The European Central Bank (ECB) has just taken a groundbreaking step with Decision ECB/2025/2, granting non-bank payment service providers (PSPs), including payment institutions (PIs) and electronic money institutions (EMIs), access to central bank accounts and settlement services. This is an important step in the European payments landscape!
đź’ˇ Why is this important?
✅ Greater Financial Stability – By allowing non-bank PSPs to hold accounts at central banks, the ECB reduces reliance on commercial banks, lowering risks in the payments ecosystem.
✅ Enhanced Competition & Innovation – FinTechs, including PIs and EMIs can now compete on a more level playing field with banks, fostering more efficient, cost-effective payment solutions.
✅ Regulatory & Compliance Implications – PSPs will need to meet strict risk management and oversight requirements to benefit from this access, requiring careful legal and operational planning.
💠What’s next?
This decision reshapes the payments sector, presenting opportunities and challenges for non-bank PSPs. Dalir Law Firm specialises in payments law and regulatory compliance. We help PSPs navigate ECB requirements, understand rules, ensure compliance, and seize new strategic opportunities.
đź“© Get in touch at lawfirm@dalir.co.uk to discuss how this change affects your business and how you can take full advantage of this regulatory shift.
