The move to T+1 settlement marks one of the most significant changes to European post-trade processing in recent years. Following the US transition in May 2024, the UK, EU and Switzerland are now preparing for a coordinated move to a one-day settlement cycle in October 2027. While the objective is clear, the practical implications for firms are far-reaching.
For asset managers, wealth managers, brokers and custodians, T+1 is not simply a settlement timetable change. It compresses the entire trade lifecycle, reduces tolerance for manual intervention and increases the importance of robust controls, clear accountability and real-time oversight. Firms that begin preparing early will be better positioned to manage operational risk, evidence regulatory readiness and maintain client confidence through the transition.
