"We are also accepting in full from 1 May this year the Armed Forces Pay Review Body's recommended increase in the so-called X Factor payment made to military personnel to recognise the particular sacrifices they make, " the chancellor said.

BBC: Budget 2013: Public sector pay rise cap extended

After all, payment history is the biggest factor in calculating your credit score.

FORBES: 10 Steps to Repair, Rebuild, and Protect Your Credit

Another factor that sparked margin expansion was higher payment volume.

FORBES: PayPal Can Push eBay To $34 And Beyond