Ben Wild Studios, founded by the self-taught artist Ben Wild, has announced a major rebranding to reflect its exceptional growth and wider market presence. The studio will now be known as BWS, marking a new chapter in its journey since its inception in 2019.

Ben Wild, a Manchester native who entered the animation world after leaving Sale High School at 15, has transformed the traditional animation industry through his innovative approach.

Without a university degree, Ben’s career path has inspired many aspiring artists to follow their dreams with passion and creativity.

Now 25, Ben Wild has swiftly moved from being an on-site storyboard artist for a film studio to working with prestigious global clients. The rebrand from Ben Wild Studios to BWS, meticulously designed by Ben, represents the studio’s growth and its expanded range of creative services beyond animation.

“Since our first project with co-founder and investor Andrew Morgan back in 2019, we’ve realised the potential to grow and adapt in this fast-paced industry,” said Ben Wild. “Rebranding to BWS reflects not just our roots but also our wings as we expand into new horizons.”

In just three years, BWS has not only doubled its team but has also secured a remarkable client list, including the Premier League, Seren Kids, CBBC, New Balance and Amazon Prime, showcasing the demand for BWS’ high-quality, hand-drawn animations that evoke nostalgia while innovating digital storytelling.

As BWS, the company is set to undertake even more thrilling projects and broader creative challenges, fuelled by a team that has doubled in size over the past year. This expansion underscores BWS’s dedication to excellence and innovation in the traditional animation domain.

In recent years, there has been a noticeable shift among millennials from using credit cards to preferring debit cards. This trend is driven by several factors, including a desire for better financial management, the avoidance of debt, and the integration of modern financial solutions like the Banxe.

Financial Responsibility and Debt Avoidance

Millennials are known for their cautious approach to financial management. Having witnessed the repercussions of the 2008 financial crisis, many are wary of accumulating debt. Debit cards provide a way to manage finances more responsibly, as they allow users to spend only what they have in their accounts, avoiding the pitfalls of credit card debt.

Technological Integration and Convenience

The rise of digital banking has also played a significant role in this shift. Millennials are digital natives who demand seamless, technology-driven solutions for their financial needs. Banxe exemplifies this trend with its innovative features and user-centric approach.

Banxe Debit Card: A Modern Financial Tool

The Banxe Card is a contactless debit card that offers a multitude of benefits tailored to the needs of modern users. Available in both digital and physical formats, it ensures that users can manage their finances effortlessly, whether online or in the physical world.

One of the standout features of the Banxe Debit Card is its ability to be topped up with both fiat money and cryptocurrency 24/7 directly from a Banxe account. This feature is particularly appealing to millennials, who are more likely to engage with cryptocurrencies. The card supports transactions with over 350 cryptocurrencies, providing unparalleled access and convenience for digital currency transactions.

High Limits and Low Fees

The Banxe Debit Card also boasts high ATM withdrawal limits and a transparent, low-fee structure. This makes it an attractive option for both everyday use and travel. The sleek, all-black design of the card underscores its premium nature, catering to individuals, businesses, entrepreneurs, startups, and digital nomads.

Enhanced Security Features

Security is a top priority for Banxe. It incorporates advanced security measures such as 3D Secure and Multi-factor Authentication to protect every transaction. Users can quickly block or freeze the card and set limits directly from their Banxe account, ensuring full control over their finances.

Seamless Integration with Banxe Services

The Banxe Debit Card is part of a broader suite of financial services offered by Banxe. With a unique International Bank Account Number (IBAN), users can manage their financial transactions with flexibility and freedom, bypassing traditional banking hours and costly transfer methods. The integration of cryptocurrency into the Banxe platform allows for 24/7 account top-ups, enabling users to convert their digital currency into fiat money and use their funds immediately.

A Gateway to the Cryptocurrency Market

The Banxe Debit Card is more than just a payment method; it’s a gateway to the cryptocurrency market. By supporting a wide array of cryptocurrencies, it provides millennials with the tools they need to navigate the digital currency landscape effectively.

Changing Spending Patterns

Recent data from a TransUnion study highlights significant changes in consumer spending patterns. Credit card usage has seen a slight decline in certain spending categories, while cash usage has risen. Specifically, cash payments for groceries have increased by 34% and by 23% for retail purchases compared to last year, indicating ongoing economic uncertainty.

Meanwhile, the use of digital wallets has surged among younger consumers, with debit cards now accounting for half of all digital wallet transactions in the grocery and retail sectors. Additionally, cash spending at restaurants has increased by 12% since 2023, with older, wealthier consumers contributing to a 23% rise in cash usage in this category over the last quarter.

Future Prospects

Looking ahead, Banxe continues to innovate, with plans to introduce new products aimed at simplifying daily banking and cryptocurrency transactions. This ongoing commitment to reliability, security, and exceptional customer service positions Banxe at the forefront of the evolving financial landscape.

The shift from credit to debit cards among millennials is driven by a combination of financial responsibility, technological integration, and the desire for modern, flexible financial solutions. The Banxe Debit Card is a prime example of how these trends are shaping the future of payments, offering a robust, user-friendly platform that meets the diverse needs of today’s consumers.