Overview

What Is Instant Payments?

‘Instant Payments’ as it’s named clearly means “paying or receiving payment instantly*” Instantly* means within few seconds anytime – 24/7, 365 days. Instant payments also known as “Immediate Payments” or “Real time payments” have been dubbed as the “New Cash” of this era of digital payments as it works at least as fast as cash (if not faster than cash).

According to the ERPB, instant payments are defined as –
“An electronic retail payment solution available 24/7/365 and resulting in the immediate or close-to-immediate interbank clearing of the transaction and crediting of the payee’s account with confirmation to the payer (within seconds of payment initiation). This is irrespective of the underlying payment instrument used (credit transfer, direct debit or payment card) and of the underlying arrangements for clearing (whether bilateral interbank clearing or clearing via infrastructures) and settlement (e.g. with guarantees or in real time) that make this possible.”  

Why Instant Payments?

Instant payments are set to drive the most significant transformation in the global payments landscape since the introduction of today’s electronic payment mechanisms. In the digital era, it is incomprehensible why e-payments should take longer than e-mails or instant messages/ SMS, live movie streaming or Instagram. There is definite growing demand for immediacy of retail payments transactions and delaying things would be denying customers of their needs and expectations.

What are the key drivers of Instant Payments?

• Customer’s need for overlay services –

To meet the Customer’s growing demand for immediacy of retail payments Customers expect to pay for and receive their purchases as fast as possible. Suppliers, on the other hand, wish to have the certainty to be paid as soon as they release their goods and services.

• Need for banks to remain competitive –

Instant payments will help banks to not just stay competitive by improving the transaction velocity, reducing fraud risks in the transaction processing but also boost its business growth by offering holistic payments solutions spanning the value chain in order to differentiate from Non-Bank Players.

• Regulators need for encouraging competition and digitalization –

Regulators and central authority’s top agenda is to promote fair competition, Anti-Money Laundering, customer protection, and improving clearing & settlement mechanisms and digitalization of the economy.

• Need for ubiquitous Payments –

Industry’s growing demand to modernize legacy payments infrastructure across countries to offer more ubiquitous payments instruments.

• Non-bank player’s need for customer acquisition –

There will be a level field in a post PSD2 world and Non-Bank players want to enter into this space and use Instant Payments as a potent tool to drive significant market customer growth.  

What are the main benefits of Instant Payments?

• Dramatically improves the transaction velocity, overall efficiency and therefore customer’s satisfaction.

• Reduces fraud risk in the transaction processing by reducing transfer time.

• Creates new revenue sources and business growth by offering holistic payments solutions.

• Reduces transaction, treatment and settlement costs and nearly zero cost of cash management, handling and reconciliation for merchants.

• Reach new markets

• Obtain competitive advantage of being providers of holistic payment services

 

What are the challenges for Instant Payments in America & Europe?

•Infrastructure Development:

Upgrading existing payment infrastructures to support real-time transactions can be a complex and costly process. Some regions may face challenges in developing the necessary technological infrastructure.

•Standardization and Interoperability:

Achieving standardization and interoperability across different financial institutions and payment service providers is crucial for the seamless functioning of instant payment systems. Lack of standardization can hinder widespread adoption.

•Regulatory Compliance:

Adhering to regulatory requirements and compliance standards poses a challenge. Striking a balance between innovation and regulatory compliance is essential to ensure the security and integrity of instant payment systems.

•Security Concerns:

Real-time payments may raise concerns about security, fraud prevention, and data privacy. Developing robust security measures to protect against cyber threats and unauthorized transactions is a continuous challenge.

•Cross-Border Implementation:

Implementing instant payments across borders involves coordination between different regulatory bodies, financial institutions, and technology providers. Overcoming the complexities of cross-border transactions is a persistent challenge.

•Legacy Systems Integration:

Many financial institutions still rely on legacy systems, and integrating instant payment solutions with these systems can be challenging. The transition to modernized systems requires careful planning and execution.

•Customer Education:

Educating consumers and businesses about the benefits and usage of instant payments is crucial for widespread adoption. Lack of awareness or understanding can impede the acceptance of new payment methods.

•Resistance to Change:

Traditional financial institutions and businesses may be resistant to change due to concerns about disruption and the need for substantial investments in technology. Overcoming this resistance is key to advancing instant payment adoption.

•Cost Implications:

While instant payments offer speed and efficiency, there may be associated costs for implementing and maintaining the required infrastructure. Balancing the benefits with the associated costs can be a challenge.

•Dispute Resolution and Chargebacks:

Establishing effective mechanisms for dispute resolution and managing chargebacks in real-time transactions is a challenge. Ensuring fair and timely resolution processes is essential for maintaining trust in instant payment systems.

 

What are the types of use cases for Instant Payments?

There are four principal use cases:

• P2P (Person-to-Person):

Like – Instant money transfer of funds between consumers to instead of cash.

• P2B (Person-to-Business):

Like – instant e-commerce or bill payments for utility bills – electricity, rent, gas, other payments for services like – electrician, cleaner etc.

• B2P (Business-to-Person):

Like – instant pay-out of salaries, pensions, insurance claims, etc.

• B2B (Business-to-Business):

Like – instantly paying taxes or fines/penalties, or simply one company paying for certain services from other company. (eg printing brochures)  

Define Instant Payments in the banking & insurance, retail ecosystem

• Instant Payments in Banking & Insurance:

Instant payments in the banking and insurance sectors refer to real-time, electronic transactions that enable immediate fund transfers and processing of financial transactions. In banking, this means customers can instantly transfer money between accounts, make payments, and settle transactions without delays. Insurance companies utilize instant payments to facilitate swift claims processing, ensuring policyholders receive reimbursements and benefits promptly. This expedites customer service and enhances overall satisfaction. The integration of instant payment systems in banking and insurance not only accelerates financial operations but also contributes to improved customer experiences, meeting the growing demand for fast and convenient services in the digital era.

• Instant Payments in Retail Ecosystem:

In the retail ecosystem, instant payments revolutionize the traditional transaction process by allowing consumers to make purchases and payments in real-time. Retailers leverage instant payment technologies at the point of sale, both in physical stores and online platforms, enabling customers to complete transactions swiftly. This not only enhances the overall shopping experience but also streamlines inventory management and supply chain operations. Moreover, instant payments in the retail sector contribute to faster settlement for merchants, reducing cash flow constraints and fostering a more efficient and responsive business environment. The adoption of instant payment solutions in the retail ecosystem aligns with the modern consumer's expectations for quick and seamless transactions, driving innovation and competitiveness in the retail industry.