Visa Payments Forum Returns to San Francisco Through 2030, Citing 10% Rise in In-Person Spending

San Francisco, CA – Visa, a global leader in digital payments, has announced its commitment to host the annual Visa Payments Forum (VPF) at the Moscone Center in San Francisco through 2030. This decision marks the return of the forum to the city after being held in Dallas, Texas, this year, and underscores a significant vote of confidence in San Francisco's ongoing economic recovery. The announcement was highlighted by Mayor Daniel Lurie, who cited Visa's internal card data showing a 10% increase in in-person spending in San Francisco, climbing monthly.

The Visa Payments Forum, which will celebrate its 20th anniversary in 2026, brings together thousands of payments industry leaders from around the world. Visa's Group President, Global Markets, Oliver Jenkyn, emphasized the strategic importance of this move, stating, "The future of payments is here in San Francisco, a city that has always been at the heart of Visa’s story." He added that bringing the forum home is an investment in the local community, supporting economic growth and showcasing San Francisco's role as a global innovation hub.

Mayor Daniel Lurie welcomed the news, interpreting the data as "real proof our city’s comeback is gaining strength." He noted that companies are bringing workers back to offices, small businesses are opening across the city, and a palpable energy is returning downtown. The city's convention and tourism sector has been actively working to rebound from pandemic-era challenges, and securing major, multi-year events like the VPF is crucial for its revitalization.

The Moscone Center, San Francisco’s largest convention complex, has recently faced cancellations and concerns from major tech companies regarding street conditions. However, the multi-year commitment from Visa, alongside other major events like Salesforce's Dreamforce, signals a positive shift. The city projects 32 events at the Moscone Center this year alone, anticipated to generate $600 million for the local economy.

Visa's renewed commitment to San Francisco is further solidified by the recent opening of its new global headquarters at 300 Toni Stone Crossing in the Mission Rock development. The company had previously held its marquee event in San Francisco in 2024, coinciding with the headquarters' opening, and described that experience as "fantastic." This long-term engagement is expected to significantly benefit San Francisco's hospitality industry, small businesses, and overall economic landscape.