Obtaining a banking license in the UK offers a world of opportunities and advantages, but securing one is no mean feat. The process involves rigorous scrutiny by the Prudential Regulation Authority (PRA) and the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), and applying banks must demonstrate financial stability, robust risk management , and a sustainable business model. The application process also entails detailed documentation, business plans, and a comprehensive assessment of key personnel and stakeholders.
And even after all that, upon approval, the institution must continue to meet regulatory standards, ensuring a resilient and trustworthy presence in the dynamic landscape of the UK financial sector.
Trust and Credibility
As CEO of Conister Bank, I however, have just overseen the process of seeing Conister awarded just such a license.
Obtaining PRA authorization for our UK branch to accept deposits not only serves as validation of our growth strategy by both our principal regulator and the UK regulators, it also fosters trust and credibility for our customers, current and future. While it isn’t an easy thing to achieve, we believe that the advantages are so great, it’s an effort worthwhile. These are all advantages that a bank with a UK license can benefit from.
Revolut names new UK boss as it waits for British banking licence https://t.co/eSoPzTsHCn
— Financial Times (@FT) November 2, 2023
Delivering Customer Excellence
First and foremost, gaining a banking license in the UK ultimately allows banks to offer their customers a broader range of financial services. UK banking licenses give customers greater choice in terms of where to place their deposits, particularly to sectors that traditionally are less well served, such as the large UK SME market. This versatility allows banks to create comprehensive financial services solutions tailored to their clients and genuinely be customer-centric.
Moreover, UK banking licenses require compliance with stringent customer protection regulations, ensuring that customers' funds are safeguarded, and their rights protected. It is precisely this trust and regulatory transparency which is paramount in building a loyal customer base. It also means banks can participate in the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS), which guarantees deposits up to £85,000 in total across all accounts, offering an additional layer of protection and confidence to customers.
Greater Access to the UK Payments Network
The UK payments network is highly sophisticated and offers efficient and seamless transaction services to customers. With a banking license in the UK, banks gain access to the Faster Payments Service, Bacs, and the Clearing House Automated Payment System (CHAPS), among others. These systems enable real-time payments, direct debits, and high-value transactions, providing a competitive edge in the payments market.
Furthermore, the UK's commitment to open banking means that licensed banks can easily integrate with other financial institutions and payment providers, expanding their reach and enhancing customer convenience. The ability to offer diverse payment options and convenient transfer methods is a significant advantage, especially as digital and mobile banking become increasingly prevalent.
Cashflow and Liquidity
Liquidity is the lifeblood of any organization and obtaining a banking license in the UK can significantly bolster a bank's position to access funds. Deposit-taking privileges mean that banks can create a stable and sustainable source of funding, which can be used for wider lending and investment activities.
It also acts as a safety net for customers and ensures banks have enough readily available funds to handle customer transactions, and transactions can be smoother and more reliable.
Winning the Race for Talent
Obtaining a banking license allows banks to be more attractive to the deep pool of experienced and highly skilled financial services professionals from around the world who have based themselves in the UK. The adoption and retention of such talent can significantly enhance an institution’s capacity to innovate, develop new products and services, navigate regulatory complexities, and provide an outstanding service to customers.
Regulatory Oversight
Regulatory oversight can be a double-edged sword, but when looked at in the right light, it is a fundamental advantage for banks, fostering stability and trust within the financial system. It ensures that banks adhere to stringent rules and standards, safeguarding the interests of customers and investors. Regulatory bodies like the FCA in the UK, and their international counterparts oversee compliance, promoting ethical conduct and risk management. This oversight minimizes the likelihood of systemic shocks and fraud, bolstering market confidence. Banks with strong regulatory adherence gain credibility and reliability, attracting more customers and investors. In an ever-changing financial landscape, regulatory oversight stands as a cornerstone for transparency and credibility.
Overall, obtaining a banking license in the United Kingdom is a strategic move that offers a host of benefits. These advantages support newly approved banks to be competitive and deliver value and service to their customers in an increasingly digital and interconnected world.
