First, can you please give us an idea of the sort of work your team has done recently?  

CardNet’s legal department has become a key in the decisions and strategic projects of the different business units of the company, becoming an active contributor in addition to supporting all legal matters.  

My experience at CardNet has required deepening and mastering the knowledge of acquiring services; learning from the operational technology to the different commercial lines and products, contributing not only at a corporate level, but also at a technical level specialised in electronic payment methods. With a collaborative management style and a holistic vision of the business, I have taken on continuous training and updating in reference to both local and international regulations as the basis for the development of our products and services.  

Innovation is the norm in this sector of electronic payments. It is crucial to keep enabling new, safe, and fast solutions, keeping the transactional world in constant evolution, which is why highly competitive professional profiles are required. I have focused on providing the best legal advice through critical analysis and proper information management, always in favour of achieving ethical and cost-efficient new businesses.  

Recently, our services and projects were focused on enabling operations for new players who became members of the system. As a result of the new payment regulations in the country, it was necessary to update our operating standards of the different payment systems that we operate together with the regulatory body.  

How do you keep up to date with changes in laws and regulations relevant to your organisation’s industry? 

The world of payment is unique, and traditionally it has been led by Visa and MasterCard. It is an extremely fascinating and challenging industry since they spearhead constant innovation in the world market. Their platforms, Visa University and MasterCard Academy, provide constant updates on changes in their operating standards. This ensures that we are in compliance and allows us to make informed and strategic decisions. 

 I also attend Der-Tech related seminars and conferences, and other local update sessions that keep me updated on relevant legal and regulatory changes and trends. I am a member of ANJE (Asociación Nacional de Jovenes Empresarios), and its members proactively contribute their time and knowledge to influence the adoption of public policies with a long-term vision and sustainable business decision-making. This allows me to connect with other young professionals who represent the different productive sectors of the country, participate in teams and worktables for discussion sessions and enrichment of general interest.  

I am part of the Justice and Legislation Commission, which focuses on preparing proposals to improve legislative initiatives as well as ensuring the institutional strengthening of government institutions, particularly those of the Justice System and Legislative Power. With this, I have had the opportunity to evaluate multiple bills and resolutions in matters of public administration, state finances, and environment, among others. It certainly has added a lot of value to my professional background.  

What is one cause, business related or otherwise, that concerns you and why?  

 In this sector, regulatory aspects are definitely a constant concern; technological evolution happens at a fast pace and regulation lags behind. The new open banking system is no exception, which generates some concerns.  

There may be violations of cyber security and data privacy if adequate, efficient, and secure data protection measures are not implemented, leading to inappropriate or unauthorised use for unwanted commercial purposes. Competition from banks, some smaller financial institutions or fintech may face challenges to compete with large financial intermediation entities that already have a secure database. It is necessary to modulate with an effective regulatory framework, to guarantee the protection of consumers and the integrity of the financial system.