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Stripe’s first employee, the founder of fintech Increase, sort of bought a bank

6 snips
Jul 8, 2025
Darragh Buckley’s aspirations to own a bank have competitors on edge, leading to attempts to undermine his ambitions. The conversation dives into the recent acquisition of Twin City Bank, showcasing a shift in fintech toward community-focused banking. It raises questions about how this strategic move will affect both the acquirer and the community banking landscape, emphasizing the importance of preserving community values amid fierce competition.
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INSIGHT

Significant Stake in Twin City Bank

  • Darragh Buckley bought a stake in Twin City Bank, a small community bank in Washington State.
  • This makes him a major shareholder but not the sole owner, highlighting a significant fintech move.
ANECDOTE

Competitor Opposition Anecdote

  • A mysterious competitor tried to block Buckley's bank stake by pitching negative press.
  • Buckley confirmed this was his third community bank investment and denied using the bank for Increase.
INSIGHT

Increase API's Fintech Focus

  • Increase is a fintech API platform serving other fintechs with banking services.
  • Its customers include Ramp, Check, and Pipe, emphasizing its fintech industry integration.
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