Revolut warns it risks backlash over support for energy-intensive AI and crypto

2026-03-24 · Source: AI (artificial intelligence) | The Guardian · Field: Finance & Economics — FinTech & Digital Financial Services, Banking & Financial Services · Depth: Fundamental Awareness, quick

Summary

Revolut, the UK fintech company, reported a 57% increase in profits to £1.7bn for 2025, with revenues reaching £4.5bn, a 46% rise. The company added 16 million individual customers, bringing its global total to 68.3 million, and grew business customers by a third to 767,000. Revolut also secured a full UK banking license this month and is pursuing a US banking license, aiming for 100 million global customers by mid-2027. Despite this growth, Revolut warned of potential reputational risks due to its support for energy-intensive activities like cryptocurrency trading and AI, noting shifting public attitudes and increased energy prices following the US-Israel war on Iran.

Key takeaway

For fintech entrepreneurs considering market expansion, you should carefully assess the reputational risks associated with supporting energy-intensive technologies like AI and cryptocurrency. While these sectors offer growth opportunities, public perception regarding their carbon footprint could impact demand for your services. Prioritize transparent communication about your environmental impact and explore how a digital-first approach might offer resilience during energy transitions.

Key insights

Fintech growth faces reputational risks from energy-intensive AI and crypto activities.

Principles

• Digital-first models can insulate against energy transition risks.
• Rapid expansion is achievable with a technology-driven operating model.

In practice

• Offer crypto trading to diversify financial services.
• Expand into lending and mortgage refinancing.

Topics

• Revolut Expansion
• Reputational Risk
• Energy-Intensive AI
• Cryptocurrency Trading
• Banking Licenses

Best for: Entrepreneur, Investor, Business Analyst, Executive

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Editorial summary, takeaway, and curation by AIssential. Original article published by AI (artificial intelligence) | The Guardian.