Banking

<img src="https://m2p-website-file.s3.ap-south-1.amazonaws.com/m2p-website-file/marketing-cms/m2p-blog/2022/06/banner1251.webp" alt="M2P Fintech" title="" id="pzkn5bsd" width="100%" height="356">A crowded building with people spending a lot of hours in a queue to get their service done – this is almost everyone’s idea about the term “Bank.” But now, it looks suave after an upgrade with a fresh look.Gone are the days when people spent a day getting their banking service done. After the great technological innovation, traditional banking is no longer considered a troubling word. Several advancements acted as a trigger for the players like fintech companies and other third-party service providers (TPSP) to cause a paradigm shift that posed a challenge to traditional banks.<h2 class="heading-node" id="kqq3yw2uf">What does Banking as a Service mean?</h2>Simply put, Banking as a Service (BaaS) is an end-to-end process that involves FinTechs and other third-party service providers(TPSP) to access the bank’s financial services through <a class="link" href="https://m2pfintech.com/blog/api-the-power-that-drives-new-age-banking-ecosystems/">APIs</a> for offering a different and personalized financial approach to their customers.<h2 class="heading-node" id="83d7">Banking as a Service - The Bonanza</h2>Over the years, banks provided financial services to their customers using rudimentary infrastructure. But now, many tech-savvy banks evolving around have pushed every bank to upgrade their services to maintain their lifetime value. To meet this rising demand, FinTech comes into play by integrating their white-labeled services by accessing the bank’s APIs.Looks like banks were on a ride of a lifetime to the technological planet with many advancements at fore. One such advancement is Banking as a Service. It is a business model which plays a crucial role in strengthening the customer base with the help of fintechs that provide innovative financial assistance to the bank. Banking as a Service pioneers a huge window of opportunities for digital banking and rockets the revenue.As<a class="link" href="https://m2pfintech.com/blog/embedded-finance-101-the-bridge-connecting-tech-and-financial-services/"> embedded finance</a> is treasured and demanded by many NBFCs, software companies, and logistic firms, BaaS has gained popularity and is now ubiquitous for bringing promising financial features for their customers and even escalates their revenue growth.Predominantly, fintech start-ups have come up in large numbers. They target banks to promote and promulgate their business by offering innovative products and services. The fintech sector collaborates with banks to gain rapid acceptance by the customers to provide loans, cards, deposits, insurance, make payments, and many trusted financial services.<h2 class="heading-node" id="e682">The Working Mechanism of BaaS</h2>Banking as a Service works on providing trendier products than ever to customers with a more qualified user experience. The pandemic skyrocketed the demand for payment digital apps. Amidst the chaos, these contactless payments created a brighter picture by providing ease of use while staying indoors.<img src="https://m2p-website-file.s3.ap-south-1.amazonaws.com/m2p-website-file/marketing-cms/m2p-blog/2022/06/Artboard-1-copy-7-9.webp" alt="M2P Fintech" title="" id="49t76cu8b" width="100%" height="284">There are two ways to carry Banking as a Service seamlessly.<h3 class="heading-node" id="6785">API- based stack</h3>With API’s intervention, FinTechs and other third-party service providers (TPSP) can help banks offer customers a transparent, smooth, and customized financial service along with the existing banking services. Customers feel a better user experience when providers synchronize and connect with the bank’s tools and services. Simplified money flows are now possible with very few clicks for the customer.The fintechs are given secured access to banking services followed by integrating bank’s APIs with the provider’s products to further execute seamless white-label banking services using upgraded technology. They strictly abide by the rules and regulations in carrying out the bank’s data safely using top-notch security systems like PCA.<h3 class="heading-node" id="b6e9">Cloud-based stack</h3>Here, the licensed tech companies operate as regulated banks to offer the services by pushing the traditional banks to the inoperative section in this play by redefining their stacks to cloud sections.<h2 class="heading-node" id="0ecf">The Three-Layered Structure of BaaS</h2><ol class="list-node" id="1ye58bqfe"><li>Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) includes the basic financial services provided by the traditional banks through an IaaS provider.</li><li>Banking as a Platform (BaaP) is placed above IaaS, which includes the customized services offered for fintech start-ups and companies. The data carried out between the banks and fintechs are monitored securely as data security is concerned.</li><li>FinTech SaaS — Here, the fintech companies which offer financial services interact with the end-users to carry out the data or requests and sends it back to BaaP securely.</li></ol><img src="https://m2p-website-file.s3.ap-south-1.amazonaws.com/m2p-website-file/marketing-cms/m2p-blog/2022/06/Artboard-1-copy-10-3.webp" alt="M2P Fintech" title="" id="k6nerr46b" width="100%" height="284"><h2 class="heading-node" id="80d9">Evolution of Banking</h2>This era has witnessed the massive emergence of tech-savvy banks. One such popular emergence is the&nbsp;<a class="link au js" href="https://m2pfintech.com/blog/neo-banking-the-rise-of-new-age-banking/" rel="noopener">Neo Banks</a>. They are digital banks that operate only online with the help of artificial intelligence, machine learning technologies, and <a class="link" href="https://m2pfintech.com/blog/the-world-of-apis-how-they-power-fintech/">APIs</a>. Cost-efficient, convenient, and user-friendly interface are what makes them stand out. Neo banks partner with traditional banks to digitally offer services from opening a bank account to money transfers/bill payments 24x7.FinTechs play a crucial role by building their innovative infrastructure on top of it, making the Neo Banks more popular. Banking as a Service is the backbone of Neo Banks as they are dependent on APIs and other crucial financial services they offer.We take pride in the fact that <a class="link" href="https://m2pfintech.com/">M2P</a> powers&nbsp;Finin, India’s first neo bank with our APIs that enables instant provision of user’s bank account and prepaid cards.<h2 class="heading-node" id="ka11sfo39">Types of BaaS Providers</h2>BaaS providers can be classified into three models based on their purpose.<ul class="list-node" id="knjzk1ypi"><li>API Stores&nbsp;— Traditional banks open their API for fintechs and other TPSPs to incorporate their innovative bank services for customers.</li></ul>Services offered: eKYC, beneficiary validation, remittance, inquiry, etc.<ul class="list-node" id="dcdqfn7c5"><li>White-Label Platform&nbsp;— Companies that don’t carry a license can also approach fintechs and other TPSPs to offer their white-labeled service. But, in India, a license is a must to carry out this model.</li></ul>Services offered: Digital banking &amp; cards, lending, blockchain, payments, etc.<ul class="list-node" id="ikgg6uif1"><li>BaaS as Co-branding&nbsp;— The fintechs or neo banks carry their appearance in the forefront for the traditional banks to offer their effective services.</li></ul>Services offered: Banking &amp; Cards, Integrated payment gateway, etc.<h2 class="heading-node" id="b3e1">Open Banking vs. Banking as a Service</h2>Let us elucidate the long-haul confusion between <a class="link" href="https://m2pfintech.com/blog/open-banking-a-primer-2/">Open Banking</a> and Banking as a Service. In a nutshell, the usage of APIs by fintechs determines the difference between these two.<img src="https://m2p-website-file.s3.ap-south-1.amazonaws.com/m2p-website-file/marketing-cms/m2p-blog/2022/06/1_PMHIFWMQVSCmoFwYkpGQkg.webp" alt="M2P Fintech" title="" id="fcg7dxzxw" width="100%" height="181"><img src="https://m2p-website-file.s3.ap-south-1.amazonaws.com/m2p-website-file/marketing-cms/m2p-blog/2022/06/Artboard-1-copy-11-2.webp" alt="M2P Fintech" title="" id="9n9mxbvuv" width="100%" height="284"><h2 class="heading-node" id="c3d7">Benefits of Banking as a Service</h2>Nowadays, fintech start-ups shine with their innovative ideas and serve any financial need, making banks powerful. The mobile-first approach and everyday emerging digital advancements made Banking as a Platform a successful one in the industry. Also, the transparency and ease of use foster the growth of open banking by quickly nearing the go-to-market reach.Banking as a Service is the new evolution for both traditional banks and fintech sectors. The traditional banks who are smarter enough in adapting to the digital era can attain profitable accomplishments. They are forced to attract more young clients with their newer technologies and methodologies in financial services. For instance, the traditional banks can now collaborate with third-party service providers to expand their services like vehicle insurance, lending, <a class="link" href="https://m2pfintech.com/blog/remittance-with-upi-a-giant-leap-for-cross-border-payments/">remittance</a>, rewards, currency exchange, and many more.Many banks’ go-to option is now BaaS since they cannot remodel their infrastructure for back-end, front-end development and give a more product-centric approach as fintechs do. Banks prefer it is better to approach fintechs and TPSPs rather than making a huge investment building in-house.With banking service as a platform, it is simpler to launch and integrate banking features with the magic wand called <a class="link" href="https://m2pfintech.com/blog/the-world-of-apis-how-they-power-fintech/">API</a>.To make the long story short, BaaS is the savior for many banks, non-financial companies, and customers.Yes! We all have the same thought. The future holds more for banking.We can conclude that it will always be a money-spinning venture as fintechs and banks follow the collaborative way of doing business to produce more innovative services to their customers. Without a shadow of a doubt, the journey of Banking as a Service had just started, and we have a lot more to witness together.<a class="link" href="https://m2pfintech.com/newsletter/">Subscribe</a>&nbsp;to our newsletter and get the latest fintech news, views, and insights, directly to your inbox. Follow us on&nbsp;<a class="link" href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/m2pfintech/mycompany/">LinkedIn</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a class="link" href="https://twitter.com/m2pfintech">Twitter</a>&nbsp;for insightful fintech tales curated for curious minds like you.

Banking as a Service - Redefining Financial Services

<img src="https://m2p-website-file.s3.ap-south-1.amazonaws.com/m2p-website-file/marketing-cms/m2p-blog/2023/03/Behavioral-Biometrics01.webp" alt="M2P Fintech" title="" width="100%" height="253">Over 9,103 bank fraud cases worth 604 billion rupees were reported across India in 2022.  Now, this is not a good sign for the banking industry.&nbsp;Let alone the digital banking sector.With digital transformation on the rise, the cyber threat landscape has evolved too. Fraudsters are adapting sophisticated tactics and technologies to steal identity, data, and money for their corrupt motives. The security attacks have deep risk implications that result in financial loss, regulatory scrutiny, and depletion of customer trust and goodwill.&nbsp;These repercussions have created a dire demand for stringent security in digital banking. A one that does not hamper customer experience. Banks need technology innovation that can go beyond PINs and passwords to deter security attacks without compromising customer experience, trust, or regulatory compliance.&nbsp;Behavioral biometrics serve as a great solution to deter the security risks at stake.&nbsp;Advanced technology in behavioral biometrics can mitigate the security concerns of digital banks without impeding speed, personalization, convenience, or experience. It is a great way to build stakeholder loyalty and trust.&nbsp;<h2 class="heading-node" id="peql4e1rh" style="text-align: left">What is behavioral biometrics? &nbsp;</h2>Behavioral biometrics is a cutting-edge technology that continuously analyzes user identity along with their phygital (physical + digital) and cognitive behavior. It averts security risks such as credential theft, compromised passwords/accounts, user substitution, phishing attacks, license mismanagement, and identity breaches of any kind. The biometric authentication runs without making a noise in the background and does not impede the customer experience on any level.&nbsp;&nbsp;By monitoring and analyzing user movements like swiping, keying, scrolling, or even moving the devices, behavioral biometrics helps differentiate legitimate from fraudulent activities and can easily identify cybercriminals and fraudsters.&nbsp;It creates in-depth profiles of user behavior and uses them as a benchmark for identifying and preventing suspicious transactions. If the system notices any unusual conduct, alerts are triggered in the background to carry out extra research to preserve the integrity of the account and the authorized user. &nbsp;Banks today are exploring biometrics as a possible replacement for PIN and password systems for a more user-friendly banking experience. Behavioral biometrics can usher in a new era in digital authentication when implemented with machine learning and risk assessment techniques. When deployed in conjunction with biometric cards, it can combat even the most sophisticated digital banking fraud attacks. <h2 class="heading-node" id="cotu4k4rk" style="text-align: left">Types of behavioral biometrics &nbsp;</h2>The way a user walks, talks, types on a keyboard, or moves the mouse is factored in behavioral biometrics to validate identity and discover breaches. Kinesthetics, voice inputs and patterns, and devise-based gestures are primary types of behavioral biometrics.&nbsp;<img src="https://m2p-website-file.s3.ap-south-1.amazonaws.com/m2p-website-file/marketing-cms/m2p-blog/2023/03/Behavioral-Biometrics03.webp" alt="M2P Fintech" title="" width="100%" height="253">Kinesthetics (Posture &amp; Gait) &nbsp;The way a person's body moves and how their weight is distributed are kinesthetic behaviors of the user. Behavioral biometrics records and analyzes user gait, the way and the manner in which they handle devices, and body movements such as stride length, upper body posture, and movement pace to identify fraudulent activity. &nbsp;Voice Inputs &amp; Patterns &nbsp;The human voice is unique. By capturing narrow-band characteristics such as pitch and format, the perpetrator's identity and motive are very easily verified. The voice inputs and patterns of the user are analyzed, and the distinct, recurring sound variations that occur when they speak are captured and evaluated in behavioral biometrics.&nbsp;Device-Based Gestures (Keystroke Dynamics &amp; Cursor Movements) &nbsp;People interact with devices in specific ways. Typing patterns, keystroke speed and duration, key sequences, and mouse movement patterns have a significant correlation with behavioral intent. Cursor movement analysis in speed, direction changes, clicks, and interactions serves as a basis for user behavior profiles.  &nbsp;The gestures discussed above are analyzed in detail continuously to create behavioral profiles as input to risk engines/fraud monitoring systems. Banks and financial institutions can adopt this advanced technology to provide an extra layer of security for customer identity verification and fraud control.&nbsp;<h2 class="heading-node" id="z3wze9vma" style="text-align: left">How does behavioral biometrics prevent fraud? </h2>The process of preventing fraud and scams with behavioral data happens as follows.<ul class="list-node" id="ayi9ecx61"><li>Collection: The Access Control Server (ACS) monitors and records user actions and behaviors, such as typing rhythm, mouse movements, device usage patterns, and other kinesthetics.  &nbsp;</li><li>Analysis: A unique user profile is created after a thorough analysis of the collected data based on their behavioral patterns.  &nbsp;</li></ul><img src="https://m2p-website-file.s3.ap-south-1.amazonaws.com/m2p-website-file/marketing-cms/m2p-blog/2023/03/Behavioral-Biometrics04.webp" alt="M2P Fintech" title="" width="100%" height="253"><ul class="list-node" id="1frsnzw24"><li>Authentication: When a user attempts to access a protected resource, the system compares the current behavior of the user to their previously established profile. If the behavior matches, the user is authenticated and granted access. &nbsp;</li><li>Monitoring: Continued monitoring and updating of the user behavioral profile is done to ensure accuracy.  &nbsp;</li></ul>This way, behavioral biometrics significantly improves security and user experience in digital banking. &nbsp;<h2 class="heading-node" id="o9mj9ojo6" style="text-align: left">Five reasons why banks need behavioral biometrics &nbsp;</h2><ol class="list-node" id="eq24hgkm0"><li>Stronger security: Behavioral biometrics uses unique behavioral patterns and actions to verify the identity of an individual, providing a stronger form of authentication when compared to traditional methods such as passwords and security tokens. </li><li>User convenience: Unlike traditional biometrics, such as fingerprints and facial recognition, behavioral biometrics do not require any physical input from the user. Instead, it uses actions and behaviors that are performed naturally, such as typing rhythm and mouse movements. This makes it a convenient and user-friendly method of authentication.  &nbsp;</li><li>Continuous authentication: Behavioral biometrics continuously monitor the actions and behaviors of the user, ensuring that the user's identity is continuously verified even after initial authentication. This helps prevent fraud by detecting any changes in behavior that may indicate that a fraudster has taken over the account. &nbsp;</li><li>More difficult to mimic: Unlike other forms of biometrics, it is difficult for a fraudster to mimic the unique behavioral patterns of an individual. This makes it a more secure form of authentication, reducing the risk of fraud. &nbsp;</li><li>Improved fraud detection: By continuously monitoring user behavior, behavioral biometrics can help financial institutions identify potential fraud and investigate suspicious activity, giving them another layer of security to their customer’s accounts. &nbsp;</li></ol>The technology behind behavioral biometrics is evolving, and there is no doubt that a lot of work in this space is already underway. The early indications are quite clear that it will be a key component of banks’ arsenal against the continuously evolving world of fraud.&nbsp;It’s high time banks take behavioral biometrics seriously to authenticate and protect end-users from hacking and fraud.&nbsp; Want to know more about Behavioral Biometrics?&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Write to us at <a class="link" href="mailto:business@m2pfintech.com">business@m2pfintech.com</a>.&nbsp;<a class="link" href="https://m2pfintech.com/newsletter/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Subscribe</a>&nbsp;to our newsletter and get the latest fintech news, views, and insights, directly to your inbox.Follow us on&nbsp;<a class="link" href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/m2pfintech/mycompany/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">LinkedIn</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a class="link" href="https://twitter.com/m2pfintech" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Twitter</a>&nbsp;for insightful fintech tales curated for curious minds like you.

5 Reasons why Banks need Behavioral Biometrics

<img src="https://m2p-website-file.s3.ap-south-1.amazonaws.com/m2p-website-file/marketing-cms/m2p-blog/2022/05/banner1251-3-1.webp" alt="M2P Fintech" title="" id="ilmzze2wy" width="100%" height="317">The world has been churning the Open Banking mill for years, and India recently joined the bandwagon. The Indian government set the scene for the Open Banking system with the advent of UPI in 2016. However, in the last two years (post-pandemic period), the nation witnessed an extensive acceptance and adoption of Open Banking in the BFSI sector, fast-tracking fintech innovations. This feat is directly proportional to the government's nationwide campaigns that include the roll-out of IndiaStack, the launch of scalable Open Banking initiatives by banks, and improved funding to Banking-as-a-Service platforms. Today, India is at the forefront of Open Banking with a market size of around 3 to 4 million customers and is expected to grow by 46% by 2026.<h2 class="heading-node" id="h3j68aay1" style="text-align: justify">What is Open Banking?</h2>Open banking is a new-age banking practice that provides Third-party Service Providers (TSPs) open access to consumer and financial data from banks and Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs). It uses <a class="link" href="https://m2pfintech.com/blog/api-the-power-that-drives-new-age-banking-ecosystems/">Application Programming Interfaces</a> (APIs) to converge data from the banking world with the rest of the financial universe.It is imperative to note that financial data is made accessible to TSPs only after explicit customer consent. Thus, customer data is transparent yet secure and accessible anytime.Expected to hit $48 billion in 2026, open banking has accelerated technology innovation and adoption. It has facilitated a level-playing ecosystem via data portability and interoperability across the country. As trailblazers in enabling open banking ecosystems, fintech firms are aggregating data from various financial institutions and giving people and businesses more freedom in leveraging financial information.Open banking helps personal finance businesses analyze spending habits and offer personalized product recommendations. Lenders can comprehensively view customer’s financial situation, assess risk levels and offer optimal account terms. Customers can also leverage open banking to understand their financial situation before making financial decisions. By providing a window into customer behavior and expectations, open banking helps reshape customer experience and frictionless commerce.Before we go further, let’s explore the roots of open banking.<h2 class="heading-node" id="a0b5" style="text-align: justify">Origin of Open Banking</h2>The concept of Open Banking dates back to the 80s in Europe. Fast-forward to 2007, the arrival of a Payment Service Directive 1 (PSD1), harmonized payment services regulation and increased competition among financial service providers in the EU.The primary aim of PSD was to harmonize consumer protection with the rights and obligations of payment service providers and users. It established an integrated payments market that offered best-in-class security and infrastructure to the end users.&nbsp;PSD also allowed countries to include sections that are explicitly valid for their payment industry. It was released as legislation on November 1st, 2009, and accepted by all EU and EEA member states.However, even though PSD offered a comprehensive framework, it was not inclusive when considering international payments outside the European Union (EU). Furthermore, it was not designed for TSPs in its scope.These bottlenecks led the EU to build a more robust framework for this directive, which resulted in Payment Service Directive 2 (PSD2). It came into force on January 13th, 2018 with new rights for certain third-party providers (TPPs) to directly access online payment accounts with explicit customer consent through the bank's dedicated interface (built on APIs).Customer authentication is the main element of PSD2, and it encompasses the following points:<ul class="list-node" id="4wrs9fhmn"><li>Strengthen customer trust by deploying the highest standards of security</li><li>Offer a better pricing model to the consumers</li><li>Make transactions safe and secure</li><li>Level the playing field for payment service providers for both current upcoming players</li><li>Transparency in payment services</li></ul>Since this legislation has been out and about, many fintech, merchants, and tech players have been vigorously channeling their resources in becoming TPPs. PSD2 categorizes the TPPs into two categories.1. Payment Initiation Service Providers (PISPs): Regulated TPPs can initiate payments directly from the customer’s accounts based on their explicit consent.<img src="https://m2p-website-file.s3.ap-south-1.amazonaws.com/m2p-website-file/marketing-cms/m2p-blog/2022/05/Artboard-1-copy-9-3.webp" alt="M2P Fintech" title="" width="100%" height="253">2. Account Information Service Provider (AISP): Regulated TPPs who access customer data and provide them a single view of all their accounts for better financial management. Even this action requires the customer’s explicit consent.<img src="https://m2p-website-file.s3.ap-south-1.amazonaws.com/m2p-website-file/marketing-cms/m2p-blog/2022/05/Artboard-1-copy-10-2-1.webp" alt="M2P Fintech" title="" width="100%" height="253">PSD2 laid the groundwork for open banking, a practice that is very relevant, safe, quick, and easy to use.<h2 class="heading-node" id="29wqtnyhx" style="text-align: justify">Need for Open Banking</h2>The world of financial services is a dynamic environment. It can be primarily ascribed to the rise of new technologies in the digital banking ecosystem, heightened regulation scrutiny, and constant change in customer behavior and expectations. Besides these, the relentless search for a sustainable service model for underserved markets and additional revenue streams also define the landscape of financial services. &nbsp;In addition, FIs are obliged to stay compliant, manage costs, and maintain security and trust, and governments look for ways to boost innovation and competition across the banking sector. &nbsp;To manage complex customer needs and drive innovation and opportunity far beyond banking, the financial services industry needed to break through the conservative wall around the customer's financial data. Thanks to PSD2, banks and fintechs can now make the data useful and relevant. It now serves as the key to enhancing collaboration between financial services providers, rendering superior products and services for customers, reducing risk, pursuing strategic growth opportunities, and adapting to the new-age banking ecosystem.<h2 class="heading-node" id="i8q4vgmvm" style="text-align: justify">Closed Banking Vs. Open Banking</h2><img src="https://m2p-website-file.s3.ap-south-1.amazonaws.com/m2p-website-file/marketing-cms/m2p-blog/2022/05/Artboard-1-copy-11-4.webp" alt="M2P Fintech" title="" width="100%" height="253"><h2 class="heading-node" id="dc6a" style="text-align: justify">How do APIs work in Open Banking?</h2>APIs are the backbone of Open Banking infrastructure for two reasons.<ol class="list-node" id="6ipr9y3o8"><li>It facilitates the exchange of information between two financial parties</li><li>It offers secure interoperability that is compliant with region-specific laws and regulations</li></ol>The world of finance sees it as an open source platform that allows legacy financial institutions to collaborate with modern age fintech platforms.&nbsp;With APIs at the forefront, customers will get a consolidated view, and financial providers such as lenders will get the required data to make the right decisions. This empowered banks and FIs to revamp their products and services to meet ever-changing customer needs.&nbsp;The APIs can be classified into three categories:&nbsp;<ul class="list-node" id="z7d94jny8"><li>Public APIs are the most popular connectors for open banking. They give TPPs access to customer information from the bank, but they don't store or save that information for later use.&nbsp;</li><li>Partner APIs are specific APIs designed to allow the exchange of data between two companies or businesses. They facilitate vendor-to-vendor communication channels.&nbsp;</li><li>Internal APIs are proprietary APIs used by an organization to secure and manage its own database.</li></ul><h2 class="heading-node" id="6a44" style="text-align: justify">Use Cases in Open Banking</h2>Financial ServicesOpen banking is all set to reinvent the way financial services are now perceived. The highlight of this reinvention is that they do not intend to eliminate the players but give them a new avatar. In simple terms, there is no customer data without banks.A bank’s responsibility is to provide the necessary platform for its customers to have their pick of the services. As fintechs are now offering that choice, banks are pressed to reinvent and partner with these new age fintechs to retain the competitor status. Today, several leading banks have formed successful partnerships with fintechs to offer the following services.<ul class="list-node" id="ypujhtj6f"><li>A comprehensive view of core banking accounts</li><li>Payment services and choice of networks</li><li>Commercial and personal loan histories</li><li>Tailored investment portfolios</li><li>Native bank apps and enriched experiences</li></ul>Small businessesAkin to individual customers, small business owners can use open banking to gain insightful visibility into their financial management. They will be able to understand the realities and ripple effects of their financial decisions such as loans, mortgages, and expansions. Small business owners can leverage the understanding to improve their cash flow. Likewise, lenders can devise practical loan offerings with an expedited delivery timeline to meet business needs.InsuranceInsurance providers can access a complete, dynamic, and current portfolio of the applicant’s finances. They can use the data to draw sound insurance decisions that matches the client’s best interest and business profitability. The customers also get an unparalleled view into spending behavior resulting in diligent financial decisions.CustomersOpen banking is all set to provide customers with a supermarket aisle experience where they can pick and choose the financial products they want. This tailored experience offers several advantages to new-age customers as listed below.<ul class="list-node" id="a66wr4nq7"><li>Augmented account visibility and security</li><li>In-depth visibility into spending habits and behaviors</li><li>Instantaneous access to market investments</li><li>Interoperable online and physical payment options</li></ul><h2 class="heading-node" id="uv1rt4xby" style="text-align: justify">Challenges in Open Banking</h2>Open banking removes interpersonal relationships between the customer and the bank. As everything is handled digitally, the human connection takes a dive.Customers might not be willing to share their details, and there could be a lack of apathy/credibility from the customer. Convincing them about the benefits and converting them into leads might take a while.Security concerns play a huge role in this field as it is a relatively new field, and it is filled with many trial and error situations that are yet to happen.<img src="https://m2p-website-file.s3.ap-south-1.amazonaws.com/m2p-website-file/marketing-cms/m2p-blog/2022/05/Artboard-1-copy-12-1.webp" alt="M2P Fintech" title="" width="100%" height="253"><h2 class="heading-node" id="47f6" style="text-align: justify">Opportunities in Open Banking</h2>The open data philosophy will improve the transparency and democratization of the banking platform. It will provide access to the credit deprived and also facilitate entry into foreign markets. The most important benefit of all would be the ideation and creation of apps that will be fielded in the market by upcoming fintech players. Tools like Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning will be able to predict solutions based on customer spending habits. Automation will be a game changer for many services.Intrigued about the forthcomings of open banking and financing?Reach out to us at <a class="link" href="mailto:business@m2pfintech.com">business@m2pfintech.com</a> to know more.<a class="link" href="https://m2pfintech.com/newsletter/">Subscribe</a>&nbsp;to our newsletter and get the latest fintech news, views, and insights, directly to your inbox.Follow us on&nbsp;<a class="link" href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/m2pfintech/mycompany/">LinkedIn</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a class="link" href="https://twitter.com/m2pfintech">Twitter</a>&nbsp;for insightful fintech tales curated for curious minds like you.

Open Banking- A primer

<img src="https://m2p-website-file.s3.ap-south-1.amazonaws.com/m2p-website-file/marketing-cms/m2p-blog/2024/01/Core-Banking-Solution-Blog_Main_Banner_2000X1000-copy-5.webp" alt="M2P Fintech" title="" width="100%" height="531">Core Banking Solution (CBS) promises a transformative leap for banks. It ensures banking functions are fully digital and compliant with modern banking standards.<h2 class="heading-node" id="py35089h3" style="text-align: justify">Challenges in CBS Implementation</h2>While <a class="link" href="https://m2pfintech.com/blog/core-banking-essentials-types-components-advantages/" rel="sponsored">modern core banking</a> marked the dawn of a new era in banking excellence, the implementation and integration processes come with their own set of challenges (discussed below).<h3 class="heading-node" id="59v881zh1" style="text-align: justify">Migrating from Legacy Systems</h3>Transitioning from<a class="link" href="https://m2pfintech.com/blog/future-of-core-banking-systems/"> legacy to modern core banking platforms</a> is a complex task. The process of transferring customer data, transaction history, and other data without disruption requires meticulous planning and flawless execution. Risk factors such as data loss, system downtime, and inconsistent mapping of data during migration need to be dealt with carefully.<h3 class="heading-node" id="62ufw9315" style="text-align: justify">Optimizing Tech Infrastructure</h3>Optimizing hardware and software resources is crucial for operational efficiency. If tech infrastructure is not managed effectively, it impacts scalability, security, reliability, and business continuity. Addressing these concerns requires investment in the right technology and resources.<h3 class="heading-node" id="ihfdpg709" style="text-align: justify">Regulatory Compliance</h3>To stay compliant, banks need to adhere to central bank regulations on transaction security, data security, and privacy, among others. Core banking systems must have integrated compliance features that can adapt to evolving standards and regulations for robust security and fraud detection.<h3 class="heading-node" id="lwlxlhbvo" style="text-align: justify">Technological Integration</h3>Tech integration involves connecting various components, modules, and external systems with the banking infrastructure. Different technologies, platforms, and data formats can make smooth communication difficult.&nbsp;The right tech expertise is required to ensure seamless cooperation, efficiency, and a user-friendly experience.<h3 class="heading-node" id="34snkfg2o" style="text-align: justify">Training &amp; Change Management</h3>Educating staff and customers about new technology, processes, and features plays an important role in successful <a class="link" href="https://m2pfintech.com/blog/unlock-the-future-of-banking-with-next-gen-core-banking-solutions/">next-gen CBS deployment.</a> Effective employee training and transition management are imperative for operational efficiency and customer satisfaction.<h3 class="heading-node" id="9zfbsfbc9" style="text-align: justify">Cost &amp; ROI</h3>Managing upfront expenses, ongoing costs (maintenance and training), and, most importantly, quantifying intangible gains such as improved efficiency and customer satisfaction are huge challenges. Banks require precise cost analysis, accurate ROI projections, and a clear grasp of how the core banking solution drives long-term business growth and profitability, to tackle these issues.For this, banks must partner with the right core banking solution provider.<h2 class="heading-node" id="a1wchoaku" style="text-align: justify">How to Choose the Right Core Banking Solution Provider?</h2>Look for the following features and functionalities while choosing a core banking solution provider.<h3 class="heading-node" id="qaqzfwrbx" style="text-align: justify">Real-time Transaction Processing &amp; Data Availability</h3>Ensure your core banking solution provider supports real-time transaction processing for the swift execution of services such as deposits, withdrawals, transfers, and payments. Real-time processing not only elevates customer experience but also enables timely decision-making for both customers and bank staff.<h3 class="heading-node" id="wtfl7ujxv" style="text-align: justify">Multi-channel Integration (Net Banking, Mobile banking, ATM)</h3>Modern core banking solutions must offer multi-channel integration, which allows customers to access banking services through various platforms such as online banking, mobile apps, ATMs, and more. The feature provides customers with the flexibility to choose their preferred channels for transactions, inquiries, and interactions, thus enhancing convenience and accessibility.<h3 class="heading-node" id="j52lny9xm" style="text-align: justify">Cross-functional Capabilities (Accounting, CRM, Risk Management)</h3>Cross-functional capabilities go beyond basic account management. It integrates various modules that include accounting, customer relationship management (CRM), and risk management into the core banking system. Integration enables banks to streamline operations, maintain accurate financial records, provide personalized customer experiences, and manage risks associated with financial transactions.<h3 class="heading-node" id="mgjtiv2ry" style="text-align: justify">Customization and Scalability</h3>Customization functionalities in CBS empower banks to tailor systems to specific needs and workflows. Core banking solutions should be scalable, considering the bank's growth and increasing transaction volumes, without compromising performance.<h3 class="heading-node" id="ifzyvjbg5" style="text-align: justify">Data Security &amp; Privacy</h3>Data security and privacy are the most critical aspects of core banking. Ensure your CBS is equipped with robust security features that include encryption, access controls, authentication mechanisms, and compliance with industry regulations. They protect sensitive customer data and ensure privacy which is indispensable to build trust and maintain the integrity of the banking system.Modernizing core banking systems with the right solution provider is key for banks to unlock success in the digital era. Partner with <a class="link" href="https://m2pfintech.com/turing-core-banking/">Turing Core Banking Solution from M2P</a> to roll out customer-centric banking services in the most efficient way.<h2 class="heading-node" id="9g488iasb" style="text-align: justify">Turing Core Banking Solution</h2>Turing is a cutting-edge Core Banking Solution that deploys a state-of-the-art tech stack and micro-services architecture with licensed and open-source platform compatibility. Its low code development capability and API-first, cloud-agnostic approach positions Turing as a modern, future-ready core banking solution.Banks can launch new products with minimum effort by leveraging pre-built modules and components, allowing them to stay ahead of the competition.<h3 class="heading-node" id="vxr2c948m" style="text-align: justify">Why Turing?</h3><ol class="list-node" id="pe1kd0x8t"><li>Speed of innovation (using AI and ML)</li><li>Flexibility (low code capabilities)</li><li>Agility (hyper-personalized products)</li><li>Open-source Platform Compatibility</li><li>Faster Go-To-Market Product</li><li>Highly intuitive CRM module</li><li>Pre-integrated with Fraud Risk Management (FRM) engine</li></ol>Want to know more about implementing the Turing Core Banking Solution?<a class="link" href="https://m2pfintech.com/contact-us/">Get in touch</a> with our experts today.&nbsp;<a class="link fui-Link ___1qmgydl f3rmtva f1ewtqcl fyind8e f1k6fduh f1w7gpdv fk6fouc fjoy568 figsok6 f1hu3pq6 f11qmguv f19f4twv f1tyq0we f1g0x7ka fhxju0i f1qch9an f1cnd47f fqv5qza f1vmzxwi f1o700av f13mvf36 f1cmlufx f9n3di6 f1ids18y f1tx3yz7 f1deo86v f1eh06m1 f1iescvh ftqa4ok f2hkw1w fhgqx19 f1olyrje f1p93eir f1h8hb77 f1x7u7e9 f10aw75t fsle3fq" href="https://m2pfintech.com/newsletter/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Subscribe</a>&nbsp;to our newsletter and get the latest fintech news, views, and insights, directly to your inbox.Follow us on&nbsp;<a class="link fui-Link ___1qmgydl f3rmtva f1ewtqcl fyind8e f1k6fduh f1w7gpdv fk6fouc fjoy568 figsok6 f1hu3pq6 f11qmguv f19f4twv f1tyq0we f1g0x7ka fhxju0i f1qch9an f1cnd47f fqv5qza f1vmzxwi f1o700av f13mvf36 f1cmlufx f9n3di6 f1ids18y f1tx3yz7 f1deo86v f1eh06m1 f1iescvh ftqa4ok f2hkw1w fhgqx19 f1olyrje f1p93eir f1h8hb77 f1x7u7e9 f10aw75t fsle3fq" href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/m2pfintech/mycompany/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LinkedIn</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a class="link fui-Link ___1qmgydl f3rmtva f1ewtqcl fyind8e f1k6fduh f1w7gpdv fk6fouc fjoy568 figsok6 f1hu3pq6 f11qmguv f19f4twv f1tyq0we f1g0x7ka fhxju0i f1qch9an f1cnd47f fqv5qza f1vmzxwi f1o700av f13mvf36 f1cmlufx f9n3di6 f1ids18y f1tx3yz7 f1deo86v f1eh06m1 f1iescvh ftqa4ok f2hkw1w fhgqx19 f1olyrje f1p93eir f1h8hb77 f1x7u7e9 f10aw75t fsle3fq" href="https://twitter.com/m2pfintech" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">X</a> for insightful fintech bytes curated for curious minds like you.

How to Choose the Right Core Banking Solution Provider

<img src="https://m2p-website-file.s3.ap-south-1.amazonaws.com/m2p-website-file/marketing-cms/m2p-blog/2022/04/banner-1251-2.webp" alt="M2P Fintech" title="" id="g4x9lr2sv" width="100%" height="479">Bridging the shortcomings of traditional banking through integrated value chains and regulatory requirements, <a class="link" href="https://m2pfintech.com/blog/neo-banking-101-all-you-need-to-know/">neobanks</a> today offers a holistic twist to banking services. User-friendly and completely digital, these banks work on referral-based acquisition and competitive pricing.With no banking license of their own, neobanks partners with traditional banks to offer their service suite. While this might be a pain point, neobanks target niche micro-segments like the Gen-Z because of their higher transaction volumes. Coupled with Data Analytics, neobanks bring forth innovative solutions to help individuals keep better track of their finances.For instance, our client Finin, India’s first neo bank, has brought on a feature where users can have a unified view of their bank accounts via their platform. It helps a user to keep better track and plan their financial journey.<h2 class="heading-node" id="27ed">Unbundled Banking</h2>Neobanks today are focusing on offering one type of product/service with complete functionalities. They operate with customized tech stack modules aimed at niche segments with user convenience as the focal point. Some of the top global neobanks are Revolut, Monzo, WeBank, Chime, etc.Paradoxically, legacy banking institutions cannot create these experiences as they face redundant processes, <a class="link" href="https://m2pfintech.com/blog/why-payments-interoperability-is-a-must-for-todays-generation/">interoperability</a>, etc. Fintech professionals realized that an obsolete technology stack was limiting the interoperability of traditional banking. This, in turn, guided the notion of Unbundled Banking, with neobanks steering the helm.Unbundled banking further narrowed that focus on customer experience, user convenience, and simplified processes. In this approach, anyone can launch banking products minus the need to go through a rigorous process of setting up a bank.<h2 class="heading-node" id="d0fd">Neobanking Revenue Model</h2>Neobanks operate on a strong cost-efficient model backed by less complex IT systems. So, their revenue model depends on the kind of products and services offered by them. Cross-selling of products/services to niche customer segments also acts as a secondary revenue stream for neobanks.They are driven by data-based decisions that depend on a decision-making model. Neobanks gather consumer data and analyze them and predict consumer behavior. These predictions help to offer customized services to their target customers. By deploying AI-driven chatbots, video chats, and data analytics, neobanks are available to customers as a cost-effective banking service right at their fingertips.Neobanks cross-sell and generate secondary revenue streams with a range of customized offerings suitable to customer’s needs. They also offer payments and accounts back-end platforms for other fintech companies to build their own interface on top of it.<img src="https://miro.medium.com/max/1400/1*ccQft1zHg2RQupLqXoK1YA.png" alt="Neobanks’s revenue model" title="" width="100%" height="306">Plug and Play solutions with 3rd party service providers with ease and data insights. With this, they can offer a range of products and services based on customer appetite and financial goals to boost up the secondary revenue lines and opportunities for cross-selling.&nbsp;Boosting lending options to customers and the SME sector will help generate revenue options.<h2 class="heading-node" id="6d68">Neobanks &amp; the less-digitally savvy users</h2>The audience that comprises this segment is often elderly and rural customers; capturing their trust is quite an uphill task for neobanks. They gain such customers with a free account and low fees and budgeting tools and cash projections based on past spending, and ‘savings pots’ for spend categorization. Offerings like High-Yield Savings Accounts and easy money movement through lower fees &amp; charges are some ways.Neobank growth can be accelerated through adaptable services and convenience in money transfer like cheaper lending rates and better rural audiences’ products. Creditors can choose borrowers and information from diverse sources and technology-based lending.&nbsp;Like how social media platforms have pulled in rural customers, neobanks also need to create awareness through their user-friendly applications.Reduced data rates &amp; smartphone prices will also encourage rural customers to use neobanking apps and gain trust.<h3 class="heading-node" id="e927">Neobanks &amp; Transparency</h3>The issue of banking transparency is closely linked to <a class="link" href="https://m2pfintech.com/blog/fintech-a-catalyst-for-financial-inclusion/">financial inclusion</a>. Neobanking transparency can be improved through dashboards, reports across products with enhanced interfaces, and easy-to-understand services such as payments, payables and receivables, and bank statements. They must explain real-time notifications, any charges, and penalties incurred by the customer too. They should send instant alerts to customers to know exactly what is going on with their account.<h3 class="heading-node" id="2fb2">Security &amp; Privacy</h3>Neobanks were the primary users of security-enhancing models. These were MCC block, single-use <a class="link" href="https://m2pfintech.com/blog/all-you-need-to-know-about-virtual-cards/">virtual cards</a>, and tokenized online transactions. They rely on security and safety when designing platforms, like data localization or 2-factor authentications (2FA) for card-based transactions.Neobanking enables third-party financial service providers (TPPs) to access customer data from banks or financial institutions. They must maintain robust online anti-fraud systems and inform customers of breaches as soon as it happens.Customer permission is required to ensure data privacy or share certain information with banks or providers. For instance, if the customer gave consent, they can share financial data like spending habits and regular payments with other banks.Providers must comply with <a class="link" href="https://m2pfintech.com/blog/gdpr-in-a-nutshell/">GDPR regulation</a> and data protection rules. They must provide transparency on how and for what the data will be used, for how long before they get a customer to sign up.<h3 class="heading-node" id="04ca">Trust</h3>Neobanks have strong drivers for securing their customers’ accounts, which are reputation management &amp; consumer perception. Developing trust can also be a challenging factor for loyal traditional banking customers.&nbsp;Fines, data breaches, and attacks can significantly damage consumer trust in non-traditional banks. Therefore, neobanks must protect consumers from mobile Trojans phishing scams and account takeover attempts. They can earn consumer trust through advanced authentication concepts such as dynamic linking, device binding for mobile apps, mobile application shielding, and transaction risk analyses.Strong privacy and data protection policies like removal of hidden fees and charges can help build consumer confidence in neobanks.<img src="https://miro.medium.com/max/1400/1*0VH_WhJDpgy4AEpgB9ivEA.png" alt="Advantages of Neobanks" title="" width="100%" height="306">Neobanks are trying to simplify the ways of transacting through digital mediums through:1. Simplified process with minimum steps to complete with minimum redirect for the transaction/payment 2. Tightly tying up and different players in the ecosystem (Retailers, Digital Service Providers, Issuer and Acquirer banks, etc.) 3. Standardization across devices and internet browsers 4. Compatibility across platform and technologies 5. Educating conventional customers on digital payment and ensuring that money is safe.<h2 class="heading-node" id="1e23">Neobanks Vs. Traditional Banks</h2>Traditional banks are focused on product-centric models, meaning high verticalization of products, no strong communities built around the brand/product, increased customer acquisition cost, and legacy technology infrastructure.But currently, traditional banks have been increasingly offering unique products and services to customers. One might wonder how neobanks will continue to differentiate themselves from conventional banking as a result.Neobanks can tackle product competition by keeping the focus on a platform-centric model. For example, high community engagement with the product, product horizontalization with best-in-class apps, open-banking APIs, and capitalize on a mobile-only approach for the low customer acquisition cost. A lower dependency on 3rd party providers and real-time data integration and management might help too. Above all, customer-centric organizational design and customer needs to drive data architecture.Neobanks create an ecosystem of services around their infrastructure, shifting the banking value from branches to their <a class="link" href="https://m2pfintech.com/blog/the-world-of-apis-how-they-power-fintech/">API</a> layer.&nbsp;They expand their user base by providing services on a 3rd party platform or offering 3rd party services on their platform.The neobanks’ value propositions &amp; CLV is based on lower costs, personalized insights, predictive intelligence, user-friendly interfaces, easy accessibility, and simplified processes.<h2 class="heading-node" id="17cf">The Global Way Forward</h2>On a global scale, neobanks are on an upward growth trajectory in Europe, followed by America. The real neobank growth is being unlocked in the APAC region, with many countries devising their virtual banking systems.Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Singapore have already implemented virtual banking licensing, with Thailand and Malaysia following suit.In India, neobanks are still nascent. Still, they are playing a leading role in helping small businesses to manage finances conveniently and comprehensively. The data below shows that the Indian neobanking market is growing fast:<ol class="list-node" id="701721vxm"><li>Average market maturity of India is 2–3+ years compared to 5–6 years+ in Europe and the US.</li><li>Number of neobanking players in India has gone up in the recent past compared to global markets.</li><li>Fund raised by Indian neobanks have gone up to $168 million</li><li>Indian neobanks are boosting up the competition through value-added services apart from standard offerings.</li><li>Indian Government supports the MSME sector through different schemes that open up Indian SME neobanks opportunities.</li></ol>Neobanks are expected to explore strategic partnerships with&nbsp;established traditional banks to grow in India. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has not permitted a digital license to neobanks yet. RBI has initiated the change by providing a license to small finance and payment banks, to begin with. Banking Industry experts are hopeful that RBI will also work on policies to approve banking license for digital-only or neobanks soon in the post-covid-19 era. This will keep the fate of neobanks blurry.<h2 class="heading-node" id="c577">Conclusion</h2>Fintech will continue to push neobanking as the new normal. The pandemic is just a catalyst to ignite the digital transformation. Neobanks are challenging mainstream traditional banks. They are backed up by digital backing licenses and control most of the value chain from front-end to back-end.Till then, neobanks in India will have no option but to continue partnering with the traditional banks to offer services.<a class="link" href="https://m2pfintech.com/newsletter/">Subscribe</a>&nbsp;to our newsletter and get the latest fintech news, views, and insights, directly to your inbox.Follow us on&nbsp;<a class="link" href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/m2pfintech/mycompany/">LinkedIn</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a class="link" href="https://twitter.com/m2pfintech">Twitter</a>&nbsp;for insightful fintech tales curated for curious minds like you.

Neobanking - The Rise of New-age Banking

<img src="https://m2p-website-file.s3.ap-south-1.amazonaws.com/m2p-website-file/marketing-cms/m2p-blog/2022/11/Super-Apps-in-Banking-blog_Word-press.webp" alt="M2P Fintech" title="" width="100%" height="479">Imagine an app that allows you to access your bank accounts, make payments, take out loans, handle your insurance policies, monitor your investment dashboard, and more—all in one!Wouldn't that be the epitome of convenience? Such nifty apps are no longer a fiction.&nbsp;Embrace yourself when we say these SUPER APPS are on their way to radically disrupt the way we know accessibility in digital banking.&nbsp;Before diving deep into Super apps in consumer banking, let us quickly recap what a Super app is.<h2 class="heading-node" id="ny0ld8tzi" style="text-align: justify">What are Super apps?</h2>A Super app is a single portal that powers a wide range of functions and services shaped around users' daily lifestyle needs. Technically, a super app is a collection of multiple niche applications that establish an ecosystem of fully-integrated third-party services aided by a payment system. This creates a mini operating system that acts like a digital assistant, working at the user's convenience as one can stay in the app to carry out a multitude of tasks.Although the concept has been creating massive buzz recently, it isn't new. Businesses like TenCent, Alipay, Grab, Paytm, and Gojek have been the frontrunners for years. Let us give you a quick overview of how some of these companies support an all-inclusive platform.TenCent is a Chinese company that started as a simple messaging platform (named WeChat). Once they built their billion-plus customer base, they slowly set up a network of services, including virtual wallets, payments, hotel reservations, taxi rides, medical consultations, games, and much more.An example that is closer to home is Paytm. In 2010, Paytm was launched as a payment application. Today, it offers a comprehensive set of services, including online shopping, credit cards, loans, repayments, microloans, BNPL, insurance, ticketing services, retail brokerage products, online games, and more on its platform. Given the platforms' extensive acceptance, several fintechs are now trying to recreate a similar model customized to their customer bases.<h2 class="heading-node" id="zehxh25s4" style="text-align: justify">What makes them Super?</h2>What marks off a Super app from a regular app is the element of multifunctionality, comprehensiveness, and data privacy. Further, it best suits businesses with extensive data and a large customer base. In addition, rendering a gamut of services and products through one application gives customers a sense of belonging, ownership, and safety, which significantly enhances the customer experience.Here are some of the key factors that contributed to the popularity and success of Super apps.One-click relevance: Provides customers with personalized overviews and product offers. Rolling everything customers need to transact through daily life into a Super app is one way to core relevance and success.&nbsp;Real-time communications: Chatbot interactions that offer real-time assistance, including upselling, fraud prevention, nudges, and recommendations.&nbsp;Connectivity: Anything from financial, business, lifestyle, and health to government can be accessed through one app.<h2 class="heading-node" id="n493lw6t3" style="text-align: justify">Super apps in Consumer Banking</h2>Super apps in the banking sector are a rare feat. Conversely, fintechs quickly recognized the potential of enabling ultra-personalization and budget automation using AI-powered financial assistants. They are keen to build Super apps that can leverage aggregators with established digital marketplaces to connect users with an existing ecosystem for digital banking and financial services.Ideally, a financial Super app is a multi-function digital banking and <a class="link" href="https://m2pfintech.com/blog/the-rise-of-digital-payments/" target="">payments</a> solution featuring financial services that are beyond payments. The app must enable consumers to perform most of their daily activities digitally, like bill and fee payments, purchases, fund transfers, bookings, tickets, subscriptions, investment management, and insurance purchases and management. Interestingly, the list can keep adding as many functionalities as possible to improve customer engagement and satisfaction.According to recent studies, about 50% of consumers use mobile application or website at least once a week to interact with their bank. This stands as a testimony that today's consumers and businesses expect their banks to be a tap away and swiftly adapt to their digital needs. Experts believe, with embedded finance and open banking, any provider can become a super app that serves as a gateway that delivers the ever-growing demand for convenience in the banking process — rather than just a series of disconnected/loose-ended financial services.When it comes to consumer banking, it's all about comprehensive experience in a Super app environment. And it takes more than just tech. It requires full partner-network management, a clear understanding of compliance, rights, responsibilities, liabilities, commitment to developing a broad-ranging ecosystem, and more. For instance, a <a class="link" href="https://m2pfintech.com/blog/neo-banking-101-all-you-need-to-know/">Neobank</a> can provide an 'N' number of financial products and services by integrating with regulated FI at the back end and tech-driven fintech at the front end.Essentials of Financial Super apps Intuitive user experience and interconnectedness are the cornerstones of a financial Super app. These will allow users to easily access all available features. Here are some of the key elements that a financial Super app must include:<ul class="list-node" id="52ez20cgw"><li>Shared wallet&nbsp;</li><li>Savings accounts&nbsp;</li><li>Budgeting tools&nbsp;</li><li>Bill reminders</li><li>Auto bill payments&nbsp;</li><li>Managing subscriptions&nbsp;</li><li>Investment options&nbsp;</li><li>QR code payments and rewards</li></ul><h2 class="heading-node" id="sw6d1s7fn" style="text-align: justify">How Open Banking powers Super apps?</h2>Super apps use financial data from multiple sources to create financial products and services to meet customers' needs.But how do they get to know what their users need?What provides them with the information they need to create an omni-channel experience?Enter Open Banking.Open banking is the foundation of interoperability in the banking sector. For novices, Open Banking system uses <a class="link" href="https://m2pfintech.com/blog/api-the-power-that-drives-new-age-banking-ecosystems/">APIs</a> to provide third-party financial service providers access to consumer banking, transactions, and other financial data from banks and NBFCs. To understand the working of Open Banking, read <a class="link" href="https://m2pfintech.com/blog/open-banking-a-primer-2/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>.The Open Banking system presents the platform with a spectrum of opportunities to tailor financial services to cater to each user's requirements. It employs advanced technologies like AI, ML, and Data Analytics to maximize personalization and build customer-relevant products by leveraging customers' data. Using advanced technology to analyze data and develop customer-centric products/services fosters data-sharing culture and data-driven decision-making across the ecosystem.With the help of Open Banking, Super apps can empower customers to check their account balances, make payments, track recent transactions, and perform other traditional banking operations from the app's digital wallet. This strikingly reduces the need to access a bank's app. In addition, as Open Banking expands into open finance and open data, Super apps can access and connect with a wide range of partners to augment go-to-market speed for new products and broader their customer base.<h2 class="heading-node" id="9eqqd85qv" style="text-align: justify">API Inference</h2>API infrastructure is the essence of embedded finance and open banking. A good API provider wraps intricacies like disputed payments and connecting to multiple suppliers inside the API system. This allows intended apps to work together in several ways and develop a comprehensive ecosystem. In addition, APIs empower Super apps to handle extensive, inter-connected data through multiple levels without disturbing the user journey. Fintechs leverage APIs to seamlessly incorporate functionalities into cloud-native apps. They employ full-fledged, mobile-first, customizable API stack to simplify consumer banking and enable end-to-end customer-centric retail offerings.Want to understand the nuts and bolts of Super apps? Write to us at <a class="link" href="mailto:business@m2pfintech.com">business@m2pfintech.com</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;To boot, what would an ideal Super app be for you? Let us know in the comments below.&nbsp;<a class="link" href="https://m2pfintech.com/newsletter/">Subscribe</a> to our newsletter and get the latest fintech news, views, and insights directly to your inbox.&nbsp;Follow us on <a class="link" href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/m2pfintech/mycompany/">LinkedIn</a> and <a class="link" href="https://twitter.com/m2pfintech">Twitter</a> for insightful fintech tales curated for curious minds like you.

Super Apps in Consumer Banking - What Role does Open Banking Play?

Navigating the New Frontier: A Deep Dive into the RBI's Draft Mandate on AI and Model Risk

<img src="https://m2p-website-file.s3.ap-south-1.amazonaws.com/marketing-cms/m2p-blog/2026/01/sustainable-fintech-green-finance_main_banner_2000x1000-copy.webp" alt="AI + APIs: The Future of Sustainable Finance &amp; ESG Innovation" title="" id="a42l3bvae" width="100%" height="253">Global sustainable finance is projected to surpass $22 trillion by 2031, and the financial sector gets to grip with fragmented ESG data, inconsistent metrics, and the challenge of embedding sustainability logic into day-to-day decisioning.&nbsp;The movement toward sustainable finance has been decades in the making. Today, APIs at the core of this transformation, acting as digital connectors that seamlessly link legacy infrastructures with advanced ESG tools. This integration unlocks real-time insights and powers innovative solutions, driving sustainable finance forward.&nbsp;This blog explores the evolution of sustainable finance, the rise of fintech in this space, and how APIs, amplified by AI, are fueling the next era of ESG innovation.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2 class="heading-node" id="i88ahdxrd" style="text-align: left">Sustainable Finance&nbsp;</h2>Sustainable finance has come a long way since its early roots in the late 20th century. What began as niche ethical investing has evolved into a mainstream strategy integrating ESG criteria into global capital allocation. By the early 2000s, frameworks like the United Nations Principles for Responsible Investment (UNPRI) formalized this approach, debunking myths that sustainability compromises return. Instead, studies showed that ESG-focused investments often outperform traditional ones by mitigating risks like regulatory fines or reputational damage.&nbsp;Today, sustainable finance encompasses everything from green bonds funding renewable energy projects to impact investing aimed at social equity. The momentum is driven by regulatory pressures, such as the EU's Sustainable Finance Disclosure Regulation (SFDR) and the U.S. SEC's climate risk disclosures, alongside investor demand. Millennials and Gen Z, who will inherit trillions in wealth, prioritize values-aligned portfolios, pushing asset managers to adapt. However, the sector's digital maturity lags, with many institutions still reliant on siloed, legacy systems unable to handle dynamic ESG data.&nbsp;<h2 class="heading-node" id="qzvrr3be0" style="text-align: left">Introducing Sustainable Fintech&nbsp;</h2>Sustainable fintech bridges this gap by leveraging technology to make finance more inclusive, efficient, and eco-conscious. It uses digital tools to address ESG challenges, from promoting financial access in underserved communities to funding low-carbon initiatives. Unlike traditional finance, fintech operates with agility, deploying apps, platforms, and algorithms that democratize sustainable options.&nbsp;For instance, platforms like Aspiration or TreeCard allow users to offset carbon emissions with every purchase, turning routine spending into environmental action. Green finance, a subset, focuses on directing capital toward climate-positive projects, such as solar farms or biodiversity conservation. Together, they create a virtuous cycle: fintech innovates the tools, while green finance scales the impact.&nbsp;The 2010s marked fintech’s explosive growth, introducing technologies that transformed how financial services operate:&nbsp;<ul class="list-node" id="60qkqdweq"><li>Blockchain for transparent transactions – Providing tamper-proof ledgers, blockchain enabled secure, verifiable transactions, improving trust and traceability, which is especially critical for ESG reporting and green finance.&nbsp;</li><li>AI for personalized advice – Machine learning and intelligent algorithms allowed platforms to deliver tailored financial guidance, optimize investment portfolios, and even recommend ESG-aligned opportunities based on individual preferences.&nbsp;</li><li>Data analytics for risk assessment – Advanced analytics turned vast streams of financial and non-financial data into actionable insights, helping institutions measure environmental, social, and governance risks, and make informed lending and investment decisions. &nbsp;</li></ul>These technologies enhance ESG integration, making it easier to track metrics like carbon footprints or social impact scores.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2 class="heading-node" id="qpjo7mkcz" style="text-align: left">APIs – The Engine Behind ESG Innovation&nbsp;</h2>APIs act as the critical bridge connecting legacy banking cores with external ESG data sources, AI-driven analytics, and the 3rd party sustainability platforms, all without requiring costly overhauls.&nbsp;<h3 class="heading-node" id="borj4hjog" style="text-align: left">Why are APIs Essential?&nbsp;&nbsp;</h3><ol class="list-node" id="evo6i87sq"><li>Facilitates Real-Time Data Interoperability&nbsp;</li></ol>ESG information is inherently scattered across diverse sources such as satellite imagery, regulatory databases, corporate sustainability reports, and real-time monitoring platforms. APIs aggregate and harmonize this data into structured and usable formats, eliminating manual data entry and reducing errors. For example, carbon tracking APIs can instantly pull emission data from global monitoring networks, allowing banks to assess the environmental footprint of transactions in real time.&nbsp;<ol class="list-node" id="4g9xqbcej" start="2"><li>APIs Enable Automation</li></ol>They embed sustainability logic directly into their core operations. Whether its scoring loans based on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) criteria, automating ESG compliance checks, or rebalancing investment portfolios for sustainability, APIs streamline these processes. Their modular design ensures that systems remain flexible and resilient, capable of adapting to new regulations or evolving sustainability standards without major disruptions.&nbsp;<ol class="list-node" id="p87ga7yq7" start="3"><li>APIs Drive Scalability</li></ol>By standardizing access to ESG data and services, APIs foster an open ecosystem where startups and established players alike can innovate rapidly. This accelerates the deployment of green financial products, such as ESG-linked bonds, climate-resilient insurance, and sustainable investment platforms. Startups can build on existing infrastructure, leveraging APIs to create tailored solutions that meet the unique needs of different market segments. This democratization of access fuels competition drives costs and broadens the reach of sustainable finance.&nbsp;<ol class="list-node" id="1tmaejzin" start="4"><li>Enhances Transparency and Trust&nbsp;</li></ol>APIs also play a vital role in increasing transparency. By providing auditable trails of data flows and decision logic, they help build trust among stakeholders including the investors, regulators, and customers. This transparency is crucial for verifying ESG claims and ensuring that sustainability initiatives are both credible and impactful.&nbsp;<h2 class="heading-node" id="8nnme8hkz" style="text-align: left">Real-World API Use Cases in Sustainable Fintech&nbsp;</h2><ul class="list-node" id="k6fgfegin"><li>Climate-Integrated Credit &amp; Risk Models - Fintech APIs unlock real-time environmental data for sustainability-driven lending and insurance decisions. As underwriting platforms embrace AI, these APIs add adaptive, climate-aware logic, delivering autonomous or human-in-the-loop decisions. This leads to EVs qualifying for lower premiums, and businesses with superior carbon profiles access preferential loan terms.&nbsp;</li><li>Dynamic ESG Investment Intelligence - For both institutional decisions and client portfolios, ESG APIs evolve beyond annual reports to live feeds from emissions sensors, satellite data, and news sentiment. This richer, verified data layer powers investment platforms with actionable insights, enabling truly conscious capital allocation.&nbsp;</li><li>Next-Gen Green Instruments - From tokenized carbon credits to fractional green bonds, APIs manage innovative financial products seamlessly, layering them onto existing banking rails without core system overhauls. This allows issuers and intermediaries to add new products without replacing old systems, instead connecting them through API gateways, marketplaces, and embedded finance partners.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</li></ul><h2 class="heading-node" id="km6yc7mxw" style="text-align: left">Amplifying ESG Impact with AI and APIs&nbsp;</h2>As sustainable finance scales, having vast ESG datasets is not enough, financial institutions need intelligent tools to interpret, act on, and anticipate sustainability risks and opportunities. This is where AI, powered by API-connected data, comes into play, transforming raw information into predictive insights and actionable strategies.&nbsp;<ul class="list-node" id="w07lax3a2"><li>Advanced ML Algorithms - Forecast environmental exposures, quantify asset-level carbon footprints, and run scenario simulations for portfolio optimization. APIs deliver the structured, live data streams AI craves, shifting from backward-looking reports to forward-thinking automation.&nbsp;</li><li>Forward-Looking ESG Intelligence - AI leverages API streams to anticipate risks, from supplier emissions spikes to policy changes. Financial institutions model climate events like regional droughts, recalibrating lending and investment strategies ahead of impact.&nbsp;</li><li>Proactive Regulatory Adaptation - Intelligent systems scan API-connected global regulation feeds, auto-adjusting compliance rules in real time. This maintains alignment without manual intervention as green finance standards evolve.&nbsp;</li><li>Tailored Sustainable Journeys - AI sifts API-enriched customer profiles to craft personalized green offerings, curated ESG portfolios matching values, or bespoke carbon reduction plans. Apps powered by this tech nudge users toward lower-impact choices, driving adoption.&nbsp;</li></ul><h2 class="heading-node" id="4bmmk9clo" style="text-align: left">Emerging Trends Shaping the Future of ESG Innovation&nbsp;</h2>The future of sustainable finance will be defined by technologies that enhance ESG integration, enabling faster, more transparent, and data-driven decision-making. Beyond APIs and AI, emerging tools are enabling real-time ESG tracking, transparent reporting, and innovative green financial products that scale across markets:&nbsp;<ul class="list-node" id="kg1qzz3fz"><li>Blockchain for Carbon Credits: Blockchain (Distributed Ledger Technology, or DLT) provides an immutable ledger to track the issuance, ownership, and retirement of carbon credits, preventing double-counting. APIs link this verifiable, on-chain data back to the financial institution's system, allowing AI to automatically approve the transfer of credits and calculate net-zero progress with absolute transparency.&nbsp;</li></ul><ul class="list-node" id="f798djr1r"><li>IoT for Real-Time Emissions Tracking: Internet of Things (IoT) sensors embedded in factories, vehicles, and supply chains provide granular, real-time emissions data. When integrated via APIs into ESG platforms, this data enables accurate carbon accounting and predictive risk modeling.&nbsp;</li></ul><ul class="list-node" id="7vq8obd3j"><li>Other Innovations: For verifying physical impact (like a green bond funding a reforestation or solar project), high resolution satellite imagery analyzed with computer vision models can reliably identify solar installations. For example, researchers using satellite imagery achieved detection accuracy of about 97.8% for solar arrays in a test region, illustrating how automated verification can bolster confidence in reported environmental outcomes.&nbsp;</li></ul><h2 class="heading-node" id="xl5fxdbf0" style="text-align: left">Embracing the Green Fintech Revolution&nbsp;</h2>Looking forward, the fusion of AI, climate analytics, and fintech infrastructure heralds a new era of intelligent sustainability. By 2030, machine learning will deliver precise, predictive ESG capabilities, anticipating climate risks, detecting greenwashing through unstructured data analysis, and optimizing portfolios for maximum impact with minimal trade-offs.&nbsp;&nbsp;APIs serve as the essential connectivity layer for ESG transformation, powering seamless data orchestration, instant insights, and effortless compliance. Financial institutions building API-centric platforms and AI-powered ESG intelligence now will dominate tomorrow's green finance landscape, where capital actively accelerates climate solutions and responsible growth.&nbsp;Follow us on&nbsp;<a class="link fui-Link ___1idfs5o f3rmtva f1ewtqcl fyind8e f1k6fduh f1w7gpdv fk6fouc fjoy568 figsok6 f1hu3pq6 f11qmguv f19f4twv f1tyq0we f1g0x7ka fhxju0i f1qch9an f1cnd47f fqv5qza f1vmzxwi f1o700av f13mvf36 f1cmlufx f9n3di6 f1ids18y f1tx3yz7 f1deo86v f1eh06m1 f1iescvh ftqa4ok f2hkw1w fhgqx19 f1olyrje f1p93eir f1h8hb77 f1x7u7e9 f10aw75t fsle3fq f17ae5zn" href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/m2pfintech/mycompany/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LinkedIn</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a class="link fui-Link ___1idfs5o f3rmtva f1ewtqcl fyind8e f1k6fduh f1w7gpdv fk6fouc fjoy568 figsok6 f1hu3pq6 f11qmguv f19f4twv f1tyq0we f1g0x7ka fhxju0i f1qch9an f1cnd47f fqv5qza f1vmzxwi f1o700av f13mvf36 f1cmlufx f9n3di6 f1ids18y f1tx3yz7 f1deo86v f1eh06m1 f1iescvh ftqa4ok f2hkw1w fhgqx19 f1olyrje f1p93eir f1h8hb77 f1x7u7e9 f10aw75t fsle3fq f17ae5zn" href="https://twitter.com/m2pfintech" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Twitter</a>&nbsp;for insightful fintech bytes curated for curious minds like you.Reference links:&nbsp;https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/sustainable-finance-market-A19436&nbsp;High resolution satellite imagery for residential PV system detection – pv magazine International&nbsp;https://www.tntra.io/blog/sustainable-finance-how-fintech-solutions-driving-green-initiatives/&nbsp;https://www.bobsguide.com/green-fintech-powering-sustainable-finance-and-climate-risk-management/&nbsp;https://www.imgglobalinfotech.com/blog/rise-of-green-fintech&nbsp;https://thedatascientist.com/how-fintech-apis-enable-esg-integration-green-finance/

Green Finance Revolution: How APIs and AI Power ESG in Fintech

<img src="https://m2p-website-file.s3.ap-south-1.amazonaws.com/m2p-website-file/marketing-cms/m2p-blog/2022/09/fixed-deposit.webp" alt="M2P Fintech" title="" width="100%" height="358">Indians save up to 28.2% of their income on average. And 95% of them prefer Fixed Deposits (FDs) as their primary savings option. &nbsp; Maintaining a healthy spending-saving balance has always been a priority in Indian households.&nbsp;Concepts of saving and investing for the rainy day are inculcated in young minds to&nbsp;ensure financial stability, discipline, and freedom. Though there are several investment instruments in the market, Fixed Deposit (FD) rules the heart of the savings-savvy populace in India. As they are not market-linked instruments, FDs are low on financial risk with optimal wealth appreciation potential. So, it’s a safe haven for people to park their funds and earn reasonable interest without market exposure.&nbsp; &nbsp; Are fixed deposits available only in the Indian market? Not exactly. FDs are available in different formats across the world. It is known as a Certificate of Deposit/Term Deposit in the US, Canada, and New Zealand and as Fixed Term Bonds in the UK. While the average interest rate in India is around 5%, it ranges between 0.5% and a maximum of 2% in other countries.&nbsp;<h2 class="heading-node" id="39x2x2wau" style="text-align: justify">Pros and cons of fixed deposits</h2>A fixed deposit has a tenure starting from 7 days and can extend as high as 10 years. Complete safety of capital is ensured in an FD, along with stable returns. As a tax-saving instrument, they deliver long standing benefits that include low risk and flexibility as follows.<ul class="list-node" id="0un3uzcne"><li>Overdraft facilities against FDs to help customers in case of emergencies</li><li>Tax exemption benefits under section 80C of the Income Tax Act, 1961</li><li>Protected up to Rs. 5 lakhs by the DICGC's (Deposit Insurance and Credit Guarantee Corporation) insurance cover</li><li>Assured returns and minimized risks as the rates do not fluctuate often</li></ul>Some banks offer free insurance and health care benefits alongside their FD investment.&nbsp;However, despite all the advantages, FD had a few limitations.&nbsp; Creating a physical FD at the bank required multiple trips to the branch, a lot of paperwork, and a swirl of redirects to complete a single task. These cause great inconvenience to the customer in today's digital age. &nbsp; The limitations mentioned above called for a modernized digital upgrade of FD, the go-to investment choice of multitudes.<h2 class="heading-node" id="sox1aqtor" style="text-align: justify">Rise of digital fixed deposits</h2>With the digitization of finance echoing in every nook of the country, the traditional FD model had to adapt to emerging trends. The pandemic further fueled the shift to modernized digital fixed deposits. People wanted to go about their daily lives as normally as possible without risking their safety. Instant remote onboarding, digital KYC, and personalized customer experiences emerged as factors that determined the success of bank deposits.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Banks, NBFCs, and fintechs had to embrace the much-needed digital avatar and modernized their traditional approaches. But it was again not without challenges.&nbsp;Here’s a quick peek into their pain points.<ul class="list-node" id="ey420216x"><li>Conventional banks’ reliance on outdated, monolithic technology hindered customer base scaling, NBFC and fintech interactions, and expansions</li><li>There was no single window for the customers to compare and invest</li><li>The FD process was exhaustive with multiple process integrations, each focusing on only particular stages of the product lifecycle</li></ul>The inefficiencies of legacy platforms impacted the agility, scaling, and profitability potential of&nbsp; FD providers.<h2 class="heading-node" id="09o77ear7" style="text-align: justify">Benefits of digitizing the FD platform</h2>The prospect of saving time, effort, and the cost is something that excites everyone about technological advancement. &nbsp; Digital FD platforms enable that and more. It gives FD providers and customers the convenience of anytime, anywhere investments. It enables customers to compare and contrast various FD products based on parameters like cost, interest rates, etc.&nbsp; With easier access to information on investment choices in one place, investors will develop trust factors and enjoy personalized experiences. Customers can now say goodbye to lengthy procedures and tiresome paperwork, as digital tools help capture onboarding and other information without much manual intervention. All these boosts seamless customer experience immensely.&nbsp; In addition, the digital FD market has the potential to enable a wide array of use cases that range from assisting millennials in getting their financial game running, to enhance the value of investment portfolios for existing customers.&nbsp;&nbsp; <a class="link" href="https://m2pfintech.com/newsletter/">Subscribe</a>&nbsp;to our newsletter and get the latest fintech news, views, and insights, directly to your inbox.Follow us on&nbsp;<a class="link" href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/m2pfintech/mycompany/">LinkedIn</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a class="link" href="https://twitter.com/m2pfintech">Twitter</a> for more insightful fintech tales curated for curious minds like you.

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