to reduce costs and eliminate fraud

In today's mobile arena, prepaid programs are the fastest growing market. Out of all the mobile subscribers in the world 43%, or more than 538 million, used prepaid services in 2003. A majority of GSM operators have promoted prepaid programs for the last six years, and analyst predict that the U.S. market will increase two-fold from 17 million in 2003 to 36 million 2007.

As the popularity of these programs rise, mobile operators need a secure and reliable method to top-up or replenish prepaid airtime for these subscribers. Electronic distribution methods have far surpassed the voucher, or card-based, methods which were costly, requiring manufacturing, and inventory for both the mobile operator and the retailer.

As the largest provider of prepaid top-up, Euronet can help mobile operators take advantage of electronic distribution of prepaid airtime via point-of-sale (POS) terminals, ATMs and directly from mobile handsets. Customers will appreciate the innovative and convenient method of topping up their prepaid phone. Retailers also appreciate the benefits of electronic distribution, making adoption rates quick.