Payment infrastructure
Payment infrastructure refers to the entirety of all systems, networks and institutions that enable electronic payment transactions — from card networks to banks to PSPs.
Payment infrastructure
Payment infrastructure comprises all technical systems, regulatory frameworks, and participating institutions that enable electronic payment transactions. This includes card networks (Visa, Mastercard), banking systems (SIC in Switzerland, TARGET2 in the EU), PSPs, payment gateways, clearing and settlement systems, and regulatory authorities.
In Switzerland, the SIC-system (Swiss Interbank Clearing), operated by SIX, forms the backbone of domestic payment transactions. It processes all CHF payments between Swiss banks — from transfers and direct debits to instant payments (SIC IP).
For you as a merchant, the payment infrastructure in the background is relevant: it determines how quickly transactions are processed, which payment methods are available, and how securely transactions are executed. The PSP abstracts the complexity of the infrastructure and offers you a simple interface.
Payment infrastructure examples
The SIC system processes all CHF payments between Swiss banks — it is the central element of the Swiss payment infrastructure.
A PSP connects your online shop with the payment infrastructure: It communicates with card networks, acquirers, and banks in the background.
SWIFT (Society for Worldwide Interbank Financial Telecommunication) forms the infrastructure for international bank transfers.
Payment infrastructure FAQ
What is payment infrastructure?
Payment infrastructure refers to all systems and institutions that enable electronic payment transactions: card networks, banking systems, PSPs, clearing houses, and regulatory frameworks.
What is the SIC system in Switzerland?
SIC (Swiss Interbank Clearing) is the central payment system in Switzerland, operated by SIX. It processes all CHF payments between Swiss banks — credit transfers, direct debits and, since 2024, also instant payments.
Who regulates the payment infrastructure in Switzerland?
FINMA (Swiss Financial Market Supervisory Authority) supervises the Swiss financial infrastructure. SIX, as the operator of the SIC system, is subject to FINMA supervision. PSPs require a FINMA licence depending on their business model.
What is SWIFT?
SWIFT (Society for Worldwide Interbank Financial Telecommunication) is a global network that banks worldwide use to exchange financial messages and process international transfers.
