Neobanks, also dubbed as 'challenger' banks in the UK, have become a popular alternative to traditional banking over the past decade. According to the latest data from Statista, the total transaction value of the neobanking market is expected to hit $4.74 trillion this year, with further projections showing a CAGR of 18.15% that will see this burgeoning Fintech market expand to $9.24 trillion by 2027.
So, what exactly are neobanks? Simply put, neobanks are digital-first banks that solely offer their services online. They became popular in Europe in the wake of the 2008 financial crisis and have since been adopted across other regions of the world, including the US where a recent survey by Bankrate found that around 27% of Americans currently use an online-only bank.
As far as operations go, Neobanks offer fewer but more specialized services compared to traditional banks. Some of the most common banking services offered by these modern-day Fintech institutions include account management, payment processing, wire transfers, debit or credit cards, and e-wallet services.
Neobanks primarily operate through mobile applications or web platforms, allowing customers to access their accounts and manage their finances conveniently from their smartphones or computers. Through these digital interfaces, users can perform various banking tasks, such as checking their account balance, transferring funds between accounts, making payments, and monitoring their transaction history.
It is, however, noteworthy that neobanks, unlike their traditional counterparts, normally do not offer access to loans. They generate most of their revenue through transaction, ATM, and interchange fees. On the brighter side, the lack of risky credit facilities or physical locations makes the operating expenses of neobanks much cheaper than those of traditional banks, and these benefits are passed down to consumers.
Neobanks' innovative features stand in contrast to the traditional banking model, which relies on physical branches and a more traditional approach to customer interactions. Here is a more detailed comparison of how the two compare:
Overall, neobanks focus on a digital-first approach and innovative features that prioritize accessibility, convenience, personalized experiences, and competitive rates and fees. These features differentiate them from traditional banks and cater to the evolving needs and preferences of digitally-savvy customers.
Neobanks, like any institution providing financial services, operate within specific regulatory frameworks based on their jurisdiction. In Europe, where these online-only banks have gained significant popularity, they fall under the purview of the Payment Services Directive (PSD2). Enforced in 2018, this directive oversees the regulation of payment services in the European Union area.
In contrast, neobanks in the United States currently do not have direct regulation. Instead, it is the partner bank they collaborate with that is the regulated entity. The partner banks are subject to regulation by entities such as the FDIC, the Federal Reserve, or the Comptroller of Currency (OCC) for all the deposits held by the fintech's end users.
Getting started with neobanking is quick and straightforward. Here's a three-paragraph concise guide to help you begin your neobanking journey:
Peanuds is a Financial Toolkit that offers innovative and user-friendly financial services through an online platform. With a focus on convenience and modern Payments infrastructure, our platform provides specialized services such as account management, wire transfers, and Debit Cards.
By leveraging advanced technology and prioritizing user experience, Peanuds aims for 24/7 accessibility, competitive rates, and fees, making it a convenient choice for businesses, solo entrepreneurs, startups, and digital nomads seeking a cost-effective banking solution.
Neobanks prioritize the security of customer information and transactions. They employ advanced encryption techniques and strict security measures to safeguard user data. Additionally, neobanks often partner with established financial institutions, which may offer additional security protections. However, it is important to choose a reputable neobank with robust security protocols and ensure they are regulated by relevant authorities.
While neobanks primarily operate digitally, many provide access to cash through various means. Some neobanks offer fee-free ATM withdrawals, while others may partner with ATM networks to provide access to cash. Additionally, certain neobanks may offer cash deposit options through partnerships or innovative solutions like cash-back at participating retailers.
Neobanks are subject to regulatory oversight and are required to have measures in place to protect customer funds. In the event of a neobank ceasing operations, customer deposits are typically safeguarded. Depending on the jurisdiction and the specific neobank's setup, deposits may be protected by deposit insurance or held separately by a partner bank. You should always, however, review the neobank's terms and conditions and understand the protections in place for customer funds.