Genelle Banton

Has banking become the biggest hidden barrier to international growth? For many international businesses, banking is no longer a routine administrative step, but the silent deal-breaker that determines whether a company can actually trade, invest and grow. Market opportunities, incorporation and commercial strategies can move quickly, but banking access often does not.

From December 2025, the UK’s Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS) limit increased from £85,000 to £120,000 per person, per institution, strengthening the safety net for funds held with licensed banks. For SMEs and international businesses managing cash across borders, this is a positive development. However, it also raises an important question: does FSCS protection alone reflect how, where and why business funds are being held?

Entering the UK market should be an exciting step for a growing business. In reality, opening a UK business bank account is often one of the most complex and time-consuming hurdles international organisations face. Despite the UK’s position as a global financial centre, businesses frequently encounter stringent compliance requirements, long application timelines, and inconsistent decision-making across banking institutions.