Embarking on the journey of launching a digital bank, neobank, or e-wallet? Dive into our comprehensive roadmap that outlines all the essential steps to turn your concept into a thriving business.
Crafting a Business Model
For aspiring fintech entrepreneurs venturing into the realm of digital banking, neobanking, or fintech enterprises, a well-defined business plan is the cornerstone. This living document outlines specific tasks crucial for both short-term success and long-term sustainability. Moreover, the business plan assumes a pivotal role when engaging with investors and regulatory bodies.
Without a clear strategic vision and a detailed plan of implementation, there’s a risk of your business idea faltering. A meticulously documented business plan is indispensable when seeking funds for your venture. Ensure that your strategic business plan is easily comprehensible for investors, regulators, and other key stakeholders.
Regulators often scrutinize the business plan to evaluate your business model, risks, and future outlook. The strategy should encompass details about target markets, customer demographics, solutions, and the Unique Value Proposition (UVP). Financial forecasts for the next three years should complement the plan.
Establishing the Company and Setting Up an Office
Depending on the jurisdiction, you might need to register the company as a legal entity and set up an office before applying for a license. While some regulators may not necessitate company registration, opting for a coworking space is typically insufficient. Regulators usually mandate a physical office with local employees to demonstrate your commitment and readiness to commence operations.
Securing Licensing and Regulation
The subsequent step in launching your neobank, digital bank, or fintech company involves obtaining the requisite licenses or becoming an EMD/PSD Agent of a licensed entity.
Effectively managing your business from the regulator’s perspective is critical. Some startups opt for a license shelter or partner with other licensed entities, whether in e-money or payment services. Multiple options exist, each requiring new entrants to operate and compete independently.
For launching a digital bank or e-wallet, E-money or Payment licenses prove instrumental. Typically spanning 9-15 months, the license issuance process may extend up to two years in specific countries, depending on the regulator.
Prepare Your IT Infrastructure for Operational Excellence
The subsequent crucial phase in launching your digital bank involves the establishment of your IT system or core banking system. After applying for a license, it’s imperative to have a clear strategy regarding your platform—whether it’s developed in-house or procured from a vendor. Your responses to the regulator should furnish comprehensive information about your solution, providers, security measures, and more.
In many jurisdictions, regulators mandate a fully operational system by the license issuance date. However, some regulators allow a one-year grace period before the Go-live phase. Post this period, an audit is typically required, and upon successful completion, an operational permit is granted.
Build Your Business Infrastructure
Once you’ve obtained the license and ensured your IT system’s readiness, the subsequent step involves crafting your payment infrastructure and forming strategic partnerships.
Establishing relationships with banks, including opening business and safeguarding accounts, is a crucial task. Some regulators or countries may necessitate the opening of a safeguarding account before applying for a license, requiring confirmation from a bank. Ensure your bank is prepared to open this account promptly upon license acquisition. Activating your account (if opened during the licensing stage) or opening a new one is essential. An additional safeguarding account adds value to your business.
To commence issuing IBANs to your customers, acquiring a BIC number through SWIFT to connect to SEPA is indispensable.
Once banking relationships are established, and IBAN issuance is feasible, you can kickstart your operations. To automate processes, enhance functionalities, and introduce features, collaborate with service providers such as currency exchange providers, card issuers, and AML/KYC solution providers. For instance, Macrobank Core Banking software offers seamless integrations with service providers, saving time and resources on new integrations. Simply sign agreements with service providers to commence your payment and e-money business.
