Revolut Eyes U.S. Market Through Acquisition

London-based fintech Revolut is weighing the acquisition of a U.S. bank as part of a strategic push to accelerate its global expansion. This potential move would allow the company to bypass the lengthy process of obtaining a U.S. banking license by acquiring a federally chartered institution. Sid Jajodia, CEO of Revolut U.S., confirmed that the company is evaluating both the acquisition route and the standard licensing process to establish a banking presence in the United States.

The potential purchase reflects a broader ambition to compete head-on with both traditional banks and other fintech players, signaling Revolut’s intent to scale aggressively in North America. Analysts note that acquiring a U.S. bank could give Revolut immediate access to lending capabilities, a critical element for expanding its service offerings beyond payments and currency exchange.

Aggressive Global Expansion Plans

The U.S. acquisition is part of Revolut’s extensive five-year, $13 billion global expansion plan. Of this amount, $4 billion is earmarked for the U.K., highlighting the company’s dual focus on consolidating its domestic market while pursuing international growth. Revolut is also preparing to expand its product suite, including launching credit cards and unsecured lending products, pending regulatory approval.

Financially, the company has demonstrated strong growth, reporting revenues of £3.1 billion ($4.2 billion) in 2024. This robust performance underscores Revolut’s aggressive approach to scaling its operations, including entering markets traditionally dominated by established banks. By securing a U.S. banking license—either via acquisition or direct application—Revolut aims to strengthen its competitive edge and accelerate its service expansion.

Navigating the Competitive Landscape

Entering the U.S. market would place Revolut in direct competition with both established financial institutions and emerging fintech startups. By acquiring a bank with a federal charter, Revolut could offer loans, credit cards, and other regulated services without the delays typically associated with regulatory approvals. This advantage could be pivotal in capturing market share in a highly competitive landscape, where speed and scale are crucial for success.

Industry experts suggest that Revolut’s move is not merely about U.S. expansion but also about signaling to investors its readiness to operate at a global scale. The planned share sale, targeting a $75 billion valuation, underscores the company’s ambition to solidify its status among leading fintech firms worldwide.

Looking Ahead

As Revolut weighs its options, the fintech industry is watching closely. The decision to acquire a U.S. bank or pursue a traditional license will shape the company’s growth trajectory and its competitive positioning. Investors and analysts will also be monitoring regulatory developments and market responses, as Revolut seeks to combine aggressive expansion with operational compliance in one of the world’s largest financial markets.