US-based self-clearing broker-dealer Alpaca has unveiled plans to acquire WealthKernel, a wealthtech company focused on digital investment infrastructure and tax-advantaged products.

This strategic acquisition aims to enhance Alpaca’s capabilities in the UK and European Union (EU) markets, aligning with its mission to make financial services accessible worldwide.

The acquisition is pending regulatory approval from the UK Financial Conduct Authority and Spain’s Comisión Nacional del Mercado de Valores.

WealthKernel focuses on delivering investment and savings infrastructure for regulated businesses, emphasising modern wealth products and scalable digital investment solutions.

Its expertise in wealth management, including individual savings accounts (ISAs) and self-invested personal pensions (SIPPs), will strengthen Alpaca’s existing trading infrastructure.

By integrating WealthKernel’s regulatory licences, Alpaca will operate as a fully authorised broker-dealer in these regions, further supporting its partners.