Crédit Coopératif and Orange Bank are officially “seeing each other.” At least on paper. The two have entered exclusive talks about a potential deal that could see Crédit Coopératif snap up the fintech Anytime.

The news came via a press release from Orange on 23 May 2025, confirming that a memorandum of understanding has been signed. Translation: they’re not picking out curtains just yet, but things are getting serious.

Anytime, the fintech that’s carved out a niche helping associations and non-profits handle their finances, might soon be calling Crédit Coopératif home. And it fits. The bank’s big 2030 strategy, titled “100% committed,” is all about going digital and showing some extra love to small and newly launched associations.

Why Anytime?

Founded in 2014 and acquired by Orange Bank in 2020, Anytime has evolved from a general-purpose business account provider to a niche player offering financial tools for associations; including advanced expense management and card fleet systems.

“To achieve its growth ambitions by 2030, Crédit Coopératif aims to strengthen its digital offering, particularly for its small and medium-sized association clients. Anytime offers simple and innovative services that perfectly meet the new needs of this clientele.”

— Pascal Pouyet, CEO of Crédit Coopératif Group

This specialization positions it as a natural fit for Crédit Coopératif, which has a legacy of banking for SSE actors. With 68 business centers across France, a remote banking infrastructure, and an impact investing arm, the bank is looking to amplify its reach in the association segment via digital channels.

A Complementary Match

Crédit Coopératif’s CEO, Pascal Pouyet, emphasized that Anytime’s offerings are “simple and innovative,” making them particularly suitable for SME-style associations. The fintech’s tools are expected to boost the bank’s ambition to capture over 6% market share among newly created associations by 2030.

From Orange Bank’s side, CEO Frédéric Niel stated that after helping Anytime scale, the time is right for it to grow further with a cooperative banking partner whose services “complement” its own.

What’s Next?

The deal is subject to consultation with employee representative bodies from both parties. If all goes according to plan, the acquisition could be finalized by the end of 2025.

Key takeaways for fintech startups:

• Vertical specialization pays off: Anytime’s focus on associations helped it stand out and become acquisition-ready.
  
  
• Strategic exits can come from aligned players: Cooperative banks like Crédit Coopératif may offer fertile ground for partnerships or buyouts, especially in niche markets.
  
  
• Digital distribution models are no longer optional; even traditional banks are prioritizing them to reach underserved segments.
  
  
• Growth isn’t just scale; it’s focus: Anytime’s move from general SMBs to association-specific services highlights how narrow positioning can lead to real traction.

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