Zilch, a consumer payments platform, has secured a payments services license from the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). This move cements its standing in the market and paves the way for future growth.

With this new license, Zilch will no longer depend on third-party providers. The company can now develop more payment methods internally, introduce additional products to the market at a faster pace, and embrace emerging technologies such as stablecoins.

Licensed for Development

The FCA payments services license serves as a significant milestone for Zilch, coming after a recent round of funding. The company recently raised USD 175 million through a mix of debt and equity financing. This capital will be invested in various areas, including enhanced marketing efforts, product development, and potential mergers and acquisitions.

In the wake of two major product launches—Zilch Pay, set to launch in the first quarter of 2026, and Intelligent Commerce—the FCA license will further enhance Zilch’s capabilities. This authorization allows for direct involvement in roadmap discussions, early testing of new products, and deeper commercial partnerships.

Philip Belamant, Co-Founder and CEO of Zilch, emphasized that this achievement is a major step forward for the company. It positions Zilch as a key player in the payments landscape and provides more opportunities for efficient and cost-effective operations. Since its inception in 2020, Zilch has seen growth both in terms of user base and product offerings.

Additionally, Zilch recently achieved Principal Membership status with Visa, strengthening their partnership. Both companies are planning to explore additional collaboration on payment solutions, utilizing technologies like agentic commerce. Mark Berry, Head of UK Clients at Visa, expressed the company’s commitment to supporting Zilch’s growth and bringing innovative solutions to the UK market.