Forcing UK banks to support credit unions would help keep loan sharks at bay

The GuardianSunday, December 7, 2025 at 11:12:41 AM
Forcing UK banks to support credit unions would help keep loan sharks at bay
  • Nikhil Rathi, the chief executive of the Financial Conduct Authority, visited the Pioneers Museum in Rochdale to emphasize the importance of supporting credit unions as a means to combat loan sharks. This initiative aligns with a Labour manifesto pledge to double the size of the mutuals sector, highlighting a commitment to local lending solutions.
  • The push for banks to support credit unions is significant as it aims to enhance financial inclusion and provide safer borrowing options for consumers, particularly in underserved communities. This could lead to a more resilient financial ecosystem.
  • This development occurs against a backdrop of recent regulatory changes, including the Bank of England's easing of capital requirements for high street banks, which raises questions about the balance between supporting traditional banks and fostering alternative lending institutions like credit unions.
— via World Pulse Now AI Editorial System

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