Hello Group Acquires a Majority Stake in Inner Circle

Hello Group has acquired a majority stake in Inner Circle, the Amsterdam-based dating app with nearly 9 million members worldwide. The acquisition expands Hello Group’s dating portfolio and strengthens its presence in Europe and Latin America. Financial terms were not disclosed.

Founded in 2012, Inner Circle is known for its selective membership model. The app reviews applications and connects singles through shared interests, lifestyles and real-life events. It has built a strong presence in Europe and Latin America.

Inner Circle will continue operating from Amsterdam under its own brand. Hello Group plans to support its international growth with technology, product development and operational expertise. Inner Circle CEO and co-founder David Vermeulen said the acquisition would help the company expand into more cities worldwide.

The deal adds another international dating brand to Hello Group’s portfolio, which already includes happn, Tantan and Coffee Meets Bagel Worldwide. Hello Group CEO Tang Yan said the company sees opportunities to accelerate Inner Circle’s growth by combining its established brand with Hello Group’s experience in scaling social platforms.