American Express Company

Global payments company known for premium credit and charge cards

What American Express does

American Express issues credit and charge cards to consumers and businesses, often bundled with travel, dining and lifestyle perks. It also runs its own payment network that lets merchants accept its cards and processes and settles those transactions. The company additionally offers banking services such as deposits and non-card loans.

How American Express makes money

It earns fees from merchants when its cards are used, along with card fees and interest on the loans cardholders carry. It also earns from its merchant acquiring, processing and network services.

Products & services

• American Express credit cards
• American Express charge cards
• Travel, dining and lifestyle card benefits
• Expense management services for businesses
• Deposits and non-card lending
• Merchant acquiring and payment network services