Core Insights - Vertex, Inc. has made a strategic investment of $15 million in Kintsugi, acquiring a 10% ownership stake and establishing a partnership that includes IP sharing and a commercial arrangement [1][5] - Kintsugi, founded in 2023, specializes in automating sales tax compliance for small and mid-sized businesses, addressing the growing complexity of tax regulations due to eCommerce and SaaS growth [2][8] - The investment aims to enhance Vertex's AI capabilities and accelerate its AI roadmap, benefiting mid-market and enterprise customers globally [3][5] Company Overview - Vertex, Inc. is a leading global provider of indirect tax solutions, focusing on delivering trusted tax technology for businesses to comply and grow confidently [6] - The company offers tailored solutions for various indirect tax lines, including sales and consumer use, value-added, and payroll taxes, with a presence in North America, South America, and Europe [6] Kintsugi Overview - Kintsugi provides an AI-powered tax automation platform that streamlines tax management, reducing preparation time by 75% and compliance costs by 50% for eCommerce and SaaS businesses [8] - The platform integrates seamlessly with digital accounting and payment processing systems, enhancing automation and user experience for small businesses [3][8]