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Why is this useful in an e-commerce journey ?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
For a buyer, the benefit is immediate: no need to manually enter the recipient’s bank details, no risk of error in the amount or description of the transfer, and no waiting period if the transfer is instant. The experience is similar to paying by bank card, while remaining within the banking system.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
For a merchant, the advantages are operational. Each received transfer order is linked to a specific order reference, making accounting reconciliation automatic. No more transfers received without a description, incorrect amounts, or manual follow-ups. Once initiated, the transfer is also irrevocable: unlike a credit card, there is no risk of fraudulent chargebacks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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What are the limits to be aware of ?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Despite its advantages, the initiated transfer presents constraints that merchants must take into account in their thinking.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Bank coverage remains a point of friction: not all banking institutions yet expose APIs of consistent quality. The availability of payment flows can vary depending on the payer’s bank, which necessitates maintaining alternative payment options.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The checkout conversion rate is significantly lower than the card conversion rate for inexperienced consumers. Redirecting to the bank interface creates a break in the user experience, even though specialized providers are actively working to streamline it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The initiated bank transfer does not include a native chargeback mechanism. Unlike card payments, there is no standardized refund procedure in case of a dispute. This is a point of concern for B2C merchants who handle frequent returns.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Finally, adoption varies from country to country. What works in the Netherlands or Germany cannot be directly transposed to France without adapting the customer experience and communication.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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What needs to be checked before integrating the initiated transfer ?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Integrating payment initiation into an e-commerce process requires some preliminary checks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
From a technical standpoint, it is necessary to ensure that the chosen payment provider offers native Pay by Bank, and that the confirmation webhooks<\/a> allow for instant updates of the order status.<\/p>\n\n\n\nOn the operational side, accounting reconciliation must be anticipated: the initiated transfer generates flows with a transaction reference, but integration with the ERP or accounting software is a prerequisite to take full advantage of it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Finally, it is recommended not to replace the card with the initiated transfer, but to offer it as a complement, highlighting it particularly for baskets exceeding a certain threshold or for identified professional clients.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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What prospects ?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
The entry into force of PSD3, whose implementing texts are expected gradually from 2026, should strengthen the obligations of banks in terms of Open Banking and improve the reliability of payment initiation APIs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Combined with the widespread adoption of SEPA instant transfers, this regulatory environment is favorable to a wider adoption of Pay by Bank in European e-commerce transactions. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Initiated bank transfers will not replace bank cards in mainstream usage in the short term. However, for certain e-commerce activities, they now represent a mature option, well-regulated, and increasingly accessible technically.<\/p>\n\n\n\n