Gilde-backed Licent Acquires Finantia to Expand Financial Advisory in Achterhoek

Licent, a financial services group backed by Gilde Equity Management, announces the acquisition of Finantia, a trusted financial advisory firm operating in the Achterhoek region of the Netherlands. The deal, announced on October 2, 2026, brings Finantia’s three offices in Lochem, Zelhem, and Doetinchem under Licent’s umbrella, along with its team of eleven employees.

While the financial terms of the transaction remain undisclosed, Licent has acquired 100% ownership of Finantia. The integration aims to combine Finantia’s strong local presence and personalized advisory services with Licent’s broader platform capabilities, including automation, human resources, compliance, and specialist knowledge.

Founded in 1990, Finantia has built a solid reputation in the Achterhoek region by offering insurance, mortgage, and financial advice services. Since 2003, the firm has been led by Frans van Bon, who emphasizes the importance of maintaining local client relationships and personalized service. “The demands on financial advisory firms are increasing, not only due to regulatory requirements but also because of digitalization and the need for specialist expertise,” Van Bon said. “Joining Licent allows us to leverage scale and expertise without losing what makes Finantia strong: our local presence and personal client contact.”

Licent has already collaborated with Finantia since November 2025, managing a significant portion of Finantia’s ASN client relationships through its subsidiary Steentjes & Schardenborg. The acquisition formalizes this partnership and provides Finantia access to Licent’s specialist resources and operational support.

From Licent’s perspective, the acquisition enhances its regional footprint and strengthens its competitive position in the Achterhoek market. Rik Steentjes of Licent noted, “Finantia’s strong reputation and personal approach align with our strategy to support local advisory firms while enhancing their capabilities through our platform.”

The deal reflects broader industry trends of consolidation and digital transformation within financial advisory services. Firms are increasingly seeking scale to meet rising compliance demands and to invest in digital tools that improve client service and operational efficiency.

Financially, the acquisition is expected to generate synergies through cross-selling opportunities, shared back-office functions, and improved digitalization of advisory services. Licent plans to integrate Finantia’s operations gradually, ensuring continuity of local service while aligning IT systems and compliance frameworks.

Challenges include preserving Finantia’s local identity and client trust during integration, managing cultural alignment, and navigating evolving regulatory requirements. However, the combined entity aims to leverage its enhanced scale and expertise to retain and grow Finantia’s client base and expand product offerings.

Looking ahead, Licent intends to deepen its presence in the Achterhoek region by combining personalized local advice with specialist knowledge and digital capabilities. The acquisition positions Licent to better compete in a consolidating market and respond to increasing client expectations for comprehensive financial advisory services.