Novatti Group launches International Bank of Australia after securing key regulatory licence

Novatti Group (ASX: NOV) emerged from a trading halt this morning with news it was launching the International Bank of Australia, which will focus on assisting fintechs requiring an “innovative and nimble banking partner”.

The launch of International Bank of Australia comes after the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority officially granted it a Restricted Authorised Deposit-taking Institution licence.

Novatti managing director Peter Cook said securing the banking licence was a “significant milestone” for the company’s long-term strategy and is the culmination of “several years of investment and development”.

“We see banking services as significant across card issuing, merchant acquiring, billing and cross-border payments as it underpins the infrastructure and capability to Novatti’s core payments business, while also giving us the ability to increase margins,” Mr Cook explained.

“ has the strong advantage of being able to leverage Novatti’s existing payments ecosystem and global footprint to help win customers quickly.”

Disruptive business models

According to International Bank of Australia chief executive officer Guy Carvalho, traditional banks have been unable to keep up with the disruptive business models of fintechs – particularly those that offer alternative ways to make or accept payments.

“ will overcome this challenge – leveraging technology to enable seamless end-to-end movement of money.”

Mr Carvalho added the bank will focus on assisting fintechs that need a “nimble and innovative banking partner”.

The fintech banking and payment pool is estimated to be valued at $500 billion.

Migrant market

Another market for the newly launched bank will be the migrant sector, which Mr Carvalho says is “significantly underserved”.

As part of this, the bank will leverage Novatti’s payments ecosystem and global operating base to target customers overseas. This will enable them to set-up bank accounts and make transactions before they even set foot in Australia.

An international student will now be able to establish an account online with the International Bank of Australia and begin transferring funds from their home country into the new account for use in Australia, including paying university fees and rent.

This will bypass large international transaction fees.

“This is an incredibly unique service which will provide significant value to potential customers who want to get their lives sorted before reaching Australia,” Mr Carvalho said.

Novatti estimates banking services for the migrant sector including students, professionals and tourists are worth about $120 billion.

Novatti ownership

As part of securing the banking licence, Novatti undertook a series A equity round, which will see it make an additional $5 million investment in the bank.

All-up, $8 million in new funding was generated in the series A equity round – giving the bank required resources to launch and build its business.

At completion of the round, Novatti will have a 91% holding in the bank.