(19 August 2025 – United Kingdom) Starling Bank has acquired accounting software provider Ember in a deal aimed at strengthening its services for the small business market.
The purchase brings a suite of bookkeeping and tax tools into Starling’s platform, aimed at sole traders and entrepreneurs. “It’s a natural complement to start offering invoicing, accounting software, tax software, alongside traditional banking products, like credit related loans and facilities,” said Declan Ferguson, Starling’s chief financial officer.
The move comes ahead of new HMRC Making Tax Digital rules, requiring sole traders and landlords to file quarterly returns. Ember, which previously served HSBC, Lloyds, Barclays and Revolut, will phase out these partnerships as its technology is integrated into Starling’s business banking app.
Ferguson noted: “We are a natural fintech consolidator, so targeted acquisitions like Ember will form a key part of our strategy as we continue to develop Starling Bank in the UK and Engine by Starling overseas. Just as Fleet Mortgages has flourished since we bought it in 2021, I’m confident that Ember’s best-in-class tools will become a fantastic addition to Starling Bank’s offering.”