Premier Bank Kenya has made a bold leap into the future of financial services by launching two groundbreaking digital innovations aimed at redefining the banking experience for Kenyan consumers.
In a strategic move to cement its place as a leader in ethical, customer-centric, and technologically advanced banking, the bank unveiled Premier Connect, a fully Shari’ah-compliant digital banking platform, and Premier Tap, Kenya’s first wearable payment solution powered by Mastercard.
These two solutions are designed to meet the needs of today’s fast-evolving digital economy while staying true to the bank’s guiding principles of Islamic finance. Together, they reflect Premier Bank’s commitment to its brand promise of “New Beginnings,” which centers around flexibility, control, and progressive banking for all.
“This launch reflects our brand promise of ‘New Beginnings’, empowering customers with choice, flexibility, and control,” said Osman Dualle, CEO of Premier Bank. “Through our partnership with Mastercard, we’re not just offering technology. We’re delivering convenience, accessibility, and a bold step forward for financial inclusion in Kenya.”
Premier Connect
Premier Connect is Premier Bank’s new digital omni-channel platform, offering a seamless mobile-first banking experience that prioritizes convenience, security, and Shari’ah compliance. With this platform, customers can:
- Open accounts remotely without visiting a branch
- Conduct real-time payments using IFT, PesaLink, RTGS, SWIFT, and BillPay
- Access treasury and forex services
- Control and manage their cards securely
This powerful tool is tailored for both individual and business clients, providing a unified experience across all devices while upholding Islamic banking principles. It is the first of its kind in Kenya, offering faith-driven customers a blend of digital accessibility and ethical finance.
The launch of Premier Connect aligns with global digital banking trends and addresses a local gap—providing a full-fledged digital banking solution that respects Islamic financial ethics.
Premier Tap
Perhaps the most eye-catching innovation from Premier Bank’s new offerings is Premier Tap, a first-in-Kenya wearable payment solution. Developed in exclusive partnership with global payments giant Mastercard, Premier Tap allows customers to make fast, secure, and contactless payments using stylish, NFC-enabled devices such as:
- Smartwatches
- Payment rings
- Key fobs
- Phone cases
- Other fashionable wearables
Premier Tap is not just about convenience; it’s a lifestyle-forward, tech-savvy tool designed to appeal to Kenya’s young, urban, and digital-first population. In a world increasingly moving away from cash and even plastic cards, this solution makes everyday transactions as simple as a tap of the wrist.
Security remains paramount. Premier Tap integrates Mastercard’s cutting-edge tokenization and encryption technologies, ensuring every transaction is secure and safeguarded from fraud.
“At Mastercard, we are committed to driving financial inclusion and providing innovative payment solutions that meet the changing needs of consumers,” said Shehryar Ali, Senior Vice President, and Country Manager for East Africa and Indian Ocean Islands at Mastercard. “Premier Tap is a testament to our shared vision of making digital payments accessible, stylish, and secure.”
With these two launches, Premier Bank is signaling a transformation, not just for itself, but for the entire Kenyan banking sector. As the digital economy accelerates and customer expectations evolve, banks must reimagine the way they deliver services. Premier Bank has stepped up to that challenge by offering not only a modern banking platform but also a first-of-its-kind wearable payments solution tailored for the future.
Premier Tap is now available at all Premier Bank branches as well as online through the My Premier App, allowing customers to sign up and select their preferred wearable device.
This launch comes at a time when financial inclusion, digital transformation, and customer experience are critical focal points in Kenya’s economic development. Premier Bank’s innovative approach positions it as a forward-thinking player ready to support the nation’s journey toward a more inclusive and tech-empowered financial ecosystem.
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