BusinessAugust 26, 2026

neobank

NEE-oh-bank

Definition

A digital-only financial institution that operates entirely through mobile apps or websites without traditional physical bank branches.

Etymology

A portmanteau of the Greek prefix 'neo-', meaning new, and the English word 'bank'. It emerged in the 21st century to describe modern, branchless financial service providers.

In the news

The article contrasts Klarna with other fintech companies, noting that people often group Klarna with neobanks like Monzo and Revolut as its direct competitors.

‘Building around our philosophy’: Klarna’s outgoing CMO on a decade of expansion

Read the full article ↗

Marketing Week

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