Banking-as-a-Service (BaaS)

Enabling non-bank businesses to embed financial services into their applications

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What is Banking-as-a-Service (BaaS)?

Banking-as-a-Service (BaaS) is a model where licensed banks expose their infrastructure and core banking functionality to non-bank businesses through secure APIs. This enables companies such as fintech startups, e-commerce platforms, and tech firms to embed financial services directly into their applications, without becoming banks themselves.

Using BaaS, organizations can offer services like:

  • Opening bank accounts
  • Issuing debit or credit cards
  • Processing payments
  • Facilitating lending or Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL)
  • Enabling digital wallets and P2P transactions

The BaaS provider acts as the middleware between the regulated financial institution and the non-bank company, abstracting compliance, infrastructure, and banking complexities.

How BaaS Works

1

Licensed Bank

Provides core banking capabilities via APIs

2

BaaS Platform

Acts as a bridge – managing API exposure, compliance, and scalability

3

Non-Bank Businesses

Embed banking services directly into their apps or platforms

4

End Users

Interact with financial features without ever knowing a bank is involved

Who Uses BaaS?

Fintech Startups

Build neobanks or launch digital-first financial products without a banking license.

E-Commerce Platforms

Integrate embedded finance—such as BNPL, instant checkout, or in-app wallets—into the shopping experience.

Gig Economy Platforms

Pay contractors and freelancers instantly, offer debit cards, or manage in-app earnings.

Traditional Banks

Extend infrastructure to third parties, create new B2B revenue streams, and reach new segments.

Tech & SaaS Companies

Add value with financial services like expense management, invoicing, or investment tracking features.

Key Components of a BaaS Platform

Component Description
User Management Registration, login, authorization, and profile features
Security Multi-factor authentication, encryption, fraud prevention
Cloud Storage Scalable, secure storage for user and transaction data
Push Notifications Real-time alerts and updates, even when app is idle
Cloud Code Run server-side logic (e.g. risk checks, data processing)
Analytics Track usage, engagement, transactions, and behavior
API Integrations Easily connect with banks, KYC providers, payment rails, and more
Social Logins Allow sign-in with platforms like Google, Facebook, and Apple

Benefits of BaaS for Businesses

Faster Time to Market

Launch financial products quickly—no need to build core infrastructure or navigate regulation from scratch.

Cost-Effective Scaling

Avoid the capital costs of bank licensing or infrastructure; pay as you grow.

Customization & Flexibility

Build branded financial services using developer-friendly APIs tailored to your UX.

Simplified Compliance

Rely on BaaS providers to handle complex financial regulations, KYC/AML, and auditing.

Access to Advanced Fintech

Utilize cutting-edge features like AI for credit scoring or blockchain for secure transactions.

Focus on Core Innovation

Let the BaaS partner manage infrastructure—so your team can focus on customer experience and growth.

Choosing the Right BaaS Partner

When selecting a BaaS provider, evaluate:

  • Licensing and regulatory compliance
  • API documentation and developer support
  • Service level agreements (SLAs)
  • Scalability and geographic coverage
  • White-labelling and customization options
  • Fraud protection and security certifications

Banking-as-a-Service (BaaS) Architecture

API Management architecture