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Privalgo secures EMI licence in the Netherlands

Finextra11 hours ago
Privalgo B.V., part of the UK-based Privalgo Group specialising in currency and payment services, has received a licence from De Nederlandsche Bank (DNB), the central bank of the Netherlands, as an Electronic Money Institution (EMI), in accordance with the European Electronic Money Directive (EMD2) and the Payment Services Directive (PSD2).
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The licence, granted on 1 August, marks an important milestone in the company's European growth strategy.
With the EMI licence, Privalgo is authorised to issue electronic money, offer payment accounts, and execute payment transactions under one of Europe's most advanced regulatory frameworks. The group's European headquarters will be established in Amsterdam, from where services will be made available across the EU via the so-called 'passporting mechanism'.
Expansion into new market: The Netherlands
By entering the Dutch regulatory framework, Privalgo brings its client-focused currency and e-money services to a new market. Operating on a scalable, proprietary platform, the company offers tailored foreign exchange and digital wallet solutions for businesses and high-net-worth individuals. These services, already available in the UK through its sister company Privalgo Ltd, are now accessible throughout the European Union – under a recognized and respected supervisory regime chosen for its clarity, reliability, and alignment with Privalgo's long-term strategic vision.
CEO Dan Biggs: Amsterdam as European Hub
Dan Biggs, CEO of Privalgo, explains: 'We chose Amsterdam as the base for our European operations due to its strategic location, international business culture, and progressive regulatory environment. De Nederlandsche Bank is known for its strict yet constructive supervision, which fosters responsible innovation. Moreover, Amsterdam offers access to a highly skilled talent pool, excellent connectivity, and a modern financial ecosystem. This licence allows us to expand our international payments and foreign exchange services across the EU via the passporting mechanism. It's a major step in our ambition to position Privalgo as a global full-service financial provider.'
The Netherlands continues to be a leading financial hub within the EU, offering one of the most robust regulatory frameworks for fintech companies. Its central location also makes it an ideal launchpad for Privalgo's further expansion into multiple European markets.
Strengthening European businesses through local DNB licence
Ronald Wallroth, Managing Director of Privalgo B.V. in Amsterdam, adds: 'With this DNB licence, we can accelerate our European growth plans. The authorisation enables us to meet the regulatory and compliance requirements of other countries in continental Europe, allowing us to support European businesses – just like those in the UK – in their international payment flows. Our service offering will be competitive, professional, and personalised. The licence is great news for us as a company, and for businesses looking for a new, efficient alternative for their international payment and currency needs.'
Privalgo is one of the fastest-growing financial services providers in the United Kingdom, combining cutting-edge technology with a personalised approach. With this step into the EU market, the company aims to play a key role in supporting European SMEs, corporates, and individuals with efficient and scalable cross-border payments.
The Dutch EMI licence is regarded as one of the most credible compliance standards within the EU. It ensures that Privalgo's services meet the highest standards in terms of transparency, security, and regulatory oversight.
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