“Can a GCC-focused BNPL platform capture the embedded lending market for large-ticket purchases by combining fintech technology with regulated bank credit infrastructure?”
Founded in 2021 in the UAE, Cashew Payments targets the GCC consumer finance gap by offering Buy Now Pay Later and flexible instalment products for larger purchases — differentiating from traditional BNPL by supporting higher ticket sizes and longer tenures. The company has pursued an embedded lending strategy, partnering with Mashreq Bank in 2026 to integrate bank-regulated credit decisioning with Cashew's technology platform at the point of purchase.
Cashew Payments discloses Mashreq Bank as its sponsor bank, according to the Embedded Finance Index 2026.
Cashew Payments does not disclose a bank charter of its own; its banking services are provided through Mashreq Bank.
The Embedded Finance Index 2026 maps 2 layers in Cashew Payments's stack: Lending (BNPL instalment payments, Flexible monthly instalment financing and Embedded lending via Mashreq partnership (up to AED 150,000, up to 48 months)); Sponsor bank (Mashreq Bank).
Cashew Payments is founded in 2021 and headquartered in United Arab Emirates.
Cashew Payments has raised $81M in total.
Get a read on where your own stack stands against Cashew Payments and the rest of its category — what they built versus bought, which providers they use, and where the gaps in your own strategy and competitive set actually are.