Varo

Digital banking with fee-free services

San Francisco, California, United States

About Varo

Varo Money provides digital banking services aimed at individuals looking for accessible and affordable banking options. The company offers a fee-free banking experience, which sets it apart from traditional banks that often impose various fees. Customers can benefit from services such as receiving their paychecks up to two days early through direct deposit, cash advances of up to $500 without interest, and a credit-building service that has helped users increase their credit scores by an average of 40 points in three months. Varo is an independent bank with its own banking charter, ensuring that all deposits are FDIC-insured up to $250,000. The goal of Varo is to create a more inclusive banking environment that prioritizes customer needs and financial well-being.

San Francisco, CaliforniaHeadquarters
2015Year Founded
$1,014MTotal Funding
LATE_VCCompany Stage
Fintech, Financial ServicesIndustries
501-1,000Employees

Risks

Competition from Venmo and Cash App may hinder Varo's P2P growth.
Reliance on partnerships for deposits exposes Varo to operational risks.
Fee-free services might limit revenue if customer acquisition costs rise.

Differentiation

Varo offers fee-free banking, unlike traditional banks with various fees.
Varo provides early payday options, giving customers quicker access to their money.
Varo's credit-building service helps customers improve credit scores by 40 points in three months.

Upsides

Increased demand for digital banking boosts Varo's customer base.
Gen Z and Millennials prefer digital-first banking, benefiting Varo's growth.
Open banking trends allow Varo to offer innovative, integrated services.