M&A

Aspora buys control of Lithuanian e-money firm Hokodo to expand in Europe

What's the deal? US-based fintech Aspora, the trading name of VanceDealroom has a profile for this one. Try Dealroom → Inc., has acquired a controlling stake in UAB Hokodo, a Lithuanian electronic money institution. The Bank of Lithuania approved the purchase of more than 50% of the share capital and voting rights, handing Aspora control of the regulated entity.

Who does what? Aspora provides cross-border financial services across markets including the US, the UK, and the United Arab Emirates. Hokodo is a Bank of Lithuania-licensed electronic money institution offering digital payment solutions.

What's the endgame? The deal supports Aspora's expansion in Europe and strengthens its position in the regulated financial services sector. Owning a licensed institution gives it a foothold to operate under EU financial rules.

The signal: Acquiring a regulated e-money licence is a faster route into Europe than building one from scratch — a well-worn path for fintechs seeking a compliant base on the continent.

Read more: Sorainen

Image credit: Mantas Volungevicius

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