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New global Digital Economy Trust Index exposes correlation between GDP growth and consumer trust in online payments

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Checkout.com launches inaugural Digital Economy Trust Index, which ranks countries based on consumer perception of security, transparency and user experienceChina tops the digital economy trust rankings, followed closely by the Middle East, while Europe and North America lag behind due to strong mistrust for blockchain and consumer AI toolsThe Index reveals first of a kind correlation between consumer trust in the digital economy and national growth in GDP

LONDON, May 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Today Checkout.com, a leading global digital payments company, launches the inaugural Digital Economy Trust Index, which measures consumer confidence in digital platforms and ranks 16 countries based on security, transparency and user experience in the digital economy. The ranking reveals a strong direct correlation between consumer trust in the digital economy and individual country GDP growth rates between 2014 and 2024, demonstrating the critical importance of digital trust to economic growth in the modern era.

China tops the Index ranking with a trust rating of 8.6 out of 10, followed by the United Arab Emirates (UAE), The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), and Egypt. Surprisingly, considering the high rates of digitisation and e-commerce adoption in the region, Japan comes in last with an overall trust rating of just 2.6.

The Digital Economy Trust Index is intended to provide a comprehensive view of how individuals interact with, trust, and adopt digital systems. This helps businesses, policymakers and technology providers understand key trust drivers and barriers and ultimately grow trust in the digital economy to stimulate broader economic growth. Of the 18 distinct dimensions investigated in all markets, those that correlate most closely with the overall trust score were trust that new technology makes payment safer and trust in AI tools. This illustrates the inherent economic value of innovative payments and AI technologies.

China has a clear lead in trust in the digital economy, scoring full marks on trust in new payment methods, biometric security, and a belief that new technology makes payments safer. This suggests a mature technology infrastructure, cultural openness to digital innovation, and a supportive regulatory environment.

Broader regional trends show that the Middle East dominates in trust in the digital economy, with the UAE, KSA and Egypt taking second, third and fourth place in the Index respectively. All have high trust in biometrics, blockchain, and AI, possibly linked to government-led digital strategies and a supportive regulatory environment akin to China’s. Egypt punches above its weight here despite having relatively low digital payment volumes, due to its exceptionally high trust in AI tools and digital IDs.

Europe and North America lag behind in trust in the digital economy, particularly regarding trust in blockchain, biometric security and AI tools. This points to privacy concerns and general skepticism around digital advancements. Brits are particularly concerned about being scammed by deepfakes when shopping online, as well as having their image stolen and used for deepfakes while online shopping.

Spain leads Continental Europe in the Digital Economy Trust Index, while consumers in the Netherlands are more cautious but boast very high participation in the circular economy, a model of production and consumption which extends the life cycle of products via methods such as refurbishment, repair and reselling. German consumers are confident in consumer protections but cybersecurity and privacy are significant trust barriers. France has the second lowest overall trust score in the Index, only scoring higher than Japan. All European countries scored very low on digital wallet usage, in which China scored 10 out of 10, demonstrating the significant adoption gap between East and West and a global divide in preferred payment methods.

Despite sitting in the middle of the pack overall, Americans showed complete trust in online checkout security, while trust in blockchain and consumer protections scored lowest. Canada shares the lack of trust in consumer protection but has less experience of fraud and slightly more trust in storing payment card data online.

New Zealand leads developed economies in trust for digital ID and AI. Although 8th out of 16 in the overall Digital Economy Trust Index, it is a quiet frontrunner in trust outside of financial technology.

The Digital Economy Trust Index also validates Brazil’s emergence as a fintech powerhouse. High trust in digital money management and strong gig economy participation is likely buoyed by its young population and investment in and adoption of new digital payments technology, such as Pix.

The overall trends reflect the ‘leapfrog’ effect in payments. Traditionally more mature, card-based economies are falling behind emerging markets that have moved directly from cash to digital wallets when it comes to trust in the digital economy.

Checkout.com COO Jenny Hadlow says: “In the traditional economy, with physical commerce, trust is built in. You pay with chip and PIN or cash, and leave with your products in hand. In the digital economy, trust is earned. Clicking “buy” is part of a journey – with consumers handing over sensitive data, needing to believe in recourse if anything goes wrong, and making leaps of faith with emerging technologies. This index measures that trust and explores the distinct barriers that consumers globally face when it comes to embracing the digital economy, giving leaders the insight needed to overcome them.

“The digital economy is the economy of the future, and the future is arriving quickly. As such, governments and businesses urgently need to work together to increase trust in the digital economy and educate consumers on safe behaviours online to stimulate economic growth.”

See the full Digital Economy Trust Index here: trustindex.checkout.com

Methodology

The Digital Economy Trust Index is calculated based on three core pillars, each representing a key aspect of digital trust:

Usage and Behaviours, which assess how frequently and in what ways people engage with digital technologies, financial tools, and emerging innovations.Trust in the System, which measures consumer confidence in the security, reliability, and integrity of digital systems.Emerging Tech Adoption, which evaluates willingness to embrace and integrate newer technologies into daily life.

The pillars consist of six sub-pillars, each representing a specific dimension of digital trust. These sub-pillars are based on survey responses from 18,000 consumers across 16 countries, which research conducted by YouGov.

Responses are weighted and scored to ensure higher values reflect greater trust. Each sub-pillar score is then normalised on a 1 to 10 scale, ensuring equal weighting and comparability across measures.

The pillar score is calculated as the average of its six sub-pillars. The final Digital Trust Economy Index score is the average of the three pillar scores.

The Pearson correlation coefficient between national GDP growth rates and the Digital Economy Trust Index is approximately -0.71. This negative correlation suggests that higher GDP growth rates are associated with better (i.e., lower-numbered) rankings in trust in the digital economy.

Country

Digital Economy Trust Ranking

National GDP Growth 2014-2024 ranking

China

1

1

United Arab Emirates

2

3

Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

3

4

Egypt

4

2

New Zealand

5

5

Brazil

6

15

Australia

7

8

Spain

8

7

United States

9

6

United Kingdom

10

12

Canada

11

11

Netherlands

12

9

Sweden

13

10

Germany

14

14

France

15

13

Japan

16

16

About Checkout.com 

Checkout.com processes payments for thousands of companies that shape the digital economy. Our global digital payments network supports over 145 currencies and delivers high-performance payment solutions across the world, processing billions of transactions annually. 

With flexible and scalable technology, we help enterprise businesses boost acceptance rates, reduce processing costs, combat fraud, and turn payments into a major revenue driver. Headquartered in London and with 19 offices worldwide, Checkout.com is trusted by leading brands such as Alibaba, Docusign, GE Healthcare, Remitly, Sainsbury’s, Sony, The Financial Times, Uber Eats, Vinted, and Wise. 

Checkout.com. Where the world checks out.

 

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HelloNation Discusses How Often to Schedule HVAC Service, Featuring HVAC Expert Jason Bare

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The article outlines a twice-yearly maintenance schedule to support system efficiency and year-round comfort.

MOUNT AIRY, N.C., June 19, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — How often should you service your HVAC system to keep it running efficiently year-round? HelloNation has published the answer in an article featuring insights from Jason Bare of Friendly Heating & Cooling, Inc. in Mount Airy, NC.

The HelloNation article explains that most homeowners in Mount Airy should schedule HVAC service twice a year. Spring appointments focus on cooling systems, while fall visits prepare heating equipment for colder months. This consistent approach to HVAC maintenance helps prevent breakdowns and extend equipment life.

Spring is the recommended time for an air conditioning tune-up. During an air conditioning tune-up, an HVAC technician inspects components, cleans coils, checks refrigerant levels, and confirms proper airflow. Addressing small concerns before summer improves system efficiency and reduces the risk of costly repairs during peak heat.

Proper HVAC service in the spring also supports indoor comfort. When coils are clean and refrigerant levels are correct, cooling systems operate more effectively. This attention to detail enhances system efficiency and helps maintain steady indoor temperatures throughout humid summer months in Mount Airy.

Fall HVAC service shifts attention to heating systems. An HVAC technician inspects furnaces or heat pumps, tests safety controls, and examines electrical components. Regular HVAC maintenance in the fall ensures safe and reliable heating during colder weather.

Filters are another essential part of HVAC maintenance. Homeowners should check filters monthly and replace them as needed between professional visits. Clean filters improve airflow, protect equipment, and contribute to better system efficiency year-round.

Ductwork inspections are also included in routine HVAC service. Leaky or obstructed ducts can reduce system efficiency and create uneven heating or cooling. During scheduled visits, an HVAC technician evaluates airflow and addresses minor issues before they worsen.

Electrical components require close attention during HVAC maintenance. Wiring, relays, and capacitors are inspected to prevent failures and safety hazards. In Mount Airy, seasonal humidity can accelerate wear, making biannual HVAC service especially important for reliable operation.

Refrigerant levels are carefully evaluated during each air conditioning tune-up. Low refrigerant can strain the compressor and reduce cooling performance. By identifying and correcting these issues early, HVAC service protects system efficiency and extends equipment lifespan.

Energy savings are another benefit of routine HVAC maintenance. Well-maintained systems operate more efficiently, reducing monthly utility costs. In Mount Airy, where summers are humid and winters can be chilly, consistent system efficiency supports comfort in every season.

The HelloNation article concludes that scheduling HVAC service twice a year is the most effective way to maintain reliable performance. With regular air conditioning tune-up visits, professional HVAC maintenance, and support from a qualified HVAC technician, homeowners in Mount Airy can ensure long-term system efficiency and dependable comfort.

How Often Should You Service Your HVAC System? features insights from Jason Bare, HVAC Expert of Mount Airy, NC, in HelloNation.

About HelloNation
HelloNation is a premier media platform that connects readers with trusted professionals and businesses across various industries. Through its innovative “edvertising” approach that blends educational content and storytelling, HelloNation delivers expert-driven articles that inform, inspire, and empower. Covering topics from home improvement and health to business strategy and lifestyle, HelloNation highlights leaders making a meaningful impact in their communities.

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telMAX Announces Multi-Year Partnership with Ontario Honda Dealers Indy at Markham

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A high-performance partnership uniting Canada’s fastest internet provider with one of the world’s fastest motorsports festivals

MARKHAM, ON, June 19, 2026 /PRNewswire/ – Today telMAX, Canada’s leading provider of 100% Pure Fibre Internet, announced a new multi-year partnership as the official internet partner of the Ontario Honda Dealers Indy at Markham. The partnership was unveiled this morning at a reception held at telMAX’s Markham Head Office, attended by Markham Mayor Frank Scarpitti, City dignitaries, community business leaders, and Indy officials.

Speed isn’t a feature for telMAX — it’s a promise. As Canada’s fastest internet provider, recognized by PCMag for four consecutive years, telMAX operates at a different level: relentless speed, uncompromising precision, and performance built to last. This event runs on the same principle.

Where race cars push the limits of engineering at every turn, telMAX’s 100% Pure Fibre network pushes the limits of connectivity — delivering blazing speeds, zero-compromise reliability, and the kind of consistent performance that homes and businesses depend on when it counts most. From the starting grid to the finish line, both brands know that performance isn’t a moment, it’s a commitment.

“This partnership, as the official internet sponsor, is a natural fit for telMAX,” said Michael Strople, Chief Executive Officer of telMAX. “Motorsport is built on speed, precision, and relentless performance — the same qualities engineered into every kilometre of our fibre network. As we accelerate our expansion across the GTA and Ontario, this partnership gives us a powerful platform to demonstrate what world-class internet truly looks like.”

As official internet partner, telMAX will align its brand with one of the region’s most exciting sporting events, leveraging the energy, speed, and visibility of the race to build awareness of its fibre services as the company continues to expand.

“We’re thrilled to welcome telMAX as a valued partner,” said Jeff Atkinson, president of the Ontario Honda Dealers Indy at Markham. “Their commitment to speed, innovation, and reliability aligns perfectly with the spirit of the Indy. Having telMAX join us as official internet partner strengthens the event experience and adds another respected, performance-driven brand to our roster.”

Markham’s Mayor, Frank Scarpitti added, “Markham is excited to host an event that celebrates innovation, energy, and excellence. We’re proud of Markham’s telMAX connected with the Indy race as their official Internet Partner. Their commitment to the City of Markham to provide fast and reliable internet now extends to our premier sporting event, creating success for our community and ensuring the Indy race stays connected too.”

telMAX’s partnership isn’t just a sponsorship — it’s a declaration. World-class racing deserves world-class internet. Markham now has both.

About telMAX

telMAX, a locally based company headquartered in the Greater Toronto Area, offering 100% fibre internet, TV, and phone services to residential and business customers. Known for delivering Canada’s fastest internet and industry-leading performance, telMAX designs, builds, and operates its own end-to-end fibre-to-the-home network engineered for speed, low latency, and reliability. With ongoing expansion, telMAX serves communities including Barrie, Brooklin, Stouffville, Newmarket, Aurora, Markham, Oakville, and Richmond Hill, while proudly supporting local employment and community development. telMAX – fibre built for AI. telMAX.com

About Ontario Honda Dealers Indy at Markham

Ontario Honda Dealers Indy at Markham is a world-class motorsports festival which takes place annually on a new 12-turn, 3.52-kilometre (2.19-mile) temporary circuit in the Greater Toronto Area using the downtown streets of Markham, Ontario. The event features many attractions, food trucks, interactive displays and activities, and supports local charities. Your Ontario Honda Dealers Present Free Fan Friday, offers general admission courtesy of the Ontario Honda Dealers Association through a voluntary donation to Make-A-Wish Canada raising over $1.1 million from the event since 2010. As one of Ontario’s largest annual sporting events, the first Ontario Indy street race was held in 1986 in downtown Toronto. Now located in York Region, the Ontario Honda Dealers Indy at Markham is the sole Canadian race for some of the world’s fastest race car drivers from the NTT INDYCAR SERIES, like Alex Palou, Josef Newgarden, Pato O’Ward and Kyle Kirkwood and features teams including Chip Ganassi Racing, Team Penske, Arrow McLaren and Andretti Global, respectively. This event has also historically hosted Canadian racing legends like Scott Goodyear, James Hinchcliffe, Greg Moore, Alex Tagliani, Paul Tracy, Jacques Villeneuve, Robert Wickens and more. Ontario Honda Dealers Indy at Markham is owned and operated by Green Savoree Toronto, ULC, whose affiliates also promote three additional INDYCAR SERIES races: Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg (Feb. Hybrid (1, 2026), The Honda Indy 200 at Mid-Ohio Presented by the 2027 CR-V Hybrid  (July 3-5, 2026) and OnlyBulls Grand Prix of Portland (Aug. 7-9, 2026). For more information, visit hondaindy.com, ‘like’ its Facebook page at @OntarioIndy or follow the event on X at @Ontario_Indy and Instagram at @OntarioIndy using #indyON.

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Laifen Announces Prime Day Savings on Award-Winning Hair, Oral Care and Grooming Innovations

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Consumers can shop major discounts on viral hair dryers, electric toothbrushes, electric shavers and more during Amazon’s biggest shopping event of the year.

NEW YORK, June 19, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Laifen, the award-winning personal care technology brand known for combining high-performance engineering with modern design, today announced its Amazon Prime Day sale, offering shoppers up to 40% off select best-selling products from June 23–26. As the brand prepares to expand into new beauty categories later this year, Prime Day offers consumers an opportunity to experience some of Laifen’s most popular innovations at exceptional value.

As consumers prepare for summer travel, Laifen’s compact, high-performance beauty devices offer salon-quality results on the go. During the prime day sale event, you can save on some of Laifen’s most loved products, including their award-winning hair dryers and electric toothbrushes, that have gained a loyal following for delivering premium results at an accessible price point.

Known for combining cutting-edge technology and modern aesthetics, Laifen has become a go-to brand for consumers seeking elevated personal care experiences at home. The Prime Day sale offers an ideal opportunity for shoppers to upgrade their beauty and wellness routines ahead of summer travel, social gatherings, vacations, and everyday styling needs.

Laifen Official Prime Day deals include:

Up to 40% off the SE 2 Hair DryerUp to 40% off the SE Lite Hair DryerUp to 40% off the Wave Special Electric ToothbrushUp to 40% off the P3 Pro Electric Shaver

As Laifen prepares to expand into two new beauty categories and further grow its next-generation hair care portfolio later this year, the brand is celebrating Prime Day with savings across its award-winning lineup while building momentum for upcoming product launches and strategic brand initiatives.

For more information about Laifen and to shop the Prime Day sale please visit LaifenTech.com and Laifen’s Amazon Storefront.

About Laifen: 

Founded in 2019, Laifen is a global personal care technology brand known for combining high-performance engineering with modern design across hair care, oral care, and grooming categories. The company first gained recognition for its proprietary high-speed motor technology, which powers its award-winning line of hair dryers. Since then, Laifen has expanded into electric toothbrushes and electric shavers, bringing innovative technologies and premium user experiences to consumers worldwide.

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