Email - [email protected]
Support 24/7
Phone - 02037575580
94 - 96 Seymour Pl
London W1H 1NB, UK
linkedin
Book Appointment Book Appointment Book Appointment
Book Appointment Book Appointment Book Appointment

Acquisitions

Speak to an expert Speak to an expert Speak to an expert
Speak to an expert Speak to an expert Speak to an expert

Acquisitions, mergers, and sales

API Compliance supports firms interested in buying or selling a Payment Institution (SPI/API) or Electronic Money Institution (SEMI/AEMI) in the UK.

Buying an existing firm vs authorisation

There are several reasons an organisation might opt to purchase an existing payment institution rather than apply for a new licence, such as faster time-to-market or acquiring an established customer base. The pros and cons are:

Pros:

Faster market entry: Change-in-control applications typically take between 1 to 4 months, significantly quicker than the 10 to 12 months often required for a new licence application.
Ready-to-go operation: You might acquire a business with all essential systems, processes, and licences already in place.
Experienced management: Post-acquisition, it may be possible to retain members of the existing management team—particularly beneficial if your firm lacks UK-based leadership.
Established banking: The acquired entity will already have safeguarding and operational bank accounts. The quality of these banking relationships will vary depending on the bank’s tier, location, available services, and supported currencies.

Cons:

Cost: Holding a licence increases a firm's market value, though an SPI licence generally commands a lower premium than an AEMI licence.
Legacy risk: Acquiring an existing firm carries potential risks such as past or ongoing compliance issues or hidden liabilities. However, these risks can often be mitigated through comprehensive due diligence.

How PayWise Compliance assist in buying or selling a payment services or e-money business

With deep industry expertise and an extensive network, PayWise Compliance supports both buyers and sellers through every stage of the transaction. We provide market appraisals and fair value assessments, connect credible buyers with vetted sellers, facilitate the entire deal process, handle Change-In-Control filings with the FCA, and offer post-sale support including help with Variation of Permission or recruitment.

How we work

Our approach is built on years of experience and a strong track record in successful transactions. Key principles include:

Direct relationships only – We work directly with sellers and do not list businesses managed by third-party brokers.
Transparent communication – Open dialogue and detailed due diligence are standard in every transaction.
Dedicated consultants – Each project is supported by at least two, often three, experienced compliance specialists who hold weekly meetings with you.
Risk-focused advice – We assess potential risks upfront and advise against proceeding if the exposure is too high.

How we can assist buyers

We support buyers by helping them:

Identify appropriate target firms (we may already have known candidates available)
Carry out comprehensive due diligence on the firm
Receive guidance on transaction structure and future operations
Connect with legal experts for due diligence, SPA drafting, and transaction completion
Access ongoing compliance services after the acquisition

How we can assist sellers

We help sellers:

Prepare their firm for sale, including resolving compliance or operational issues
Estimate a fair valuation for the business
Identify and assess qualified buyers
Manage the process timeline and expectations

Steps include:

  1. Presenting buyer candidates with anonymised company summaries

  2. Pre-screening buyers (including proof of funds)

  3. Facilitating NDAs and introductions

  4. Coordinating due diligence

  5. Assisting in negotiations

  6. Executing the Share Purchase Agreement and deposit (if required)

  7. Submitting the Change-In-Control application to the FCA

  8. Managing FCA queries through to approval

Time scales: While legal processes and FCA timelines vary, the full process typically completes within 4 to 6 months.

Post-completion: Following the transaction, we offer ongoing support, including recruitment, governance advisory, AML compliance, IT, and regulatory reporting via our retainer services.

Our track record: With over a decade of industry experience, API Compliance maintains a 100% success rate for Change-In-Control filings, supporting both buyers and sellers with smooth, compliant transactions.

Speak to an expert Speak to an expert Speak to an expert

About Us

Paywise is a full-service consultation firm with record of winning many successful campaigns.

For a growing business firm we provide market research & competitor analysis before a product launch in market.

Contact Us

Linkedin