iPipeline has completed its acquisition of Origo after securing regulatory approvals, including clearance from the Competition and Markets Authority.
The deal expands iPipeline’s presence in the UK wealth and retirement market and adds Origo’s expertise in connecting providers, advisers and platforms.
iPipeline said the acquisition would strengthen its ability to help financial services businesses address fragmented systems, manual processes and disconnected customer experiences.
The company provides digital technology to insurers, distributors, advisers and financial institutions. Origo operates secure connections through which businesses exchange information across the UK financial services market.
iPipeline said demand for systems that connect products, commercial partners and distribution channels was increasing as the insurance, retirement and wealth management sectors became more closely integrated.
Pat O’Donnell, chief executive officer of iPipeline, said: “As financial services organisations face growing pressure to modernise operations and deliver seamless customer experiences, the ability to connect people, processes and information has become increasingly important.
“Origo’s expertise in trusted connectivity aligns closely with iPipeline’s strengths – enhancing our ability to help customers reduce complexity, improve collaboration and operate more effectively.”
Rachel Edwards, managing director for the UK and Europe at iPipeline, said: “This acquisition brings together two organisations that share a common belief; the best innovation comes from working closely with customers and helping the industry solve real challenges.
“By combining Origo’s trusted connectivity capabilities with iPipeline’s technology, we have an opportunity to create a more connected ecosystem that simplifies interactions, supports growth and delivers better experiences for the firms and customers we serve.
“Just as importantly, we’re bringing together two teams with a shared commitment to trusted connectivity, partnership and practical innovation. Those values will continue to guide us as we move forward together.”
Anthony Rafferty, chief executive officer of Origo, said: “Origo has always focused on making it easier for firms to connect and work together. Joining iPipeline allows us to build on that mission while maintaining the transparent, collaborative approach our customers value.
“We have an opportunity to strengthen the services our customers rely on today while helping drive greater efficiency and innovation across the industry.”
Existing services and products will remain available during the transition. The businesses said investment would continue in technology intended to simplify operations and improve collaboration.
The Origo and Unipass brands will continue as part of iPipeline.
“Their full product range is an excellent fit with iPipeline and offers major synergies.”
Ian McKenna, founder and CEO of Financial Technology Research Centre, said: “Origo has long been one of the most important infrastructure suppliers to the UK wealth tech market.
“Their Unipass security and encryption technology has over 50,000 users and is by far the most significant tool of its type in the market. Additionally, they have been a key player in the Pensions Dashboard market since 2015 and arguably have unparalleled experience in supporting such services. As the initial dashboard rolls out in the months ahead, with commercial dashboards following after, this will be incredibly valuable knowledge.
“Their full product range is an excellent fit with iPipeline and offers major synergies. Having been originally built by the industry as a utility, the business has grown five-fold since its MBO in May 2022.
“This is a great acquisition for iPipeline who have long wanted to extend their strong position supplying life insurance technology into the wealth market. The merged business will now be a critical supplier to most of the largest life insurance and investment platforms in the UK.”
