What does the regulatory landscape look like for mobile payments?

It would certainly help to know which country you are interested in.

• In most cases/countries you would need a banking license if you are taking deposite, etc. for those conducting branchless banking.
• Your local Federal Reserve or its equivalent would come into play.
• Your FCC (or equivalent) would also come into play, presumably citing another type of license or license fees applicable where by 'banking' can be done by the license holder
• Lastly, Money Transfer License if you are moving money across state lines or internationally.

All this assumes that banking is one part and parcel of the mobile payments you are asking for. If it is simple EBPP (Electronic Bill Present and Payment), then I guess not much is needed from a regulatory point of view.

Needless to say, your mileage may vary as per the geographic region you are in.