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Suspected fraud under investigation
In February 2025, the City of London Police announced that four individuals connected to the 79th Group had been arrested due to a “suspected widespread fraud”. Searches of properties led to the seizure of large amounts of cash, luxury watches, and jewellery. No charges have been made at this stage, and all individuals have been released on bail.
According to police, the group is “believed to be offering loan notes to investors with a high interest return over a fixed period.” Also known as mini-bonds, loan notes are debt-based investment products where the issuer commits to repay the investor’s capital plus interest by a set date. These products are often used to raise funds for specific business projects and rely heavily on those projects being viable to generate the promised returns.
Seventy Ninth Group (79th Group) entered administration in April 2025 and is under investigation by the City of London Police for suspected fraud. Insolvency practitioners have told creditors they believe the business was operating as a Ponzi scheme, potentially leaving around 3,700 investors facing significant financial losses.
NatWest linked to 79th Group
According to a recent report from administrators Kroll and Quantuma, the group’s “main account” was held with NatWest. It is believed the account was opened through the bank’s Southport branch, close to the 79th Group’s headquarters.
Administrators are now investigating the flow of investor funds, many of which were paid into a central treasury account and transferred to other parts of the group. Their report states that funds were not ring-fenced but pooled in group accounts. No formal loan accounts or board minutes have yet been identified that explain how the investors’ money was managed.
NatWest has declined to comment on how much money it received and processed or whether investor funds continued to be accepted after the police investigation began. A NatWest spokesperson said that “combating fraud is a top priority” but confirmed the bank would not comment further on the case.
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TLW Solicitors’ Comments on the latest reports
“It’s incredibly concerning that investor money may not have been properly safeguarded, especially given the scale of losses now being reported. Where banks have longstanding relationships with firms like the 79th Group, it’s right that serious questions are asked about whether red flags were missed.
We are continuing to speak to affected investors to assess their options, including potential claims relating to financial mis-selling or failings by regulated firms involved in the movement of funds.
I would therefore encourage anyone who thinks that they or a loved one have lost out as a result of these investments to get in touch with a member of my specialist team for a confidential and no obligation discussion. We can explore what, if any, avenues of redress are available and also determine if you may have the basis of a claim.”
Help for investors in failed schemes
At TLW Solicitors, our experienced team helps clients recover compensation after investing in failed or mis-sold high-risk schemes. If you or someone you know invested with the 79th Group and are concerned about the status of an investment, please get in touch.
Even if the firm is now in administration, it may still be possible to bring a claim for compensation, particularly if a bank or financial adviser failed in their duty of care. We offer a free, no-obligation assessment of your case.
