Digital financial services platform Nu México has announced a landmark US$ 4.2 billion investment plan for the country, extending through 2030. This substantial capital injection from its holding company underscores a long-term commitment as Nu approaches a customer base of 14 million and prepares to launch full banking operations. The move solidifies its position as a dominant force in the market, where it already ranks as the third-largest issuer of credit cards.
A Strategic Commitment to Mexican Expansion
The investment strategy includes an estimated US$ 2.5 billion in strategic expenditures over the next four years, covering both capital and operational costs. Armando Herrera, CEO of Nu México, emphasized that this financial commitment is a testament to the strength of Nu's business model and its long-term vision for the nation. This funding is designed to fuel continued growth and support the company's transition into a fully regulated bank.
Outpacing Expectations with Strong Performance
Nu México's growth trajectory has notably surpassed that of its Brazilian counterpart during equivalent stages of development. The company's Average Monthly Revenue Per Active Customer (ARPAC) reached US$ 12.5, nearly double the US$ 6.7 figure seen in Brazil at a similar phase. This rapid monetization is complemented by a significant reduction in the cost to serve each customer, which has fallen to just US$ 1.
Driving Financial Inclusion Across the Nation
A core pillar of Nu's strategy is its profound impact on financial inclusion, a contribution recognized by Mexico's National Banking and Securities Commission (CNBV). Approximately 78% of its customers reside outside major metropolitan areas, where traditional banking infrastructure is often scarce. Furthermore, the platform has provided nearly half of its clients with their very first credit card, serving as a crucial entry point into the formal financial system.
The company has successfully transitioned a significant portion of the population away from cash-only transactions, with 22% of its users previously operating exclusively with physical currency. This digital shift is a key part of Nu's mission to modernize Mexico's financial landscape. The CNBV has specifically credited Nu with contributing to a notable increase in personal loans and deposit accounts nationwide, highlighting its systemic importance.
The Transition to a Full-Fledged Bank
Following the approval of its banking license in April 2025, Nu México is in the final stages of preparation for its launch as a bank in 2026. This transformation is a pivotal moment for the company, pending a final audit by the CNBV. Operating as a bank will unlock a new suite of products and services, fundamentally changing its competitive position against incumbent institutions.
The new license will enable Nu to offer services such as payroll portability, significantly increase deposit limits, and provide greater security through IPAB deposit insurance. This expansion is guided by a customer-centric approach, with products adapted to local needs, such as interest-free installment plans. The company also continues to expand its physical footprint for cash deposits and withdrawals through a network of over 30,000 partner locations.
In conclusion, Nu México's US$ 4.2 billion investment and impending launch as a bank signal a new era of competition and innovation in the country's financial sector. By combining rapid, data-driven growth with a strong focus on financial inclusion, the company is poised to deepen its market penetration and challenge the dominance of traditional banks. This strategic move not only reinforces its commitment to Mexico but also accelerates the nation's ongoing digital transformation.