vivid money raises $73 million to build a european financial super app
Vivid Money Secures $73 Million in Series B Funding
Vivid Money, a German fintech startup, has successfully closed a $73 million (€60 million) Series B funding round. This investment was spearheaded by Greenoaks, with participation from existing investor Ribbit Capital.
The recent funding has propelled Vivid Money to a valuation of $436 million (€360 million). This demonstrates strong investor confidence in the company’s growth trajectory.
Positioning as a Eurozone Fintech
Vivid Money operates as a direct competitor to companies like Revolut, but with a specific focus on the Eurozone market. The platform leverages the banking infrastructure provided by Solarisbank.
This allows users to manage their finances in a comprehensive manner, encompassing sending, receiving, spending, investing, and saving capabilities.
Key Features and Functionality
Upon account creation, users are provided with a German IBAN, beginning with 'DE', and a metal debit card. For enhanced security, card details are not printed on the physical card itself.
Instead, all card information is accessible through the Vivid Money mobile application. Users can easily control their card’s functionality directly from the app, including locking/unlocking and integration with Google Pay and Apple Pay.
The platform supports account top-ups and the holding of multiple currencies. When making international purchases, a small margin is applied to the current exchange rate, generally offering more favorable rates than traditional banks.
Investment and Cryptocurrency Options
Beyond standard banking features, Vivid Money provides access to stock trading with fractional shares. Investment in stocks and ETFs is available without commission fees.
Furthermore, the app facilitates the buying, holding, and sharing of cryptocurrencies, achieved through a partnership with CM Equity AG.
Cashback and Premium Subscriptions
Vivid Money incorporates a cashback program to reward users. A premium subscription, priced at €9.90 monthly, unlocks additional benefits.
These benefits include increased limits for free cash withdrawals, the creation of virtual cards, support for a wider range of currencies, and enhanced cashback rewards.
Pockets: Sub-Accounts for Organized Spending
Users can establish sub-accounts, known as "pockets," to categorize and manage their funds. Money can be transferred between these pockets, and other users can be granted access.
Each pocket is assigned its own unique IBAN, enabling users to pay specific bills from designated accounts. Card association with individual pockets is also possible for planned purchases.
Future Outlook
Vivid Money has rapidly expanded its feature set and secured substantial funding. The next challenge lies in attracting a significant user base to effectively compete with established European fintech companies.
Romain Dillet
Romain Dillet: A Profile of a Leading Tech Journalist
Romain Dillet served as a Senior Reporter for TechCrunch until April 2025. Throughout his tenure, he became a recognized authority within the technology sector.
Extensive Experience and Expertise
Dillet authored more than 3,500 articles focusing on technology and tech startups. This prolific output cemented his position as a key influencer in the European tech landscape.
His expertise spans a wide range of areas, including startups, AI, fintech, privacy, security, blockchain, mobile technologies, social media, and the broader media industry.
A Long-Standing Career at TechCrunch
Having spent thirteen years with TechCrunch, Romain Dillet is a well-known figure associated with the publication’s comprehensive coverage of Silicon Valley and the technology industry.
His journey at TechCrunch began at the age of 21, demonstrating a long-term commitment to tech journalism. He is based in Paris and is widely regarded by many within the tech community as the most informed tech journalist in the city.
Early Identification of Promising Startups
Dillet possesses a talent for identifying significant startups before they gain widespread recognition. He was the first journalist to report on Revolut, Alan, and N26.
Furthermore, he has broken exclusive stories regarding major acquisitions made by prominent companies such as Apple, Microsoft, and Snap.
Technical Depth and Historical Perspective
Beyond his reporting, Romain Dillet is also a skilled developer. This technical background provides him with a unique understanding of the underlying technology driving innovation.
He also maintains a comprehensive understanding of the computer industry’s evolution over the last 50 years. This allows him to effectively analyze the connections between new innovations and their societal impact.
Educational Background and Philanthropic Work
Romain Dillet is a graduate of Emlyon Business School, a highly respected French business school with a specialization in entrepreneurship.
He actively supports several non-profit organizations, including StartHer, which focuses on promoting education and empowerment for women in technology, and Techfugees, an organization dedicated to assisting displaced individuals through the use of technology.