British financial technology firm Revolut is contemplating the acquisition of a US chartered bank to fast-track its entrance into the American market. As reported by The Financial Times on July 30, 2025, the company is interested in purchasing a bank that already holds a valid charter.
Should this acquisition be successful, Revolut would bypass the typically lengthy process of securing a new banking license, thus streamlining its lending operations within the United States.
The report also notes that Revolut may consider applying for its own US banking license if they choose not to pursue an acquisition.
UK’s chancellor pushes for Revolut to exit licence ‘mobilisation’ phase.
Bank of England says no: regulatory independence above fintech favoritism.
Revolut’s UK licence clock expired July 25—with no full authorisation in sight. Meanwhile, the company considers buying a US bank…
— Oscar Jeppesen (@Investor1Fact) July 30, 2025
Revolut’s push into the US market has been ongoing, aiming to leverage its impressive user base of 60 million worldwide in the largest financial market to enhance its deposits amid a downturn faced by many UK fintech companies.
According to the Financial Times, Trump’s regulatory reforms have led many to be optimistic about expediting the bank charter process via the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency.
Revolut is carefully evaluating its options before committing to any specific plan.
Revolut’s Expansion Plans
Reportedly, the company is actively seeking investment to increase its valuation to approximately $65 billion, which will aid its future expansion strategies into other markets such as the Middle East and Latin America.
In addition to its aim for a US charter, Revolut has explored acquisition opportunities in various regions, including plans to acquire a bank in the Middle East. Just last month, the firm completed the purchase of Argentine lender Cetelem from BNP Paribas.
Revolut already possesses a banking license in Lithuania, which allows it access to the European Union and Mexico, but it has yet to secure a banking license in the UK. Although its application was approved last year, regulatory constraints continue to restrict its lending capabilities in that region.
Broader Ambitions
Beyond traditional banking, Revolut aims to expand its offerings. The firm is positioned in crypto trading across the UK and European Economic Area, and limited services have resumed in Hungary.
A recent law in Hungary required crypto firms to obtain local licenses, which temporarily halted Revolut’s services earlier this summer. The company halted its crypto offerings in the US in October 2023 due to regulatory uncertainties. With evolving perspectives, securing a banking license may allow it to offer a wider array of services in the US, including digital asset trading, contingent on the approval of its application.
