- Startup Researcher - Asia Pacific
- Posts
- Payd Secures $400K Seed Extension to Expand Earned Wage Access in Southeast Asia
Payd Secures $400K Seed Extension to Expand Earned Wage Access in Southeast Asia
The funding will drive Payd’s growth in Malaysia and Thailand, enhancing financial well-being for employees.

Malaysian fintech company Payd has raised a $400,000 Seed Extension round to further its mission of enhancing financial well-being for employees across Southeast Asia. The funding was led by A2D Ventures, Orbit Startups, and AngelSpark, reinforcing investor confidence in Payd’s innovative Earned Wage Access (EWA) platform. This fresh capital injection will help the company scale its operations, strengthen existing partnerships, and expand into new sectors and markets.
Enhancing Employee Financial Flexibility
Payd’s platform enables employees to access a portion of their earned wages before payday, providing a critical financial lifeline without resorting to high-interest loans or credit. By reducing financial stress, Payd improves workplace satisfaction, enhances productivity, and fosters a more engaged workforce. To date, the company has served over 100,000 employees across various industries, demonstrating strong market traction and demand for its services.
Strengthening Market Presence in Malaysia and Thailand
In Malaysia, Payd has partnered with leading employers, including McDonald’s, Starbucks, KyoChon, Banyan Tree, and Valiram, offering employees greater financial flexibility. The company has also made significant strides in Thailand, securing partnerships with Plan B Media, Ippudo Ramen, Salad Stop, Buzzebees, and Hello Bangkok Magazine. With plans to onboard additional hospitality and insurance sector clients, Payd is positioning itself as a key player in the financial wellness space across the region.
Employer Benefits and Workforce Retention
For employers, Payd offers a strategic advantage in retaining and engaging talent by providing on-demand wage access. This solution not only enhances job satisfaction but also reduces turnover and recruitment costs, making it a valuable asset in competitive labor markets. By integrating Payd’s services, businesses can create a more financially secure workforce, leading to improved performance and long-term organizational stability.
Investor Confidence and Future Growth Prospects
A2D Ventures General Partner Ankit Upadhyay emphasized the firm’s belief in Payd’s transformative impact on underserved financial segments. Orbit Startups Senior Investment Analyst Nick Ponomarev highlighted Payd’s role in bridging financial gaps for unbanked and underbanked populations, facilitating their integration into the broader financial system. AngelSpark board member Gaurav Dhar expressed confidence in Payd’s ability to scale beyond EWA and expand into other fintech verticals, capitalizing on the growing gig economy and evolving financial needs.
With this latest investment, Payd is poised to strengthen its foothold in existing markets and explore new opportunities across Southeast Asia. The company aims to expand its partnerships, develop new financial solutions, and continue reshaping financial accessibility for employees. By addressing critical financial challenges, Payd is positioning itself as a leading force in the evolution of financial well-being in the region.