Fintech Giant Targets US, Gulf Markets with Bold Growth Strategy
Revolut is preparing for a major international push as it explores the acquisition of banks in the United States and the Middle East, a move designed to accelerate its global footprint and strengthen its position among top-tier digital banking platforms.
The London-based fintech is reportedly close to securing a new funding round that would value it at around $65 billion, according to Bloomberg sources. This capital injection is intended to support the company’s overseas expansion, particularly through targeted acquisitions.
In the U.S., Revolut is eyeing the purchase of a federally chartered bank to fast-track its entry into the American financial system. This approach would bypass the often lengthy and uncertain process of applying for a banking license independently. Although Revolut has considered filing for a license in the past, an acquisition offers a quicker path to offering full banking services—such as loans and deposit accounts—in the world’s most competitive financial market.
The potential U.S. expansion is buoyed by expectations that the Trump administration’s regulatory stance may ease licensing restrictions, creating a more favourable environment for fintech firms like Revolut. Despite already serving millions of U.S. customers, Revolut’s services remain limited without a full banking license.
Simultaneously, the company is pursuing a similar strategy in the Middle East. While Revolut is already active in countries like Saudi Arabia and the UAE, it has yet to secure local banking licenses. Acquiring an existing bank would give the firm instant regulatory clearance and accelerate its regional growth. It has also appointed new leadership in Morocco as part of its broader push into North Africa.
Adding to the momentum, Abu Dhabi’s sovereign wealth fund, Mubadala, is reportedly considering a $100 million follow-on investment. The fund had previously invested during a $400 million private share sale that valued Revolut at $45 billion. The new round may also involve the purchase of shares from existing stakeholders like Balderton Capital, which is seeking to exit.
These expansion efforts come shortly after Revolut acquired Cetelem, the Argentine banking arm of BNP Paribas. With more than 60 million users worldwide, Revolut is positioning itself as a future global banking powerhouse—offering a full suite of financial services, including traditional banking, crypto trading, and innovative fintech products—all under one digital platform.
