HSBC launches embedded finance venture SemFi with Tradeshift

HSBC has launched SemFi, a new B2B embedded finance technology company, through its joint venture with Tradeshift, a San Francisco-based fintech.
SemFi enables e-commerce and marketplace platforms, including those within Tradeshift’s network, to embed HSBC payment, trade, and financing solutions.
Initial offerings include AI-powered digital invoice financing for SME suppliers and virtual business cards.
The UK and Hong Kong are SemFi’s initial entry markets, with future plans to offer digital wallets and purchase order (PO) financing.
HSBC holds a 75% stake in the venture, with Tradeshift owning 25%, backed by a $35 million investment from HSBC.
SemFi is led by CEO Vinay Mendonca and COO Shehan Silva, both of whom previously worked in HSBC’s global trade and receivables finance (GTRF).
The joint venture aims to merge a start-up technology mindset with the global reach and expertise of HSBC to provide seamless financial solutions for business customers and e-commerce partners.