''Mega Monday'' for cards predicted

Card spending on the internet is to hit its annual peak today, Visa Europe has predicted.

According to the debit and credit card firm, analysis of past transaction numbers suggest that this will be another "mega Monday".

This could be because people who fail to find the Christmas gifts they are looking for on the high street are turning to the internet to buy goods.

Purchasing them now also leaves enough time for their arrival before Christmas Day.

Steve Perry, commercial director of Visa Europe, said: "We expect the rise of online consumer shopping to continue.

"Consumers are keen to place their online orders in time for Christmas, ensuring they are delivered on time."

Visa Europe figures show that online spending on debit cards has increased by 20 per cent over the last week – and by seven per cent over the past month.