Fintech broker Clear Street introduces access to private shares of AI leader Databricks, targeting accredited investors amid rising demand for pre-IPO exposure.
Clear Street has unveiled a platform allowing accredited investors to purchase stakes in late-stage private companies, beginning with Databricks, valued at $188 billion. The move addresses growing demand for pre-IPO exposure as startups remain private longer, capturing significant value before public listings.
The fintech firm, which recently postponed its own IPO, will offer margin loans against these holdings, a rare feature in private markets. Competitors like Goldman Sachs have also expanded offerings for wealthy clients seeking direct investments in high-growth private firms.
Clear Street plans to list up to 30 startups on the platform by year-end, primarily in the tech sector. The initiative reflects broader trends where retail and smaller investors seek access to private market wealth creation.