Mark Anderson
As part of our series highlighting emerging UK-based startups, our focus this time is Financial Services. Despite the challenging economic climate brought about by the Covid-19 pandemic, the Financial Services sector is proving to be a hotbed of innovation and entrepreneurship. The companies highlighted in this article all established in 2020 or later and are headquartered in the United Kingdom. These companies are redefining the future of finance, through pioneering technologies, innovative business models, and a commitment to sustainable practices.
From a platform that facilitates the secure transfer of certified carbon credits, to a provider of institutional-grade access to digital asset markets, these startups are leveraging technology to provide novel and impactful solutions. Furthermore, several of these companies are focusing beyond conventional financial services and introducing novel concepts such as a wooden payment card that funds reforestation, and an international money transfer provider offering a flat fixed fee for transactions. Without further ado, let’s dig into the unique offerings of these promising startups.
Please note that the views expressed in this article are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Beststartup UK.
Carbonplace
Located in London, Carbonplace is a carbon credit transaction network that enables the secure, and transparent transfer of certified carbon credits. This initiative is a novel addition to the financial services sector, reflecting a growing trend towards sustainable and responsible investment practices. Follow the company on Linkedin.
Elwood Technologies
Founded by Alan Howard, London-based Elwood Technologies provides institutional-grade access to digital asset markets and liquidity venues. With their innovative platform, Elwood aims to streamline access to the digital assets market. The company can be followed on Twitter and Linkedin.
Atlantic Money
Another startup based in London is Atlantic Money, an international money transfer provider established in 2020. Offering a flat fixed fee for transactions, Atlantic Money’s unique offering is bucking the trend in the industry. You can follow them on Twitter, Facebook, and Linkedin.
TreeCard
TreeCard is a unique startup that has introduced a green finance platform, allowing consumers to spend, save, and invest responsibly. Their first product is a wooden payment card that funds reforestation. TreeCard is also located in London and can be followed on Twitter, Facebook, and Linkedin.
Prograd
Prograd, also based in London, is simplifying borrowing for young people with its innovative credit marketplace. The company enhances the underwriting accuracy of lenders, thereby improving the borrowing experience for consumers. Follow them on Twitter and Linkedin.
Btomorrow Ventures
Btomorrow Ventures is the corporate venturing unit of BAT, based in London. The company is partnering with ambitious entrepreneurs to enhance innovation and accelerate growth across various sectors. You can follow them on Linkedin.
Lanistar
Lanistar uses polymorphic technology to provide a customer-centric alternative to the finance offerings provided by the incumbents in the sector. The company, which is based in London, also has plans to grow a 150-person support team in Greece. Follow Lanistar on Twitter and Linkedin.
Lightyear
Also based in London, Lightyear offers a simple and accessible way to invest your money globally without unnecessary barriers and fees. The company can be followed on Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn.
Bloom Group SA
London-based Bloom Group helps digital brands unlock their potential with founder-friendly capital and tools that accelerate growth. Visit their website for more information and follow them on Facebook and Linkedin.
Superfluid Finance
Located in London, Superfluid Finance is on a mission to transform the way assets move in decentralized finance. The company is making waves in the fintech space, and they can be followed on Twitter and Linkedin.
Although all these companies are unique and innovative in their own ways, what unites them is their commitment to disrupting the financial services industry by leveraging technology and championing customer-centric services.
