The year 2025 has been a breakthrough year for the premium and sustainable payments industry. India has seen a sharp rise in the adoption of metal and ultra-premium cards, driven by customers who value durability and a differentiated experience. Increasingly, the physical card itself has become an asset of differentiation and sophistication, a tangible object that communicates identity and strengthens the value proposition versus peers. At the same time, sustainability has shifted from a technical feature to a defining element of modern luxury. Recyclable metals, bio-based materials and responsible manufacturing are no longer add-ons; they are central to how premium products are designed and valued today. Consumers increasingly associate luxury with conscious choices, distinctive craftsmanship and environmental responsibility, creating a new era where every card reflects both individuality and purpose.

What has stood out this year is the clarity of premium consumer behaviour. Metal cards are becoming more popular as symbols of durability, craftsmanship, and sophisticated design. They serve as a tangible contrast to the increasingly digital payments landscape. At the same time, India is solidifying its role as a key manufacturing hub for advanced payment technologies. This is supported by rising investments, increased capacity, and a developing ecosystem dedicated to innovation and responsible production.

Looking ahead to 2026, the priorities for our sector are evident. The transition to sustainable materials will accelerate, physical cards will become more technology-rich, and India will play a far larger role in the global supply chain for premium and eco-friendly payment cards. As customers demand products that combine performance, design and responsibility, our focus at Federal Card Services will be on scaling innovation, deepening R&D in India, and building solutions that set new global benchmarks.

Matías Gainza Eurnekian, CEO, Federal Card Services (FCS)