Holdings vs Silicon Valley Bank
If you're a venture-backed startup that needs a bank deeply embedded in the VC ecosystem — with venture debt, global fund banking, and industry-specific expertise — SVB (now part of First Citizens) re
Feature comparison
See how Holdings stacks up against SVB
| Feature | Holdings | SVB |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Fee | $0 | $0 for first 3 years (startup program) |
| Min. Balance | $0 | Varies by product |
| APY (Checking) | 1.75% | 0% (standard business checking) |
| APY (Savings) | 1.75% | Varies; treasury management available |
| FDIC Insurance | Up to $3M | $250K standard (First Citizens Bank, N.A.) |
| Free Transactions | Unlimited | Unlimited (startup tier) |
| Sub-Accounts | Unlimited, free | Available (treasury structure) |
| Built-in Accounting | Yes, free | No |
| Auto-Categorization | Yes | No |
| Nonprofit Features | Yes | No |
| Physical Debit Cards | Free | Free |
| Virtual Cards | Free | Available |
| Domestic ACH | Free | Free (startup tier) |
| Domestic Wire | Free | Free (startup tier, first 3 years) |
Why choose Holdings over SVB
1.75% APY on all deposits, always
SVB standard business checking earns 0%. While SVB offers treasury management for larger clients, the base checking product doesn't earn interest.
Permanently free — no 3-year expiration
SVB's startup program offers free checking for 3 years. After that, fees kick in based on your account structure. Holdings is $0 forever.
Built-in accounting software
SVB is banking only. Startups typically pair it with QBO, Xero, or NetSuite at additional cost. Holdings includes full accounting.
Purpose-built for nonprofits
SVB targets the innovation economy (tech startups, life sciences, VC/PE). Holdings is built for nonprofits, churches, and small businesses.
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When SVB might be the better choice
SVB may be a better fit if you need VC ecosystem integration, Venture debt and credit facilities, or Dedicated relationship managers.
Frequently asked questions
Is Holdings or SVB better for nonprofits?
Holdings. SVB doesn't target nonprofits and likely won't offer competitive terms for non-venture-backed organizations.
Can I switch from SVB to Holdings?
Yes, though it's uncommon. If you're a startup that's pivoted to a nonprofit or social enterprise model, Holdings may be a better long-term fit.
Does SVB have nonprofit banking features?
No. SVB specializes in tech, life sciences, and the innovation economy. They don't offer fund accounting or nonprofit-specific tools.
Is SVB safe after the 2023 collapse?
SVB was acquired by First Citizens Bank in March 2023. It now operates as a division of First Citizens Bank, N.A., one of the top 20 US banks. Deposits are FDIC insured through First Citizens.
What happens after SVB's 3-year free period?
After the startup program ends, SVB transitions to analyzed pricing based on your account activity and balances. Fees vary by product and usage.
Ready to switch?
Open your Holdings account in minutes. Keep your current bank during the transition — move at your own pace.
1.75% APY† • Zero fees^ • FDIC insured to $3M*