Prime Highlights-
- Pliant secures FCA authorization for its UK subsidiary as an Electronic Money Institution, enabling direct service to British business customers.
- Pliant Payments Limited can now launch payment products and onboard UK clients through its own regulated entity.
Key Facts-
- Pliant issues commercial cards in 13 currencies across 32 countries as a principal Visa and Mastercard member.
- Pliant’s API-first platform connects AI agents to regulated payment infrastructure with built-in permissions and audit trails.
Background-
Berlin-based Pliant has won Financial Conduct Authority authorization for its UK subsidiary to operate as an Electronic Money Institution, allowing the business-to-business payments provider to serve British customers through its own regulated entity.
The approval went to Pliant Payments Limited, which can now launch payment products and onboard UK clients directly. Pliant calls the move a significant step in expanding in the UK, one of its key international markets.
Founded in 2020, Pliant works with clients and partners across Europe and North America. It is a principal member of Visa and Mastercard and issues commercial cards in 13 currencies across 32 countries. Its UK and US operations previously relied on regulated partners, alongside its European e-money license.
The FCA reviewed Pliant’s business model, technology infrastructure and operational processes, including customer onboarding, risk management, safeguarding of customer funds and internal financial controls.
Pliant plans to deepen ties with UK businesses, banks, financial institutions and public-sector organizations. It will also grow its domestic payment infrastructure and support more complex commercial payment programs.
Its modular platform combines commercial card issuance, payment accounts, foreign exchange and spend management tools. It serves businesses and AI agents in travel, e-commerce, insurance and AI-native technology, and its API-first design connects AI agents to regulated payment infrastructure with built-in permissions, controls and audit trails.
CEO and co-founder Malte Rau said the authorization gives Pliant greater independence and flexibility to serve UK customers directly.