Moneyfarm expands UK presence with Willis Owen acquisition

By Gloria Methri

European digital wealth manager Moneyfarm is set to acquire Willis Owen Limited, a longstanding provider of investment services in the UK. The deal is subject to approval from the Financial Conduct Authority.

This acquisition, which brings Moneyfarm’s group total assets to over £5 billion, is the firm’s third in the UK over the past three years. It follows the takeover of Profile Pensions and Wealthsimple’s UK book of business, strengthening Moneyfarm’s position in the UK direct-to-consumer investment market.

For over 50 years, Willis Owen has been empowering investors with tools and support to manage their portfolios independently. It is known for its accessible investment solutions and strong focus on client needs. The acquisition combines its expertise in self-directed investing with Moneyfarm’s hybrid model of expert human guidance and cutting-edge technology.

Willis Owen’s customers will soon have access to Moneyfarm’s broader range of investment solutions, including:

• Managed portfolios tailored to personal goals and risk tolerance.
• A comprehensive wealth management service.
• A broader range of investment solutions.
• Cutting-edge technology designed to make investing seamless.

Giovanni Daprà, Moneyfarm’s Co-founder and CEO, said, “This acquisition marks a significant milestone in our growth journey and reinforces our mission to make investing simple and accessible. Willis Owen’s strong reputation and dedication to its clients align closely with our hybrid model, which integrates expert guidance with advanced technology to meet the evolving needs of today’s investors.”

Willis Owen’s Jason Chapman added, “This partnership could not come at a better time, as more consumers seek digital-first solutions that retain the human touch to help their decision-making. Joining Moneyfarm ensures our clients have access to an enhanced range of wealth solutions to plan for their financial futures comprehensively.”