With the emergence of Open Banking, the new focus of the financial sector is clear: to automate services with the implementation of APIs in banks. While this has generated many concerns for institutions slow to adapt, it is indisputable that all must eventually embrace this solution to survive in a digital environment, in which they are increasingly displaced.
“APIs used by banks are an innovative, unique and advanced way to reposition themselves as a reference for your customers. Their development is growing.”
One by one, banks have discovered their benefits and the possibility of combining them with Open Banking. After all, progress is unstoppable. An example of this is that, in Europe, from 2018, banks are obliged by law to provide account information through the use of APIs.
For this reason, small and large institutions have been developing APIs for banking or Open Banking, in order to adapt. Once implemented, the benefits are multiple, alongside a significant increase in income and financial development.
But, despite all this benefit, what is the role of APIs in the banking sector? What are they and how can they help you?
Financial Data Aggregation APIs
An API (Application Programming Interface) is an interface that allows to synchronize, link and connect the database of a service with any application; that is to say, they serve as a kind of bridge that guarantees the transmission of data in a safe way and without involving third parties.
Their implementation in the banking system is basically the same: they link a bank’s database (its customers’ information) with different applications or programs, thus forming a network encouraging the promotion of services, payments, and products appropriate to each person.
This aggregation of data from a bank works well for private clients, businesses and, above all, owners of financial institutions.
Its benefits range from cost reduction, optimization of services, reduction of time spent on transactions, increased revenue and facilitation in all the needs of those who accept it.
“Open Banking APIs provide an ideal financial ecosystem for conducting business, as everything remains interconnected: both needs and solutions.”
In addition, when a bank develops its own APIs it can link them to other APIs and so the system grows. In short, APIs are a channel for all kinds of business strategy.
Another opportunity created by APIs is the analysis of customer data and the increase in its value. This can lead to boosts in customer loyalty and a greater attraction of new customers, with insights that ensure their needs are met by the action of the bank.
-Want to know more about Open Banking? Don’t miss this post-
Open Banking API Questions and Answers
How do a bank’s customers benefit from APIs?
The development of APIs and their connection to banks helps customers in a number of ways: it saves time spent on transactions, makes available the services and products you may need, facilitates all operations and offers practical and simple solutions to every problem.
What are the examples of APIs created for aggregation of financial data?
Some examples of APIs that offer Open Banking services are Yodlee, Eurobits Technologies, Kontomatik, Plaid, among others.
Is it possible to increase a bank’s income with Open Banking APIs?
Yes, there is high profitability made available by Open Banking APIs for financial institutions. In fact, it is estimated that there may be a 20% increase in each bank’s revenue when they implement them. In an environment where digital solutions are growing, this represents a big benefit.
Can Open Banking APIs compete with FinTech?
Currently, APIs are the alternative to FinTech companies that, for some years now, have displaced banks as financial institutions. The digital development provided by APIs allows growing beyond the limitations of a traditional service, which is of great help when you want to reach new customers and increase the loyalty of those already on board.
Conclusion
The use and development of APIs for banks is a necessity. Their application is the ideal way to ensure growth and make life easier for your customers.
APIs for online banking offer benefits in all areas, which is why many financial institutions have chosen to implement them.
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