LHV Bank joins RT1 to boost instant euro payments

By Vriti Gothi

LHV Bank has participated in the RT1 platform the pan-European real-time settlement system for SEPA Instant Credit Transfers (SCT Inst).

This milestone marks a significant advance in the Bank’s commitment to driving digital transformation and delivering faster, more efficient cross-border payment solutions.

By integrating directly with the RT1 SCT Inst scheme, LHV Bank removes the traditional limitations associated with indirect access, which confines other UK banks to serving only end users. This strategic upgrade positions LHV Bank to provide instant euro payments not only to individual customers but also to other financial institutions, unlocking new opportunities for collaboration and market reach.

Through this enhanced technical capability, LHV Bank is reinforcing its role as a future-focused player in the European payments ecosystem. The direct connection streamlines payment flows by eliminating reliance on correspondent banking relationships and third-party intermediaries, resulting in faster settlement, reduced costs, and greater scalability for clients across Europe.

The launch of direct RT1 participation adds to a series of recent milestones for LHV Bank. In May, the Bank unveiled its retail banking proposition to the UK market, further expanding its customer offering. In June, it was recognised among the Sunday Times’ Best Places to Work and received two accolades at the ICA Compliance Awards, affirming its commitment to operational excellence and regulatory integrity.

Looking ahead, LHV Bank remains focused on advancing its digital infrastructure and expanding its cross-border payment services, supporting the evolving needs of businesses, FinTechs and institutional clients across the UK and Europe.

Erki Kilu, CEO of LHV Bank, said, “This is a technical upgrade and strategic step forward. We’re helping to shape the next generation of cross-border payments, and direct participation in SCT Instant strengthens our standing as a trusted partner for FinTechs and internationally focused businesses.”