Consumer lender Creditstar raises $5.34m in hybrid funding from Kilde

By Divya Shah

Creditstar Group, a European consumer finance and investment FinTech, has secured a €4.6 million ($5.34 million) hybrid equity investment from Singapore-based investor Kilde at a €130 million ($151.1 million) pre-money valuation.

The funding has been structured as a convertible loan that accrues interest during the investment period and includes an option to convert into equity. The transaction marks Creditstar’s first external hybrid equity investment and builds on an existing relationship between the two companies, with Kilde having previously provided €18.4 million ($21.4 million) in credit facilities.

Aaro Sosaar, Founder and CEO of Creditstar Group, said, “We have built the business profitably over two decades, with a clear focus on disciplined growth, risk management, and product development. Bringing in equity-linked capital from an existing funding partner is a meaningful signal of confidence in our business, team, and the next stage of our growth.”

Founded in Estonia, Creditstar provides digital consumer lending services through regulated entities in the UK and seven European Union markets. The group also operates Monefit SmartSaver, an investment platform available across 31 European countries, which helps fund its consumer lending activities.

In January 2026, Creditstar UK received authorisation from the UK’s Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) to operate as a mainstream consumer credit lender, enabling it to offer digital personal loans in the market.

Creditstar said the new funding will support its next phase of growth and product development, including the wider rollout of its credit card offering, currently available in Estonia, later this year. The initiative is expected to broaden the group’s portfolio beyond instalment and revolving credit products.

Radek Jezbera, co-founder of Kilde, said, “Our decision to back Creditstar builds on the relationship already established through our debt partnership. The group has demonstrated a combination of operational execution, credit discipline and product ambition. We see a proven business with clear room for further expansion.”