American Express is a global financial services company primarily known for its payment card products, travel services and merchant network. Founded in 1850 as an express mail business, the company evolved through the 20th century into a payments and travel-focused organization. Its core activities include issuing consumer and commercial charge and credit cards, operating a global card acceptance and processing network, and providing travel-related services and customer loyalty programs.
American Express issues a range of products for individuals, small businesses and large corporations, including personal cards, business and corporate cards, and co‑brand partnerships with airlines, hotels and retailers. The company operates the Membership Rewards loyalty program and offers concierge and travel booking services through American Express Travel. On the merchant side, American Express provides acquiring and network services, data analytics, fraud prevention and payment acceptance solutions that enable businesses to process card transactions and engage customers.
In addition to card and merchant services, American Express conducts banking activities through its affiliated bank, offering deposit products, savings accounts and consumer lending in selected markets. Historically notable milestones include the introduction of traveler’s cheques in the late 19th century and the establishment of the American Express card business in the mid‑20th century, milestones that helped shift the company’s focus toward payments and travel services.
American Express serves customers globally, with operations and partnerships across the United States, Europe, Latin America, Asia‑Pacific and other regions. The company’s businesses are organized to serve consumer and small business clients, global commercial customers and merchant partners. As of recent years the company has been led by CEO Stephen J. Squeri, who oversees strategy across its payments, merchant and travel businesses as the firm continues to expand digital offerings and deepen customer relationships worldwide.