UK Fintechs VibePay and Smartlayer Shut Down

VibePay launched in the UK in 2019, offering account-to-account payments through open banking technology. Smartlayer, founded in 2022, used AI to integrate smart-meter, Internet of Things and property data to support mortgage underwriting and decision-making. The two companies’ closures reflect the pressure on UK fintech firms as fundraising conditions tighten.

A report on April 2, 2026, said VibePay had entered liquidation. Banked’s proposed acquisition, announced in April 2025, was ultimately not completed. Founder Luke Massie stepped down in December that year, and investors including Candy Ventures decided in January 2026 to stop providing further funding. Smartlayer also closed after operating for about 3 years; the company raised $835,000 in a 2024 seed round.