Maxim launches UK credit card for African
Paymentology provides issuer processing for Maxim's new UK credit card, targeting the credit-invisible Nigerian diaspora to help them build a local
The borderless credit platform Maxim has launched a new credit card programme in the United Kingdom, powered by the issuer processor Paymentology. The initiative specifically aims to improve access to credit for members of the African diaspora, beginning with those of Nigerian heritage, who often lack a UK credit history.
Experian estimates over five million people in the UK are 'credit invisible'. Maxim was created to address this challenge for new arrivals who have established careers and financial histories abroad that are not recognized domestically. The official UK launch event was held at Arsenal Football Club's Emirates Stadium on Thursday 27 August.
Partnership for inclusive finance
The collaboration pairs Maxim's mission with Paymentology's cloud-native processing technology. Paymentology's Global Head of Partnerships, Merusha Naidu, joined Maxim CEO Ibrahim Oladele on stage at the launch to discuss how modern payments infrastructure can create more inclusive products.
Julie Sutton, Head of Growth Europe at Paymentology, stated the company helps ambitious fintechs become unstoppable. She said, "Building more inclusive services requires both a deep understanding of customers and flexible, scalable technology."
Building a financial identity
Maxim's proposition offers cards both to newcomers with limited UK credit history and to more established residents. The goal is to help customers establish a UK financial footprint while accessing relevant rewards.
Ibrahim Oladele explained the core problem. "Moving to a new country should not mean leaving your financial identity behind," he said. "Too many talented and ambitious people arrive in the UK with years of experience and financial history, only to find that none of it counts."
A tailored rewards ecosystem
Maxim has designed a points-based rewards system around the interests of its target community. This differs from traditional credit card programmes. Points earned through spending can be redeemed across a curated range of services.
The redemption options include:
Foundation for future growth
The partnership with Paymentology provides the processing capabilities to support the UK launch and build a foundation for scaling. Paymentology's Lume platform supports card programmes in 68 countries.
Maxim is already active in Nigeria, providing interest-free credit. The UK expansion is a step toward creating a continuous financial experience for Africans moving between markets. The company aims to support customers across different stages of their cross-border lives.
To apply for a card or learn more, potential customers can visit www.trymaxim.com.
