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Ultimoo obtains the AFM licence for credit servicing of non-performing loans in the Netherlands

Author Marketing Manager Marketing Manager at Ultimoo
Published on Last reviewed at by Arjan Stigter (CEO)

A major milestone for Ultimoo and for the Dutch financial market. Since 13 October 2026, Ultimoo has been officially registered with the Dutch Authority for the Financial Markets (AFM). (AFM) as a licence holder for credit servicing of non-performing loans (NPLs). This makes us the very first debt collection agency in the Netherlands to successfully pass this rigorous assessment. What does this mean for purchasers of credit portfolios and for the market?

Banks and lenders regularly sell non-performing loans (NPLs) to specialised investors. These are loans with long-standing payment arrears. To better protect the borrowers behind these loans, the European NPL Directive (EU 2021/2167) was introduced. Under this directive, the collection of such claims may only be carried out by a party holding a specific AFM licence.

An intensive process with results

The requirements for this licence are demanding. Applicants are rigorously assessed on the careful handling of files, watertight complaint handling and the overall integrity of the organisation. Although the licensing requirement has applied since the end of 2023, it only became possible to apply for a licence with the AFM in September 2025. As one of the first applicants, we found the application process challenging at times. Through intensive consultation with the AFM, tightening our policies and submitting extensive documentation, we ultimately crossed the finish line as the first debt collection agency in the Netherlands.

This licence is the result of a lot of hard work by our team and constructive consultation with the AFM. We are extremely proud to be the first Dutch debt collection agency to meet all the requirements. For purchasers of NPL portfolios, this means they can now place their claims with confidence with a party that truly knows the Dutch market. • Arjan Stigter, CEO van Ultimoo

What does this mean for investors and purchasers of NPLs?

Purchasers of NPL portfolios look for certainty, returns and protection of their reputation. With our brand-new AFM licence, Ultimoo offers exactly that. We take care of the entire management and handling of the files:

  • Seamless communication and onboarding when portfolios are transferred.
  • Continuation of existing payment arrangements.
  • Proactively agreeing and monitoring new, achievable arrangements that reflect the borrower’s financial reality.

Arjan Stigter adds: “These specific files require more patience, tact and a tailored approach than regular collection cases. It is all about having a crystal-clear picture of the customer’s situation and finding sustainable, realistic solutions. That is exactly where Ultimoo’s strength lies.”

Looking for an AFM-licensed partner for NPL servicing in the Netherlands?

Are you active in acquiring NPL portfolios and looking for a reliable, locally rooted partner with the right credentials? Ultimoo is ready for the future.

Contact us today to discuss the possibilities, or view our registration in the AFM register of credit servicers.

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