complementary solutions the credit card market what is it all about page 1 cards how does work an overview paper by craig stretch 2006 2 this white intended for people that have no knowledge of acquiring industry a multi layered and complex arena at top end oligopoly including visa mastercard american express operate in highly regulated environment banks next level are more competitive but less subject to regulatory control bottom connectivity suppliers almost perfect competition little if you just want understand process works we suggest skip ahead 6 hope find document useful can offer any assistance with your specific requirements please feel free contact us anytime riverside business centre earlsfield sw18 4uq tel 0208 8746655 email info caspost co uk www complementarysolutions com introduction 3 history 4 international payments electronic united