> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.finhub.cloud/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# API Service Model

> Direct API integration for custom implementations

# API Service Model

The API Service Model provides direct access to FinHub's APIs for building custom financial applications with complete control over the user experience.

## What is the API Service Model?

Unlike the CoreX Service Model which provides a pre-built front-end, the API Service Model gives you direct access to FinHub's RESTful APIs, allowing you to build your own custom user interface and integration.

## Key Benefits

* **Complete Control**: Build your own UI/UX
* **Flexible Integration**: Integrate into existing applications
* **Custom Workflows**: Implement unique business logic
* **Developer-Friendly**: Comprehensive documentation, SDKs, sandbox
* **Real-Time Events**: Webhooks for instant notifications

## API vs. CoreX

| Feature             | API          | CoreX              |
| ------------------- | ------------ | ------------------ |
| Implementation Time | 4-12 weeks   | 2-4 weeks          |
| Development Effort  | Significant  | Minimal            |
| UI/UX Control       | Complete     | Theme-based        |
| Maintenance         | Self-managed | Managed by FinHub  |
| Cost Model          | Usage-based  | Subscription-based |

## What You Get

* **Full API Access**: All FinHub endpoints
* **Sandbox Environment**: Test safely
* **Documentation**: Comprehensive API reference
* **SDKs**: Libraries for popular languages
* **Webhooks**: Real-time event notifications
* **Admin Panel**: Tenant operations dashboard

## Client Journey

<Steps>
  <Step title="Registration">
    Apply on the FinHub Developer Portal
  </Step>

  <Step title="Sandbox Access">
    Get credentials and explore APIs
  </Step>

  <Step title="Development">
    Build your integration
  </Step>

  <Step title="Certification">
    Complete security and integration review
  </Step>

  <Step title="Production">
    Go live with phased rollout
  </Step>
</Steps>

## Next Steps

<CardGroup cols={2}>
  <Card title="Getting Started" icon="rocket" href="/baas/api/getting-started/index">
    Begin your API journey
  </Card>

  <Card title="Quick Start" icon="bolt" href="/baas/api/getting-started/quick-start/index">
    Make your first API call
  </Card>

  <Card title="Integration Guide" icon="plug" href="/baas/api/integration/flows/index">
    Complete integration flows
  </Card>

  <Card title="API Reference" icon="code" href="/baas/api/reference/index">
    Browse API documentation
  </Card>
</CardGroup>