Banca Sella Acquires Full Control of Fintech Platform Hype for €85 Million to Strengthen Digital Banking Strategy

In a strategic move to enhance its digital banking capabilities, Banca Sella has announced the acquisition of full ownership of Hype, a Milan-based fintech company, for €85 million, pending regulatory approval from the Bank of Italy.

The acquisition marks a significant milestone in Banca Sella’s ongoing digital transformation journey, reinforcing its commitment to offering innovative financial solutions tailored to the evolving needs of modern customers.

Background: From Innovation to Independence

Founded in 2015 under Banca Sella’s innovation division, Hype quickly emerged as one of Italy’s leading fintech platforms, catering to 1.9 million customers. It provides a wide range of digital financial services — from payments and cryptocurrency trading to savings, credit, and insurance solutions — all integrated within a single mobile app.

In 2020, Hype transitioned into a joint venture after Italian neobank Illimity Bank acquired a 50% stake, while Banca Sella simultaneously secured a 10% ownership in Illimity. This partnership allowed both institutions to share resources, accelerate digital innovation, and expand Hype’s market reach across Italy’s rapidly growing fintech sector.

The Latest Transaction and Its Strategic Significance

The new agreement involves Banca Sella and its parent company, Banca Sella Holding, acquiring Illimity’s 50% stake in Hype, as well as the remaining shares held by Banca Sella Holding. This move follows the joint venture’s existing shareholder agreements and marks the end of a collaborative yet transformative chapter between the two financial institutions.

Once completed, the acquisition will position Banca Sella as the sole shareholder of Hype, giving it full control over the fintech’s strategic direction and technological roadmap.

According to Banca Sella, the move is designed to “enhance the group’s technological infrastructure and accelerate investments in artificial intelligence (AI)”, particularly to attract younger, digitally active customers. The integration will also allow for deeper synergies across product development, customer experience, and mobile-first financial services.

Hype to Maintain Its Independence and Innovation Focus

Despite becoming a wholly owned subsidiary, Hype will continue to operate as an independent and distinct entity within the Banca Sella Group. The bank confirmed that Hype will retain its agile business model, customer-centric approach, and branding identity — all key factors that have fueled its success in Italy’s competitive fintech landscape.

The integration will, however, provide Hype with expanded access to Banca Sella’s extensive branch network, enabling it to scale faster and introduce new products that combine digital convenience with personalized financial support. This hybrid model aims to bridge the gap between traditional banking and next-generation fintech innovation.

A Step Forward in Italy’s Digital Finance Evolution

The acquisition reflects Banca Sella’s long-term vision of blending technological innovation with responsible banking practices. It also highlights the growing importance of digital-first strategies in Italy’s financial ecosystem, where customer expectations are increasingly shaped by mobile technology and AI-driven personalization.

By consolidating Hype under its umbrella, Banca Sella is not only strengthening its foothold in the digital finance sector but also signaling its intent to compete with Europe’s leading neobanks and fintechs.

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