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valU operates as a prominent financial technology platform, offering a comprehensive suite of digital financial services to consumers and businesses. The company specializes in Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) solutions, enabling customizable payment plans for purchases across a vast merchant network, both online and in physical stores. Beyond installment financing, valU also provides investment products through partnerships, instant cash redemption services, and dedicated savings solutions, alongside sophisticated financial tools for managing high-value luxury acquisitions.
Launched in 2017, valU emerged to address the growing demand for flexible and accessible financial solutions within the MENA region. While not explicitly founded by individuals in the traditional startup sense, it was established by EFG Hermes, a leading investment bank, with Walid Hassouna serving as its Chief Executive Officer. This strategic move positioned valU to leverage existing financial infrastructure and expertise to quickly scale its offerings.
valU serves a broad customer base, including individual consumers seeking flexible payment options and businesses requiring streamlined payroll and employee benefit services. The platform aims to empower users by providing convenient and comprehensive financial instruments, fostering greater financial inclusion and enabling them to achieve their purchasing and saving goals. The long-term vision centers on continuously evolving its fintech ecosystem to meet diverse financial needs and enhance economic accessibility for its clientele.
valU has raised $12.0M across 1 funding round.
valU has raised $12.0M in total across 1 funding round.
valU is a leading financial technology company based in the MENA region that offers a broad suite of financial services to both individuals and businesses. Its flagship product is a Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) platform, which provides customizable financing plans for up to 60 months, available at over 6,000 physical points of sale and more than 1,500 online stores. valU also offers investment products, instant cash redemption, savings solutions, and financing options for luxury purchases up to EGP 15 million. Additionally, valU supports businesses with payroll automation and workforce financial management tools, aiming to enhance employee experience and operational efficiency[1].
Founded in 2017, valU emerged as a pioneer in the MENA region’s fintech space by introducing BNPL solutions tailored to local market needs. The company’s founders identified a gap in accessible, flexible consumer financing and sought to revolutionize the shopping experience by enabling customers to spread payments over time conveniently. Early traction was driven by partnerships with a wide network of retailers and online platforms, rapidly expanding valU’s reach and customer base to over one million users[1].
valU rides the global and regional trend of digital financial inclusion and consumer credit innovation, particularly the rapid adoption of BNPL services. The timing is favorable due to increasing e-commerce penetration in MENA, growing consumer demand for flexible payment options, and a shift toward cashless transactions. Market forces such as rising smartphone usage, digital payment infrastructure improvements, and regulatory support for fintech innovation further bolster valU’s growth. By enabling merchants to expand their customer base and consumers to access credit more easily, valU influences the broader ecosystem by accelerating digital commerce and financial accessibility[1].
Looking ahead, valU is well-positioned to deepen its market penetration by expanding its product offerings, enhancing digital tools for businesses, and leveraging data analytics to personalize financial solutions. Trends such as embedded finance, AI-driven credit scoring, and increased demand for luxury financing will likely shape its trajectory. As the fintech landscape evolves, valU’s influence may grow beyond consumer credit into broader financial services, potentially becoming a universal financial platform in the region. Its continued innovation and ecosystem partnerships will be key to sustaining momentum and shaping the future of digital finance in MENA[1].
valU has raised $12.0M in total across 1 funding round.
valU's investors include Altair Capital Management, A'Z Angels, Eric Ver Ploeg, Gabriel Jarrosson.
valU has raised $12.0M across 1 funding round. Most recently, it raised $12.0M Series U in June 2022.
| Date | Round | Lead Investors | Other Investors | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jun 1, 2022 | $12M Series U | — | Altair Capital Management, A'Z Angels, Eric VER Ploeg, Gabriel Jarrosson | Announced |
