Zilch Technology Limited Overview
Pro stress-test →Zilch is a direct-to-consumer ad-subsidised payments network that combines advertising revenue with payment processing, accumulating more than five million registered customers while offering users flexible payment options without relying solely on fees. Backed by leading global firms including AWS, Deutsche Bank and Visa, the business has rapidly scaled to become the UK and EMEA's fastest-growing fintech unicorn.
Strategic Profile
Pro stress-test →In September 2024, Zilch achieved profitability with an annual revenue run rate of $130 million. The company has secured major regulatory milestones: it has secured a payments services licence from the Financial Conduct Authority, which represents a broader authorisation that extends beyond consumer credit to encompass payment processing capabilities. In January 2026, it was announced that Zilch had agreed to acquire Fjord Bank, a Lithuania-based digital bank, intended to secure a European banking licence and enable Zilch to expand its operations across the European Economic Area, with completion expected in the second half of 2026.
Competitive Landscape
Pro stress-test →Zilch's top competitors include companies like Square, Afterpay and Klarna. Zilch ranks 6th amongst 90 active competitors, of which 20 are funded, and stands 2nd in terms of total funding among its competitors. The company differentiates through its ad-subsidised model, regulatory authorizations, and merchant-focused AI analytics capabilities rather than consumer fees.
Industry Context
Zilch Technology Limited operates in Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) and Ad-Subsidised Payments.
Key facts
Founded: 2018 · Headquarters: London, UK · Employees: 299 (March 2026) · Revenue: $130M (September 2024 run rate) · Market cap: $2.16B (October 2024 valuation)