Verto Expands USD Access for Firms Working Across US and Africa
Businesses operating between the US and Africa are gaining new ways to hold and move dollars
Global fintech Verto has introduced US dollar-denominated business accounts aimed at companies operating between the United States and African markets, addressing growing friction in cross-border banking access.
The product allows firms to hold and transact in USD under their own names, using US banking infrastructure.
It is designed for businesses managing payments, payroll and supplier obligations across multiple jurisdictions, where access to stable banking relationships has become increasingly uncertain.
Pressure builds on cross-border banking access
The rollout comes as startups and internationally registered firms with African operations report difficulty maintaining US bank accounts. These challenges have intensified in recent months, with stricter compliance scrutiny affecting companies that operate across emerging and developed markets.
Ola Oyetayo, chief executive of Verto, said the accounts respond to a gap affecting legitimate, investment-backed firms.
“We are seeing businesses that are properly registered struggle to maintain banking relationships simply because they operate across borders, including in African markets.”
Industry observers link the pressure to tighter anti-money laundering controls, which in practice have widened the risk perception around emerging markets without always distinguishing between high-risk activity and compliant businesses.
Designed for firms navigating multiple markets
Verto said the USD accounts target companies operating at the intersection of US and African economies, including startups expanding regionally, US-based firms with African subsidiaries, and businesses involved in trade and digital services.
The accounts integrate with the company’s existing cross-border payments infrastructure, offering a single framework for managing international transactions.
Investor interest contrasts with operational friction
The launch comes at a time of renewed investor activity. Data from The Big Deal shows African startups raised more than $3 billion in 2025, reflecting continued capital inflows into the continent.
That momentum has not eliminated operational bottlenecks. Founders continue to face delays in moving funds across borders, with routine transactions such as payroll and supplier payments affected by banking restrictions.
Implications for trade and capital flows
Analysts say improved access to dollar-denominated accounts could reduce transaction delays and costs while improving confidence among international partners.
For African markets, more predictable payment channels may support smoother capital inflows and day-to-day business operations. Oyetayo framed the issue in practical terms.
“Reliable access to banking is fundamental to trade and growth. When businesses can move money with certainty, it strengthens the markets they operate in.”
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