Challenges facing banking in emerging markets

Purpose – This paper aims to consider the impact of modernizing payments systems within emerging economies. Design/methodology/approach – Focuses on the Tanzanian experience and highlights a number of important issues that emerging economies face in undertaking such reforms. The results are based on a survey of the banking sector in Tanzania. Findings – Many participants have experienced increases in efficiency, such as faster transaction speeds, quicker settlement times, and a reduction in errors and fraudulent transactions. However, the Tanzanian case has also highlighted the importance of sufficient legal reform for both the banking sector and their customers. Finally, the findings show that clear roles for participants and well‐defined rules and regulations are essential for effective payments systems. Originality/value – The paper adds value as it considers the impact of banking reform and modernization of payments systems from the perspective of the participants within the industry. The findings will be of value to those in the banking sector in emerging economies and gives useful insights into the Tanzanian experience.