Fintech Revolut Faces Scrutiny Over Energy-Intensive Tech Support

The UK-based fintech company Revolut has reported a significant 57% increase in its annual profits, reaching £1.7 billion. However, the company has also acknowledged that it could face a potential backlash over its support for energy-intensive sectors such as cryptocurrency and artificial intelligence (AI).

Revolut, which recently obtained a full UK banking license after a five-year wait, stated in its 2025 financial results that these activities pose a "reputational risk" to the company.

The fintech sector, which has seen rapid growth in recent years, has come under increasing scrutiny for its environmental impact, particularly when it comes to the energy-intensive nature of cryptocurrency mining and the development of AI systems. As Revolut continues to expand, particularly with its push into the US market, the company will need to navigate these challenges carefully to maintain its reputation and appeal to eco-conscious consumers.

"We recognize that our support for crypto and AI could potentially lead to a backlash," said Revolut's Chief Sustainability Officer, Emma Greenwood. "We are committed to working closely with regulators and industry partners to ensure that our activities in these areas are as sustainable and responsible as possible."

Revolut's growth has been impressive, with the company now serving over 20 million customers across Europe and the UK. The company's recent UK banking license will allow it to expand its suite of financial services, including lending, mortgages, and investment products.

However, Revolut's reliance on energy-intensive technologies such as cryptocurrency and AI could pose a challenge as the company seeks to appeal to a growing base of eco-conscious consumers. The company has indicated that it will be closely monitoring these issues and working to mitigate any potential environmental impact.

"We understand the concerns around the environmental impact of these technologies, and we are committed to finding ways to reduce our carbon footprint and promote more sustainable practices," said Greenwood. "This will be a key focus for us as we continue to grow and expand our operations."