Belfast Set to Gain 1,000 New Jobs as US Financial Giants Announce Major Investments in UK
Belfast is on track to become a major hub for global finance, with a surge of US investment set to bring thousands of high-skilled jobs across the UK. Cities including Belfast, London, Manchester, and Edinburgh are expected to benefit as American financial powerhouses expand their presence.
Bank of America to Create 1,000 Jobs in Belfast
Bank of America has confirmed plans to launch its first-ever operation in Northern Ireland, creating up to 1,000 new jobs. The facility will position Belfast as a “centre of excellence for financial technology and security operations,” according to the UK’s Department for Business and Trade (DBT).
The bank has already invested in local communities, funding a three-year digital skills and employability programme through Belfast Met, which supports 600 people from disadvantaged backgrounds. Recruitment for the new roles will begin soon, with the final location for the facility to be confirmed shortly.
Bank of America CEO Brian Moynihan said the new Belfast operation reflects the bank’s commitment to supporting its global business. He credited early progress on a US-UK trade agreement for giving businesses the stability needed to strengthen transatlantic commerce.
Strengthening Belfast’s Fintech Reputation
The new facility will house advanced anti-money laundering systems and cybersecurity operations, creating highly skilled roles in Northern Ireland’s growing fintech sector. Officials say the investment highlights international confidence in Belfast’s talent, digital infrastructure, and role as a financial services destination.
Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly welcomed the move as “a hugely significant sign of confidence in Northern Ireland.” She added that the investment, supported by new UK-USA trade arrangements, demonstrates faith in the region’s ability to deliver world-class professional services.
Citigroup Expands UK Operations
Bank of America isn’t alone in backing Northern Ireland. Citigroup has also pledged an additional £1.1 billion investment across its UK operations, including a strong commitment to expanding its Belfast base. The US banking giant already employs over 4,000 people in the city, making it one of the region’s top employers.
Citi CEO Jane Fraser emphasized the bank’s long-standing ties with the UK, where it employs nearly 14,000 staff across London, Belfast, Edinburgh, and Jersey. She highlighted Citi’s role in supporting 85% of FTSE 100 companies with capital raising, growth financing, and global market expansion.
Boost for UK-US Trade Relations
UK leaders have praised the announcements as a milestone in strengthening ties with one of the nation’s closest trading partners. Chancellor Rachel Reeves said the commitments from America’s leading financial institutions show the “immense potential of the UK economy” and the confidence global investors have in the government’s economic vision.
Business and Trade Secretary Peter Kyle added that these investments reinforce the UK’s status as “the world’s leading investment destination” while creating jobs, boosting the economy, and cementing Britain’s role in global finance.
A Bright Future for Belfast and Beyond
With Bank of America, Citigroup, PayPal, and S&P Global all expanding in the UK, more than £1.25 billion in fresh investment is set to transform the nation’s financial services sector. For Belfast, in particular, the creation of 1,000 new jobs marks a pivotal moment — positioning the city as a world-class centre for fintech innovation and global banking operations.