When it was launched, Ma French Bank aimed to attract young people and mobile-first enthusiasts with a simple promise: a banking service without paperwork, 100% online, and with no hidden fees. Despite an encouraging start, the public neobank never reached financial equilibrium. Operating costs weighed heavily, and the promised synergies with La Banque Postale did not prove sufficient to compensate for the lack of profitability.
In a context where online banks must be more agile to assert themselves against already well-established players like Revolut, N26, or Hello bank!, Ma French Bank has not managed to stand out.
A gradual closure, simple procedures
The closure will be gradual. New customers are no longer accepted, and several features have already been disabled, including mobile payment (Apple Pay, Google Pay) since December 2024. For customers who are still active, the app remains functional, but accounts will be closed by summer 2025.
A 60-day notice period is required before any automatic closure. Account holders are invited to transfer their funds and close their account voluntarily via the app. After this period, the closure will be carried out by the bank, with the funds returned by transfer.
What does La Banque Postale offer in exchange?
To support the transition, La Banque Postale is offering its customers an incentive. A €50 bonus is offered for any account opening with it, and fees on payments and withdrawals abroad are waived. A way to retain customers while gradually reintegrating Ma French Bank's digital offering into the parent company's traditional services.
Because contrary to what some may have believed, La Banque Postale itself is not closing. It remains fully active and continues its public service missions, particularly in rural areas and priority neighborhoods. Only its 100% mobile subsidiary is bowing out, as part of a strategic refocusing approach.
The group now wants to consolidate its offerings and optimize its costs, while remaining present in the digital segment – but differently. Other digital projects could emerge, more integrated into the existing ecosystem.
What alternatives are there for customers?
Those who prefer to stay in the 100% mobile universe can turn to other well-established players:
- Hello bank!, a subsidiary of BNP Paribas, offers a free offer with up to €180 free upon opening.
- Monabanq, recognized for the quality of its customer service, allows opening without income conditions.
- Revolut or N26, very popular among travelers, offer international services and a seamless user experience.
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