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Lenkie Secures £49M Investment to Close £22B Funding Gap for UK SMEs
Lenkie, a UK FinTech focused on cashflow management, has raised £49 million in Series A funding, comprising £4 million in equity and £45 million in debt, to enhance capital access for SMEs. The investment addresses a £22 billion funding gap caused by reduced traditional bank lending. Lenkie’s unique payables financing model allows SMEs to pay suppliers upfront, improving access to essential resources without straining cash reserves. Utilizing data-driven underwriting technology, Lenkie has facilitated over £70 million in funding since its 2021 inception. The company plans to enhance its models, form partnerships, and expand into new markets to support UK entrepreneurs.
FCA and PRA Pause Proposed Diversity Rules in Financial Sector: What This Means for Industry Progress
The FCA and PRA have decided to withdraw their proposed regulations on diversity and inclusion (D&I) in the financial services sector, which were initially introduced in September 2023. The proposed framework aimed to require financial firms to establish clear D&I strategies, objectives, and accountability measures. Concerns from industry stakeholders regarding regulatory duplication, implementation costs, and alignment with the Treasury Select Committee led to this decision. Despite acknowledging the benefits of D&I, the regulators opted against proceeding with the rules, reflecting a broader trend of rolling back similar policies in both the U.S. and the U.K.
HKMA Launches Competition to Boost Sustainable Investing and Climate Risk Analytics in Finance
The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) has launched the 2025 Green FinTech Competition to boost innovation in finance and sustainability, enhancing Hong Kong’s status as a green financial technology hub. In partnership with various institutions, the competition targets five themes: sustainable supply chains, climate risk modeling, carbon market technology, sustainable investment strategies, and green banking. Companies worldwide can submit proposals by June 6, 2025. A panel will evaluate entries based on innovation, impact, and commercial potential, with winners showcased at the 2025 Green FinTech Symposium on September 12, 2025, promoting networking and funding opportunities.
FundThrough Boosts SMB Financing with Ampla Acquisition and $25M Raise in FinTech Revolution
FundThrough, a FinTech platform for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs), has acquired Ampla, a financial technology provider for consumer brands, and secured a $25 million Series B investment led by Klister Credit Corp. This acquisition aims to enhance FundThrough’s AI-driven financial solutions, addressing cash flow challenges for SMBs dealing with delayed invoice payments. CEO Steven Uster emphasized the need for seamless financial solutions for businesses. Ampla’s CEO, Anthony Santomo, will remain as a strategic advisor, focusing on improving commerce capabilities. This merger positions FundThrough to offer more robust financial services tailored to SMB needs for long-term growth.
Standard Chartered Approaches $1 Billion Milestone in Sustainable Finance Initiatives
Standard Chartered has reported a 36% increase in sustainable finance income, reaching $982 million in 2024, as detailed in its annual report. The bank aims for $1 billion in annual income from sustainable finance by 2025. Sustainable finance lending rose to $507 million, while transaction services increased by 58% to $319 million. Chief Sustainability Officer Marisa Drew highlighted the growing opportunity in financing the low-carbon transition. Standard Chartered also plans to mobilize $300 billion in sustainable finance by 2030, with significant progress already made. CEO Bill Winters affirmed the bank’s commitment to environmental goals amid industry shifts.
SymphonyAI Enhances Compliance and Efficiency with Innovative Proceedix Connected Worker Upgrade
SymphonyAI has launched an upgraded version of its Proceedix Connected Worker product to enhance frontline worker efficiency and ensure compliance with industry regulations. The update features improved feedback collection, allowing real-time input in various formats, and introduces compliance tools like procedure audit reports and Delta Reports for regulatory adherence. Enhanced security measures include GxP-compliant digital signatures and a stronger password policy. User management is streamlined with a bulk permissions feature, while data integrity is improved with duplicate name validation. Additional enhancements include a new History Viewer role and bug fixes for the SmartGlass app, reinforcing SymphonyAI’s commitment to operational excellence and compliance.