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Fintech companies are applying to become banks. Here's what it takes to become one

NPR | By Wailin Wong,
Ricky Mulvey
Published September 11, 2026 at 4:46 AM EDT

Many financial technology companies are applying to become banks. The Indicator finds out what it takes to go through this process and what benefits come with a bank charter.

Copyright 2026 NPR
Wailin Wong
Wailin Wong is a co-host of The Indicator from Planet Money.
Ricky Mulvey