bunq, Europe’s second-largest neobank, has received approval from the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) to operate as a US broker-dealer, officially marking its entry into the American market. The approval completes the first phase of the mobile bank’s US expansion, driven by the needs of its growing user base with financial ties across the Atlantic.
As an approved broker-dealer, the European unicorn can now bring its US stocks offering to American users. This enables customers to access self-directed investing in US stocks, including mutual funds and Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs), as part of a wider product rollout.
Catering to digital nomads and expats
The expansion stateside is a strategic move to serve the millions of digital nomads, expats, international entrepreneurs, and remote professionals who live, work, and invest across both Europe and the US. bunq’s user-centric model has already attracted over 20 million users across Europe.
Ali Niknam, founder and CEO of bunq, highlighted the user-driven nature of the expansion. “Our users roam the world—they live, work, and travel across borders,” Niknam said. “For many, the US is an important part of their lives. That’s why we’re excited to bring bunq Stateside and make life easy for Americans and anyone who calls it home.”
The move comes as bunq continues to build global momentum. The neobank recently marked its second consecutive year of profitability, with profits up 65 per cent to €85.3million in 2024. The company is also actively pursuing a full EMI licence in the UK as part of its ongoing international strategy.
By securing the broker-dealer licence, bunq is establishing a regulated foundation to offer a comprehensive suite of financial services, aiming to provide a seamless banking and investing experience for individuals with complex, cross-border financial lives.
