A correspondent bank is a financial institution that provides services on behalf of another financial institution. They act as a go-between or ‘middle-man’ in financial transactions and can be used to facilitate transactions that wouldn’t otherwise be possible between two banks. Correspondent banks are used to bridge gaps between two financial institutions, allowing them to access services and products that would otherwise not be available.

Correspondent banks often hold accounts for other financial institutions and these accounts act as conduits for the two banks to conduct transactions and payments. A correspondent bank may provide services such as foreign exchange, letters of credit, securities, treasury and liquidity services, payments and clearing, and risk management services. Correspondent banks are usually larger global banks that have correspondent banking relationships with multiple other banks.

Correspondent banks can provide swift and efficient cross-border payments and foreign exchange by using the international payments system. They can also allow access to capital markets, allowing you to buy and sell financial securities. Additionally, they provide secure and efficient means of money transfer and payments, ensuring that funds are transferred safely and quickly.

Correspondent banks also offer treasury and liquidity services that can help manage cash flows and credit lines between two or more financial institutions. They can also offer risk management services, allowing you to protect yourself against financial fraud and other risks.

Correspondent banking is becoming increasingly important in the digital age, being relied upon for the more secure and efficient transfer of funds between two financial institutions. With the rise of digital banking and payments, correspondent banks provide an important link between people and companies, providing faster, more efficient and secure ways of doing business internationally.