Starling Bank restructures as it edges closer to major London market debut

Starling Bank, the fast-rising UK digital bank, has taken significant steps towards a potential initial public offering by restructuring its corporate framework. Updated filings at Companies House reveal the creation of a new holding company to own its banking business, alongside an intermediate holding company. This move addresses Bank of England regulations on financial security designed to strengthen institutions in the event of financial difficulties.

Industry observers are now viewing Starling’s intention to pursue an IPO as increasingly tangible, with London being identified as the most likely market for its debut. A recent fundraising effort saw Starling seeking a valuation of £4 billion. The bank, established in Britain in the aftermath of the financial crisis, now sees itself alongside fintech peers such as Monzo, Revolut and Wise, all of whom have made names for themselves in the sector.

Anne Boden, founder and key figure behind Starling, stepped down as chief executive in May 2023 but retains a shareholder interest. Her departure was attributed to diverging responsibilities between a chief executive and a shareholder. In 2024, Raman Bhatia, formerly at OVO energy, succeeded her as CEO. A Starling spokesperson explained the restructuring “will better position us for long-term growth and ensure continued compliance with strict Bank of England resolution requirements”.

While London remains the natural choice for listing, Starling’s chief financial officer, Declan Ferguson, has suggested that New York is also a possible destination. Starling’s US ambitions are embodied in its Engine software platform, which provides cloud-based systems for banks in countries such as Romania and Australia, as well as underpinning Starling’s own app in the UK.

The bank’s journey has not been without controversy. Just last year, regulators imposed a £29 million fine for inadequate financial systems controls. Despite these setbacks, Starling continues to display robust growth intent. Its leadership sees public listing as not only a desirable goal but a logical step in the bank’s evolving narrative.

Starling Bank’s preparations for a market listing mark a defining moment in its story, as it eyes both capital markets and international expansion with optimism.