Define: Intermediary Bank

Intermediary Bank
Intermediary Bank
Quick Summary of Intermediary Bank

An intermediary bank facilitates the transfer of funds from one bank to another, acting as a middleman to ensure the money reaches its intended destination. For instance, when sending money to someone in another country, your bank may utilise an intermediary bank to transfer the funds to the recipient’s bank. The intermediary bank does not hold onto the money, but rather assists in directing it to the correct location.

Full Definition Of Intermediary Bank

An intermediary bank is a financial institution that facilitates the transfer of funds between two other banks, acting as a middleman in the process. It is not the depositary or payor bank, but rather a bank to which an item is transferred in the course of collection. For example, when someone in the United States wants to send money to someone in Europe, their bank may use an intermediary bank to facilitate the transfer. The sender’s bank would send the money to the intermediary bank, which would then send it to the recipient’s bank in Europe. Another example is when a business in one country wants to pay a supplier in another country. The business’s bank may use an intermediary bank to transfer the funds to the supplier’s bank. Intermediary banks play a crucial role in facilitating international transactions and ensuring the secure and efficient transfer of funds.

Intermediary Bank FAQ'S

An intermediary bank is a financial institution that acts as a middleman between the sender and recipient banks in international transactions. It facilitates the transfer of funds by receiving the payment from the sender bank and then forwarding it to the recipient bank.

Intermediary banks are necessary in international transactions because they help ensure the smooth and efficient transfer of funds across different banking systems and countries. They help bridge the gap between sender and recipient banks that may have different currencies or banking protocols.

Intermediary banks typically charge a fee for their services, which can vary depending on the specific transaction and the bank involved. The fee may be a flat rate or a percentage of the transferred amount. It is important to check with your bank or financial institution for the exact charges.

In most cases, you cannot choose the intermediary bank for your international transactions. The choice of intermediary bank is usually determined by the sender bank or the recipient bank, based on their existing relationships and agreements with other financial institutions.

If an intermediary bank makes an error in the transfer, it is important to contact your own bank or financial institution immediately. They will work with the intermediary bank to rectify the error and ensure that the funds are properly transferred to the intended recipient.

Intermediary banks are typically regulated by the financial regulatory authorities in the countries where they operate. These authorities ensure that the banks comply with relevant laws and regulations to protect the interests of customers and maintain the integrity of the financial system.

Yes, an intermediary bank can sometimes cause delays in the transfer of funds. This can happen due to various reasons, such as technical issues, compliance checks, or additional verification requirements. It is advisable to allow for some extra time when conducting international transactions to account for potential delays.

In most cases, you can track the progress of your funds through the intermediary bank by contacting your own bank or financial institution. They should be able to provide you with updates on the status of the transfer and any relevant tracking information.

If you believe that an intermediary bank has charged you an incorrect or unfair fee, you can dispute it by contacting your own bank or financial institution. They will investigate the matter and work with the intermediary bank to resolve the dispute.

Yes, there are alternative methods for international transactions that do not involve intermediary banks. These include using online payment platforms, cryptocurrency transfers, or direct correspondent banking relationships between sender and recipient banks. However, the availability and suitability of these alternatives may vary depending on the specific transaction and the countries involved.

Related Phrases
No related content found.
Disclaimer

This site contains general legal information but does not constitute professional legal advice for your particular situation. Persuing this glossary does not create an attorney-client or legal adviser relationship. If you have specific questions, please consult a qualified attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.

This glossary post was last updated: 17th April 2024.

Cite Term

To help you cite our definitions in your bibliography, here is the proper citation layout for the three major formatting styles, with all of the relevant information filled in.

  • Page URL:https://dlssolicitors.com/define/intermediary-bank/
  • Modern Language Association (MLA):Intermediary Bank. dlssolicitors.com. DLS Solicitors. May 09 2024 https://dlssolicitors.com/define/intermediary-bank/.
  • Chicago Manual of Style (CMS):Intermediary Bank. dlssolicitors.com. DLS Solicitors. https://dlssolicitors.com/define/intermediary-bank/ (accessed: May 09 2024).
  • American Psychological Association (APA):Intermediary Bank. dlssolicitors.com. Retrieved May 09 2024, from dlssolicitors.com website: https://dlssolicitors.com/define/intermediary-bank/
Avatar of DLS Solicitors
DLS Solicitors : Divorce Solicitors

Our team of professionals are based in Alderley Edge, Cheshire. We offer clear, specialist legal advice in all matters relating to Family Law, Wills, Trusts, Probate, Lasting Power of Attorney and Court of Protection.

All author posts