Zedcrest Group Acquires Leatherback, Deepens Global Fintech Expansion

By Adedayo Akinwale

Zedcrest Group has completed the acquisition of UK-founded global payments and financial technology company, Leatherback, in a strategic move aimed at accelerating its ambition to build a globally connected financial services ecosystem.

The transaction, which follows Zedcrest’s initial investment in Leatherback in 2021, marks a major milestone in the Group’s expansion into global financial technology and cross-border payment solutions.

The acquisition brings together one of Africa’s leading financial services groups with a rapidly growing fintech platform known for simplifying international payments for individuals and businesses across multiple markets.

Industry observers say the deal combines Leatherback’s technology-driven payment solutions with Zedcrest’s institutional expertise, governance structure and capital base, positioning the company for accelerated growth while expanding access to seamless global financial services.

Since its establishment, Leatherback has built a digital platform that enables customers to send, receive, convert and manage funds across multiple currencies through a single interface. The company has steadily expanded its international presence while earning a reputation for reliable, fast and innovative cross-border payment services.

Following the acquisition, Leatherback will retain its London headquarters while strengthening its international footprint. The company recently established its West African hub in Nigeria and plans to launch additional regional hubs in Canada and Kenya in the coming months to support its North American and East African operations.

The fintech firm said it would continue investing in technology, governance, operational capacity and human capital, backed by Zedcrest Group’s long-term capital commitment and institutional support.

Its existing management team will remain in place to ensure continuity for customers, employees and business partners, while benefiting from enhanced corporate governance and strategic oversight.

Speaking on the acquisition, Group Managing Director of Zedcrest Group, Adedayo Amzat, described the transaction as a strategic investment in the future of financial services.

According to him, “This acquisition represents far more than an expansion of our portfolio. It reflects our conviction that the future of financial services will be shaped by technology, global connectivity and institutional trust.”

He noted that Leatherback had developed an impressive platform addressing key challenges in cross-border payments, adding that the company would leverage the strength of the Zedcrest ecosystem to accelerate its next phase of growth.

Also commenting, Chief Executive Officer of Leatherback, Ochebhoya Ekpete, said the acquisition signals a new chapter for the company.

“We have built a business focused on solving real challenges in global payments, and this transaction positions us to build on that foundation with even greater scale, capability and long-term vision,” he said.

Ekpete assured customers and business partners that the acquisition would not disrupt existing services, stressing that Leatherback would continue delivering reliable payment solutions while expanding innovation and market opportunities.

He added that customers could expect stronger institutional backing as the company broadens its global reach.

Analysts believe the acquisition further strengthens Zedcrest Group’s position as one of Africa’s emerging financial services institutions with interests spanning investment banking, asset management, securities, financing and financial technology.

Founded in 2013, Zedcrest Group has built a reputation for delivering integrated financial solutions to individuals, businesses, governments and institutional investors across Africa and international markets.

Leatherback, a UK-founded fintech company, provides digital cross-border payment solutions that enable individuals and businesses to send, receive, convert and manage multiple currencies securely through a unified digital platform. Its services are designed to simplify global commerce in an increasingly interconnected economy.