Goji, the UK-based operator of an online peer-to-peer lending platform, has raised a “multimillion pound” (£1m = $1.4m) sum in a round that included insurance group Axa.
Venture capital firm Anthemis led the round through its Venture Fund 1 vehicle, while Axa participated through its corporate venturing subsidiary, Axa Strategic Ventures.
Founded in 2015, Goji has built a direct peer-to-peer lending platform and also offers technology and expertise to other direct lending platforms. It will use the funding to develop its software and introduce additional products.
The company had previously received $560,000 in capital in a 2016 round led by investment organisation Cocoon Wealth that included undisclosed additional backers.
François Robinet, managing partner at Axa Strategic Ventures, said: “We believe that the unique, integrated direct lending solutions provided by Goji will create real differentiation in the asset management industry and will contribute to position direct lending as a major asset class for investors.
“Goji’s platform, based on differential technology, allows intermediaries both to easily build and manage an alternative credit portfolio and to smoothly manage the back-office operations. In addition, the management team’s proven background in the fintech space is well placed to grow and scale the company.”