Interbank Messaging

Definition ∞ Interbank Messaging refers to the secure communication systems used by financial institutions to exchange information and instructions for processing transactions between banks. These systems are crucial for facilitating international payments, securities transfers, and other wholesale financial operations. They ensure the accurate and reliable transmission of sensitive financial data, forming a core component of global financial plumbing. SWIFT is a prominent example of such a network.
Context ∞ The traditional interbank messaging landscape is experiencing significant pressure from emerging blockchain-based solutions and digital asset platforms. Proponents of decentralized technologies highlight the potential for faster, cheaper, and more transparent cross-border payments compared to existing systems. The discussion involves how these new technologies might complement, compete with, or eventually supplant established interbank communication protocols, driving innovation in global payment rails.