Revolut Ditches US Bank Acquisition for Standalone License Push in 2026 Strategy Shift

Revolut is taking the long road to US dominance. The global fintech powerhouse has officially scrapped its plans to acquire an existing US lender, opting instead to pursue a standalone banking license. According to a report from the Financial Times, this pivot marks a significant shift in how the digital bank intends to penetrate the world's largest economy.

Analyzing the Revolut US Banking License Strategy

As reported by Reuters, sources familiar with the matter indicate that Revolut is prioritizing an 'organic' growth route. While buying a local bank might've seemed like a shortcut, it often comes with legacy baggage and cultural friction. By applying directly to the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC), Revolut aims to build its US operations from the ground up on its own terms.

A Massive Global Player Looking for US Foothold

With over 45 million customers globally and a valuation that recently topped $45 billion, Revolut isn't just another startup. Having secured its UK banking license in 2024, the firm is now doubling down on its regulatory maturity. If successful, a US license would allow them to offer insured deposits and lending products directly, bypassing the need for third-party partner banks and significantly boosting their margins.