Our Banking-as-a-Service Platform Has Everything You Need to Build Your Own Banking Products: Carsten Höltkemeyer, CEO of Solaris SE

Solaris SE is a leading Banking-as-a-Service provider, empowering businesses to embed financial services directly into their products with ease and efficiency. Established in 2015 and headquartered in Berlin, Solaris operates as a licensed credit institution in Germany, serving partners across Europe. The company’s technology-driven platform supports digital banking, card issuance, lending, and cryptocurrency services, allowing brands to offer customized financial products without building their own banking infrastructure. With a strong focus on compliance and security, Solaris ensures regulatory adherence while simplifying financial solutions for its partners. Backed by substantial investment and a growing market presence, Solaris continues to drive innovation in embedded finance.

In Conversation with with Carsten Höltkemeyer, CEO of Solaris SE

You have been at the helm of Solaris since April 2023. Could you share what drew you to this role?

My career has spanned over two decades in banking and fintech, during which I've witnessed the profound impact of technological innovation on financial services. Solaris, with its pioneering approach to Banking-as-a-Service, embodies this transformation. The opportunity to lead a company that empowers businesses to seamlessly integrate financial services was both compelling and aligned with my professional vision.

Solaris has undergone significant growth since its inception. What do you attribute this success to?

Our success stems from a steadfast commitment to innovation and a deep understanding of our partners' needs. By offering a comprehensive suite of APIs, we enable businesses to embed financial services directly into their products, enhancing customer experiences. This, coupled with our dedication to security and regulatory compliance, has solidified our reputation as a trusted partner in the fintech ecosystem.

The fintech landscape is rapidly evolving. How does Solaris stay ahead in such a dynamic environment?

Staying ahead requires a blend of adaptability and foresight. We continuously invest in our technology infrastructure to ensure scalability and security. Additionally, we maintain close collaborations with our partners, allowing us to anticipate market shifts and adjust our offerings accordingly. This proactive approach ensures we remain at the forefront of industry developments.

Could you elaborate on Solaris's approach to security and compliance?

Security and compliance are foundational to our operations. As a licensed credit institution in Germany, we adhere to stringent regulatory standards. We participate in Germany's deposit guarantee scheme, protecting deposits up to 100,000 EUR per depositor. This commitment not only safeguards our partners and their customers but also reinforces trust in our platform.

What are some challenges you've encountered in your role, and how have you addressed them?

One of the primary challenges is handling regulatory requirements that vary across different jurisdictions. To address this, we've established dedicated teams focused on compliance and legal affairs, ensuring our services meet local requirements. Additionally, fostering a culture of continuous learning within Solaris allows us to adapt swiftly to regulatory changes.

What are your strategic priorities for Solaris?

Our focus is on expanding our service offerings and entering new markets. We’re exploring opportunities in emerging financial technologies, such as digital assets, to provide our partners with a broader spectrum of services. Additionally, we're committed to enhancing our platform's capabilities, ensuring it remains robust and user-friendly as we scale.

On a personal note, what motivates you in your leadership journey?

I am driven by the potential to effect meaningful change in the financial sector. Leading a company like Solaris, which is at the nexus of technology and finance, provides a unique platform to innovate and redefine traditional banking models. Witnessing the tangible impact of our solutions on businesses and consumers alike is incredibly rewarding.

How do you envision the future of embedded finance, and what role will Solaris play in it?

Embedded finance is poised to become ubiquitous, seamlessly integrating financial services into various facets of daily life. Solaris aims to be the backbone of this integration, providing the infrastructure and expertise that businesses need to offer tailored financial solutions. By doing so, we aspire to make financial services more accessible and intuitive for everyone.

What advice would you offer to emerging fintech entrepreneurs?

Focus on understanding the pain points of your target audience and develop solutions that address those needs effectively. Stay agile, as the fintech landscape is continually evolving. Building strong partnerships and maintaining a relentless commitment to compliance and security will position you for long-term success.

Carsten Höltkemeyer, CEO, Solaris SE

“Leading a company like Solaris, which is at the nexus of technology and finance, provides a unique platform to innovate and redefine traditional banking models.”