The UK’s Midata and Open Banking programmes

A case study in data portability and interoperability requirements

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.26116/techreg.2022.011

Keywords:

Data portability, interoperability, financial services, banking, API, security, privacy, co-regulation

Abstract

This article examines how self-regulatory and then competition authority-imposed requirements for data portability (Midata) then interoperability (Open Banking) in the UK’s retail banking markets were used to increase competition and create better-functioning, more innovative and diverse markets for personal accounts and small business banking, and related services. These requirements went further than the EU’s second payment services directive, including a co-regulatory obligation for the nine largest retail and small business banks to agree a common technical interface (API) and standards for security, user experience, and other areas identified as important to customers, overseen by a trustee appointed by the Competition & Markets Authority. This case study explores how these requirements evolved from ineffective portability requirements to in-depth interoperability obligations, which have enabled hundreds of firms to create a thriving UK “fintech” market of complementary financial services, although so far having less impact on direct competition with incumbent banks.

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techReg.2022.011 – Brown – cover page

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Published

27-10-2022

How to Cite

Brown, I. (2022). The UK’s Midata and Open Banking programmes: A case study in data portability and interoperability requirements. Technology and Regulation, 2022, 113–123. https://doi.org/10.26116/techreg.2022.011

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Articles