Launching a gaming business through a white-label platform can be an efficient and cost-effective way to enter the iGaming industry. However, while white-label solutions handle much of the operational complexity, they can also raise red flags for banks—especially when it comes to opening a business account or merchant services.
In the UK, where the banking sector is particularly cautious with high-risk industries, companies operating on a white-label model often face additional scrutiny. At RiskLink, we help gaming operators navigate this complexity and secure reliable banking partnerships suited to their structure.
What Is a White-Label Gaming Platform?
A white-label platform allows entrepreneurs to launch an online casino or sportsbook under their own brand, using the infrastructure, licensing, payment systems, and gaming content provided by an existing provider. While this enables quick market entry, it can complicate banking matters.
From a bank’s perspective, white-label setups often introduce three critical concerns:
- Lack of direct licensing: The license is held by the platform provider, not the operator, raising questions about compliance responsibility.
- Opaque ownership structures: Banks may struggle to identify the ultimate beneficial owners and decision-makers.
- Transactional and operational ambiguity: If funds flow through the provider first, this may trigger concerns about transparency and accountability.
These concerns can lead to delayed approvals or outright rejections from banks and PSPs unfamiliar with the white-label model.
How to Improve Banking Access as a White-Label Gaming Operator
While challenging, it’s absolutely possible to secure a business bank account and payment solution—even if you operate under a white-label framework. It comes down to how you present and manage your business model.
1. Provide Full Disclosure of Your Setup
Transparency is key. Be prepared to explain your agreement with the white-label provider, including who holds the licence, how transactions are processed, and how compliance responsibilities are divided. Banks don’t like surprises—they want clarity.
2. Detail Your Role and Operational Responsibilities
Even if you’re not the licence holder, banks want to understand your active role. Are you in charge of marketing, customer acquisition, or branding? Show your value proposition and business plan clearly.
3. Strengthen Your AML and Responsible Gambling Policies
Even as a white-label operator, you should have internal policies on anti-money laundering, KYC, and responsible gambling. Banks see these as indicators of professionalism and long-term sustainability.
4. Establish a Strong Partnership with Your Provider
Banks will often assess the white-label platform as much as they assess you. Ensure your provider has a strong regulatory track record, FCA registration if applicable, and can support you with compliance documentation.
5. Work with High-Risk Banking Specialists
At RiskLink, we understand the intricacies of white-label gaming setups and have experience helping operators present their business in a way that makes sense to banking institutions. We speak both the language of iGaming and of compliance.
How RiskLink Helps White-Label Operators Access Banking
We bridge the gap between your gaming venture and the banking world through:
- Compliance Assessment: Review of your structure, KYC, and AML policies.
- Banking Presentation Pack: Professionally prepared documents to support your application.
- Bank Introductions: Connections to institutions open to white-label gaming models.
- Ongoing Support: Post-onboarding guidance for transaction monitoring and risk management.
Ready to find the right banking partner for your white-label venture? Apply now and let us help you access the infrastructure you need to scale.
For more insights into banking for gaming companies, check out our post: Fraud Management in Gambling.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can a white-label gaming business get a UK bank account?
Yes, but it’s more complex than for directly licensed operators. You’ll need to clearly explain your model, responsibilities, and compliance setup to potential banking partners. Working with RiskLink simplifies this process.
2. Do I need to be FCA registered as a white-label gaming operator?
If you’re not handling payments directly or holding player funds, FCA registration may not be mandatory. However, aligning with FCA principles and being transparent with banks can significantly boost your credibility.
