Real-time payments (RTP)

Definition

Real-time payments (RTP) refer to electronic payment systems that enable the instant transfer of funds between banks or financial institutions on a 24/7 basis. Unlike traditional payment systems that may take days to process transactions, RTP systems complete transfers within seconds or minutes, regardless of the time or day.

Context

The adoption of RTP systems has been growing globally, with countries implementing their versions to improve the efficiency of their financial infrastructure. These systems not only expedite the movement of money but also support the immediate confirmation of transactions, benefiting both consumers and businesses. RTP systems are essential to modern financial ecosystems, enabling innovation in payment services, improving cash flow management, and enabling new business models.