ClearBank launches SEPA indirect service with Fiat Republic

By Parth Prabhudesai

ClearBank has launched its new SEPA Indirect service in partnership with Fiat Republic, marking a significant step in the expansion of indirect payment access models across Europe.

Under the arrangement, ClearBank will manage all underlying scheme participation and fund settlement processes, allowing clients to access European payment infrastructure without the operational burden of direct membership in SEPA systems.

The model enables financial providers to offer dedicated virtual IBANs while continuing to operate under their own BICs and branding. The companies said the approach is designed to simplify euro payments, improve operational resilience, and support smoother cross-border transactions across the European market.

Fiat Republic is the first institution to adopt the SEPA Indirect service. The company now operates its own European BICs and custom IBANs through ClearBank’s infrastructure, strengthening its operational independence and payment capabilities.

Tristan Kirchner, CEO of ClearBank Europe, said reliable euro payment access “should never impede business expansion.” He added that the partnership provides Fiat Republic customers with “fast, secure, and resilient” payment services while helping ClearBank expand its SEPA Indirect footprint across Europe.

Adam Bialy, founder and CEO of Fiat Republic described the integration as an important milestone for cryptocurrency-focused banking infrastructure. He said the launch delivers greater operational independence and additional resilience alongside existing payment channels.

The service forms part of ClearBank’s wider European growth strategy, with the company planning further product launches across the region throughout 2026.

The partnership also reflects a broader FinTech trend toward indirect access models that reduce barriers to entry for financial institutions, particularly those serving digital asset and cross-border commerce markets. As payment volumes continue to grow, such infrastructure models are expected to play an increasing role in Europe’s evolving financial ecosystem.