The partnership governs the integration of Aconite's EMV Script Processor into VisionPLUS (First Data's one-source global solution for all credit cards, lending and processing activities) with initial implementation at First Data's EMEA processing centre in Basildon.

This partnership also allows for all First Data VisionPLUS licence customers worldwide to adopt the EMV Script Processor as part of their migration strategy.

Mike Woods, Aconite's CEO says, "This strategic partnership reflects the rapid global market adoption of EMV and the strong customer demand for an integrated EMV card processing and script management solution, providing full risk and PIN management capabilities. Together, Aconite and First Data will offer their clients a leading solution with a powerful Return on Investment (ROI) that provides:

• Automated credit and risk management of card portfolios through real time dynamic card profiling
• An advanced EMV technology solution that enables First Data customers to increase the control of credit and debit card-related risk and have extensive card management reporting capabilities at their disposal
• A scaleable solution to support clients evolving card risk management strategies
• Significant benefits through reducing card fraud and bad debt

Woods notes, "We are delighted to be working with First Data to deliver our highly advanced EMV technology solutions and expertise. The demand from First Data customers substantiated our view that the business case for EMV extends beyond fraud to include serious challenges affecting card issuers such as delinquency and bad debt. The partnership aligns perfectly with our global expansion strategy to accelerate our international growth through strategic partnerships."

Nick Barnes, Vice President of First Data adds: "The selection of Aconite's ESP product exemplifies First Data's ongoing strategy of continuous improvement by identifying best of breed technologies that augment our world-class VisionPLUS processing solution."