WILLEMSTAD - A number of Banco di Caribe clients are experiencing difficulties with their international transactions due to problems linked to the bank's BIC number. Since the bank began collaborating with a new correspondent bank, clients have reported numerous issues affecting their overseas payments.
More than a year ago, the correspondent bank, Stern International Bank, updated the BIC number assigned to Banco di Caribe. However, the bank seemingly failed to communicate this change to its clients. As a result, several international transactions have been rejected or delayed, causing significant frustration for the affected customers.
In addition to the BIC number issue, clients have faced complications related to stricter verification processes imposed by the correspondent bank. The correspondent bank requires documentation such as invoices or proof of work before processing international payments. While clients acknowledge the need for such measures to prevent fraudulent activities, they criticize Banco di Caribe for not informing them in advance. Instead, clients are finding out about these requirements only after their payments are rejected, leading to delays and inconvenience.
“We understand the need for checks and balances, but the lack of communication from Banco di Caribe is unacceptable. They should have warned us about these new procedures,” commented a frustrated client.
The situation has led to growing dissatisfaction among customers who are demanding better service from the bank. The broader banking experience on the island has become increasingly challenging for many, with complaints surfacing about the lack of clear communication from financial institutions.
Efforts to seek clarity from the Central Bank of Curaçao and Sint Maarten have been met with silence. Reporters have repeatedly reached out for comments, but the Central Bank has redirected all inquiries back to the individual banks, offering no further information or guidance on the matter.
The ongoing issues have raised concerns about the overall quality of banking services on the island. Clients are calling for better transparency and communication from Banco di Caribe and hope for improved cooperation with the Central Bank to resolve these persistent problems.