No, peer-to-peer (P2P) lending is not illegal in most countries. However, it is important to note that regulations vary from country to country.

P2P lending is a form of lending that connects borrowers and lenders directly, without the involvement of a traditional financial institution. This allows borrowers to access loans at lower interest rates, while lenders can earn higher returns on their investments.
In the United Kingdom, P2P lending is regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). The FCA has implemented a number of regulations to protect both borrowers and lenders, including:
- Authorisation: All P2P lending platforms must be authorised by the FCA.
- Disclosure: Lenders and borrowers must be provided with clear and concise information about the risks and rewards of P2P lending.
- Credit checks: Borrowers must undergo credit checks to ensure they are able to repay their loans.
- Transparency: P2P lending platforms must be transparent about their fees and charges.
While P2P lending can be a valuable tool for both borrowers and lenders, there are some risks involved:
- Default risk: There is always a risk that a borrower may default on their loan. This can result in lenders losing their investment.
- Interest rate risk: Interest rates on P2P loans can fluctuate, which can impact the returns for lenders.
- Liquidity risk: P2P loans are typically not as liquid as traditional bank loans, which means lenders may have to wait some time to access their funds.
No, P2P lending is not illegal in most countries. However, it is important to be aware of the regulations in your country and the risks involved before participating in P2P lending. By understanding the risks and taking appropriate precautions, you can use P2P lending to access loans at lower interest rates or earn higher returns on your investments.
Is P2P lending safe?
P2P lending can be a safe form of lending, but there are some risks involved. It is important to do your research and understand the risks before participating in P2P lending.
How do I get started with P2P lending?
To get started with P2P lending, you will need to create an account with a P2P lending platform. Once you have created an account, you will be able to browse loans and invest in those that you find attractive.
What are the benefits of P2P lending?
P2P lending can offer a number of benefits, including:
- Lower interest rates for borrowers
- Higher returns for lenders
- Greater flexibility
- No middleman
What are the risks of P2P lending?
The risks of P2P lending include:
- Default risk
- Interest rate risk
- Liquidity risk
Platform | Authorised by the FCA |
---|---|
Funding Circle | Yes |
Zopa | Yes |
LendInvest | Yes |
RateSetter | Yes |
Moneybox | Yes |