maksetegevust

Maksetegevus refers to activities that enable and process payment transactions between payers and payees. It covers electronic, card-based, and traditional payment methods, including transfers, card payments, direct debits, and the issuance and management of electronic money. The activity is typically carried out by banks, payment institutions, e-money issuers, and fintech companies that provide payment services to individuals and businesses.

In a regulatory sense, maksetegevus is governed by the applicable national and European frameworks. In the European Union, the Payment Services Directive (PSD2) and the E-Money Directive establish the rules for authorization, supervision, and conduct of payment service providers. Providers must obtain authorization from the relevant national competent authority (in Estonia, the Financial Supervisory Authority or its successor) and meet requirements related to capital, safeguarding of funds, governance, and risk management. Anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing rules (AML/CTF) and customer due diligence are also part of the obligations. Security requirements, including strong customer authentication for many online payments, are emphasized to protect users.

Key services and activities within maksetegevus include payment initiation services, account information services, card payments, bank transfers, direct debits, and e-money issuance. Providers may operate as banks, payment institutions, or e-money institutions, and may offer payment gateways, aggregation services, or open banking capabilities that enable third-party access to payment accounts with user consent.

Open banking and API access introduced by PSD2 have fostered innovation and competition while maintaining security and privacy. Maksetegevus is essential for commerce, retail banking, and cross-border trade, enabling faster settlements and broader payment options for consumers and businesses.