Engine by Starling selects GFT as implementation partner

Global digital transformation specialist GFT has partnered with UK-based Starling Bank on its Software-as-a-Service business Engine by Starling.

As an implementation partner, GFT will provide design, integration and implementation services for banks that adopt the Engine by Starling platform.

Engine by Starling gives banks access to the cloud native, modular and API-based banking platform initially built by Starling’s own in-house technology team to run Starling Bank.

Marika Lulay, chief executive officer of GFT, said: “There is huge demand in the market for a proven, scalable system that can help existing banks to re-platform or new banks to launch as quickly as possible.

“By combining Engine by Starling’s cutting-edge technology with GFT’s expertise in systems integration, we will enable organisations across the globe to rapidly launch a state-of-the-art digital bank.”

Carlton Hopper, managing director at GFT UK, called the partnership “a winning combination” for banks “that want to launch digital banking quickly”.

Engine by Starling recently revealed Salt Bank in Romania and Australia’s AMP Bank as its first two clients.

“We’ve partnered with GFT for their deep technical skills, platform focus and entrepreneurial approach,” added Sam Everington, chief executive officer of Engine by Starling.

“Starling disrupted the UK banking sector, Engine’s mission is to empower our clients to do the same in their markets. GFT’s global footprint makes them an ideal partner as we scale.”

In August, Starling Bank was ranked second in the Competition and Markets Authority’s banking satisfaction survey, behind Monzo.

However, when it came to online and mobile banking services for personal banking customers, Starling Bank pipped Monzo to the post, scoring 85% versus Monzo’s 84%.