Stoa

What it does

Stoa is a cash management platform that lets you deposit idle cash into fixed-term 'Stoa Pots' and receive upfront lifestyle perks (e.g., Netflix, Amazon, Waitrose gift cards) instead of traditional interest. Your deposit is held securely with Griffin Bank, a UK-regulated bank, and is FSCS protected up to £120,000. The perks are funded through Stoa's algorithm that creates value from banking and merchant partnerships, with no hidden fees.

Who it is for

Stoa targets high earners and savers who want more from their cash than low interest rates. It appeals to individuals who already spend on subscriptions, travel, or everyday brands and prefer immediate value over delayed returns. The platform also serves businesses looking to unlock perks from idle corporate deposits.

Why it matters

Traditional savings accounts offer low interest, especially after tax for higher-rate taxpayers. Stoa provides an alternative: upfront perks that can be more valuable than the interest forgone. For example, depositing £4,500 for 12 months unlocks Netflix Premium (worth £227.88). The model is transparent, with no fees, and the deposit is returned at term end. This shifts the value proposition from 'earn slowly' to 'get value now'.

Launch signal

Stoa is live in the UK with 32 available perks across categories like streaming, travel, shopping, news, AI tools, and digital security. Customer testimonials on the site highlight real users who found it more cost-effective than earning interest. The platform is in pre-seed stage, founded by Mike Saraswat.

Brand and naming

The name 'Stoa' evokes the ancient Greek stoa (a covered walkway or marketplace), suggesting a place where value is exchanged. It's short, memorable, and positions the brand as a modern, trustworthy financial hub. The tagline 'Turn your savings into perks' clearly communicates the core benefit.