Astra vs ClearBank
A transparent comparison of a complete core banking platform versus UK cloud-native clearing bank infrastructure.
Core Banking Comparison
How Does Astra Compare to ClearBank?
ClearBank is a UK cloud-native clearing bank built on Azure, offering direct access to Bacs, CHAPS, and Faster Payments with FSCS-protected deposits. Astra is a complete, deployable core banking platform. Here is an honest, side-by-side comparison to help you understand what each solution actually provides.
| Feature | Astra | ClearBank |
|---|---|---|
| Platform Type | ✓ Full core banking platform with operations, ledger, and client portal | UK clearing bank providing payment rails and clearing infrastructure via API |
| Banking Licence | Works with your existing EMI or banking licence | ✓ Full UK banking licence (PRA/FCA regulated) |
| Direct UK Payment Scheme Access | UK payment schemes via correspondent banking or partner integration | ✓ Direct Bacs, CHAPS, and Faster Payments access as a clearing member |
| FSCS-Protected Deposits | Not applicable; operates as infrastructure for licensed institutions | ✓ FSCS protection on eligible deposits as a licensed bank |
| Real-Time Payments | Non-blocking real-time transaction processing within the platform | Real-time Faster Payments as a direct scheme participant |
| Cloud Architecture | Microservices-based, deployable on private cloud, on-premise, or hybrid | Cloud-native on Microsoft Azure; no self-hosting option |
| MNG Portal | ✓ Comprehensive management portal with real-time metrics and full operational controls | API management dashboard; operational depth limited to clearing and settlement functions |
| Client Portal | ✓ Full self-service client portal with branded interface and account management | No standard client portal; front-end must be built by the integrating institution |
| Ledger | ✓ Optimised double-entry ledger with non-blocking transactions and full audit trail | Settlement ledger for clearing operations; not a full operational core banking ledger |
| Account Management | ✓ Client, internal, partner bank, and designated accounts; participants, invitations, and account users hierarchy | Segregated client accounts and omnibus accounts for clearing purposes |
| Multi-Currency | ✓ Real-time FX rates, conversion settlement, and multi-currency ledger | GBP-focused; limited multi-currency beyond EUR SEPA corridors |
| Transaction Management | ✓ 7 transaction types: Payin, Payout, Currency Conversion, Operational, Fees, Partner Bank Fees, and Reversals — with per-type action sets | Inbound and outbound payment processing via API; limited operational transaction controls |
| Maker-Checker (4-Eyes) | ✓ Built-in 4-eyes approval on all critical operations | Dual authorisation not a native feature; must be built by the integrating institution |
| Bulk Processing | ✓ Batch and bulk transaction processing with rule-based workflows | Bulk payment file processing for Bacs Direct Credit and Direct Debit |
| Recurring Payments | ✓ Configurable recurring payment schedules with automated processing | Direct Debit collection and Bacs standing orders available |
| Invoice Generation | ✓ Built-in invoice generation and management | No invoice generation; not within the scope of clearing infrastructure |
| Service Fees | ✓ Fees, spreads, commissions, and partner bank fees all configurable | Transaction-based pricing per payment; fee configuration is limited by contract terms |
| Reports | ✓ 18 built-in report types with export options | Transaction and settlement reporting via API; limited operational reporting out of the box |
| Mobile Apps | Web-based management and client portals accessible from any device; responsive design for mobile access | No standard mobile apps; frontend entirely client-built |
| Deployment Flexibility | ✓ Private cloud, on-premise, or hybrid; full infrastructure control | Azure-hosted only; no option for on-premise or private cloud |
| Source Access | ✓ Full source code under licence; unlimited customisation | API access only; underlying clearing infrastructure is fully proprietary |
| Global Applicability | ✓ Designed for 17 jurisdictions across EEA, MENA, and beyond | UK-focused clearing infrastructure; limited applicability outside UK payment schemes |
| Corridor Services | ✓ Built-in corridor and integration corridor for international payment routing | UK domestic corridors (Bacs, CHAPS, FPS); international via third-party |
| Roles & Permissions | ✓ Granular roles and permissions with field-level controls | API key management and basic access controls; no granular operational RBAC |
| Prepaid Cards | ✓ Prepaid card management integrated into platform | Card issuing not part of core ClearBank clearing offering |
| AI Chatbot | ✓ Integrated AI chatbot for operational support | No AI chatbot; not within scope of clearing infrastructure |
| Payment Processor Network | ✓ 12+ integrated payment processors including ClearBank itself, Banking Circle, Modulr, and regional providers | Direct UK payment scheme access only; not a multi-processor network |
| Compliance Screening | ✓ Integrated BRIDGER screening for sanctions, PEP, and adverse media checks | Compliance screening not part of clearing infrastructure; must be sourced externally |
| Transaction Monitoring | ✓ Integrated ORION transaction monitoring with configurable rule engine | Transaction monitoring not provided; clearing infrastructure only |
| Admin Portal | ✓ Full admin portal with user management, system configuration, audit logs, and operational controls | API management dashboard only; no full admin portal |
| IBAN & SWIFT Validation | ✓ Built-in IBAN structure validation and SWIFT/BIC code verification on all payment flows | IBAN issuance for UK sort code accounts; validation scope limited to UK schemes |
The Astra Advantage
Why Choose Astra
Complete Banking Platform
ClearBank provides payment rails and clearing. Astra provides everything else: ledger, client portal, management portal, reports, maker-checker, bulk processing, and mobile apps — a complete operational banking platform.
Global, Not UK-Only
ClearBank's direct scheme access is limited to UK payment schemes. Astra is designed for 17 jurisdictions across the EEA, MENA, and beyond — making it the right choice for institutions with international ambitions.
Own Your Infrastructure
With Astra, you own and operate your banking platform. ClearBank's clearing infrastructure is hosted on Azure with no self-hosting option. Astra supports private cloud, on-premise, and hybrid deployment.
Full Operations Suite
Astra includes 18 report types, configurable service fees, invoice generation, multi-currency support, and granular roles and permissions — operational tools that ClearBank's clearing layer simply does not provide.
Ready to See Astra in Action?
Request a personalised demo and see how Astra compares to your current platform.