On 22 May 2025, the time has finally come: the Prepaid Congress will take place for the tenth time at the dbb forum Berlin – this year under the anniversary motto “Go for Gold”! For over a decade, the Prepaid Congress has been the leading specialist event for the marketing, distribution, and regulation of vouchers, top-up cards, and payment cards. Attendees can look forward to an inspiring programme featuring market data, best practices, legal updates, and panel discussions.
The host of the event is the Prepaid Verband Deutschland (PVD). The Prepaid Congress has become a must-attend event for issuers, distribution partners, merchants, service providers, and representatives from politics and public authorities.
The 2025 edition of the Prepaid Congress offers insights into the latest regulatory developments and features exciting panel discussions. A particular highlight will be the presentation of practical use cases directly from the industry.
Two Prepaid Experts Share Their Thoughts on the Event
Since the very first Prepaid Congress, two experienced industry experts have been loyal companions of the event: Dr. Hugo Godschalk, Managing Director of PaySys Consultancy GmbH, and Christian Walz, lawyer and Partner at Annerton.
Both have witnessed and actively shaped the development of the prepaid world. To mark the 10th anniversary, they look back on special moments and share which topics and trends are shaping the Prepaid Congress today and in the future.
Three Questions for Dr. Hugo Godschalk:
Which moment from the early years of the Prepaid Congress particularly stuck with you?
“One special moment that remains vivid in my memory was the debate about the introduction of a prepaid refugee card in 2015. Even back then, the congress hosted an intense debate about the advantages and disadvantages of such a product. Particularly memorable was the lively exchange between a representative of the Federal Ministry of Finance, who voiced scepticism and rejection, and a Mastercard representative, who naturally supported its introduction. Today, ten years later, the payment card has become a reality. Public institutions are now among its strongest advocates – even though the product continues to be discussed controversially.”
What developments are currently reflected in the prepaid market?
“Thanks to technological innovations, prepaid products are constantly evolving. Nevertheless, their core characteristic – the prepaid nature – remains unchanged. In an increasingly digital payment world, prepaid solutions are experiencing a remarkable renaissance. Examples include stablecoins and the planned digital euro, both of which are based on the principle of prepaid value. These developments demonstrate the adaptability and future viability of the prepaid model.”
What role does the Prepaid Congress play in the industry today?
“The Prepaid Congress provides essential impetus for the entire industry by focusing on forward-looking topics. It not only highlights technological trends and innovations but also offers practical examples that provide participants with concrete points of reference for their own work. The congress has thus established itself as the central platform for discussing current developments and setting the course for the future of the prepaid market.”
Three Questions for Christian Walz:
Was there a moment at the Prepaid Congress that you particularly remember?
“What remains especially memorable for me is the first in-person congress after the pandemic. It was a moving moment to finally meet so many familiar faces in person again, to have direct conversations, and to experience the special atmosphere on stage live. This return to personal encounters has had a lasting impact on the character of the congress.”
What do you personally appreciate about the format and atmosphere of the Prepaid Congress?
“I particularly appreciate the informal atmosphere of the event. It provides the opportunity to reconnect with old acquaintances and companions – a bit like a class reunion after school. At the same time, it creates plenty of space for inspiring conversations and new contacts, especially during the Community Night, which promotes exchange in an informal and personal way. 😊”
Which developments or topics make the 2025 Prepaid Congress particularly exciting?
“The ongoing dynamism at the regulatory level will once again make 2025 an exciting year. Legislators’ and supervisory authorities’ unbroken enthusiasm for revising existing regulations and developing new perspectives is increasingly shaping the industry. Added to this is the growing importance of cross-border issues, opening up new challenges and opportunities for the prepaid world.”
Get on the Gold Course today!
Secure your ticket now and be part of this special anniversary edition. Experience inspiring keynotes, exciting use cases, and forward-looking discussions first-hand. Take the opportunity to expand your network, gather new ideas – and help shape the next stage of the prepaid world together with the community.
With the discount code PK2025, you will save €200 on the standard ticket.
👉 All information and tickets are available at: prepaidkongress.de
Go for gold – we look forward to seeing you in Berlin.
