Starting a bank involves significant financial investment and regulatory compliance. To begin with, the cost to start a bank can vary widely depending on several factors such as location, size, and the type of bank being established. Generally, the initial capital requirement can range from $12 million to $20 million or more. This includes expenses for regulatory approvals, legal fees, hiring experienced personnel, and setting up the necessary infrastructure. Additionally, ongoing operational costs must be considered, which can further increase the financial burden on the founders.