Reference stack
Launch a European fintech
A starting blueprint for teams launching a regulated-adjacent fintech product in Europe, from accounts to onboarding and payments.
FoundersProduct teamsEurope
Infrastructure layers
01
Accounts & banking
Accounts, IBANs and safeguarding via a BaaS partner.
02
Cards
Card issuing and BIN sponsorship for your programme.
03
KYC & onboarding
Identity verification and business onboarding.
Considerations
- Confirm which regulated activities require your own authorisation versus a partner's.
- Safeguarding arrangements and audit expectations vary by partner and jurisdiction.
- Card scheme approval and BIN sponsorship timelines can be significant.
Questions to ask providers
- Which entity is the regulated party for each service?
- What is the safeguarding model for client funds?
- What onboarding and reporting obligations fall on us?
This stack is a reference architecture for research. It does not guarantee regulatory compliance or licensing approval, and specific provider combinations are not universally suitable. Confirm requirements for your product with each provider and qualified advisers.