The deal, which is expected to close in the next few weeks, comes amid continuous growth for both companies. This acquisition represents the logical next step in Qonto’s long-term ambition to become the finance solution of choice for one million European SMEs and freelancers by 2025.
Created in 2017, Penta is the leading German digital business finance solution for Small- and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs), sole proprietors and freelancers. The company serves 50,000 customers in Germany and counts 200 employees, who are mainly based in Berlin and Belgrade. Penta is one of the rising German fintechs and has significantly contributed to the growing demand for digital finance solutions in Germany. Joining forces is a great opportunity for both Qonto and Penta and the resulting union promises to be greater than the sum of its two parts. Both companies are seeking to create more value at a faster pace for customers, not just in Germany but across Qonto’s other markets. They share the same mission, culture and robust business models
With Qonto’s brand, license and Core Banking System allied to Penta’s precious local expertise, Qonto is primed to achieve its strong ambitions for the German market.
In 2021, Germany was the fastest growing market at Qonto, with 170% customer growth YoY. The acquisition of Penta will enable Qonto to become the market leader in Germany – the largest SME banking market in Europe – and to further accelerate profitable growth across all markets. Combined, Qonto and Penta are creating the European digital business finance leader with more than 300 000 customers and 900 employees, who will together design the future of business banking.
“When Steve Anavi and I founded Qonto in 2016, we had the ambitious goal of simplifying everyday banking for SMEs and freelancers across Europe. Today, we’re already present in four European markets and, while I’m very proud of what we’ve achieved so far, we want to go even further: the natural next step was to join forces with Penta. We are thrilled to welcome the Penta team onboard. Together we’re going to be the finance solution of choice for one million European SMEs and freelancers by 2025!”
Alexandre Prot – CEO of Qonto
Both teams are already working intensively on the details of the future joint work, which should also offer opportunities for talent to grow within the company. The two companies intend to announce details in the coming months.