Overview
Balance (often referred to as Open Balance in technical integration contexts) is a sophisticated B2B payment infrastructure designed to modernize traditional trade finance. By 2026, it has solidified its position as the leading API-first platform for B2B marketplaces and wholesalers looking to digitize complex offline transactions. The architecture centers on a proprietary underwriting engine that evaluates credit risk in real-time, allowing merchants to offer Net-30, 60, or 90-day terms instantly at checkout while the merchant receives payment immediately. Technically, the platform functions as a sophisticated ledger and orchestration layer, managing the lifecycle of a B2B transaction from invoice generation to multi-vendor payout. It integrates deeply with ERP systems like NetSuite and SAP, bridging the gap between modern e-commerce front-ends and legacy financial back-ends. Its market position is unique because it handles the actual movement of funds, credit risk, and collection processes, effectively serving as a 'Stripe for B2B' but with specialized focus on the nuances of high-ticket trade credit and complex reconciliation requirements.