Why an independent former banker
Bank onboarding teams decide much of the timeline in any connectivity project. Federico Lleonart worked in cash management at J.P. Morgan and Barclays, where client connectivity is set up, tested and taken live.
Host-to-host, SWIFT or bank APIs?
Host-to-host links send files directly between your systems and one bank, usually over secure file transfer. They are reliable but must be built bank by bank.
SWIFT connects many banks through one channel, directly or through a service bureau. Bank APIs add real-time balances and payment status, but coverage still varies by bank and country.
What does ISO 20022 change?
ISO 20022 is the XML standard for payment and statement messages, such as pain.001 for payments and camt.053 for statements. Each bank still applies its own rules within the standard.
That is why every format needs testing with every bank. A file that works at one bank can fail at another.
TMS or the ERP treasury module?
An ERP treasury module can cover payments, statements and basic cash positions for simpler groups. A treasury management system adds forecasting, FX, debt and multi-bank depth.
The right answer depends on your banks, entities and team. We recommend without commissions from any vendor.
Which implementation timelines do banks actually meet?
Bank implementation teams work through queues, document checks and test cycles. Plans that assume instant onboarding usually slip.
We agree dates with each bank's implementation team at the start. The plan reflects their real capacity, not a sales estimate.
FIRMA Advisory takes no commissions from banks or software vendors. A senior consultant who knows bank onboarding from the inside leads the project.