A new era of enterprise payments is arriving in Jamaica as global fintech disruptor KEO World prepares to introduce its AI- and blockchain-powered infrastructure to the island’s financial institutions and large-scale businesses.
Founded in Miami and now active in eight international markets, KEO World is making Jamaica a focal point in its aggressive expansion into 12 new territories. With backing from major partners and an impending IPO on the horizon, the firm is laying the groundwork for what it calls “infrastructure-level” B2B transformation — far beyond the scope of conventional credit card fintechs.
Unlike many digital lending services that cater to micro and small businesses, KEO focuses exclusively on high-volume B2B transactions, offering tailored financing models for corporates, banks, and multinationals. Its offerings go beyond digital payments, providing embedded lending, ERP integrations, and real-time cross-border settlements — all while eliminating legacy friction points like chargebacks and fixed billing cycles.
“We’re not here to digitize consumer-style credit for businesses. We’re building infrastructure for the backbone of economies — where transactions are large, complex, and demand speed and control,” said CEO Alejandro Fidanza.
In markets like Brazil and Canada, KEO’s systems are already powering non-card payments for American Express. The platform allows companies to manage payables directly through accounting systems, gaining full visibility and control over working capital. Fidanza says these same tools will be introduced in Jamaica to help local banks and corporate groups modernize operations and strengthen margins on B2B finance.
KEO operates through two models: WorkKEO, a lending engine that has already moved nearly US$1 billion in Mexico alone; and KEO B2B-as-a-Service, a white-labeled infrastructure stack licensed to banks and financial providers. The company currently earns half its revenue from merchant-side fees — a model it claims creates value for every participant in the transaction chain, from buyer to lender to supplier.
As it eyes Jamaica as a long-term growth hub, KEO has also expressed interest in a local stock market listing — a move that could further cement its regional presence and open doors for Caribbean investors to participate in the next generation of fintech.
