In a period of growth for the payment industry, the news of a company’s insolvency hits particularly hard. Payment services provider, Supercapital Ltd’s insolvency, in 2019, has had a serious impact on banks, brokers, financial intermediaries and customers. In a period of growth for the payment industry, the news of a company’s insolvency hits particularly hard. Payment services provider, Supercapital Ltd’s insolvency, in 2019, has had a serious impact on banks, brokers, financial intermediaries and customers.

The story of Supercapital’s insolvency highlights the importance of regularly reviewing letters and terms and conditions held with safeguarding credit institutions – and assuring the strength of the safeguarding procedures themselves. Despite Supercapital’s established status in the market, it was challenged by the demands of meeting safeguarding and other requirements. The case is a reminder of the consequences of overlooking the detail around routine processes and procedures.

In light of these issues, it’s no surprise that the UK government is currently undertaking a consultation process to gain feedback on proposed insolvency changes for payment and e-money institutions. It aims to boost confidence in the sector by improving outcomes for both customers and markets. The changes will add to those the FCA made earlier this year to its rules around client money custody at e-money and payment companies.

The Supercapital case demonstrates that, even when an organisation has an established status and reputation, failure to address the finer detail can still leave it significantly vulnerable to failure. While the insolvency of Wirecard in 2020 had different causes, it again highlights the need for a more precise focus on compliance and regulatory requirements.

The financial and reputational fall-out from insolvency is significant and enduring. To reduce the risks, payment institutions need to be ready to respond effectively to opportunities without losing their focus on the crucial detail of compliance. Independent expert support can help companies ensure that they fully meet all their operational, corporate governance, regulatory and risk management obligations while maximising commercial opportunities.

At PayCompliance, we have 18 years’ experience of assuring payment institutions’ success across six countries. Our comprehensive product range includes consulting, financial auditing and licensing services.

For more information go to: PayCompliance.com