EML Payments has appointed Adam Olding as its Global CEO, marking a pivotal step in its EML 2.0 transformation and signalling strengthened leadership to drive growth. Concurrently, regulatory developments around its Australian banking licence application introduce new compliance dynamics.
- Adam Olding appointed Global CEO effective 30 March 2026
- Leadership restructure supports EML 2.0 transformation and Arlo platform rollout
- Executive Chairman Anthony Hynes to focus on strategic growth and investor relations
- EPSL progressing ADI banking licence application with APRA and RBA interim requirements
- Treasury proposes reforms to ease regulatory burden on stored value facility providers
Leadership Transition Signals Growth Ambitions
EML Payments Limited has announced the appointment of Adam Olding as its Global Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately. This move reflects the company’s ongoing commitment to its EML 2.0 transformation program, which aims to unify and modernise its global payments infrastructure. Olding, who has led EML’s Australia, UK, and Europe operations since September 2024, now assumes responsibility for the company’s worldwide operations, including North America.
The leadership restructure is designed to enhance executive capacity and accountability as EML rolls out its new Arlo technology platform across its markets. Executive Chairman Anthony Hynes will continue in his role but will pivot towards strategic product development, broader growth initiatives such as the mobility program, and investor engagement. This division of responsibilities is intended to accelerate operational execution while maintaining a clear strategic vision.
Regulatory Developments Add Complexity
Alongside leadership changes, EML’s Australian subsidiary, EML Payment Solutions Limited (EPSL), is navigating a critical regulatory milestone. EPSL is progressing an application for an Authorised Deposit-taking Institution (ADI) licence with the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA). Pending approval, APRA and the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) have imposed interim requirements, including the need for EPSL to secure a guarantee from an ADI for its stored value liabilities by 30 April 2026.
While the exact structure and cost implications of this guarantee remain under discussion, EML expects the ADI licence to be granted within the next 12 months. EPSL continues to safeguard customer funds by holding them in trust with a tier one Australian bank, consistent with industry standards. Meanwhile, Treasury has released exposure draft legislation proposing reforms to the payments service provider framework. These reforms aim to reduce regulatory burdens and costs associated with stored value facilities, potentially easing compliance for companies like EML if enacted.
Incentivising Leadership for Transformation
Adam Olding’s remuneration package underscores the company’s focus on aligning executive incentives with its transformation goals. His fixed annual salary is set at $600,000, complemented by a short-term incentive plan targeting up to 86% of his fixed remuneration. Additionally, Olding will receive a three-year grant of annual performance rights valued at 100% of his fixed salary each year, linked to the successful execution of EML’s strategic priorities.
This comprehensive package reflects confidence in Olding’s ability to steer EML through its next phase of growth and operational delivery. His background in payments, financial services, and corporate governance positions him well to lead the company’s global ambitions.
As EML navigates both internal transformation and external regulatory challenges, the appointment of a dedicated global CEO signals a sharpened focus on execution and market responsiveness. Investors and industry watchers will be keen to see how these developments translate into operational momentum and shareholder value.
Bottom Line?
EML’s new leadership and regulatory navigation set the stage for a critical year of transformation and growth.
Questions in the middle?
- How will the interim ADI guarantee requirement impact EML’s financials and operations?
- What timeline and hurdles remain for EPSL’s ADI licence approval?
- How effectively will the new leadership structure accelerate the EML 2.0 transformation?