In 2017, the United Kingdom’s three largest banks accounted for approximately ** percent of assets held by banks in the region. The UK’s largest bank had total assets valued at *** trillion euros in 2017 and held a market share of ** percent. In 2017, HSBC was also the largest bank in Europe.

The fall of Europe’s banks

Since the financial crisis, banks need to enhance profitability and ensure financial stability has seen the number of credit institutions fall. This alongside the rise in online banking, the need for physical bank branches has become less relevant. In 2017, Estonia’s physical banks had an average of over **** thousand customers per branch.

The United Kingdom’s finance sector

In 2017, the United Kingdom’s financial services sector employed more than *********** employees. Despite the rise of employment in the UK’s financial services sector, bank branches have seen a similar decline to the rest of Europe, with the North West seeing the largest number of branches closed in recent years. Between 1981 and 2018, some banks have seen as much as an 80 percent fall in branches nationwide.

This statistic illustrates the market share of the current accounts of leading banks in the United Kingdom (UK) as of 2014. Market share of current accounts is an important measure for comparison between banks, as a larger share of the current account market means that more customers are actively keeping their money with a particular bank. Furthermore, current account market share is important for the banks themselves as an increase in the market share of current accounts will lead to an increase in revenue, as all accounts, no matter the type, have a form of revenue associated with them. It can be seen that as of 2014, the London headquartered Lloyds Bank PLC had the largest share of the current accounts market. A total of more than one quarter (27 percent) of all current accounts were with Lloyds Bank PLC at that time. With a share of almost one fifth (18 percent) of the current accounts market each, Barclays Bank PLC and the Royal Bank of Scotland were joint second at that time. Since the introduction of "current account switch service" (CASS) by Payments Council, the gains and loses on the current accounts market by the leading banks have been closely monitored.

Retail Banking Market Outlook

According to our latest research, the global retail banking market size reached USD 2.89 trillion in 2024, reflecting the sector’s robust expansion as digital transformation and evolving consumer preferences continue to reshape the financial services landscape. The market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 4.7% from 2025 to 2033, reaching an estimated USD 4.36 trillion by 2033. This impressive growth trajectory is driven by a combination of technological innovation, increased digital adoption, and the expanding financial inclusion initiatives across both developed and emerging economies.

One of the primary growth factors fueling the retail banking market is the accelerated pace of digitalization. Financial institutions worldwide are investing heavily in digital platforms, mobile applications, and omnichannel experiences to meet the changing expectations of tech-savvy consumers. The proliferation of smartphones and high-speed internet access has empowered customers to manage their finances remotely, making banking services more accessible and convenient. As a result, banks are prioritizing seamless online and mobile banking experiences, which not only enhance customer satisfaction but also reduce operational costs. This shift towards digital banking is expected to remain a critical driver for the retail banking market over the next decade.

Another significant factor contributing to the market’s growth is the increasing emphasis on financial inclusion, particularly in emerging markets. Governments and regulatory bodies are collaborating with financial institutions to extend banking services to unbanked and underbanked populations. Innovative products such as microloans, digital wallets, and simplified savings accounts are being introduced to cater to these segments, thereby expanding the customer base for retail banks. Additionally, the adoption of advanced technologies like artificial intelligence, machine learning, and data analytics is enabling banks to offer personalized financial solutions, improve risk assessment, and streamline operations, further propelling market expansion.

The competitive landscape in the retail banking market is also being reshaped by the entry of non-traditional players, including fintech firms and digital-only banks. These challengers are leveraging cutting-edge technology and agile business models to deliver innovative banking solutions, often at lower costs than traditional banks. This heightened competition is compelling established banks to accelerate their digital transformation initiatives and forge strategic partnerships to maintain their market share. Furthermore, evolving regulatory frameworks and open banking initiatives are fostering collaboration and innovation within the sector, creating new opportunities for growth and differentiation.

From a regional perspective, the Asia Pacific region continues to dominate the retail banking market, both in terms of market size and growth potential. Rapid urbanization, rising disposable incomes, and a burgeoning middle class are driving demand for retail banking services across countries such as China, India, and Southeast Asian nations. North America and Europe remain mature markets with high penetration rates, but ongoing digital transformation and the adoption of advanced banking technologies are sustaining steady growth. Meanwhile, Latin America and the Middle East & Africa are witnessing increased investments in banking infrastructure and digital platforms, paving the way for future market expansion.

Service Type Analysis

The retail banking market is segmented by service type into savings and checking accounts, loans, credit cards, mortgages, and others. Savings and checking accounts remain the cornerstone of retail banking, serving as the primary entry point for most customers. The demand for these accounts is being buoyed by increasing financial literacy, government-led financial inclusion programs, and the integration of digital onboarding

The share of bank account holders who processed banking matters via online banking (PC or laptop) decreased notably in the United Kingdom (UK) between 2019 and 2024. According to Statista's Consumer Insights, the share of bank account holders who processed banking affairs via PC or laptop dropped from 58 percent in 2019 to 37 percent in the fourth quarter of 2024. Despite the downward trend, online banking remained one of the primary methods for processing banking affairs in the UK.

Market Size statistics on the Banks industry in the UK

Over the five years through 2024-25, UK banks' revenue is expected to climb at a compound annual rate of 1.7% to £128.6 billion, including an anticipated hike of 2% in 2024-25. After the financial crisis in 2007-08, low interest rates limited banks' interest in loans, hitting income. At the same time, a stricter regulatory environment, including increased capital requirements introduced under the Basel III banking reforms and ring-fencing regulations, constricted lending activity. To protect their profitability, banks such as Lloyds have shut the doors of many branches and made substantial job cuts. Following the COVID-19 outbreak, the Bank of England adopted aggressive tightening of monetary policy, hiking interest rates to rein in spiralling inflation. The higher base rate environment lifted borrowing costs, driving interest income for banks, who reported skyrocketing profits in 2023-24. Although profit grew markedly, pressure to pass on higher rates to savers and fierce competition weighed on net interest income at the tail end of the year, the difference between interest paid and interest received. UK banks are set to continue performing well in 2024-25 as the higher interest rate environment maintains healthy interest income, aiding revenue growth. However, net interest income is set to dip marginally due to higher deposit costs and narrow margins on mortgage loans. With further rate cuts priced into markets, savings rates will drop in 2024-25, stemming the drop in net interest income. Over the five years through 2029-30, industry revenue is forecast to swell at a compound annual rate of 3.3% to reach £151.1 billion. Regulatory restrictions, tougher stress tests and stringent lending criteria will also hamper revenue growth. Competition is set to remain fierce – both internally from lenders that deliver their services exclusively via digital channels and externally from alternative finance providers, like peer-to-peer lending platforms. The possibility of legislation like the Edinburgh reforms will drive investment and lending activity in the coming years, if introduced. However, concerns surrounding the repercussions of less stringent capital requirements and the already fragile nature of the UK financial system pose doubt as to whether any significant changes will be made.

The report covers Banking as a Service Companies in UK and the market is segmented by Component (Platform and Service (Professional Service and Managed Service)), by Type (API based BaaS and Cloud-based BaaS), by Enterprise Size (Large enterprise and Small & Medium enterprise), and by End-user (Banks, NBFC/Fintech Corporations and Others).

The 10 largest mortgage lenders in the United Kingdom accounted for approximately 81 percent of the total market, with the top three alone accounting for 41 percent in 2023. Lloyds Banking Group had the largest market share of gross mortgage lending, with nearly 36.8 billion British pounds in lending in 2023. HSBC, which is the largest UK bank by total assets, ranked fourth. Development of the mortgage market In 2023, the value of outstanding in mortgage lending to individuals amounted to 1.6 trillion British pounds. Although this figure has continuously increased in the past, the UK mortgage market declined dramatically in 2023, registering the lowest value of mortgage lending since 2015. In 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic caused the market to contract for the first time since 2012. The next two years saw mortgage lending soar due to pent-up demand, but as interest rates soared, the housing market cooled, leading to a decrease in new loans of about 100 billion British pounds. The end of low interest rates In 2021, mortgage rates saw some of their lowest levels since recording began by the Bank of England. For a long time, this was particularly good news for first-time homebuyers and those remortgaging their property. Nevertheless, due to the rising inflation, mortgage rates started to rise in the second half of the year, resulting in the 10-year rate doubling in 2022.

The UK retail banking market, valued at approximately £68.77 billion in 2025, is projected to experience steady growth, driven by several key factors. The increasing adoption of digital banking solutions, including online platforms and mobile apps, is significantly impacting market dynamics. Consumers are increasingly demanding convenient and personalized financial services, prompting banks to invest heavily in technological upgrades and user-friendly interfaces. Furthermore, the rise of fintech companies is fostering competition and innovation, leading to the introduction of new products and services, such as mobile payment systems and personalized financial management tools. While Brexit initially presented challenges, the market has shown resilience, with banks adapting to new regulatory environments and focusing on strengthening customer relationships. The segment showing the strongest growth is likely online banking, driven by younger demographics' preference for digital interactions and increased smartphone penetration. However, the market also faces constraints such as increasing regulatory scrutiny, cybersecurity threats, and the need for continuous investment in technology to maintain a competitive edge. Growth in the wealth management segment will also contribute to the overall market expansion, fueled by a rising affluent population and increasing demand for sophisticated investment services. The continued expansion of the market is expected to be spread across multiple channels, reflecting the diverse preferences of UK consumers. The projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 3.45% suggests a consistent, albeit moderate, expansion of the UK retail banking market over the forecast period (2025-2033). This growth is likely to be influenced by macroeconomic factors such as economic growth, inflation, and interest rates. The market's segmentation highlights the diverse nature of customer needs, with significant opportunities for banks to cater to specific demographics, such as high-net-worth individuals and small businesses. Strategic partnerships with fintech companies and the development of innovative financial products tailored to specific segments will play a crucial role in determining future market leaders. The continued dominance of established players such as HSBC, Barclays, and Lloyds Banking Group is anticipated, but they will likely face increased competition from challenger banks and international players. The overall market outlook remains positive, contingent upon maintaining macroeconomic stability and sustained consumer confidence. This in-depth report provides a comprehensive analysis of the UK retail banking market, covering the period from 2019 to 2033. It delves into market dynamics, competitive landscapes, and future growth projections, providing invaluable insights for businesses and investors operating within or considering entry into this dynamic sector. The report utilizes data from the historical period (2019-2024), with a base year of 2025 and a forecast period spanning 2025-2033. The study highlights key trends, challenges, and opportunities within the £XXX million market. Recent developments include: August 2024: Lloyds Bank launched a USD 137 cash offer for students opening current accounts. To qualify, students must deposit at least USD 622 between August 1 and October 31, 2024. Student account holders will also receive a 20% discount on selected Student Union events and can earn 2% interest on balances up to USD 6,219.September 2023: HSBC pioneered a partnership with Nova Credit, making it the first UK bank to allow newcomers to access their credit history from abroad. This initiative aims to facilitate smoother financial integration for individuals relocating to the United Kingdom.. Key drivers for this market are: The Shift Toward Digital Banking, with Customers Increasingly Using Online and Mobile Banking Services. Potential restraints include: The Shift Toward Digital Banking, with Customers Increasingly Using Online and Mobile Banking Services. Notable trends are: Deposit Trends and Digital Transformation Driving Traditional Banking.

Mobile banking usage in the United Kingdom (UK) saw significant growth between 2019 and 2024, with 73 percent of bank account holders managing their banking affairs via mobile devices in 2024. According to Statista's Consumer Insights, the share of respondents using smartphones or tablets for banking increased from 63 percent in 2019 to 73 percent in 2024. Conversely, branch banking experienced a notable decline during the same period, reflecting the shift towards digital banking solutions.

The UK consumer banking market, encompassing a broad range of services from personal loans and mortgages to savings accounts and credit cards, is a dynamic and competitive landscape. While precise figures for market size and CAGR are absent, a reasonable estimate based on industry reports and similar developed economies suggests a 2025 market value exceeding £500 billion. The market's growth is propelled by several key drivers. Rising disposable incomes and a growing population fuel demand for financial products. Technological advancements, such as open banking and fintech innovations, are reshaping customer expectations and driving efficiency within the industry, leading to the adoption of digital banking and personalized financial management tools. Furthermore, changing regulatory landscapes, focusing on increased consumer protection and financial inclusion, are influencing market dynamics. However, the market faces certain headwinds. Intense competition among established players and emerging fintech companies keeps profit margins under pressure. Economic uncertainty, particularly fluctuating interest rates and potential recessionary periods, can significantly impact consumer spending and borrowing behavior, affecting the overall market growth. Stringent regulatory compliance and cybersecurity threats pose additional challenges for banks. Despite these constraints, the long-term outlook for the UK consumer banking market remains positive, driven by the sustained need for financial services, technological innovation, and evolving consumer preferences. Segmentation within the market, based on product type, customer demographics, and geographical location, presents opportunities for targeted growth and market penetration. The listed banks, including established players like Allied Irish Bank (UK) and newer entrants like Metro Bank, are constantly adapting their strategies to navigate this dynamic environment.

The UK Islamic Finance Market is Segmented by the Financial Sector (Islamic Banking, Islamic Insurance 'Takaful, ' Islamic Bonds 'Sukuk, ' Other Islamic Financial Institutions (OIFLs), and Islamic Funds). The Report Offers the Value (USD) for the Above Segments.

online banking market size, online banking statistics 2021, digital banking market size in india, retail banking market size, us digital banking market size, online banking report, online banking industry, growth of internet banking in india, online banking market in uk, online banking market statistics, market usa online banking

The European Challenger Banks Market is segmented by services offered (Payments, Savings Products, Current Account, Consumers Credits, Loans and Others), By end-user type (Business Segment and Personal Segment) and By Geography (UK, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Netherlands, and Rest of Europe). The Market Size and Forecasts Are Provided in Terms of Value (USD Million) for All the Above Segments.

**** was the largest bank in the United Kingdom in 2024, boasting total assets of over ************** U.S. dollars. As of 2024, **** was also the largest bank in Europe, and it stood as one of the global banking industry's leading institutions. Barclays held the second highest value of assets in the UK, followed by Lloyds. Market capitalization of the banking sector in Europe and the UK A different measure, frequently employed to determine the size of a bank, is market capitalization, or the total dollar market value of a company's outstanding shares. Market capitalization is calculated from the current market price of one share and the number of shares outstanding for a company. In 2024, **** was the largest bank in terms of market capitalization trading on the London Stock Exchange and overall in Europe. What does HSBC do? HSBC is a British multinational bank and financial services institution headquartered in London, United Kingdom. The bank serves customers with commercial banking, global private banking, global banking and markets, and personal financial services. The largest geographical region of the bank, in terms of revenue generation, is Asia. At the end of 2024, the bank had roughly ******* employees around the world.

The dataset includes balance sheet data of major UK banks for the period 2005-2009. The data is collected from each bank's annual reports over that time period. The purpose is to obtain information on market shares of leading UK banks.

The ESRC Centre for Competition Policy (CCP) at the University of East Anglia (UEA) undertakes interdisciplinary research into competition policy and regulation that has real-world policy relevance without compromising academic rigour. It prides itself on the interdisciplinary nature of the research and the members are drawn from a range of disciplines, including economics, law, business and political science. The Centre was established in September 2004, building on the pre-existing Centre for Competition and Regulation (CCR), with a grant from the ESRC (Economic and Social Research Council).

In size, it was USD 2,107.9 million in 2025 and would reach USD 9,960.9 million in 2035, growing at a high CAGR of 16.8% over that period.

Metric	Value
Industry Size (2025E)	USD 2,107.9 Million
Industry Value (2035F)	USD 9,960.9 Million
CAGR (2025 to 2035)	16.8%

Sub Region Wise outlook

Sub Region	CAGR (2025 to 2035)
Greater London	17.4%

Sub Region	CAGR (2025 to 2035)
Scotland	16.5%

Sub Region	CAGR (2025 to 2035)
Wales	16.2%

Sub Region	CAGR (2025 to 2035)
Yorkshire and the Humber	16.6%

Competitive Outlook

Company Name	Estimated Market Share (%)
ClearBank Ltd.	18 - 22%
Railsr	14 - 18%
11:FS Foundry	10 - 14%
Thought Machine	8 - 12%
Other Players	34 - 40%

Banking as a Service in UK Market size was valued at USD 2.48 Billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 4.60 Billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 8 % from 2025 to 2032.

Key Market Drivers Growing Digital Banking Adoption: The UK has experienced a significant shift towards digital banking solutions, providing a strong foundation for the growth of Banking-as-a-Service (BaaS) providers. This transformation has been driven by an increasing preference for convenience and efficiency in banking. As of 2022, 93% of UK adults were using online banking, reflecting the widespread adoption of digital financial services. Mobile banking, in particular, has seen substantial growth, with users increasing by 40% between 2019 and 2022. The COVID-19 pandemic further accelerated this shift, resulting in a 62% rise in digital banking transactions during this period, emphasizing the shift towards digital financial solutions. Regulatory Support and Open Banking Initiatives: The UK's progressive regulatory environment, particularly through the FCA's support of fintech innovation and open banking mandates, has created a robust framework for BaaS growth. The Open Banking Implementation Entity (OBIE) reported that as of December 2023, over 7 million UK consumers and businesses actively used open banking-enabled products, representing a 131% year-over-year growth. The number of API calls has grown from 66.8 million in 2018 to over 1 billion monthly calls in 2023. Rise in Embedded Finance Partnerships: Traditional banks and non-financial companies are increasingly partnering with Banking-as-a-Service (BaaS) providers to integrate financial services into their platforms, driven by the demand for seamless, embedded solutions. A Finastra survey found that 85% of UK financial institutions planned to adopt BaaS by 2023, reflecting the shift to digital-first banking. The UK embedded finance market, valued at approximately USD14 billion in 2021, is expected to grow by 215% by 2026, reaching USD 66 billion.

Snapshot img

Community Banking Market Size 2025-2029

The community banking market size is forecast to increase by USD 253 billion at a CAGR of 5.8% between 2024 and 2029.

The market is experiencing significant shifts driven by the increasing adoption of microlending in developing nations and the rising preference for digital platforms. The microlending, a segment of community banking, is gaining traction in developing economies due to its ability to provide small loans to individuals and small businesses who lack access to traditional banking services. This trend is expected to continue, fueled by the growing financial inclusion efforts and increasing economic activity in these regions. Simultaneously, the community banking sector is witnessing a surge in the adoption of digital platforms.
The digital community banking services, such as mobile banking and online lending, are becoming increasingly popular due to their convenience and accessibility. This trend is particularly noticeable among younger demographics, who are more likely to use digital channels for banking. However, the market also faces challenges. One of the most significant obstacles is the lack of awareness about community banking services. Many potential customers, particularly in rural and underserved areas, are unaware of the benefits and availability of community banking services. Addressing this challenge will require targeted marketing efforts and community outreach programs.

What will be the Size of the Community Banking Market during the forecast period?

Request Free Sample

The market continues to evolve, with advanced technology playing a pivotal role in shaping the landscape. Financial institutions, both large and small, are integrating microfinance, mobile banking, and remote deposit capture to cater to diverse customer needs. In the micropolitan areas, community banks have gained prominence, offering personalized services to rural and agricultural sectors. The economic recession led to a surge in digital adoption, with mobile banking becoming increasingly popular. However, the competition remains fierce, with big banks also investing heavily in technology to retain their customer base. The ongoing market dynamics underscore the need for continuous innovation and adaptation to stay competitive.
Community banks, with their focus on local markets and relationships, are well-positioned to leverage these trends and offer competitive rates and fees to attract and retain customers. The integration of advanced technology enables seamless transactions and enhanced customer experience, further bolstering their position in the market. The future of community banking lies in its ability to balance tradition and innovation, offering personalized services while embracing digital transformation.

How is this Community Banking Industry segmented?

The community banking industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD billion' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments.

Area

  Metropolitan
  Rural and micropolitan


Sector

  Small business
  CRE
  Agriculture


Service Type

  Retail banking
  Commercial banking
  Wealth management and financial advisory
  Others


Delivery Model

  Branch Banking
  Online Banking
  Mobile Banking


Institution Type

  Credit Unions
  Local Banks


Geography

  North America

    US
    Canada
    Mexico


  Europe

    France
    Germany
    UK


  Middle East and Africa

    UAE


  APAC

    Australia
    China
    India
    Japan
    South Korea


  South America

    Brazil


  Rest of World (ROW)

By Area Insights

The metropolitan segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.

In the dynamic world of financial services, community banks in the US continue to gain traction among consumers, particularly in rural and micropolitan areas where Big Banks may have a limited presence. While Big Banks dominate the market with their vast resources and broad reach, Community FIs cater to the unique needs of their local clientele. With the rise of advanced technology, Community banks have embraced digital banking solutions, including Internet banking, mobile banking, and remote deposit capture. Small businesses and agricultural sectors, integral to rural economies, benefit significantly from Community banks' personalized services and expertise. Despite the economic recession, these institutions have managed to maintain deposits through their strong relationships with customers.

Microlending, a niche offering, further distinguishes Community banks from their larger counterparts. Rates and fees remain crucial factors for customers, especially in a competitive market. Community banks often offer more competitive rates and lower fees compared to Big Banks, maki

The U.K. Core Banking Software Market size was valued at USD 1.5 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 7.3 billion by 2032, exhibiting a CAGR of 16.5% during the forecast period. The growth is attributed to the rising adoption of digital banking, cloud-based solutions, and the need for personalized customer experiences. The core banking system is software that banks employ to keep track of the most important operations, namely customers' accounts, transactions, and risk management. It is a vital part of a bank, and it provides a smooth customer experience and ensures compliance with rules and regulations. Core banking systems are either on-premises or cloud-based. On-site solutions are installed and supported on the bank's servers themselves, while third-party providers host cloud solutions. The ever-increasing need for the digitization of the banking sector and the popularity of online and mobile banking are the major factors that components the UK Core Banking software market which means the demand in the market for flexible and adaptive central banking solutions which support new digital channels is rising. Recent developments include: Acquisition of Misys by Finastra in 2017

Launch of Temenos Infinity in 2021

Partnership between Mambu and Microsoft in 2022. Key drivers for this market are: Growing Adoption of Mobile Commerce to Augment the Demand for Virtual Fitting Room Tool . Notable trends are: Growing Implementation of Touch-based and Voice-based Infotainment Systems to Increase Adoption of Intelligent Cars.