Afin reaches £135m lending milestone
Afin Bank reported £135m in mortgage approvals in its first full year in operation.
The lender said the milestone reflects growing demand for its specialist lending proposition aimed at under-served borrowers.
The bank launched in July 2025, less than nine months after receiving approval with restrictions (AwR) from regulators.
Initially focused on supporting foreign nationals working in the UK on valid work visas, it has since expanded its offering to serve self-employed borrowers, contractors, qualified professionals, customers with complex income streams and high-net-worth (HNW) clients.
Afin Bank is backed by parent company WAICA Re, one of Africa’s largest reinsurance firms. WAICA Re committed £62m to launch the bank in the UK.
Jason Oakley (pictured), CEO of Afin Bank, said: “Reaching £135m in mortgage approvals in a year not only shows how well the bank is doing, it also proves there is a need for a bank like Afin that helps borrowers let down by mainstream lenders because their needs do not fit a tick box.
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“The support we have had from brokers has been incredible, not only in terms of the business they have given us, but also the valuable relationships we have built that have helped shape and improve our products and services. Here’s to an incredible second year!”
Katrina Arnold, chair of Afin Bank, added: “Launching a bank takes a lot of hard work and commitment, so I would like to thank all our colleagues, adviser partners, suppliers, investors and of course our customers for their support, helping Afin reach this amazing milestone.
“As the economic conditions continue to become even more challenging for consumers, with many lenders becoming stricter with their lending criteria, I am proud that Afin Bank is here for borrowers whose circumstances are a little bit different, providing a common-sense approach to lending and helping people to buy their first property, move home or remortgage.”
