Due to regulatory requirements and consumer demand in Germany and France, MoneyGram opened company stores in both countries. After the correction of tariffs, volumes of MoneyGram transfers increased by 30%. In due time MoneyGram separated from the Western Union and became an independent brand. In 2011, a global network of agents of MoneyGram has grown up to 256 000 service points, thus its growth is 24% compared to the same period of the previous year. Technology continues to play a key role in increasing MoneyGram transaction speed, automating and streamlining processes, and creating new functionality. Very intensive and focused approach has helped MoneyGram to grow business at a rapid pace and establish MoneyGram as a global player in the marketplace. MoneyGram International, Inc. - The U.S. financial company engaged in operations in the international financial markets since 1940. AgentConnect continues to be an attractive alternative for businesses that choose to integrate their networks and point-of-sale platforms with the MoneyGram wired transfer. Money transfer wired system MoneyGram offers annually U.S. $ 500,000 in grants to charitable organizations to support education programs in developing countries. In March 2012, the company MoneyGram merged with the network of U.S. payment centers ZipZap.