Firenze broadens lending reach with W1M deal

A wealth management partnership is widening access to portfolio-backed lending for high-net-worth clients.

UK credit infrastructure and Lombard lending platform Firenze has partnered with international wealth and investment manager W1M to integrate its lending solution into the firm’s wider wealth management offering.

The agreement will give eligible W1M clients access to borrowing secured against their investment portfolios, providing an additional source of credit without requiring them to change existing custody arrangements.

W1M manages £28.7 billion in assets and works with high-net-worth and ultra-high-net-worth individuals and families, alongside charities, institutions and financial advisers.

The partnership is being supported by SEI, which has an existing relationship with W1M and will provide the data connectivity and operational controls needed to access Firenze’s platform.

All lending will remain subject to eligibility, underwriting and credit approval.

Founded by David Newman, Firenze provides technology and infrastructure that enables wealth managers and private banks to offer portfolio-backed lending to their clients.

The company has raised around £10 million in equity investment from backers including AlbionVC and Outward VC.

The W1M agreement adds to a growing number of partnerships for Firenze as it looks to expand across the UK wealth management sector.

David Newman, chief executive of Firenze, said: “W1M is exactly the kind of ambitious and client-centric firm that we enjoy working with. 

“The Firenze platform is becoming increasingly integrated into the W1M operating model, demonstrating what is possible when working with technology-first wealth managers.” 

W1M was formed in 2024 through the merger of Waverton Investment Management and London & Capital.

Headquartered in London, it employs more than 300 people and also has offices in Edinburgh, Glasgow, Barcelona and Barbados.

Michael Allen, chief operations officer for W1M, added: “Our clients may, from time to time, have borrowing requirements alongside their investment and wealth management needs. 

“Through our partnership with Firenze, eligible clients will have access to a portfolio-backed lending solution that can sit alongside their existing arrangements with W1M. 

“The integration with Firenze’s platform supports an efficient process and allows clients to maintain their existing custody arrangements.” 

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