Beast Industries, the creator-led entertainment and consumer products company founded by YouTube star Jimmy Donaldson (MrBeast), has acquired Step, a fintech app focused on financial literacy and money management for younger users. Financial terms were not disclosed.
The deal pushes Beast Industries deeper into consumer services by pairing its global audience reach and philanthropy-driven brand with Step’s full-stack fintech team and technology platform. Beast said it plans to use a combination of content, product distribution, and Step’s financial tools to broaden access to financial wellness offerings that help users build better money habits over time.
Step, founded by CJ MacDonald and Alexey Kalinichenko, has built an app designed to meet the modern banking needs of the next generation and to support financial education. Beast Industries said Step has attracted more than 7 million users and highlighted the fintech’s roster of celebrity and creator investors, while Step also counts major institutional backers and partners with Evolve Bank & Trust for banking services.
Beast framed the acquisition as an expansion of its technology, content, and purpose approach, aiming to meet audiences where they already use platforms and formats, then attach practical financial products and education to that engagement. Step leadership said the combination will accelerate product development and expand distribution for Step’s offerings through Beast Industries’ ecosystem.
KEY QUOTES
“Financial health is fundamental to overall wellbeing, yet too many people lack access to the tools and knowledge they need to build financial security. This acquisition positions us to meet our audiences where they are, with practical, technology-driven solutions that can transform their financial futures for the better.”
Jeff Housenbold, CEO, Beast Industries
“Our goal has always been to improve the financial future of the next generation,” “There are a lot of synergies between Step and what Jimmy, Jeff and the team at Beast Industries believe in when it comes to helping people and giving back. We’re excited about how this acquisition is going to amplify our platform and bring more groundbreaking products to Step customers.”
CJ MacDonald, CEO And Founder, Step
