The UK's fintech scene is stronger than ever, and nowhere is this more clear than the capital, the leading city in Western Europe for financial technology, according to the Global Financial Centres Index.
It’s time for your business to be supported by the world’s most forward-thinking regulators and consumers.
1. World-class funding
Invest in your success: the average early-stage funding per startup in London is $650k, while the global average is only $494k.[1] In 2022 London’s 1,600+ fintechs attracted more investment than any other global tech hub with $10.3bn.
2. Extensive talent pool
Fintech companies in London have access to the best talent: London has more software developers than anywhere else in Europe, and 44,000 people working in fintech roles,[2] which is handy for the 48,000 financial services and insurance companies operating in the city.
It’s also home to three universities in the global top 40 (great for sourcing home grown talent) and, thanks to several dedicated UK visa schemes, a big draw for international tech talent, according to Startup Genome's Global Startup Ecosystem Report.
3. Diverse ecosystem
There are more than 1,600 fintech London companies – including the likes of Checkout.com, Revolut, and Monzo – the highest amount globally and more than New York and San Francisco[3]. The capital is also home to more than 250 foreign banks and 233 languages are spoken in the city.
4. A green future
London and the UK are paving the way for green finance solutions, with the London Stock Exchange named “greenest exchange in the world” and London’s Green Finance Institute, a forum that helps shape the global green finance agenda.
The UK capital was also in the top 10 in the Sustainable Cities Index 2024.
5. Modern consumers
Contactless payments in the UK skyrocketed to 90% in 2021, and nearly half of Londoners use digital-only banking services.[4]
See London's Fintech facts:
Explore London: a leader in digital assets
3. Diverse ecosystem
There are more than 1,600 fintech companies headquartered in London – the highest amount globally and more than New York and San Francisco[3]. The capital is also home to more than 250 foreign banks and 233 languages are spoken in the city.
4. A green future
London and the UK are paving the way for green finance solutions, with the London Stock Exchange named “greenest exchange in the world” and London’s Green Finance Institute, a forum that helps shape the global green finance agenda.
5. Modern consumers
Contactless payments in the UK skyrocketed to 90% in 2021, and nearly half of Londoners use digital-only banking services.[4]
See London's Fintech facts:
Discover London as a financial powerhouse
London’s world-leading fintech scene combines progressive regulation, openness to innovation and a community of digital-first consumers.London is a true global leader in fintech and there are few cities in the world that can match the depth of financial, technical and creative talent here.Alex Marsh
Head of Klarna UK
Use the filters in the map to discover the city's fintech scene. See the full list featured on the map [PDF 297 KB].
How we can help
London & Partners offers free advice to potential and existing overseas investors, from startups to established companies.
We can help you:
- Stay informed and access the latest developments, initiatives and incentives.
- Connect with the wider ecosystem, including support networks and trade associations.
- Future-proof the setup of your London business.
Case study
Marqeta
How has London's ecosystem supported Marqeta?
London's ecosystem has offered a supportive foundation for innovation, fostering collaboration and providing the resources necessary for sustained growth.
What does Marqeta do?
Marqeta is a US card issuer that entered the growing European market more than five years ago. Built from the ground up, Marqeta’s platform enables developers to launch new programs with speed, flexibility and scale. Obsessed with making the complex easy, Marqeta evolved into the world’s first open API modern card issuing platform.
How did London's ecocystem contribute to the growth and success of Marqeta's operations
London's vibrant and dynamic fintech ecosystem has played a pivotal role in the growth and success of Marqeta's operations. The city has a rich financial heritage and a forward-thinking approach to innovation. This has created a dyed-in-the-wool environment of success, conducive to fostering fintech excellence. When we looked at Europe as a destination of intrigue, we knew there was very little substitute for hands-on experience.What did London & Partners offer in terms of market access, regulatory environment and talent pool?
Leaning on London & Partners, with such deep roots across the continent, has been a priceless part of our success. From a regulatory standpoint, entering a new market in unfamiliar territory also brings potential pitfalls. It’s no secret the US does things differently to Europe in card transactions. They have different product expectations and legal requirements. The US is also one market, whereas in Europe, understanding the lie of the land in London is one thing.What are Marqeta's future plans for growth in London, and how do you see the city contributing to your long-term success?
We’ll be moving offices in 2024, growing from an initial core team of four in 2018, to a much bigger representation and a Holborn office we can call home. Everywhere you look in London, success stories echo around the market. We have no doubt we can mirror the success we’ve had in the US right here in London. As anyone who’s moved into a new geography will tell you, it’s not a quick fix, or a short term aim.
