Finance

Revolut's UK banking licence held up on concerns over global risk controls, FT reports

Published by Global Banking & Finance Review

Posted on October 14, 2025

2 min read

· Last updated: January 21, 2026

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Revolut's UK banking licence held up on concerns over global risk controls, FT reports
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(Reuters) -London-based digital finance firm Revolut's UK banking licence is being held up by British regulators' concerns over whether its risk controls can keep pace with the rapid growth of its

Regulators Delay Revolut's UK Banking Licence Over Risk Control Issues

Regulatory Challenges Facing Revolut

(Reuters) -London-based digital finance firm Revolut's UK banking licence is being held up by British regulators' concerns over whether its risk controls can keep pace with the rapid growth of its overseas operations, the Financial Times reported on Tuesday.

Concerns Over Risk Management

The firm received a UK banking licence with some restrictions in 2024, which was a step forward in Revolut's journey towards eventually listing on the stock market.

Impact on International Expansion

Bank of England officials have sought commitments from Revolut that it will build its risk management infrastructure to match its ambitious international expansion plans, the newspaper said, citing undisclosed sources.

CEO's Commitment to Compliance

Britain's banking regulator, the Prudential Regulation Authority, is scrutinising the robustness of Revolut’s controls both in Britain and internationally before awarding it a licence to operate as a fully fledged bank in the UK, the report added.

Reuters could not immediately verify the report. Revolut and the Bank of England did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment.

Nik Storonsky, Revolut's CEO and co-founder, said in September that his top priority was to get a UK banking licence - a process running for several years - to transfer customers into the new bank and "offer them credit" products. Executives say they hope to obtain the final licence this year.

(Reporting by Mrinmay Dey in Bengaluru; Editing by Janane Venkatraman and Sonia Cheema)

Key Takeaways

  • Revolut's UK banking licence is delayed over risk control issues.
  • British regulators are concerned about Revolut's global risk management.
  • The Bank of England seeks commitments from Revolut for better risk infrastructure.
  • Revolut aims to expand internationally despite regulatory challenges.
  • CEO Nik Storonsky prioritizes obtaining a full UK banking licence.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a banking licence?
A banking licence is a legal authorization granted by a regulatory authority that allows a financial institution to operate as a bank and offer banking services to customers.
What is risk management?
Risk management involves identifying, assessing, and prioritizing risks followed by coordinated efforts to minimize, monitor, and control the probability or impact of unfortunate events.
What is compliance in banking?
Compliance in banking refers to the process of adhering to laws, regulations, and guidelines set by governing bodies to ensure that financial institutions operate within legal frameworks.
What is international expansion?
International expansion is the process by which a company extends its operations into foreign markets to increase its customer base and revenue opportunities.
What is the role of the Prudential Regulation Authority?
The Prudential Regulation Authority (PRA) is a regulatory body in the UK responsible for ensuring the safety and soundness of financial institutions, promoting financial stability.

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