---
title: UK payments & fintech media reputation tracker – July 2026
canonical_url: https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-fintech-2026-07
type: dataset
publisher: Omniscan
sector: UK Payments & Fintech
period: July 2026
coverage_start: '2026-07-01'
coverage_end: '2026-07-31'
date_published: '2026-09-01'
last_updated: '2026-09-01'
organisations: 12
articles_analysed: 465
mentions: 234
data_download: https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-fintech-2026-07/data.json
summary: Wise had the highest average monthly share of coverage (27.8%) among 12 companies
  in UK earned media from 1 July 2026 to 31 July 2026, ahead of Klarna (20.9%) and
  PayPal (18.4%).
---

# UK payments & fintech media reputation tracker: July 2026 (1 July 2026–31 July 2026)

> Wise had the highest average monthly share of coverage (27.8%) among 12 companies in UK earned media from 1 July 2026 to 31 July 2026, ahead of Klarna (20.9%) and PayPal (18.4%). GoCardless had the most favourable net tone (+100). Omniscan analysed 465 articles containing 234 mentions of the companies tracked.

Interactive version: https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-fintech-2026-07

## UK Payments & Fintech ranking by share of coverage, July 2026

| Rank | Organisation | Average monthly share of coverage | Mentions | Positive | Neutral | Negative | Net tone |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| 1 | Wise | 27.8% | 65 | 37% | 6% | 57% | −20 |
| 2 | Klarna | 20.9% | 49 | 49% | 41% | 10% | +39 |
| 3 | PayPal | 18.4% | 43 | 39% | 56% | 5% | +35 |
| 4 | Stripe | 8.5% | 20 | 70% | 30% | 0% | +70 |
| 5 | Funding Circle | 5.6% | 13 | 84% | 8% | 8% | +77 |
| 6 | Zilch | 5.1% | 12 | 50% | 42% | 8% | +42 |
| 7 | SumUp | 3.0% | 7 | 57% | 29% | 14% | +43 |
| 7 | iwoca | 3.0% | 7 | 100% | 0% | 0% | +100 |
| 9 | GoCardless | 2.6% | 6 | 100% | 0% | 0% | +100 |
| 9 | Allica Bank | 2.6% | 6 | 83% | 17% | 0% | +83 |
| 11 | OakNorth | 2.1% | 5 | 100% | 0% | 0% | +100 |
| 12 | Checkout.com | 0.4% | 1 | 0% | 100% | 0% | 0 |

## Companies in detail

### Wise

**Wise leads visibility as growth stories give way to compliance**

Wise ranked 1st of 12 by average monthly share of coverage (27.8%) in the UK Payments & Fintech benchmark for July 2026, with 65 mentions and a net tone of −20.

Regulatory scrutiny remained prominent in July after US authorities rejected Wise’s national trust-bank charter application, while first-quarter growth and the launch of transfers from Chile provided separate company-focused developments. Wise has connected directly to Malaysia's PayNet network, enabling DuitNow QR payments and transfers through its app. The integration expands Wise's local payment-system connections and capabilities for Wise Platform partners. JPMorgan initiated coverage of Wise as overweight, citing expected revenue growth above its medium-term guidance range and positive momentum in volumes, users and balances. Wise has launched international money transfers from Chile, enabling transfers in Chilean pesos to more than 40 currencies. The UK fintech positions the expansion around transparent pricing and faster cross-border payments. Bluevine expanded US business banking access to eligible overseas founders, including those in the UK. Wise Platform supports the rollout’s onboarding and cross-border payment capabilities.

Key messages:

- Wise has connected directly to Malaysia's PayNet network, enabling DuitNow QR payments and transfers through its app. The integration expands Wise's local payment-system connections and capabilities for Wise Platform partners.
- JPMorgan initiated coverage of Wise as overweight, citing expected revenue growth above its medium-term guidance range and positive momentum in volumes, users and balances.
- Wise has launched international money transfers from Chile, enabling transfers in Chilean pesos to more than 40 currencies. The UK fintech positions the expansion around transparent pricing and faster cross-border payments.
- Bluevine expanded US business banking access to eligible overseas founders, including those in the UK. Wise Platform supports the rollout’s onboarding and cross-border payment capabilities.
- Wise Group plc has started a share repurchase programme of up to £405 million, executed by Goldman Sachs through March 2027. The buyback is intended to reduce share capital and support employee equity schemes.

Leading themes:

- Regulation & Policy: 46.2% of Wise's coverage (theme index 1.9, net tone −93)
- Financial Results & Valuations: 27.7% of Wise's coverage (theme index 2.46, net tone +94)
- Fraud, Scams & Financial Crime: 12.3% of Wise's coverage (theme index 20.8, net tone −100)

Notable positive coverage:

- 30 July 2026, finextra.com: [Wise connects directly to PayNet, Malaysiaʼs national payments network](https://www.finextra.com/pressarticle/110536/wise-connects-directly-to-paynet-malaysias-national-payments-network). Wise has connected directly to Malaysia's PayNet network, enabling DuitNow QR payments and transfers through its app. The integration expands Wise's local payment-system connections and capabilities for Wise Platform partners.
- 6 July 2026, cnbc.com: [Here are Monday's biggest analyst calls: Nvidia, Netflix, AMD, First Solar, Micron, Sandisk, T-Mobile & more](https://www.cnbc.com/2026/07/06/monday-wall-street-calls-by-analysts-like-nvidia.html). JPMorgan initiated coverage of Wise as overweight, citing expected revenue growth above its medium-term guidance range and positive momentum in volumes, users and balances.
- 20 July 2026, financefeeds.com: [Wise Launches Chile Transfers as Remittances Hit $2.27B](https://financefeeds.com/wise-launches-international-money-transfers-in-chile/). Wise has launched international money transfers from Chile, enabling transfers in Chilean pesos to more than 40 currencies. The UK fintech positions the expansion around transparent pricing and faster cross-border payments.

Notable negative coverage:

- 24 July 2026, wsj.com: [Wise Group Shares Drop After U.S. Regulator Denies License on Shortcomings](https://www.wsj.com/business/wise-group-shares-drop-after-u-s-regulator-denies-license-on-shortcomings-b3761783). Wise shares fell after US regulators denied its national trust bank licence application, citing shortcomings in anti-money-laundering and counter-terrorist-financing controls.
- 24 July 2026, financemagnates.com: [Wise Shares Tumble as US Regulator Denies Banking Licence Application](https://www.financemagnates.com/fintech/wise-shares-tumble-as-us-regulator-denies-banking-licence-application/). Wise shares fell after the OCC rejected its US national trust bank charter application, citing supervisory and compliance concerns. Wise plans a new application under the GENIUS Act framework.
- 27 July 2026, reuters.com: [Sectors Up Close: 'Fintech is a threat' to big banks](https://www.reuters.com/video/watch/idRW115327072026RP1/). The Reuters briefing says US banks face competitive pressure from fintechs and notes Wise's failed US banking-licence attempt. It also cites Klarna and Revolut as competitors challenging the financial industry.

- [Wise deep dive](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-fintech-2026-07?entity=wise&view=deep-dive)
- [Wise PDF report](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-fintech-2026-07/reports/wise.pdf)

### Klarna

**Klarna’s visibility swung between regulation, expansion and financial scrutiny**

Klarna ranked 2nd of 12 by average monthly share of coverage (20.9%) in the UK Payments & Fintech benchmark for July 2026, with 49 mentions and a net tone of +39.

In July 2026, Klarna recorded 49 mentions, 20.9% of cohort coverage and rank #2, with net sentiment of +39. Coverage focused on Regulation & Policy. July 2026: share rose 11.4 percentage points to 20.9% and Klarna moved from third to second; Reuters reported PriceRunner’s antitrust damages award against Google. A Swedish court awarded PriceRunner, owned by Klarna, about $1.5 billion in antitrust damages from Google, or $1.97 billion including interest. The claim included lost profits in Britain, and Google may appeal. Klarna has partnered with Money Wellness to provide UK users with a free in-app financial wellbeing check and personalised money guidance. The service covers areas including savings, debt management and budgeting. Klarna launched in-store BNPL at lululemon locations in the UK and Germany, extending its existing online partnership. The service uses lululemon's Adyen payments setup without new hardware.

Key messages:

- A Swedish court awarded PriceRunner, owned by Klarna, about $1.5 billion in antitrust damages from Google, or $1.97 billion including interest. The claim included lost profits in Britain, and Google may appeal.
- Klarna has partnered with Money Wellness to provide UK users with a free in-app financial wellbeing check and personalised money guidance. The service covers areas including savings, debt management and budgeting.
- Klarna launched in-store BNPL at lululemon locations in the UK and Germany, extending its existing online partnership. The service uses lululemon's Adyen payments setup without new hardware.
- Klarna has expanded its lululemon partnership to physical stores in the UK and Germany, offering app-based Pay in 3 and Pay Later options. The rollout uses Adyen's unified commerce platform.
- A UK consumer describes accumulating substantial debt through Klarna while struggling with compulsive shopping. The article links the experience to newly introduced FCA regulation of BNPL.

Leading themes:

- Regulation & Policy: 55.1% of Klarna's coverage (theme index 2.32, net tone +33)
- Consumer Payments & BNPL: 16.3% of Klarna's coverage (theme index 1.89, net tone +13)
- Financial Results & Valuations: 14.3% of Klarna's coverage (theme index 0.88, net tone +100)

Notable positive coverage:

- 1 July 2026, reuters.com: [Swedish court orders Google to pay $1.5 billion to Klarna in antitrust damages](https://www.reuters.com/business/swedish-court-says-google-is-pay-15-billion-klarna-antitrust-damages-2026-07-01/). A Swedish court awarded PriceRunner, owned by Klarna, about $1.5 billion in antitrust damages from Google, or $1.97 billion including interest. The claim included lost profits in Britain, and Google may appeal.
- 1 July 2026, ft.com: [Google ordered to pay Klarna $1.5bn antitrust damages](https://www.ft.com/content/1f30ea07-63f7-4c74-b5d2-acf313177778). A Swedish court awarded Klarna-owned PriceRunner $1.5bn in antitrust damages from Google over comparison-shopping search practices affecting the UK, Sweden and Denmark. Klarna shares rose following the ruling.
- 2 July 2026, biz.chosun.com: [Swedish court orders Google to pay record antitrust damages to Klarna - CHOSUNBIZ](https://biz.chosun.com/en/en-it/2026/07/02/UMYHKIPQUJAIHCIRTO4MUATE5E/). A Swedish court ordered Google to pay Klarna approximately $1.97 billion in antitrust damages relating to harm suffered by PriceRunner. Klarna welcomed the ruling, while Google indicated it may appeal.

Notable negative coverage:

- 15 July 2026, mirror.co.uk: ['I couldn't afford nappies for my son but spent £1,000 a month on clothes'](https://www.mirror.co.uk/money/i-couldnt-afford-nappies-son-37434697). A UK consumer describes accumulating substantial debt through Klarna while struggling with compulsive shopping. The article links the experience to newly introduced FCA regulation of BNPL.
- 5 July 2026, mylondon.news: ['Shopping addiction left me in £18k debt I prioritised clothes over nappies''](https://www.mylondon.news/news/north-london-news/north-london-mum-says-shopping-34239926). A North London mother says compulsive shopping, including £600–£1,000 monthly Klarna BNPL spending, contributed to more than £18,000 of debt. She is repaying the debt after changing her spending habits.
- 5 July 2026, birminghammail.co.uk: ['I spent £1,000 a month on clothes instead of nappies for my son'](https://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/i-spent-1000-month-clothes-34239164). A North London mother says her shopping addiction, funded partly through Klarna BNPL, left her with around £18,000 of debt. She has begun repaying her debts by selling clothes and reducing spending.

- [Klarna deep dive](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-fintech-2026-07?entity=klarna&view=deep-dive)
- [Klarna PDF report](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-fintech-2026-07/reports/klarna.pdf)

### PayPal

**PayPal’s visibility swung across regulation, partnerships and takeover reporting**

PayPal ranked 3rd of 12 by average monthly share of coverage (18.4%) in the UK Payments & Fintech benchmark for July 2026, with 43 mentions and a net tone of +35.

In July 2026, PayPal recorded 43 mentions, 18.4% of cohort coverage and rank #3, with net sentiment of +35. Coverage focused on Funding, IPOs & Listings. The article reports an approximately £40 billion takeover approach for PayPal by Irish billionaire brothers associated with Stripe. The transaction is relevant to Ireland. PayPal has launched Pay in 30 Days for eligible UK shoppers, allowing purchases to be paid in full within 30 days without interest or fees. The product is integrated into PayPal's existing UK checkout and complements Pay in 3. PayPal research says UK merchants expect new FCA BNPL rules to strengthen consumer trust and transparency. The company says its Pay in 3 product raises average order values and is prepared for the new requirements.

Key messages:

- The article reports an approximately £40 billion takeover approach for PayPal by Irish billionaire brothers associated with Stripe. The transaction is relevant to Ireland.
- PayPal has launched Pay in 30 Days for eligible UK shoppers, allowing purchases to be paid in full within 30 days without interest or fees. The product is integrated into PayPal's existing UK checkout and complements Pay in 3.
- PayPal research says UK merchants expect new FCA BNPL rules to strengthen consumer trust and transparency. The company says its Pay in 3 product raises average order values and is prepared for the new requirements.
- A UK illegal-streaming victim said he lost nearly £2,000 after entering PayPal details on an unofficial sports-streaming service. The article highlights malware and payment-data theft risks from piracy sites.
- The article discusses PayPal’s use at offshore non-Gamstop casinos serving UK players and claims its merchant-term enforcement can be inconsistent. It describes UK gambling-licensing requirements and risks of account limitations for users.

Leading themes:

- Funding, IPOs & Listings: 37.2% of PayPal's coverage (theme index 2.54, net tone +19)
- Consumer Payments & BNPL: 27.9% of PayPal's coverage (theme index 4.44, net tone +92)
- Regulation & Policy: 23.3% of PayPal's coverage (theme index 0.73, net tone 0)

Notable positive coverage:

- 15 July 2026, telegraph.co.uk: [Irish billionaire brothers in £40bn swoop for PayPal](https://www.telegraph.co.uk/business/2026/07/15/irish-billionaire-brothers-in-40bn-swoop-for-paypal/). The article reports an approximately £40 billion takeover approach for PayPal by Irish billionaire brothers associated with Stripe. The transaction is relevant to Ireland.
- 16 July 2026, finextra.com: [PayPal launches Pay in 30 days for UK shoppers](https://www.finextra.com/pressarticle/110436/paypal-launches-pay-in-30-days-for-uk-shoppers). PayPal has launched Pay in 30 Days for eligible UK shoppers, allowing purchases to be paid in full within 30 days without interest or fees. The product is integrated into PayPal's existing UK checkout and complements Pay in 3.
- 14 July 2026, express.co.uk: [PayPal launches new product with 30-day rule](https://www.express.co.uk/finance/personalfinance/2229080/paypal-launches-new-buy-now-pay-later-product). PayPal has launched Pay in 30 Days for eligible UK purchases of £1 to £900. The launch comes as FCA BNPL regulation introduces clearer disclosure, affordability and customer-support requirements.

Notable negative coverage:

- 9 July 2026, metro.co.uk: ['I lost thousands after using illegal streaming site - people don't know risks'](https://metro.co.uk/2026/07/09/i-lost-thousands-scammers-using-illegal-streaming-site-people-dont-know-risks-29014262/). A UK illegal-streaming victim said he lost nearly £2,000 after entering PayPal details on an unofficial sports-streaming service. The article highlights malware and payment-data theft risks from piracy sites.
- 22 July 2026, nerdbot.com: [Non Gamstop PayPal Casinos UK 2026 — Best PayPal Casinos](https://nerdbot.com/2026/07/22/non-gamstop-paypal-casinos-uk/). The article discusses PayPal’s use at offshore non-Gamstop casinos serving UK players and claims its merchant-term enforcement can be inconsistent. It describes UK gambling-licensing requirements and risks of account limitations for users.

- [PayPal deep dive](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-fintech-2026-07?entity=paypal&view=deep-dive)
- [PayPal PDF report](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-fintech-2026-07/reports/paypal.pdf)

### Stripe

**Stripe coverage concentrated around valuation, partnerships and PayPal**

Stripe ranked 4th of 12 by average monthly share of coverage (8.5%) in the UK Payments & Fintech benchmark for July 2026, with 20 mentions and a net tone of +70.

Stripe remained fourth in July on 8.5%, when reports of its joint PayPal bid with Advent International dominated coverage and the Ryder Cup named it as a payment-solutions partner. Stripe became the Ryder Cup's worldwide and official payment-solutions partner for the 2027 event in Ireland and the 2029 edition in Minnesota. Its technology will support a cashless fan experience at Adare Manor. Stripe and Advent International reportedly submitted a $53 billion bid for PayPal, with the article citing implications for UK checkout competition. The proposed transaction would combine Stripe's Link wallet with PayPal and Braintree. A comparison of Stripe, Worldpay and Nuvei for licensed gambling-card processing says Stripe remains independent but prohibits real-money gambling merchants. It includes UK-specific discussion of UKGC licensing and Stripe's UK card pricing.

Key messages:

- Stripe became the Ryder Cup's worldwide and official payment-solutions partner for the 2027 event in Ireland and the 2029 edition in Minnesota. Its technology will support a cashless fan experience at Adare Manor.
- Stripe and Advent International reportedly submitted a $53 billion bid for PayPal, with the article citing implications for UK checkout competition. The proposed transaction would combine Stripe's Link wallet with PayPal and Braintree.
- A comparison of Stripe, Worldpay and Nuvei for licensed gambling-card processing says Stripe remains independent but prohibits real-money gambling merchants. It includes UK-specific discussion of UKGC licensing and Stripe's UK card pricing.
- Funding, IPOs & Listings accounted for 16 mentions in this edition.
- Products, Partnerships & Expansion accounted for 3 mentions in this edition.

Leading themes:

- Funding, IPOs & Listings: 80.0% of Stripe's coverage (theme index 6.11, net tone +75)
- Products, Partnerships & Expansion: 15.0% of Stripe's coverage (theme index 1.46, net tone +67)
- Technology, AI & Infrastructure: 5.0% of Stripe's coverage (theme index 5.35, net tone 0)

Notable positive coverage:

- 22 July 2026, cityam.com: [Ryder Cup adds financial services firm to global sponsorship roster](https://www.cityam.com/ryder-cup-adds-financial-services-firm-to-global-sponsorship-roster/). Stripe became the Ryder Cup's worldwide and official payment-solutions partner for the 2027 event in Ireland and the 2029 edition in Minnesota. Its technology will support a cashless fan experience at Adare Manor.
- 15 July 2026, thisismoney.co.uk: [Irish billionaire brothers behind payments company Stripe launch £40bn bid for PayPal](https://www.thisismoney.co.uk/money/markets/article-15979897/Irish-billionaire-brothers-payments-company-Stripe-launch-40bn-bid-PayPal.html). Stripe and Advent International reportedly launched a £40 billion bid to acquire PayPal. The proposed deal would combine two major payments companies.
- 28 July 2026, ffnews.com: [Stripe and Advent International Reportedly Launch $53 Bil…](https://ffnews.com/news/stripe-and-advent-international-reportedly-launch-53-billion-takeover-bid-for-paypal). Stripe and Advent International reportedly submitted a $53 billion bid for PayPal, with the article citing implications for UK checkout competition. The proposed transaction would combine Stripe's Link wallet with PayPal and Braintree.

- [Stripe deep dive](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-fintech-2026-07?entity=stripe&view=deep-dive)
- [Stripe PDF report](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-fintech-2026-07/reports/stripe.pdf)

### Funding Circle

**Funding Circle climbs as results and institutional funding broaden coverage**

Funding Circle ranked 5th of 12 by average monthly share of coverage (5.6%) in the UK Payments & Fintech benchmark for July 2026, with 13 mentions and a net tone of +77.

July then brought 13 mentions, a 5.6% share and fifth place alongside extensive reporting of the first-half trading update. July 2026: first-half revenue growth of 50% and pretax profit of about £23 million were reported by lse.co.uk. Funding Circle has renewed its partnership with PREM Rugby for a fifth season. The deal supports its small-business brand positioning and expands its presence across the league. Funding Circle data shows UK property and construction lending rose 30% year on year and represented its largest industry lending category. The article links this to working-capital, expansion and refinancing needs among property SMEs. A UK market commentator argued that Funding Circle's IPO was overpriced and noted that its shares had fallen sharply after flotation. The article advises investors to be cautious about IPO pricing.

Key messages:

- Funding Circle has renewed its partnership with PREM Rugby for a fifth season. The deal supports its small-business brand positioning and expands its presence across the league.
- Funding Circle data shows UK property and construction lending rose 30% year on year and represented its largest industry lending category. The article links this to working-capital, expansion and refinancing needs among property SMEs.
- Funding Circle reported H1 2026 revenue growth of 50% to about £138 million and pre-tax profit of about £23 million. The UK SME finance platform said it remains on track for its full-year guidance while investing in FlexiPay and Card.
- A UK market commentator argued that Funding Circle's IPO was overpriced and noted that its shares had fallen sharply after flotation. The article advises investors to be cautious about IPO pricing.

Leading themes:

- Financial Results & Valuations: 69.2% of Funding Circle's coverage (theme index 5.46, net tone +89)
- Products, Partnerships & Expansion: 15.4% of Funding Circle's coverage (theme index 1.48, net tone +100)
- Funding, IPOs & Listings: 7.7% of Funding Circle's coverage (theme index 0.4, net tone −100)

Notable positive coverage:

- 1 July 2026, theintermediary.co.uk: [Funding Circle renews partnership with PREM Rugby](https://theintermediary.co.uk/2026/07/funding-circle-renews-partnership-with-prem-rugby/). Funding Circle has renewed its partnership with PREM Rugby for a fifth season. The deal supports its small-business brand positioning and expands its presence across the league.
- 15 July 2026, ifamagazine.com: [Property sector sees highest lending figures, Funding Circle data reveals](https://ifamagazine.com/property-sector-sees-highest-lending-figures-funding-circle-data-reveals/). Funding Circle data shows UK property and construction lending rose 30% year on year and represented its largest industry lending category. The article links this to working-capital, expansion and refinancing needs among property SMEs.
- 16 July 2026, manilatimes.net: [Half Year 2026 Trading Update (unaudited)](https://www.manilatimes.net/2026/07/16/tmt-newswire/globenewswire/half-year-2026-trading-update-unaudited/2385685). Funding Circle reported H1 2026 revenue growth of 50% to about £138 million and pre-tax profit of about £23 million. The UK SME finance platform said it remains on track for its full-year guidance while investing in FlexiPay and Card.

Notable negative coverage:

- 8 July 2026, lse.co.uk: [Watch our for the Dead Cat Bounce. Read Ranjeet Singh's Blog - London South East.](https://www.lse.co.uk/blogs/expert/watch-our-for-the-dead-cat-bounce.html). A UK market commentator argued that Funding Circle's IPO was overpriced and noted that its shares had fallen sharply after flotation. The article advises investors to be cautious about IPO pricing.

- [Funding Circle deep dive](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-fintech-2026-07?entity=fundingcircle&view=deep-dive)
- [Funding Circle PDF report](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-fintech-2026-07/reports/fundingcircle.pdf)

### Zilch

**Zilch shifted from expansion towards products and regulation**

Zilch ranked 6th of 12 by average monthly share of coverage (5.1%) in the UK Payments & Fintech benchmark for July 2026, with 12 mentions and a net tone of +42.

In July 2026, Zilch recorded 12 mentions, 5.1% of cohort coverage and rank #6, with net sentiment of +42. Coverage focused on Regulation & Policy. July 2026: Zilch launched Advance, offering eligible customers up to £100 before payday, amid warnings about repeat borrowing — thesun.co.uk. Zilch has partnered with Rezolve Ai to add its Reward platform to Zilch's Intelligent Commerce ecosystem for UK retailers. The partnership aims to expand flexible, fee-free credit and AI-driven merchant targeting for Zilch's UK users. Zilch is among the first issuers using Thredd and Visa's Agentic Ready programme to enable AI-agent-initiated card payments. The initiative uses tokenisation, passkeys and fraud controls to support customer-authorised agentic commerce. A global BNPL ranking profiles Zilch, PayPal and Klarna, highlighting their products, growth and technology strategies. Zilch is described as a fast-growing European fintech using an advertising-supported model and cashback incentives.

Key messages:

- Zilch has partnered with Rezolve Ai to add its Reward platform to Zilch's Intelligent Commerce ecosystem for UK retailers. The partnership aims to expand flexible, fee-free credit and AI-driven merchant targeting for Zilch's UK users.
- Zilch is among the first issuers using Thredd and Visa's Agentic Ready programme to enable AI-agent-initiated card payments. The initiative uses tokenisation, passkeys and fraud controls to support customer-authorised agentic commerce.
- A global BNPL ranking profiles Zilch, PayPal and Klarna, highlighting their products, growth and technology strategies. Zilch is described as a fast-growing European fintech using an advertising-supported model and cashback incentives.
- Zilch is launching Advance, enabling eligible customers to access up to £100 before payday for a £3 transfer fee. Consumer and debt campaigners warn the feature could encourage repeat borrowing, while Zilch says affordability and open-banking checks apply.

Leading themes:

- Regulation & Policy: 33.3% of Zilch's coverage (theme index 1.1, net tone 0)
- Products, Partnerships & Expansion: 25.0% of Zilch's coverage (theme index 2.52, net tone +100)
- Consumer Payments & BNPL: 16.7% of Zilch's coverage (theme index 1.68, net tone 0)

Notable positive coverage:

- 21 July 2026, finextra.com: [Zilch joins forces with rewards platform Rezolve Ai](https://www.finextra.com/pressarticle/110459/zilch-joins-forces-with-rewards-platform-rezolve-ai). Zilch partnered with Rezolve Ai's Reward platform to bring more retailers onto its Intelligent Commerce offering. The deal expands flexible-payment and retailer-engagement capabilities across online and in-store channels.
- 21 July 2026, fintech.global: [Zilch teams up with Rezolve Ai to boost retailer growth](https://fintech.global/2026/07/21/zilch-teams-up-with-rezolve-ai-to-boost-retailer-growth/). Zilch partnered with Rezolve Ai to expand flexible, fee-free payments at major UK retailers. The arrangement also extends Zilch's Intelligent Commerce data platform to additional brands.
- 21 July 2026, ffnews.com: [Zilch and Rezolve Ai Partner to Scale Intelligent Commerce for UK Retailers](https://ffnews.com/news/zilch-and-rezolve-ai-partner-to-scale-intelligent-commerce-for-uk-retailers). Zilch has partnered with Rezolve Ai to add its Reward platform to Zilch's Intelligent Commerce ecosystem for UK retailers. The partnership aims to expand flexible, fee-free credit and AI-driven merchant targeting for Zilch's UK users.

Notable negative coverage:

- 25 July 2026, thesun.co.uk: [Urgent warning over Zilch’s new £100 pre-payday cash feature that could leave customers 'trapped' in borrowing cycle](https://www.thesun.co.uk/money/39839181/zilch-users-100-before-payday-debt-trap-warning/). Zilch is launching Advance, enabling eligible customers to access up to £100 before payday for a £3 transfer fee. Consumer and debt campaigners warn the feature could encourage repeat borrowing, while Zilch says affordability and open-banking checks apply.

- [Zilch deep dive](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-fintech-2026-07?entity=zilch&view=deep-dive)
- [Zilch PDF report](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-fintech-2026-07/reports/zilch.pdf)

### SumUp

**Funding, IPOs & Listings shaped SumUp's media profile during July 2026**

SumUp ranked 7th of 12 by average monthly share of coverage (3.0%) in the UK Payments & Fintech benchmark for July 2026, with 7 mentions and a net tone of +43.

The company recovered to 3.0% and seventh in July as consumer accounts entered several European markets while separate reports said its London IPO could be postponed. July 2026: Sifted reported SumUp’s UK consumer-account launch with merchant-network cashback. SumUp launched consumer banking accounts in the UK, including cashback rewards for spending at merchants in its network. The London-based fintech plans to expand the consumer offering and may seek UK and EU banking licences. SumUp will showcase its mobile card-reader services for tradespeople at Toolstation's Edinburgh supplier roadshow. The events form part of a wider UK tour. SumUp is reportedly considering postponing its planned London IPO from late 2026 to 2027 amid market turbulence and listing-market concerns. The article places the decision in the context of a constrained UK IPO market.

Key messages:

- SumUp launched consumer banking accounts in the UK, including cashback rewards for spending at merchants in its network. The London-based fintech plans to expand the consumer offering and may seek UK and EU banking licences.
- SumUp has launched personal consumer accounts in the UK, Ireland and several European markets. The product offers cashback, cards, transfers and budgeting features linked to its merchant network.
- SumUp will showcase its mobile card-reader services for tradespeople at Toolstation's Edinburgh supplier roadshow. The events form part of a wider UK tour.
- SumUp is reportedly considering postponing its planned London IPO from late 2026 to 2027 amid market turbulence and listing-market concerns. The article places the decision in the context of a constrained UK IPO market.

Leading themes:

- Funding, IPOs & Listings: 42.9% of SumUp's coverage (theme index 2.37, net tone −33)
- Products, Partnerships & Expansion: 28.6% of SumUp's coverage (theme index 2.82, net tone +100)
- Consumer Payments & BNPL: 28.6% of SumUp's coverage (theme index 2.95, net tone +100)

Notable positive coverage:

- 1 July 2026, finextra.com: [SumUp launches consumer personal accounts](https://www.finextra.com/pressarticle/110312/sumup-launches-consumer-personal-accounts). SumUp launched personal consumer accounts in the UK and Ireland, alongside four European markets. The accounts offer cashback, cards, transfers and budgeting tools linked to SumUp’s merchant network.
- 1 July 2026, sifted.eu: [SumUp launches consumer account paying users to shop small](https://sifted.eu/articles/sumup-launches-consumer-account/). SumUp launched consumer banking accounts in the UK, including cashback rewards for spending at merchants in its network. The London-based fintech plans to expand the consumer offering and may seek UK and EU banking licences.
- 7 July 2026, fintech.global: [SumUp expands into consumer banking across Europe](https://fintech.global/2026/07/07/sumup-expands-into-consumer-banking-across-europe/). SumUp has launched personal consumer accounts in the UK, Ireland and several European markets. The product offers cashback, cards, transfers and budgeting features linked to its merchant network.

Notable negative coverage:

- 13 July 2026, bloomberg.com: [London IPO Revival Faces Setback as Hopefuls Consider Delays](https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2026-07-13/waterstones-sumup-are-said-to-weigh-pushing-london-ipos-to-2027). SumUp is reportedly among UK companies considering postponing a planned London IPO until 2027. The potential delays could hinder London’s hoped-for listings revival.

- [SumUp deep dive](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-fintech-2026-07?entity=sumup&view=deep-dive)
- [SumUp PDF report](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-fintech-2026-07/reports/sumup.pdf)

### iwoca

**iwoca’s visibility rose around funding and sale reports**

iwoca ranked 7th of 12 by average monthly share of coverage (3.0%) in the UK Payments & Fintech benchmark for July 2026, with 7 mentions and a net tone of +100.

Iwoca rose to seventh place in July; stories included a £250 million debt facility and reports of a possible sale above £1 billion. Iwoca secured a debt facility with WAM Capital and a UK bank to expand lending capacity. The UK SME lender is also reportedly exploring a sale expected to value it at more than £1 billion. This would extend an existing strength in Merchants, SMEs & Lending with evidence of how iwoca distributes its lending, supporting a stronger competitive position against Checkout.com, which led by 1.2 share points. Iwoca secured a £250m debt facility to increase lending to UK SMEs amid reported exploration of a potential sale valued above £1bn. The lender said its 2025 lending to small businesses rose 60%.

Key messages:

- iwoca secured a debt facility with WAM Capital and a UK bank to expand lending capacity. The UK SME lender is also reportedly exploring a sale expected to value it at more than £1 billion.
- Iwoca secured a £250m debt facility to increase lending to UK SMEs amid reported exploration of a potential sale valued above £1bn. The lender said its 2025 lending to small businesses rose 60%.
- Funding, IPOs & Listings accounted for 5 mentions in this edition.
- Merchants, SMEs & Lending accounted for 2 mentions in this edition.

Leading themes:

- Funding, IPOs & Listings: 71.4% of iwoca's coverage (theme index 4.16, net tone +100)
- Merchants, SMEs & Lending: 28.6% of iwoca's coverage (theme index 5.9, net tone +100)

Notable positive coverage:

- 22 July 2026, news.sky.com: [Small business lender Iwoca finds Qatalyst for £1bn sale](https://news.sky.com/story/small-business-lender-iwoca-finds-qatalyst-for-1bn-sale-13565964). Iwoca has hired Qatalyst Partners to oversee a potential sale expected to value the UK SME lender at more than £1bn. The company reported rapid growth in SME customers and new lending.
- 27 July 2026, cityam.com: [Iwoca closes bumper debt facility as sale speculation mounts](https://www.cityam.com/iwoca-inks-fresh-credit-line-as-sale-speculation-mounts/). Iwoca secured a £250m debt facility to increase lending to UK SMEs amid reported exploration of a potential sale valued above £1bn. The lender said its 2025 lending to small businesses rose 60%.
- 27 July 2026, uktech.news: [SME lender iwoca secures £250m debt facility - UKTN](https://www.uktech.news/news/investment-news/sme-lender-iwoca-secures-250m-debt-facility-20260727). London-based SME lender iwoca secured a £250 million debt facility from Waterfall Asset Management and an unnamed UK bank. The funding is intended to expand lending capacity for UK SMEs.

- [iwoca deep dive](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-fintech-2026-07?entity=iwoca&view=deep-dive)
- [iwoca PDF report](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-fintech-2026-07/reports/iwoca.pdf)

### GoCardless

**GoCardless visibility surged around profitability and recurring bank payments**

GoCardless ranked 9th of 12 by average monthly share of coverage (2.6%) in the UK Payments & Fintech benchmark for July 2026, with 6 mentions and a net tone of +100.

July’s 2.6% share coincided with independent coverage of Pay by Bank entering Sage Business Cloud Accounting, alongside press-release copy about the anvil integration and grassroots-football research. GoCardless and anvil have integrated their platforms to automate Direct Debit setup, collection and failed-payment handling for telecom operators and MSPs. The partnership uses GoCardless's Success+ payment-retry tool. GoCardless research highlights payment-collection administration as a source of strain for UK grassroots football volunteers. It presents automated bank payments and Direct Debit as a way for clubs to reduce payment chasing. GoCardless and Sage are expanding their UK and Ireland partnership by integrating Pay by Bank into Sage Business Cloud Accounting. The feature combines instant account-to-account payments with GoCardless Direct Debit capabilities for SMEs. Stripe and Advent have reportedly bid more than $53 billion for PayPal. The article assesses potential implications for UK SMEs using the two payment platforms, including payment-fee competition.

Key messages:

- GoCardless and anvil have integrated their platforms to automate Direct Debit setup, collection and failed-payment handling for telecom operators and MSPs. The partnership uses GoCardless's Success+ payment-retry tool.
- GoCardless research highlights payment-collection administration as a source of strain for UK grassroots football volunteers. It presents automated bank payments and Direct Debit as a way for clubs to reduce payment chasing.
- GoCardless and Sage are expanding their UK and Ireland partnership by integrating Pay by Bank into Sage Business Cloud Accounting. The feature combines instant account-to-account payments with GoCardless Direct Debit capabilities for SMEs.
- Stripe and Advent have reportedly bid more than $53 billion for PayPal. The article assesses potential implications for UK SMEs using the two payment platforms, including payment-fee competition.

Leading themes:

- Products, Partnerships & Expansion: 83.3% of GoCardless's coverage (theme index 9.5, net tone +100)
- Funding, IPOs & Listings: 16.7% of GoCardless's coverage (theme index 0.88, net tone +100)

Notable positive coverage:

- 28 July 2026, finextra.com: [GoCardless and anvil partner to launch automated payments for telcos and MSPs](https://www.finextra.com/pressarticle/110514/gocardless-and-anvil-partner-to-launch-automated-payments-for-telcos-and-msps). GoCardless and anvil have integrated their platforms to automate Direct Debit setup, collection and failed-payment handling for telecom operators and MSPs. The partnership uses GoCardless's Success+ payment-retry tool.
- 28 July 2026, ffnews.com: [GoCardless Research Reveals Grassroots Football Crisis as 44% of Volunteers Consider Quitting Over Admin Burden](https://ffnews.com/news/gocardless-research-reveals-grassroots-football-crisis-as-44-of-volunteers-consider-quitting-over-admin-burden). GoCardless research highlights payment-collection administration as a source of strain for UK grassroots football volunteers. It presents automated bank payments and Direct Debit as a way for clubs to reduce payment chasing.
- 18 July 2026, fintechmagazine.com: [This Week’s Top 5 Stories in FinTech](https://fintechmagazine.com/news/this-weeks-top-5-stories-in-fintech-18-07-2026). GoCardless and Sage are expanding their UK and Ireland partnership by integrating Pay by Bank into Sage Business Cloud Accounting. The feature combines instant account-to-account payments with GoCardless Direct Debit capabilities for SMEs.

- [GoCardless deep dive](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-fintech-2026-07?entity=gocardless&view=deep-dive)
- [GoCardless PDF report](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-fintech-2026-07/reports/gocardless.pdf)

### Allica Bank

**Allica’s coverage shifted from funding scale to European expansion**

Allica Bank ranked 9th of 12 by average monthly share of coverage (2.6%) in the UK Payments & Fintech benchmark for July 2026, with 6 mentions and a net tone of +83.

Allica moved to ninth at 2.6% in July, when the company-focused agenda narrowed principally to commercial-mortgage fee changes, healthcare-property finance and working-capital commentary. July 2026: share fell 4.1 points to 2.6% and rank moved from fifth to ninth; stories included waived arrangement fees on qualifying commercial mortgages and expanded care-property finance. Allica Bank is waiving arrangement fees on qualifying large commercial mortgages and raising selected lending limits for UK SMEs. The changes aim to reduce upfront borrowing costs and support larger property investments. Allica Bank is shortlisted for Marketing Week’s 2026 Brand of the Year. The article highlights its SME focus, rapid growth, brand refresh and first TV campaign. Allica Bank has introduced financing for investors buying or refinancing select care and nursing-home properties. The expansion follows increased healthcare lending limits and longer loan terms.

Key messages:

- Allica Bank is waiving arrangement fees on qualifying large commercial mortgages and raising selected lending limits for UK SMEs. The changes aim to reduce upfront borrowing costs and support larger property investments.
- Allica Bank is shortlisted for Marketing Week’s 2026 Brand of the Year. The article highlights its SME focus, rapid growth, brand refresh and first TV campaign.
- Allica Bank has introduced financing for investors buying or refinancing select care and nursing-home properties. The expansion follows increased healthcare lending limits and longer loan terms.
- An Allica Bank executive argues that UK construction firms should prioritise working capital and short-term cashflow management amid high costs. The article cites Allica research on a long-term decline in lending to established businesses.

Leading themes:

- Merchants, SMEs & Lending: 83.3% of Allica Bank's coverage (theme index 23.75, net tone +80)
- Other: 16.7% of Allica Bank's coverage (theme index 7.6, net tone +100)

Notable positive coverage:

- 28 July 2026, ffnews.com: [Allica Bank Scraps Arrangement Fees on Commercial Mortgages Over £750k to Fuel SME Growth](https://ffnews.com/news/allica-bank-scraps-arrangement-fees-on-commercial-mortgages-over-750k-to-fuel-sme-growth). Allica Bank is waiving arrangement fees on qualifying large commercial mortgages and raising selected lending limits for UK SMEs. The changes aim to reduce upfront borrowing costs and support larger property investments.
- 20 July 2026, marketingweek.com: [Vote for your Brand of the Year 2026](https://www.marketingweek.com/vote-brand-of-the-year-2026/). Allica Bank is shortlisted for Marketing Week’s 2026 Brand of the Year. The article highlights its SME focus, rapid growth, brand refresh and first TV campaign.
- 7 July 2026, mortgagestrategy.co.uk: [Allica Bank drops arrangement fees on borrowing over £750k](https://www.mortgagestrategy.co.uk/news/allica-bank-drops-arrangement-fees-on-borrowing-over-750k/). Allica Bank waived arrangement fees on qualifying large commercial mortgages and increased lending flexibility for certain commercial-property borrowers. The changes aim to support established businesses pursuing growth.

- [Allica Bank deep dive](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-fintech-2026-07?entity=allicabank&view=deep-dive)
- [Allica Bank PDF report](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-fintech-2026-07/reports/allicabank.pdf)

### OakNorth

**Merchants, SMEs & Lending shaped OakNorth's media profile during July 2026**

OakNorth ranked 11th of 12 by average monthly share of coverage (2.1%) in the UK Payments & Fintech benchmark for July 2026, with 5 mentions and a net tone of +100.

July was the low point at 2.1% and 11th place, despite company-focused coverage of OakNorth’s £22m contribution to Everflow’s funding package. OakNorth has provided a £22 million debt-finance package to UK utilities provider Everflow alongside BGF's £22 million equity investment. The funding will support Everflow's UK expansion, technology investment and potential acquisitions. OakNorth's care-sector report forecasts continuing demand, cost pressures, consolidation and selective development in UK social care. The lender says it remains committed to financing experienced care-business operators. The Hurun UK Unicorn Index reported 24 UK fintech unicorns with combined valuations of £121.8 billion. OakNorth was cited among firms contributing to the UK's fintech-unicorn ecosystem. Prepare a factual media briefing on the Federal Reserve requirement for OakNorth to establish a UK holding company to secure approval for its proposed acquisition of Community Unity Bank.

Key messages:

- OakNorth has provided a £22 million debt-finance package to UK utilities provider Everflow alongside BGF's £22 million equity investment. The funding will support Everflow's UK expansion, technology investment and potential acquisitions.
- OakNorth's care-sector report forecasts continuing demand, cost pressures, consolidation and selective development in UK social care. The lender says it remains committed to financing experienced care-business operators.
- The Hurun UK Unicorn Index reported 24 UK fintech unicorns with combined valuations of £121.8 billion. OakNorth was cited among firms contributing to the UK's fintech-unicorn ecosystem.
- Merchants, SMEs & Lending accounted for 4 mentions in this edition.

Leading themes:

- Merchants, SMEs & Lending: 80.0% of OakNorth's coverage (theme index 20.36, net tone +100)
- Financial Results & Valuations: 20.0% of OakNorth's coverage (theme index 1.27, net tone +100)

Notable positive coverage:

- 15 July 2026, ispreview.co.uk: [Everflow Expand into UK Telecoms with £44m Funding Deal from BGF and OakNorth](https://www.ispreview.co.uk/index.php/2026/07/everflow-expand-into-uk-telecoms-with-44m-funding-deal-from-bgf-and-oaknorth.html). OakNorth and BGF have provided £44m of funding to Everflow, supporting its UK expansion into telecoms. OakNorth's £22m contribution forms part of the financing package.
- 14 July 2026, business-live.co.uk: [Utilities provider Everflow secures £44m of funding to support expansion](https://www.business-live.co.uk/enterprise/utilities-provider-everflow-secures-44m-34291169). OakNorth has provided a £22 million debt-finance package to UK utilities provider Everflow alongside BGF's £22 million equity investment. The funding will support Everflow's UK expansion, technology investment and potential acquisitions.
- 13 July 2026, insidermedia.com: [Multi-utility provider lands £44m to accelerate nationwide growth and expand 250-strong team](https://www.insidermedia.com/news/north-east/multi-utility-provider-lands-44m-to-accelerate-nationwide-growth-and-expand-250-strong-team). OakNorth has provided a £22m bespoke funding package to UK utility provider Everflow alongside £22m from BGF. The financing will support Everflow's expansion, acquisitions and technology investment.

- [OakNorth deep dive](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-fintech-2026-07?entity=oaknorth&view=deep-dive)
- [OakNorth PDF report](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-fintech-2026-07/reports/oaknorth.pdf)

### Checkout.com

**Funding, IPOs & Listings shaped Checkout.com's media profile during July 2026**

Checkout.com ranked 12th of 12 by average monthly share of coverage (0.4%) in the UK Payments & Fintech benchmark for July 2026, with 1 mentions and a net tone of 0.

In July 2026, Checkout.com recorded 1 mention, 0.4% of cohort coverage and rank #12, with net sentiment of 0. Irish-founded Stripe and Advent have reportedly offered more than $53 billion to acquire PayPal. The proposed deal would combine major merchant and consumer payments networks. Funding, IPOs & Listings accounted for 1 mention. This small sample is directional: it describes the articles found in July but is not large enough to establish a durable reputation pattern.

Key messages:

- Checkout.com recorded 1 mention in July, so the findings are directional.
- Irish-founded Stripe and Advent have reportedly offered more than $53 billion to acquire PayPal. The proposed deal would combine major merchant and consumer payments networks.
- Funding, IPOs & Listings accounted for 1 mention.

Leading themes:

- Funding, IPOs & Listings: 100.0% of Checkout.com's coverage (theme index 5.42, net tone 0)

- [Checkout.com deep dive](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-fintech-2026-07?entity=checkoutcom&view=deep-dive)
- [Checkout.com PDF report](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-fintech-2026-07/reports/checkoutcom.pdf)

## Methodology

- **Share of coverage**: an organisation's mentions divided by all mentions of the organisations tracked in the same sector that month, in UK earned media. It is the central measure of media visibility in Omniscan benchmarks. "Average monthly share" is the mean of the monthly shares across the reporting period.
- **Mention**: one article that covers an organisation, classified as positive, neutral or negative in tone. Articles are deduplicated, and an organisation's own websites and passing sponsorship name-checks are excluded, so only earned media counts.
- **Net tone**: positive mentions minus negative mentions, as a percentage of all mentions (range −100 to +100).
- **Themes**: every article is assigned to one of the sector's editorial themes. A theme index above 1 means the organisation is covered on that theme more than its peers are; below 1 means less.
- **Calculation**: every figure is computed directly from the classified articles; narrative summaries are checked against those figures.
- **Sources**: UK national and international, trade and specialist, regional and local, and aggregator and syndication earned media.

## Other UK Payments & Fintech editions

- [UK payments & fintech media reputation tracker – 2026 year to date](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-fintech-2026-ytd.md)
- [UK payments & fintech media reputation tracker – H1 2026](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-fintech-2026-h1.md)
- [UK payments & fintech media reputation tracker – August 2026](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-fintech-2026-08.md)
- [UK payments & fintech media reputation tracker – September 2026](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-fintech-2026-09.md)
- [All Omniscan media benchmarks](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks.md)

## How to cite

Omniscan, "UK payments & fintech media reputation tracker", July 2026 (1 July 2026–31 July 2026), published 1 September 2026. https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-fintech-2026-07