Adrian JohnsonNeobanks in the UK must go beyond fintech growth and focus on building trust and displaying “sterling qualities,” according to Commissioner John Glen of the UK’s HM Treasury. Glen emphasized the need for neobanks to prioritize customer protection and meet regulatory standards in order to thrive in the market. This comes amid concerns about the level of risk-taking in the fintech sector, as well as growing competition from tech giants such as Apple and Google.
Glen stated that the government’s priority is to ensure a “stable and functioning financial system,” and that consumer protection and regulatory standards are a key part of achieving this. He also highlighted the government’s support for the fintech sector, noting that it is investing in initiatives such as regulatory sandboxes to encourage innovation while maintaining appropriate safeguards.
However, Glen warned that increasing competition from tech giants presents both opportunities and challenges for neobanks. While these companies have large customer bases and extensive technological capabilities, there are concerns about their ability to properly handle financial services and protect consumer data. Glen encouraged neobanks to differentiate themselves by emphasizing their commitment to customer protection and trust.
Overall, Glen’s message to UK neobanks is clear: it is not enough to simply focus on fintech growth. Neobanks must actively work to build trust among consumers and demonstrate their ability to adhere to regulatory standards. By doing so, they can position themselves for long-term success in an increasingly competitive and crowded market.
