SHAZAM celebrates 50 years of innovation in 2026

From pioneering the PIN-debit point-of-sale transaction to introducing a national debit product and helping financial institutions significantly reduce fraud losses, SHAZAM^® has been an innovative payments leader for 50 years.

Since its beginning in 1976, SHAZAM has focused on serving banks and credit unions through its member-owned model. SHAZAM is owned by its clients, most of whom choose to become members. Every member financial institution, regardless of asset size, receives an equal vote — ensuring a shared voice in the company’s future and the products and services it invests in.

“SHAZAM’s membership model is unique in the financial services industry,” said SHAZAM President and CEO Paul Waltz. “Serving our members — not shareholders — allows us to make long-term decisions that are in the best interests of community financial institutions.”

As SHAZAM marks 50 years of innovation, the organization continues to evolve. In recent years, SHAZAM has reshaped its corporate brand identity, decoupling products and services to unlock greater flexibility and growth. The company is also placing a strong emphasis on DigiHive™ digital banking, integrating the platform with third-party cores to expand market reach while preserving choice and flexibility for financial institutions.

Additionally, in support of community financial institutions, SHAZAM has recently been leading a stablecoin task force. The cross-network group of industry leaders is assessing the regulatory, economic and competitive impacts of stablecoins on deposits, with a focus on preserving deposit stability, sustaining local lending and promoting a level playing field. The task force plans to release a report soon and will encourage financial institutions to share feedback on how the industry should move forward.

“I look forward to what’s ahead in the year to come,” said Terry Dooley, SHAZAM EVP and COO. “Through research and strategic planning, we’ve built a strong foundation for SHAZAM’s long-term success.” 

About SHAZAM
SHAZAM, Inc. is an innovator in debit card transaction processing and a leader in the U.S. payments space. The independent, member-owned organization supports banks, credit unions, fintechs and other businesses by enabling the secure and efficient movement of funds across U.S. payment rail systems. For more than 50 years, SHAZAM has reinvested profits into products and services used daily by its clients. As real-time payments continue to evolve, SHAZAM remains focused on advancing the technology that powers fast, secure money movement.

Media contact: PR@shazam.net