Berlin fintech, Upvest, is partnering with financial giant BlackRock. Their goal? Make investing accessible for millions in Europe.
About Upvest
Established in 2017, Upvest empowers financial institutions to offer top-tier investment experiences. With its diverse range of investment products, Upvest aims to simplify investing. Headquartered in Berlin, the firm operates under German authority, BaFin. It’s backed by renowned investors, including BlackRock and Notion Capital.
Partnership to complement strengths
BlackRock, known for its asset management expertise and leadership in ETFs, and Upvest, famous for its efficient investment API, are joining forces. This union aims to revolutionise investment offerings for a vast number of European investors. Thanks to Upvest’s efficient API-based infrastructure, wealth managers, banks, and fintechs can now create modern investment experiences rapidly. Importantly, Upvest will continue to offer an open architecture.
In this strategic collaboration, BlackRock played a significant role. They participated in Upvest’s €30m 2023 funding round. Also joining this round were existing investors such as Bessemer Venture Partners, HV Capital, and Notion Capital, among others.
Retail investment revolution in Europe
Europe has witnessed a surge in its investing populace. Countless Europeans have turned to investing in recent years, with many more expected soon. Innovative platforms now offer low-cost, easy access for novice investors. ETFs, known for their transparency and affordability, are popular choices for many. Notably, ETF savings plans have gained traction. Estimates suggest their numbers will rise from 4.9 million in 2021 to approximately 20 million by 2026 in Europe.
The importance of efficient infrastructure
Upvest powers many of these new investment opportunities. Their efficient infrastructure reduces transaction costs and permits investments from small amounts. Innovations like fractional dealing of ETFs and stocks further enhance their offerings. Both emerging fintechs and established banks stand to gain from these capabilities.
Upvest, an industry frontrunner, boasts some of Europe’s largest fintechs as clients. Their API-based system enables real fractional investing across various assets, reducing investment entry barriers to a mere €1. With the rising adoption of ETF portfolios, Upvest, with its in-house portfolio engine, can support retail investors’ growth.
Voices from the partnership
Timo Toenges of BlackRock believes that this partnership will revolutionise European investment. He emphasised the importance of ETFs for the new wave of investors.
Martin Kassing from Upvest echoed these sentiments. He expressed immense pride in this partnership, aiming to expand investment opportunities across Europe.
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