Estonia’s tech scene is rallying around Lightyear, a London-based startup that aims to rival Robinhood in the realm of commission-free trading. Founded in 2021 by former Wise employees Martin Sokk and Mihkel Aamer, Lightyear has successfully raised $23 million in a new funding round led by NordicNinja, a European venture capital fund backed by Japanese investors.
Markus Villig, co-founder of the ride-hailing company Bolt, is among the prominent Estonian investors supporting Lightyear. Sokk noted the importance of such high-profile investors in navigating various markets and understanding local needs.
Lightyear currently operates in 25 countries and plans to expand to five more markets soon, leveraging the expertise of its angel investors. Villig emphasized the challenges of scaling businesses in a heavily regulated environment, while also highlighting the potential for disruption in Europe’s retail investing market.
With a valuation estimated between $200 million and $300 million, Lightyear is also integrating new artificial intelligence features into its platform. These include tools that analyze stock movements and provide investment insights. Sokk predicts a future where investors can choose between automated AI-driven investments and traditional strategies.
Despite facing stiff competition from established brokerage services and newer platforms like Robinhood, Sokk believes Lightyear’s long-term investment focus will differentiate it in the market. The startup plans to launch its own cryptocurrency product within two months, designed with a long-term investment perspective.
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