In this episode of Payment Pulse by Clearent by Xplor, host Steve Bell is joined by Matt Morrow, President of Payments at Xplor Technologies, and Chris Ryan, Chief Risk Officer, to break down the rising buzz around surcharging, cash discounting, and dual pricing for vertical SaaS providers.With over 30 years of combined payments experience, Matt and Chris unpack:- Why alternative pricing models are gaining traction with software providers- The critical differences between surcharging, cash discounting, and dual pricing- Compliance complexities and state-specific rules software providers need to know- Common misconceptions software teams have when enabling these programs- The role SaaS platforms play in managing risk and delivering a compliant merchant experienceThis is Part 1 of 2 simplifying alternative pricing models and how software providers can implement them to support merchants while driving new revenue streams.

https://xplorpay.com/

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Payment Pulse Available on All Platforms:

YouTube Playlist: Payment Pulse Podcast Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6YldlBM3l4MItNj0PujO0t Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/payment-pulse/id1796072902

In Part 2, Steve and Max explore how small business owners are feeling the ripple effects of inflation, labor shortages, and trade policy shifts. While national economic data paints a mixed picture, Main Street is facing real challenges—and making tough decisions.They discuss:- Declining small business optimism- The biggest headwinds facing SMBs right now- Practical questions and strategies for navigating 2025’s economic uncertaintyWhether you're a business owner or industry observer, this episode offers grounded, actionable insights.https://clearent.com/ About Clearent Clearent is a leading full-service payment solutions provider that supercharged its success through the merger with software powerhouse Transaction Services Group. The resulting company is Xplor Technologies who serves over 800 partners and 66,000 businesses who process over $32 billion dollars. We are the first global company integrating smart software, seamless payments, and commerce accelerating technologies. Our mission is to help customers achieve more growth, faster. Socials LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/clearent/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GoClearent X: https://x.com/GoClearent Check Our Podcast – Payment Pulse YouTube Playlist: Payment Pulse Podcast Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6YldlBM3l4MItNj0PujO0t Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/payment-pulse/id1796072902

In Part 1 of this episode of Payment Pulse, Steve and Max dig into the latest economic data to answer a pressing question: Are we finally seeing signs of a turning point in the U.S. economy—or just more noise? From inflation trends and labor market signals to shifts in consumer spending, the hosts break down what the April numbers are telling us—and what to look for in the weeks ahead as new data rolls in. With tariffs, job openings, and retail activity all in flux, this episode offers a clear-eyed look at how these macroeconomic signals might impact small businesses across the country. Topics covered:

• April’s CPI and PPI numbers and their real-world implications
• Labor market stability—or early warning signs?
• What a drop in retail sales and services activity could mean for Q2
• Tariffs, uncertainty, and what to watch next

Tune in for a fast, insightful breakdown of today’s economy and what small business owners should keep an eye on.https://clearent.com/ About Clearent Clearent is a leading full-service payment solutions provider that supercharged its success through the merger with software powerhouse Transaction Services Group. The resulting company is Xplor Technologies who serves over 800 partners and 66,000 businesses who process over $32 billion dollars. We are the first global company integrating smart software, seamless payments, and commerce accelerating technologies. Our mission is to help customers achieve more growth, faster. Socials LinkedIn:   / clearent   Facebook:   / goclearent   X: https://x.com/GoClearent

Check Our Podcast – Payment Pulse 

YouTube Playlist: Payment Pulse Podcast 

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6YldlBM3l4MItNj0PujO0t  

Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/payment-pulse/id1796072902 

In this episode of Payment Pulse, we’re joined by Ron, Clearent by Xplor’s Vice President of Product, to explore the powerful and strategic role APIs play in helping software platforms scale.Whether you're a product leader planning your next integration, or a platform exec thinking globally, this episode will give you a clear view into how APIs—when built to scale—can unlock your platform’s next stage of growth.PayFac as a Service Myth Busting Webinar: https://try.clearent.com/pfaas-mythbusting/Connect with Ron: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ronaldpsmithjr/Want to strategize your payment solution? https://clearent.com/getting-started/https://clearent.com/ About Clearent Clearent is a leading full-service payment solutions provider that supercharged its success through the merger with software powerhouse Transaction Services Group. The resulting company is Xplor Technologies who serves over 800 partners and 66,000 businesses who process over $32 billion dollars. We are the first global company integrating smart software, seamless payments, and commerce accelerating technologies. Our mission is to help customers achieve more growth, faster. Socials LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/clearent/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GoClearent X: https://x.com/GoClearent Check Our Podcast – Payment Pulse YouTube Playlist: Payment Pulse Podcast Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6YldlBM3l4MItNj0PujO0t Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/payment-pulse/id1796072902

In this special episode of Payment Pulse, Steve sits down with payments industry veteran Mark Passifione, SVP of Integrated Payments at Clearent by Xplor, to break down the differences between embedded and integrated payments—and what SaaS companies should consider when choosing the right solution. With over 26 years of experience in both software and payments, Mark brings unmatched perspective and real-world insights. Together, they explore: - The key differences between embedded and integrated payments - How each impacts user experience, brand control, and speed to market - Where each model fits in a software company’s growth journey - A powerful case study on how embedded payments increased revenue and adoption for a dental software provider Whether you're a startup looking to scale fast or a legacy software platform evaluating how to monetize payments, this episode is packed with practical guidance you don’t want to miss. Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more insights into the future of payments. LINKS:Connect with Mark on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markpassifione/ Want to strategize your payment solution? https://clearent.com/getting-started/About Clearent Clearent is a leading full-service payment solutions provider that supercharged its success through the merger with software powerhouse Transaction Services Group. The resulting company is Xplor Technologies who serves over 800 partners and 66,000 businesses who process over $32 billion dollars. We are the first global company integrating smart software, seamless payments, and commerce accelerating technologies. Our mission is to help customers achieve more growth, faster. Socials: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/clearent/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GoClearent X: https://x.com/GoClearent Payment Pulse on All Platforms:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6YldlBM3l4MItNj0PujO0t YouTube: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/payment-pulse/id1796072902

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/payment-pulse/id1796072902

In this episode of Payment Pulse, Steve and Max unpack the state of U.S. small and medium-sized businesses as they wrapped up 2024 and kicked off Q1 2025. We dive into revenue trends across key sectors, evolving employment and wage dynamics, and how recent Fed rate cuts have reshaped capital access for SMBs. 

Then, we explore what these shifts mean for software providers and payment technology partners: from transparent pricing and AI-driven fraud prevention to seamless integration and resource-friendly onboarding. Tune in for actionable insights on how ISVs can help SMBs boost productivity, manage risk, and thrive amid ongoing economic uncertainty. 

Join us and discover the payment strategies and tech priorities that will define small business success in the year ahead. 

https://clearent.com/ 

About Clearent   

Clearent is a leading full-service payment solutions provider that supercharged its success through the merger with software powerhouse Transaction Services Group. The resulting company is Xplor Technologies who serves over 800 partners and 66,000 businesses who process over $32 billion dollars. We are the first global company integrating smart software, seamless payments, and commerce accelerating technologies. Our mission is to help customers achieve more growth, faster.    

Socials  

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/clearent/   

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GoClearent   

X: https://x.com/GoClearent  

Payment Pulse on All Platforms:

YouTube Playlist: Payment Pulse Podcast 

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6YldlBM3l4MItNj0PujO0t  

Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/payment-pulse/id1796072902 

Join Steve Bell and Max on this episode of Payment Pulse as they dive into the essential practices for keeping your merchant portfolio in peak condition. With U.S. merchants processing over $8 trillion in e-commerce last year, even small imbalances can lead to costly chargebacks, fraud losses, or—worst case—processor termination. Whether you’re a software provider, ISO, or sales rep, understanding how to maintain portfolio health is crucial to long-term success. 

In this episode, you’ll learn how to categorize merchants by risk level and spot trouble before it starts; track the four KPIs every provider needs on their dashboard—transaction volume, chargeback ratio, retention rate, and revenue per merchant; and implement proactive strategies, from rigorous KYC/AML onboarding and real-time fraud detection to ongoing merchant education and regular portfolio audits. Tune in now to reduce risk, boost retention, and drive revenue growth—and if you need expert support, reach out to Clearent by Xplor to see how we can help. 

https://clearent.com/ 

About Clearent   

Clearent is a leading full-service payment solutions provider that supercharged its success through the merger with software powerhouse Transaction Services Group. The resulting company is Xplor Technologies who serves over 800 partners and 66,000 businesses who process over $32 billion dollars. We are the first global company integrating smart software, seamless payments, and commerce accelerating technologies. Our mission is to help customers achieve more growth, faster.    

Socials  

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/clearent/   

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GoClearent   

X: https://x.com/GoClearent  

Check Our Podcast – Payment Pulse 

YouTube Playlist: Payment Pulse Podcast 

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6YldlBM3l4MItNj0PujO0t  

Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/payment-pulse/id1796072902 

Dive into this week’s Payment Pulse with Steve Bell and Max as they uncover the true costs of a poor payment experience—and how seamless checkout journeys can make or break your bottom line. They unpack what makes a payment experience “poor,” from legacy system failures and manual interventions to the operational and customer fallout of returns, chargebacks, and abandoned carts; explore how modern payment platforms—built on high‑availability infrastructure, consolidated integrations, and automated exception workflows—can reduce costs and delight shoppers; and highlight three non‑negotiables for long‑term success: stability, omnichannel optimization, and self‑service tools. Whether you’re a merchant, software provider, or platform partner, this episode will help you transform payment pain points into growth opportunities. 

https://clearent.com/ 

About Clearent

Clearent is a leading full-service payment solutions provider that supercharged its success through the merger with software powerhouse Transaction Services Group. The resulting company is Xplor Technologies who serves over 800 partners and 66,000 businesses who process over $32 billion dollars. We are the first global company integrating smart software, seamless payments, and commerce accelerating technologies. Our mission is to help customers achieve more growth, faster.    

Socials  

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/clearent/   

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GoClearent   

X: https://x.com/GoClearent  

Payment Pulse on All Platforms:

YouTube Playlist: Payment Pulse Podcast 

Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/payment-pulse/id1796072902 

In this episode of Payment Pulse by Clearent by Xplor, hosts Steve and Max unpack the impact of economic and policy uncertainty on the payments industry. They delve into how tariffs—government-imposed taxes on imported goods—can drive up prices, fuel inflation, and shift consumer spending habits, while also offering temporary advantages to domestic producers. The discussion highlights recent tariff actions, including policy reversals that have added to market unpredictability, and explores how these economic forces influence transaction volumes and cash flow for payment providers. Perfect for small business owners and industry insiders alike, the episode offers practical advice on navigating rising costs, adapting pricing strategies, and leveraging integrated payment solutions to manage uncertainty. Tune in for clear, informed insights designed to simplify the complex world of payments. 

https://clearent.com/ 

About Clearent   

Clearent is a leading full-service payment solutions provider that supercharged its success through the merger with software powerhouse Transaction Services Group. The resulting company is Xplor Technologies who serves over 800 partners and 66,000 businesses who process over $32 billion dollars. We are the first global company integrating smart software, seamless payments, and commerce accelerating technologies. Our mission is to help customers achieve more growth, faster.    

Socials  

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/clearent/   

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GoClearent   

X: https://x.com/GoClearent  

Available On All Major Platforms:

YouTube Playlist: Payment Pulse Podcast 

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6YldlBM3l4MItNj0PujO0t  

Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/payment-pulse/id1796072902 

In this episode, hosts Steve and Max break down the complex world of PayFac as a Service (PFaaS) and debunk common myths—from the idea that full payment facilitation is always better, to misconceptions about industry fit and integration challenges. They explain how PFaaS offers a scalable, modular solution that enables software providers to gradually transition to full payment facilitation without overhauling existing systems. 

For a deeper dive, check out our full webinar, “Busting Common PayFac as a Service Myths”, where Steve and VP of Product Ron Smith unpack these topics in detail. Whether you’re new to payment tech or a seasoned veteran, this concise discussion and accompanying webinar provide key insights to help you navigate the evolving payment landscape. Watch the full webinar via the link in the description, and don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share your thoughts! 

https://clearent.com/ 

About Clearent   

Clearent is a leading full-service payment solutions provider that supercharged its success through the merger with software powerhouse Transaction Services Group. The resulting company is Xplor Technologies who serves over 800 partners and 66,000 businesses who process over $32 billion dollars. We are the first global company integrating smart software, seamless payments, and commerce accelerating technologies. Our mission is to help customers achieve more growth, faster.    

Socials  

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/clearent/   

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GoClearent   

X: https://x.com/GoClearent  

Also On:

YouTube: Payment Pulse Podcast 

Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/payment-pulse/id1796072902