DTCC launching API marketplace to improve access to processing services

DTCC launching API marketplace to improve access to processing services
The hope is that easy access to application programming interfaces will improve innovation and collaboration with member firms
FEB 04, 2020

The Depository Trust & Clearing Corp. is looking to modernize how banks, broker-dealers and asset managers access its services and market infrastructure.

Following in the steps of technology vendors and custodians, DTCC is launching a digital marketplace of application programming interfaces, or APIs. Software developers at DTCC’s client and partner firms can use these APIs to integrate DTCC services, data and functionality into their own technology.

The first API available is for DTCC’s risk management service, which provides a view of current and historical positions that may impact risk and liquidity. Firms can use the API to embed this data directly into their own technology to more efficiently analyze and manage risk across firm functions, such as monitoring, surveillance and regulatory compliance.

DTCC plans to launch more APIs later this year, but Robert Palatnick, global head of technology research and innovation, wouldn’t specify what the company has on its road map.

It’s ultimately up to DTCC clients to decide how to use the APIs, similar to the way that Uber can use a Google API to embed maps directly into its ride-sharing app, Mr. Palatnick said.

The hope is to move DTCC from what Mr. Palatnick called “very prescribed interaction,” where firms would provide input and DTCC would later give output, to a more flexible environment in which firms can access its data and services in real time.

“The goal is to put as much data [as possible] into our clients’ hands, as soon as the client wants it, and whenever and wherever the client wants,” Mr. Palatnick said. “The traditional model did not support that client-centric focus.”

Not even an industry-owned market infrastructure provider like DTCC is immune from technology disruption. Just as retail investors are demanding access to financial services via the same digital and mobile-friendly experience they get when they access Netflix and Amazon, financial institutions want to use services from companies like DTCC in ways that are unique to their individual business needs, said DTCC chief information officer Lynn Bishop.

“APIs will continue to play an important role in the future of financial services across the retail, institutional and post-trade areas,” Ms. Bishop said in a statement.  “APIs are the building blocks of this digital transformation, and in today’s interconnected world, they have risen in prominence and become important to every facet of the enterprise.”

Latest News

The 2025 InvestmentNews Awards Excellence Awardees revealed
The 2025 InvestmentNews Awards Excellence Awardees revealed

From outstanding individuals to innovative organizations, find out who made the final shortlist for top honors at the IN awards, now in its second year.

Top RIA Cresset warns of 'inevitable' recession amid tariff uncertainty
Top RIA Cresset warns of 'inevitable' recession amid tariff uncertainty

Cresset's Susie Cranston is expecting an economic recession, but says her $65 billion RIA sees "great opportunity" to keep investing in a down market.

Edward Jones joins the crowd to sell more alternative investments
Edward Jones joins the crowd to sell more alternative investments

“There’s a big pull to alternative investments right now because of volatility of the stock market,” Kevin Gannon, CEO of Robert A. Stanger & Co., said.

Record RIA M&A activity marks strong start to 2025
Record RIA M&A activity marks strong start to 2025

Sellers shift focus: It's not about succession anymore.

IB+ Data Hub offers strategic edge for U.S. wealth advisors and RIAs advising business clients
IB+ Data Hub offers strategic edge for U.S. wealth advisors and RIAs advising business clients

Platform being adopted by independent-minded advisors who see insurance as a core pillar of their business.

SPONSORED Compliance in real time: Technology's expanding role in RIA oversight

RIAs face rising regulatory pressure in 2025. Forward-looking firms are responding with embedded technology, not more paperwork.

SPONSORED Advisory firms confront crossroads amid historic wealth transfer

As inheritances are set to reshape client portfolios and next-gen heirs demand digital-first experiences, firms are retooling their wealth tech stacks and succession models in real time.