What is Real-Time Gross Settlement (RTGS)?

RTGS operates in real-time, meaning transactions are immediately processed, and funds instantly transfer from the sender’s account to the beneficiary’s account. This eliminates the need for a physical exchange of money or checks and ensures the RTGS settlement time is near instantaneous.

To complete an RTGS, a customer initiates a high-value transaction at their bank branch or through online banking. Next, the payment instructions are sent to the RTGS system. Lastly, the RTGS system directs the transfer of funds from the sender’s bank to the beneficiary bank on a one-to-one basis.

While RTGS is relatively straightforward, it’s essential to know how each moving part works together.

How does RTGS work?

During the RTGS process, the transfer of money is instant and on a one-to-one basis to eliminate the need for a physical exchange of funds and reduce settlement risk.

A country’s central bank plays a significant role in operating and organizing an RTGS system because it acts as its custodian to ensure bank transactions are processed smoothly. This bank sets the rules and regulations governing the system, including transaction limits, settlement time, and service charges.

To initiate an RTGS transaction, the sender’s bank sends a funds transfer message to the beneficiary bank through the RTGS system. The beneficiary bank then credits the funds to the recipient’s bank account. The RTGS processing time occurs within a designated time window, usually during business days, and is subject to minimum and maximum limits.

The RTGS process is simple yet effective in helping eliminate the outdated need for a physical exchange of funds and providing many benefits to users.

What are the benefits of RTGS?

The idea of real-time payments sounds like it has many benefits, so it’s no surprise that RTGS comes with several perks.

Here are six main advantages of RTGS:

1. Real-time transfers: RTGS enables instant money transfers, allowing faster processing and settlement of financial transactions.
2. High-value transactions: RTGS is explicitly designed for large-value transactions to ensure efficient and secure transfer of significant amounts of money.
3. Continuous operation: RTGS operates round the clock, except for bank holidays, so transactions can be processed anytime.
4. Maximum limit: RTGS allows funds transfers without having a maximum limit, making it suitable for high-value transactions.
5. Secure transactions: RTGS transactions occur in a safe electronic environment that reduces the risk of fraud or error.
6. Transparency: RTGS provides detailed information about each transaction, including the sender and recipient’s bank accounts, improving transparency and accountability.

With all the many benefits of RTGS, it’s apparent that utilizing RTGS can provide a ton of value for individuals and businesses.

Optimize the value of RTGS

Overall, RTGS streamlines the process of transferring funds between banks, providing quick and efficient settlement of high-value transactions.

Its real-time nature ensures secure and transparent financial transfers, making RTGS an essential component of the modern financial sector.