Barclays buys GoHenry's UK arm to boost children's financial literacy

Barclays has agreed to acquire GoHenry’s UK business to expand its financial services for families. The deal aims to help more British children develop money management skills. It remains subject to regulatory approval and is expected to finalise in late 2026. GoHenry was founded in 2012 and has since helped over 2 million children learn about money through its app. In 2020, it launched Money Missions, a feature designed to teach financial literacy. A year later, it introduced family investing with its Junior Stocks and Shares ISA.

The company has also campaigned for mandatory financial education in English primary schools. Acorns purchased GoHenry in April 2023 to support its global mission. Under the new deal, Acorns will keep GoHenry’s US operations, now called Acorns Early, and Pixpay in Europe.

Noah Kerner, CEO of Acorns, said selling the UK arm to Barclays would allow the platform to reach even more children. Louise Hill, GoHenry’s founder, welcomed the move, calling it an exciting opportunity. Vim Maru, CEO of Barclays UK, added that the acquisition would significantly boost the bank’s services for households. The acquisition will see GoHenry’s UK services integrated into Barclays’ offerings. The process will conclude once regulators give their approval. Barclays plans to use the platform to strengthen financial education for young people across the country.