Serving Crypto-Native Mass Affluents Without the Family Office Price Tag
The mass affluent market—individuals earning between £75,000 and £200,000 per year—is emerging as a prime target for neo-banks integrating crypto and real estate financial services. In the UK, Monument Bank is leading the way, offering a hybrid banking model that combines crypto-friendly features with high-value lending, all within a seamless digital experience (Monument CEO Interview, 2024 [1]).
Unlike traditional private banks that cater exclusively to ultra-high-net-worth individuals (UHNWIs), Monument is bridging the gap by providing crypto-informed financial services without the need for family office-level wealth. For fintech leaders, digital banks, and compliance officers, Monument’s strategy offers a blueprint for balancing accessibility, risk management, and regulatory compliance in the evolving landscape of crypto banking.
How neo-banks are differentiating themselves
Monument is setting itself apart by offering a hybrid financial model that merges crypto trading, property lending, and streamlined digital banking.
One of its key innovations is 24/7 crypto trading, allowing mass affluent clients to access digital assets through a curated, institutionally vetted list of cryptocurrencies. This approach ensures that clients can engage with the crypto market while reducing exposure to high-volatility assets that could introduce undue risk.
Alongside its crypto services, Monument provides personalized property lending, designed specifically for mass affluent investors who may have significant digital asset holdings but lack access to traditional mortgage and real estate financing. By integrating these services, Monument appeals to clients looking for more than just a trading platform—they want a financial partner that understands their digital assets and how to leverage them in real-world financial planning.
Managing risk while enabling crypto adoption
One of the primary challenges for neo-banks integrating crypto services is ensuring strong risk management while maintaining regulatory compliance. While many exchanges offer unrestricted market access, Monument takes a controlled approach by providing a curated list of cryptocurrencies rather than full exchange access (FT Wealth, 2024 [2]).
This approach allows Monument to reduce exposure to high-risk digital assets while still offering clients meaningful opportunities to participate in the crypto economy. Additionally, Monument ensures secure, insured custody solutions and robust know-your-customer (KYC) and anti-money laundering (AML) processes that align with Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) regulations.
By balancing accessibility with compliance, Monument is positioning itself as a trusted partner for crypto-affluent investors who want the benefits of digital assets without the regulatory uncertainty that comes with unregulated exchanges.
Why mass affluent investors are the next big crypto market
Monument’s focus on the mass affluent segment is driven by a clear trend—crypto adoption is significantly higher among this demographic than among UHNWIs.
Research indicates that 40% of mass affluent investors currently hold crypto assets, compared to fewer than 10% of ultra-high-net-worth investors (Monument CEO Interview, 2024 [1]). This growing interest in digital assets is shaping the demand for banking solutions that go beyond simple trading platforms.
Mass affluents tend to be digital-first investors who prefer fintech-driven experiences over traditional private banking. However, they often lack access to the specialized financial services that family offices provide to wealthier investors. Monument is filling this gap by offering regulated, hybrid financial services that cater specifically to crypto-affluent clients.
By integrating digital assets into its banking model, Monument is tapping into a fast-growing segment of investors who need banking solutions that reflect their evolving portfolios.
The future of crypto-friendly banking
As more financial institutions explore ways to integrate digital assets into traditional banking services, Monument’s approach highlights the key trends shaping the future of crypto-affluent banking.
Neo-banks and fintech startups are increasingly adopting hybrid models that combine crypto trading, lending, and investment services tailored to mass affluent clients. Regulatory compliance is becoming a priority, with institutions seeking to offer FCA-compliant digital asset services that provide both security and accessibility. Additionally, as tokenization gains traction, demand for blockchain-based real estate financing and alternative investments is expected to grow, further expanding the scope of crypto-friendly banking.
Preparing for compliant crypto banking
For fintech leaders, compliance officers, and digital banks looking to integrate crypto services while ensuring regulatory compliance, understanding emerging models like Monument’s is essential.
At Molokai Group, we help financial institutions navigate the evolving world of digital asset integration. Contact us today to learn more.
References
Monument CEO Interview (2024). The Future of Neo-Banks and Crypto-Affluent Investors.
FT Wealth (2024). Crypto Compliance and Risk Management in Financial Services.
