SMEB: A Comprehensive Payment Gateway for SMEs

Introduction

SMEB is a UK-based financial services provider committed to empowering small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) through secure, cost-efficient, and modern payment solutions. With an expansive suite of offerings, including card payments, Open Banking services, e-money accounts, point-of-sale systems, and cash deposit technology, SMEB addresses the real-world payment and financial needs of small businesses in a changing economy.

Its integrated ecosystem of digital and physical payment tools is designed for simplicity, security, and speed, making it a strong contender for SMEs seeking flexible and scalable payment infrastructure.

Company Overview

• Headquarters: Basingstoke, United Kingdom

• Founded: 2022

• Regulatory Status: Authorized Payment Institution under the UK’s Financial Conduct Authority (FCA)

• Principal Memberships: Visa and Mastercard

• Open Banking Integration: Connected to over 3,500 banks across the European Union

• Global Reach: Offices in Dallas, Dubai, Dublin, Paris, and Vancouver

SMEB’s rapid expansion and regulatory clarity position it as a trustworthy partner for merchants requiring full-spectrum financial services.

SMEB Pay: Fast, Cost-Efficient Payment Acceptance

At the core of SMEB’s digital offerings is SMEB Pay, its Open Banking-based payment gateway. SMEB Pay is built to reduce transaction costs while maintaining real-time settlement capabilities and high-level security. This solution is ideal for businesses that want to avoid the high costs and risks typically associated with card-based transactions.

Key Features of SMEB Pay

• Instant Payments: SMEB Pay enables immediate transfer of funds, eliminating delays in settlement.

• Up to 75% Cheaper: It claims to be significantly more cost-effective than traditional card processing, offering up to 75% savings per transaction.

• No Chargebacks: Since Open Banking payments are push-based, the risk of chargebacks is removed.

• API-Driven Integration: Developers and merchants can integrate SMEB Pay quickly into online stores, platforms, or apps through a streamlined API.

• Support for POS and SoftPOS: Accept in-person payments using either traditional card terminals or SoftPOS (contactless payments via Android smartphones).

• Card Issuing Options: Businesses can issue physical and virtual Visa cards for customer or internal use.

This offering is particularly suitable for SMEs that prioritize cost control and need fast, secure payment flows, both online and offline.

SMEB Cube: A Physical Solution for Cash-Handling Businesses

Recognizing that many SMEs still rely on cash, SMEB has developed an innovative solution called the SMEB Cube. This self-service banking unit allows businesses to deposit cash securely and receive same-day account credit, a critical feature for retail shops, hospitality venues, and rural businesses where branch closures have disrupted access to banking services.

Features of the SMEB Cube

• Smart Cash Deposit Machines: Accepts and verifies cash deposits securely.

• Same-Day Credit: Funds are credited to the business’s account on the same day.

• ECB-Certified: Devices meet the European Central Bank’s certification standards for authenticity and note fitness.

• Widespread Deployment: Installed in accessible locations such as convenience stores, municipal buildings, and co-working spaces.

• Multi-Service Capability: Future enhancements will enable the Cube to support bill payments, account management, and even loan servicing.

This blend of physical infrastructure and digital reporting helps bridge the gap between cash-based businesses and modern financial technology.

E-Money Business Accounts for SMEs

SMEB also offers regulated e-money business accounts that integrate with its payment gateway and Cube services. These accounts are built for everyday use, providing SMEs with full visibility, control, and operational efficiency over their financial activities.

Account Benefits

• Real-Time Data Access: View balances, transaction history, and pending payments instantly.

• Unified App Experience: A single dashboard to manage card issuing, Cube deposits, and incoming payments.

• 24/7 Customer Support: Businesses can get assistance around the clock.

• Faster Settlement: Combined with SMEB Pay and Cube services, accounts receive funds in real time.

This account structure gives SMEs a central hub for all cash inflows and outflows, simplifying bookkeeping and reconciliation.

Security, Compliance, and Regulatory Strength

As an Authorized Payment Institution under UK law, SMEB is fully compliant with the Payment Services Regulations 2017. It is also registered as a data controller with the Information Commissioner’s Office, ensuring the lawful handling of personal and financial data.

Security Highlights

• FCA Supervision: Under active supervision by the Financial Conduct Authority, offering high levels of consumer protection.

• PCI-DSS Compliance: All card processing operations are conducted according to Payment Card Industry Data Security Standards.

• Strong Customer Authentication (SCA): Ensures robust two-factor authentication for all online transactions.

• Open Banking License: Licensed to initiate payment and access account information services under PSD2 frameworks.

These measures demonstrate SMEB’s commitment to protecting its clients and their customers across all touchpoints.

Strategic Partnerships and Global Expansion

To build a scalable, global-ready infrastructure, SMEB has formed strong alliances with recognized players in the fintech and payments industry.

Notable Partnerships

• Switch Commerce: Partnered to develop an advanced payment gateway, offering global card acquiring and processing services.

• Yapily: Utilizes Yapily’s API infrastructure to access over 3,500 Open Banking endpoints across the European Union, ensuring smooth cross-border payments.

Such collaborations enhance the reach and reliability of SMEB’s services, especially for SMEs seeking international expansion or cross-border commerce.

Why Choose SMEB?

SMEB’s value proposition lies in its tailored services for SMEs, blending affordability, innovation, and practical utility. It combines Open Banking efficiency with physical banking solutions, a rare and powerful combination in today’s fintech landscape.

Distinct Advantages

• Designed for SMEs: All services are built with small businesses in mind.

• Omnichannel Payment Support: Accepts payments across online, mobile, in-store, and cash channels.

• No Setup Fees for Some Services: Competitive and transparent pricing.

• Same-Day Fund Availability: Whether via Open Banking or cash deposits, businesses receive funds quickly.

• UK-Based, Globally Minded: Headquartered in the UK but equipped to serve merchants internationally.

SMEB gives small and mid-sized businesses access to enterprise-grade financial tools.

Conclusion

SMEB is a new but formidable entrant in the payments ecosystem, offering SMEs a flexible, secure, and cost-effective alternative to traditional banks and legacy processors. Its blend of Open Banking, instant payments, smart cash solutions, and card services creates an end-to-end financial platform that meets the evolving needs of modern businesses.

With regulatory trust, technological innovation, and a clear SME focus, SMEB is well-positioned to become a preferred partner for merchants seeking better ways to accept and manage payments.