WorldFirst


WorldFirst is a global provider of cross-border payments and treasury services for small and medium-sized enterprises. It operates as a subsidiary of Ant International, using the group’s financial technology infrastructure.

History

WorldFirst was founded in 2004 in the United Kingdom by Jonathan Quin and Nick Robinson with the aim of simplifying foreign-exchange processes for SMEs. Between 2007 and 2008, the company launched its online platform and expanded through e-commerce and corporate FX services.
WorldFirst began international expansion in 2009 with the opening of an office in Sydney, followed by additional offices in Hong Kong, Singapore, the Netherlands, Japan, and Korea between 2013 and 2016.
In 2019, WorldFirst became a part of Ant Group and expanded its services across Asia and other emerging markets.
In 2024, Ant Group announced a reorganization of its operations, with WorldFirst subsequently operating as a brand under one of its independently operated business units, Ant International. In 2025, it further extended its presence in Southeast Asia by launching services in Thailand and secured its license in Malaysia.

Products and services

WorldFirst provides global financial services unified in one global account. Its branded offerings include World Account, WorldTrade, World Card, World FX. The firm offers enterprise services with an AI-driven financial suite built for digital platforms operating across borders, and supports e-commerce and marketplace integrations. It also integrates with multiple global e-marketplaces and supports local collections in multiple currencies.

Key partnerships

WorldFirst has partnered with notable financial institutions including Barclays, BNP Paribas, Citibank, DBS Bank, HSBC, J.P. Morgan, and Mastercard in rendering its services.