Financial inclusion remains one of the key challenges in developing countries. In Colombia and other Latin American nations, millions of people still lack access to basic banking services. Puntored is a fintech platform that leverages blockchain technology, a network of banking agents, and digital channels to change this situation. Relying on the Stellar infrastructure and strategic partnerships, Puntored builds a reliable, scalable, and accessible ecosystem for payments and microfinancial services.
Contents
- Puntored Architecture and Technology Base
- Integration with the Stellar Blockchain
- Social Impact and Platform Reach
- Puntored Partnerships and Investments
- Operational Infrastructure
- Conclusion
1. Puntored Architecture and Technology Base
Since its founding over 19 years ago, Puntored has developed a powerful digital infrastructure that connects financial institutions, government services, and end users. At the core of the platform lies a flexible architecture that includes API integrations, mobile applications, and a physical network of correspondent agents. This enables companies and public institutions to process payments, transfers, and collections quickly and at low cost.
Through a unified system, Puntored offers a wide range of services—from account top-ups and microloans to participation in government subsidy programs. To ensure security and regulatory compliance, the company received the ISO 27001:2013 certification, validating a high standard of information security. In 2022, Puntored implemented an automated reconciliation system that reduced processing delays and increased reliability.
The platform also supports business process management via a single interface, offering control over each transaction stage. Ecosystem participants—from independent agents to government entities—can integrate into the system without major costs. This approach enables scalability and promotes digitalization of financial services in underserved and rural areas. Built-in modules allow for function customization, making the platform a versatile solution for various clients.
2. Integration with the Stellar Blockchain
One of the major milestones in Puntored’s evolution was the collaboration with the Stellar Development Foundation. In 2024, the company secured a $2 million investment from the Stellar Enterprise Fund. This funding is directed toward scaling cross-border transactions and strengthening infrastructure across Latin America. Stellar blockchain enables Puntored to perform transactions with minimal fees and high speed—critical for low-income populations and remote regions.
Key advantages of blockchain integration include:
- Transaction costs reduced to fractions of a cent
- Enhanced transparency and transaction traceability
- Transaction confirmation speed under 5 seconds
- Resistance to censorship and system downtime
- Flexible integration with digital wallets and APIs
Stellar integration gives Puntored a strategic edge in serving cross-border remittances and public subsidy programs. It opens access to the remittance market, especially for migrant workers sending money to their families. The technology also facilitates implementation of digital identity and data protection systems. These features enhance transparency and strengthen trust among users and regulators.
3. Social Impact and Platform Reach
One of Puntored’s greatest achievements is providing financial services to over 18 million users. The platform spans Colombia, Mexico, and Puerto Rico, covering both urban and rural areas. Around 60% of the users had no prior access to formal banking. Special attention is given to women entrepreneurs and workers in the informal sector.
The company actively implements the following programs:
- Training for correspondent agents
- Digital literacy initiatives
- Inclusive microcredit services
- Microsaving and accumulation tools
- Social benefit and subsidy distribution
Puntored also emphasizes sustainable development, directing part of its operations toward supporting local economies. The platform prioritizes accessibility, with interfaces adapted for users with low digital literacy. Social programs also support rural agencies where individuals often serve as both merchants and banking agents. This hybrid model boosts local economic resilience and community engagement.
4. Puntored Partnerships and Investments
Puntored has built a robust ecosystem of strategic partnerships with major players in fintech and finance. In December 2024, a key agreement was signed with fintech company Nu, allowing Nu users across Colombia to deposit cash at Puntored service points in their municipalities. This initiative spans all regions, demonstrating a high level of decentralized access to financial services.
Below is a table of key partners and their collaboration goals:
| Partner | Type | Goal of Cooperation |
|---|---|---|
| Stellar Development Foundation | Investor / Blockchain Infrastructure | Scaling cross-border payments |
| Nu | Fintech platform | Municipal cash deposits |
| Simetrik | Reconciliation / Automation | Operational tracking and auditing |
| Davivienda | Bank | Integration of DaviPlata e-wallet |
In addition to those listed, Puntored participates in national financial inclusion programs. Talks are also underway with international organizations, including the World Bank, to launch pilot initiatives in Central America. In the long term, Puntored’s partnership strategy allows product adaptation to local regulatory and cultural environments.
5. Operational Infrastructure
Over the years, Puntored has built a large-scale infrastructure combining physical outlets, digital platforms, and secure API-based systems. Thousands of daily transactions—from micro-payments to government transfers—are processed through the platform. Automated systems help minimize downtime and reduce operational costs.
Obtaining the ISO 27001:2013 certification marked a key milestone in aligning with global information security standards. This ensures the protection of personal and financial user data. The Simetrik system is used for internal controls, automating reconciliations and simplifying regulator communications.
Additionally, Puntored integrates real-time monitoring tools to prevent fraud. Its 24/7 support team assists thousands of agents across the network. This infrastructure not only handles immediate requests but also analyzes user behavior to optimize experience. The company plans to introduce AI-driven analytics for demand forecasting and business process automation in the near future.
6. Conclusion
Puntored is a compelling example of how blockchain can be used not only for cryptocurrencies but also as a foundation for sustainable, inclusive financial infrastructure. By combining cutting-edge technology, strategic partnerships, and a social mission, the company is reshaping access to finance across Latin America. In the future, Puntored could serve as a model for other regions where financial exclusion remains an urgent issue. Backed by blockchain, a robust architecture, and a wide-reaching network, the platform is well-positioned to expand its reach and promote a fairer financial system.
Moreover, Puntored’s openness to innovation and collaboration makes it a flexible and adaptive player in the rapidly evolving fintech landscape. The company addresses immediate needs while nurturing a culture of digital financial literacy. With continuous development and user-centered design, Puntored is maintaining its leadership and scaling a proven model beyond Colombia’s borders.
