During the implementation of the APSSS, the Central Bank of Belize decided to implement a hybrid messaging system. Messages are used by the ATS for the transferring of funds. The messages contain information, such as the pseudo-BIC, that allows the ATS to route payments to corresponding institutions and accounts. Commercial banks operate a network of branches with a centralized database, but each account number is unique. Therefore, once a message is received by a commercial bank, its core banking system can route the payment to an account within its centralized database, irrespective of the branch where the account is located. All participating credit unions maintain their own databases and account numbering systems and there is the possibility that two members from different credit unions can share similar account numbers. As SSNL is the only direct participant, payments from the ATS will be routed to SSNL through its pseudo-BIC. The Central Bank is only required to issue a pseudo-BIC to its direct participants. Therefore, a CUAN was required for SSNL to be able to identify and further route payments to and from credit unions. To ensure that payments reach the right account, SSNL requires that all participating credit unions utilize the CUAN system.