Modernizing Payments: Samlink’s Strategic Role in a Real-Time, AI-Driven Financial Ecosystem
The financial services industry is undergoing a fundamental transformation. Real-time payments, artificial intelligence, and evolving regulatory frameworks like PSD3 and ISO 20022 are reshaping how banks operate and interact with customers.
Kyndryl’s Payment Modernization Publication outlines the global urgency for financial institutions to modernize their infrastructure, embrace data-driven services, and build resilience in an increasingly digital and regulated environment.
In the Nordic context, Samlink plays a key role in translating global trends into practical, secure, and scalable solutions for banks—bridging innovation with regulation.
Local Expertise with Global Reach
As a Kyndryl company, Samlink combines deep knowledge of Finnish banking with access to global infrastructure and innovation. This unique position enables Samlink to support banks with strategic advisory, technology enablement, and regulatory alignment—ensuring modernization efforts are both business-driven and future-ready.
“At Samlink, we see payment modernization as more than a technical upgrade—it’s a strategic opportunity to strengthen trust, accelerate innovation, and build resilience. By combining Nordic insight with Kyndryl’s global capabilities, we help banks move confidently toward a future that is secure, scalable, and customer-centric”, says Sara Ramakers, CEO of Samlink.
“Real-time payments are no longer optional—they’re expected. Samlink helps financial institutions meet this demand with solutions that support operational continuity, compliance, and customer experience.”
Three Pillars of Samlink’s Payment Modernization Approach
- AI Services for Real Banking Needs
Kyndryl’s publication highlights AI as a key enabler of fraud prevention, customer support, and financial forecasting. Samlink’s AI Services for Banks platform enables rapid deployment of generative and agent-based AI applications. These solutions support fraud detection, customer service automation, and financial forecasting, while integrating seamlessly into existing banking environments. We work closely with our clients to define the right approach and deliver measurable outcomes.
“AI should empower, not overwhelm. Samlink ensures that personalization is built on trust, transparency, and compliance.”
- Progressive Modernization Strategy
According to Kyndryl´s data, legacy infrastructure remains one of the biggest barriers to modernization. Samlink addresses this challenge with a progressive strategy that supports the evolution of existing systems toward more agile, cloud-enabled environments—without compromising stability or compliance. This approach allows banks to evolve their systems incrementally, ensuring business continuity while enabling innovation. The strategy supports compliance with ISO 20022 and PSD3, helping banks stay ahead of regulatory developments.
“Modernization isn’t a one-time upgrade—it’s a journey. Samlink supports customers with tailored solutions that reflect their goals and operating realities.”
- Cybersecurity and Resilience
As payment ecosystems become more open and real-time, cybersecurity becomes a strategic priority. Kyndryl emphasizes the importance of Zero Trust and resilience in its modernization framework. Samlink supports banks by aligning with these principles and helping interpret and implement regulatory requirements such as DORA and PSD3—focusing on secure design, risk awareness, and operational readiness.
“Regulatory clarity is key. Samlink helps clients interpret and implement PSD3 and PSR requirements with confidence.”
From Global Vision to Local Execution
Kyndryl’s data highlights that 78 percent of financial leaders view regulatory compliance as the top modernization priority, while 46 percent cite legacy infrastructure as the main barrier. Samlink addresses these challenges by offering advisory services, secure cloud integration, and AI tools designed specifically for Nordic banks.
Kyndryl’s modernization framework sets the direction— Samlink delivers the execution through tailored, collaborative solutions that reflect local needs and strategic goals.