What a Payments Expert Reveals About Adult Industry Growth

Sarah Davis · 2026-08-04

The adult industry runs on more than just great content—it runs on payments. And that's exactly what Johannes Kanter, Chief Growth Officer at FASTO, discussed in the latest episode of the Adult Site Broker Talk podcast. Based in Pattaya, Thailand, Kanter brought a global perspective to the conversation, and his insights matter for anyone doing business in this space. Kanter's role at FASTO is broad. As he put it, he "runs marketing, content, partnerships, and business development for a payment company focused on adult and other high-risk verticals." That's not just a job title—it's a front-row seat to how money actually moves in this industry, including the challenges and opportunities that come with it. ### Why Payment Processing Is the Industry's Backbone If you've ever run an adult site, you already know this: payment processing is often the hardest part. It's not just about finding a processor—it's about finding one that understands the unique risks, regulations, and chargeback patterns that come with adult content. Kanter's work at FASTO is all about solving those problems for creators and platforms alike. During the podcast, he touched on what makes a payment partner truly valuable in this space. It's not just about approval rates or fees. It's about reliability, transparency, and the ability to adapt when the landscape shifts. ### What High-Risk Merchants Need to Know Kanter's expertise isn't limited to adult content. He also works across other high-risk verticals, which gives him a broader view of what works and what doesn't. That perspective is gold for anyone trying to navigate this space. Here are a few key takeaways from his conversation that stood out: - **Diversification matters**: Relying on one payment processor is a recipe for disaster. Kanter emphasized the importance of having multiple options in place. - **Compliance isn't optional**: The rules around age verification and data privacy are only getting stricter. Staying ahead of them is crucial. - **Relationships are everything**: A payment partner who understands your business is worth far more than one who just processes transactions. These aren't just talking points—they're practical lessons that can save you from costly interruptions down the road. ### The Podcast's Role in the Industry The Adult Site Broker Talk podcast has become a go-to resource for professionals in the adult space. Each episode brings in operators, investors, and experts who share real-world insights. This week's episode with Kanter is no exception. It's the kind of conversation that makes you think differently about the infrastructure behind your business. If you're running an adult platform, a payment company, or even just exploring entry into this market, there's a lot to learn here. Kanter's approach to growth is grounded in the realities of the industry—not the hype. ### The Bottom Line At the end of the day, the conversation boils down to this: the adult industry is maturing, and so are the tools that support it. Payment processing is no longer an afterthought—it's a strategic advantage. Kanter's insights remind us that the companies who treat payments as a core part of their business are the ones who thrive. Whether you're a seasoned operator or just getting started, this episode is worth your time. It's a reminder that behind every successful adult platform is a solid foundation—and that foundation often starts with how you handle money.