The Lending Link

Embedded finance, AI, and digital transformation aren't just buzzwords—they're reshaping how financial products are built, delivered, and scaled. But with the rapid pace of change, how can fintechs, lenders, and financial institutions stay ahead?On this episode of The Lending Link, Matt Tepper, VP of Global Marketing at GDS Link, sits down with Angi Milano, CEO of Maven Advisory, to unpack the trends and challenges defining fintech's future. With over a decade of experience in digital marketing, sales, and enterprise fintech partnerships, Angi has been on the frontlines of major acquisitions and scaling efforts. Now, through Maven Advisory, she helps fintechs refine their go-to-market strategies, pinpoint their ideal customers, and drive sustainable growth.

In this insightful episode of The Lending Link, Rich Alterman sits down with Sarah Way Milovich, General Counsel and VP of Compliance at Carleton, Inc., to explore the intricacies of lending compliance, with a particular focus on the Truth in Lending Act (TILA) and Annual Percentage Rate (APR) calculations. Carleton, a leader in financial software and services for over 50 years, has been at the forefront of helping lenders meet complex regulatory requirements. Sarah shares her journey from corporate attorney to her current role, offering a behind-the-scenes look at Carleton's long history of providing critical compliance tools to major lending organizations. Sarah explains how Carleton supports lenders in navigating these complexities, from managing regulatory differences across states to the challenges of staying compliant with APR calculations. Listeners will gain valuable insights into the differences between simple interest and add-on rates and the importance of accurate APR calculations in ensuring compliance. With the rise of state-level scrutiny and the growing use of AI in compliance, this episode is packed with expert perspectives on the evolving role of technology in the lending space. Tune in to hear Sarah's thoughts on the intersection of law, technology, and compliance, and discover how Carleton's decades of expertise continue to provide essential support for lenders.

On this episode of The Lending Link, host Rich Alterman sits down with Agus Sudjianto, Senior Vice President of Risk and Technology at h2o.ai, for a candid conversation about the evolution of AI and machine learning in finance. Agus discusses his mission to make advanced AI tools, like generative AI, accessible to more people—especially in high-stakes sectors like finance. He breaks down why it's crucial for financial institutions to use machine learning models that are not only powerful but also transparent and easy to explain. With decades of experience, Agus reflects on the lessons he's learned from financial crises, including the 2008 crash and the COVID-19 pandemic, and how these experiences have shaped his approach to credit risk management. He also highlights the growing role of alternative data in smarter credit decisions and talks about the importance of rigorously testing AI models before they're put to use. Tune in for a compelling conversation on the future of AI in finance, the lessons learned from past crises, and how to prepare for the challenges ahead.

In the latest episode of The Lending Link, Rich chats with Jason Appel, Executive Vice-President & Chief Risk Officer at goeasy. In this episode, Rich and Jason discuss goeasy's mission to provide everyday Canadians with access to credit and a path to financial improvement. Jason shares goeasy's approach to credit risk management, including their strategies for reducing net charge-off rates while maintaining high growth. They also explore the challenges and opportunities within the Canadian lending market, the impact of data proliferation, and the evolving regulatory environment. Jason recounts goeasy's growth journey, from its beginnings in lease-to-own services to becoming a leading non-prime consumer lender in Canada. He provides valuable insights into responsible lending practices, the importance of customer education, and the significance of aligning with strong partner relationships. This episode is packed with real-world experiences and actionable advice from a leader in credit risk management. Perfect for anyone interested in understanding the nuances of non-prime lending and the broader financial services sector. Tune in and gain expert insights from Jason Appel!

Join us for an insightful episode of the Lending Link Podcast as host Rich Alterman chats with Peter Renton, former CEO of FinTech Nexus and now leading CEO of Renton & Co, LLC. In this episode, Rich and Peter delve into the story of FinTech Nexus, exploring its growth and impact on the financial services and fintech industries. Peter shares practical strategies for growth, the importance of building strong professional relationships, and the power of networking. Peter recounts his journey from direct mail and digital label printing to becoming a key player in fintech investments. He also provides valuable insights into the development of peer-to-peer lending, the need for solid regulation and consumer protection, and the potential impact of regulatory changes on the industry. This episode is packed with real-world experiences and actionable advice from one of fintech's influential voices. Perfect for anyone looking to stay informed and ahead in the fast-paced world of fintech.

Join us on the Lending Link Podcast, powered by GDS Link, where we explore the latest in data decisioning and credit risk solutions. In this episode, host Rich Alterman chats with Misha Esipov, the CEO and co-founder of Nova Credit. Since its launch in 2016, Nova Credit has been breaking new ground in credit infrastructure and analytics, helping lending institutions streamline their processes and grow responsibly. Listen to learn how Nova Credit is creating a more inclusive financial system and transforming the credit industry. Remember to subscribe to The Lending Link Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.

In this episode of The Lending Link, host Rich Alterman sits down with Adam Elliott, the CEO and Founder of Kevari, to delve into the critical issue of identity fraud and its evolving complexities. Adam begins by sharing his journey from holding senior roles at Check Systems to founding Kevari, a leading identity fraud prevention company that combines machine learning with consortium velocity and identity networks to detect fraud in real-time. He explains the reasoning behind rebranding from ID Insight to Kevari, aiming to convey strength and technological innovation. Adam also shares his optimistic outlook on the future of fraud prevention, emphasizing the potential of emerging technologies and data networks to turn the tide in the ongoing battle against fraud. Tune in now!

Join host Rich Alterman as he chats with Carlos Caro, founder of New Market Growth. Carlos delves into affiliate marketplaces, sharing insights from his journey at Credit Karma and Capital One. Discover how these marketplaces connect consumers with lending products, explore integration strategies, and learn about the opportunities for regional banks and credit unions. Carlos also addresses lenders' concerns about sharing credit policy intellectual property and the rise of emerging credit card issuers. Tune in for a concise guide to optimizing lender models in affiliate ecosystems.

In this episode of the Lending Link Podcast, host Rich Alterman welcomes Brett van Aswegen, CEO of Wonga, for an in-depth discussion on the South African lending market and Wonga's strategic evolution. Brett outlines how Wonga transitioned from a traditional payday lender to a leader in short-term financial solutions, focusing on ethical lending practices and the impact of these changes on consumers and the broader market. Tune in to explore the nuances of consumer lending in South Africa, leadership strategies, and Wonga's future direction in ensuring responsible and sustainable financial services.

In this episode of The Lending Link LIVE, recorded at the Fintech Meetup in March 2024, host Rich Alterman talks with Liz Pagel, Senior Vice President at TransUnion. They explore the dynamic world of "Buy Now, Pay Later" (BNPL) services and their integration into the traditional credit reporting landscape. Liz discusses the challenges of modifying credit models to accurately reflect BNPL transactions and shares insights on the regulatory landscape involving the CFPB and OCC. She explains the technical updates being implemented to ensure BNPL data is accurately captured and used in credit evaluations. Additionally, Liz addresses the broader impact of these adaptations on financial inclusion and potential changes in consumer behavior. She also speaks on the strides being made towards gender diversity within the fintech sector, highlighting the growing participation and influence of women in the industry. This episode provides a deep dive into how traditional credit bureaus like TransUnion navigate the complexities introduced by new financial products and what this means for consumers and lenders alike. Tune in now!

In this engaging episode of the Lending Link Podcast, our host, Rich Alterman, welcomes Adam Goller, the Executive Vice President and Head of Fintech Banking at Cross River Bank, for a deep dive into the intersections of banking, technology, and personal perseverance. Cross River Bank has emerged as a linchpin in the fintech marketplace lending industry, charting a course through innovation and strategic partnerships. Adam unpacks the bank's history, its pivotal role in the financial sector, and how it continues to redefine the boundaries between traditional banking and fintech solutions. Tune in now for a deep dive into the future of finance through the lens of a leading figure at the intersection of banking and technology.

In this episode of The Lending Link LIVE, host Rich Alterman is joined by Mike Horrocks, SVP of Corporate Strategy and Product Marketing at Baker Hill, at the 2024 FinTech Meetup in Las Vegas. Horrocks brings over two decades of experience at Baker Hill, specializing in commercial lending, small business lending, and risk management. Throughout their discussion, they examine the evolving underwriting standards in commercial lending, emphasizing the impact of advanced technologies and data on enhancing decision-making and operational efficiency. Rich and Mike explore how these technological innovations are addressing the shifting demands of the finance industry. This conversation provides valuable insights into how technology is transforming finance, improving processes, and addressing key industry challenges.

On this installment of Lending Link LIVE from the show floor at FinTech Meetup, host Rich Alterman takes us into the dynamic world of financial services with Javier Alvarado, Director of Financial Services at TransUnion. Celebrating nearly ten years with TransUnion, Alvarado shares his expertise in outbound communications and collections, highlighting how TransUnion's innovative solutions enhance customer outreach and engagement. From caller name optimization to the strategic use of data and analytics in managing delinquent accounts, this episode dives deep into the strategies shaping the future of finance. Join Rich and Javier for an insightful discussion on the challenges and opportunities in collections, the impact of financial trends on consumer behavior, and the cutting-edge tools driving operational efficiency in the financial services industry.

Welcome to another special edition of The Lending Link LIVE, recorded during the 2024 Fintech Meetup in Las Vegas. Host Rich Alterman sat down with Brad Tompkins, the visionary Chief Information Officer of Vergent LMS, for a deep dive into the evolving world of financial technology. In this episode, Rich and Brad delve into how Vergent has redefined the lending process, providing an end-to-end platform that supports lenders from lead acquisition to collections. This comprehensive suite of web-based software solutions is specifically designed to meet the needs of today's fast-evolving industry. Tune in now and join us to learn more about how Vergent LMS is leading the way in making lending more flexible, customer-focused, and innovative.

In the latest Lending Link Podcast episode, recorded at the Fintech Meetup in Las Vegas, host Rich Alterman sits down with Jeff Smith, the Sales Director of Workforce Solutions at Equifax. Together, they dive deep into how payroll API technology is revolutionizing financial services, particularly by improving the way financial institutions verify income and employment. Rich and Jeff delve into the significant impact of Equifax's Work Number, highlighting how this innovative solution is transforming outdated and labor-intensive verification methods. With the advent of The Work Number, the process has become automated, allowing consumers to easily share their financial data, which, in turn, speeds up lending decisions and enhances their accuracy. Listen to this engaging episode to understand how Equifax's advancements, like The Work Number, are shaping a more efficient, inclusive future for financial services tailored to meet the evolving demands of today's consumers.

In a special episode of the Lending Link Podcast, recorded at the Fintech Meetup in Las Vegas on March 3-6, 2024, host Rich Alterman sits down with Matthew Gomes, General Manager of Consumer Lending and Banking at Argyle. Together, they delve into the significant impact of payroll API technology on financial services, particularly in streamlining and improving income and employment verification for financial institutions. The conversation highlights Argyle's role in modernizing how financial institutions verify income and employment. By replacing outdated, labor-intensive verification methods with efficient, automated solutions, payroll API platforms empower consumers to directly share their financial data. This evolution leads to quicker, more accurate lending decisions. Listen to this episode to understand how innovation and efficiency are shaping the future of financial services through the lens of payroll API technology.

Live from the Fintech Meetup in Las Vegas, March 3-6, 2024, host Rich Alterman brings you a captivating Lending Link podcast episode featuring Jeff Hendren, the Chief Revenue Officer of Point Predictive. Recorded amidst the hustle and bustle of GDS Link's booth #1219, this episode dives deep into the transformative world of fraud prevention, leveraging advanced analytics and AI. Jeff Hendren shares an insightful overview of Point Predictive's strategic approach to combating fraud and enhancing loan performance. Through a unique, proprietary dataset amassed from collaborations with over 50 lenders across the U.S., Point Predictive has set a new standard in identifying fraud, mitigating early payment defaults, and streamlining the loan approval process. This episode of Lending Link is a must-listen for anyone keen on understanding the forefront of fraud prevention strategies, the impactful use of AI in financial services, and the evolving landscape of fintech innovation. Tune in now!

Broadcasting live from Fintech Meetup in Las Vegas, Nevada, we are excited to showcase another exciting episode of the Lending Link Podcast. This time, we're syncing up with Kareem Saleh, CEO of Fairplay, who shares Fairplay's innovative approach that allows companies to evaluate the fairness of their predictive models and make informed decisions to promote inclusivity and equity. Kareem discusses the broader implications of fairness across the entire credit lifecycle, emphasizing the need for fairness in marketing, fraud detection, income verification, and more. Moreover, Kareem provides a glimpse into the future of Fairplay, previewing upcoming enhancements such as a compliance copilot to assist chief compliance officers in navigating the complexities of AI, big data, and bias in consumer credit. Whether you're a financial professional, a tech enthusiast, or simply curious about the evolving landscape of fairness in finance, this episode is a must-listen. Join us as we explore the fascinating world of Fairplay and uncover the possibilities of a fairer, more inclusive financial future. Tune in now and be inspired by the vision of fairness in financial services.

In the latest episode of The Lending Link LIVE, broadcasting from the Fintech Meetup in Las Vegas, Nevada, we dive into the evolving landscape of modern lending with Nate Bray, Chief Innovation Officer at LoanPro. Nate offers a behind-the-scenes look at the journey of innovating within the lending sector, emphasizing the transformative impact of compliance as a strategic lever for staying ahead in the game. Jump into the latest episode and explore the future of finance and upcoming trends in fintech!

Broadcasting live from the Fintech Meetup in Las Vegas, Lending Link LIVE, hosted by Rich Alterman from GDS Link's booth #1219, features a special episode with Mike Mondelli, CEO of Verdata. They explore Verdata's innovative approach to credit scoring and SMB lending using alternative data and AI. Mike offers insights into credit assessment evolution, data aggregation challenges, and AI's role in enhancing financial inclusivity. The conversation also covers starting a business during the pandemic and transitioning to hybrid work models. Tune in for an in-depth look at Verdata's contribution to fintech innovation and its mission to transform the lending landscape.

Lisa Bonalle, recently appointed CEO of GDS Link, is a key figure within financial services, and despite taking the helm just a few months ago, her fresh perspective is already making waves. On this episode of The Lending Link, she delves into the ways digital innovation is reshaping lending practices with host Rich Alterman. Bonalle emphasizes the critical need for agility and a customer-centric approach, underscoring her commitment to guiding the industry toward a more sophisticated and responsive future — Tune in now! Stay connected with The Lending Link! Subscribe and follow us on our listening and social platforms, and access exclusive GDS Link offerings at: ⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/thelendinglink⁠⁠. 

On this episode of the Lending Link, host Rich Alterman engages in an insightful conversation with Jonathan Gurwitz, Credit Lead at Plaid, offering insights into open banking and its growing role within credit risk management.   Discover how Plaid's visionary strategies are reshaping lending paradigms and leveraging data to unlock new levels of financial accessibility. Gain valuable insights into industry trends, the transformative impact of open banking on lending practices, and the pivotal role of data-driven decisions in shaping the future of financial services. 

On this episode of The Lending Link, we dive into Brundage Management Company's transformative journey with GDS Link solutions, featuring CIO Peter Wyman. Explore the impact of advanced analytics, a remarkable 66% surge in approved applications, and insights from industry experts. Stay connected with the latest trends and be inspired by their success story.   Stay connected with The Lending Link! Subscribe and follow us on our listening and social platforms, and access exclusive GDS Link offerings at: ⁠https://linktr.ee/thelendinglink⁠. 

Explore the latest trends impacting credit unions and community banks in 2023 with TransUnion's Sean Flynn on The Lending Link podcast. Dive into crucial topics like student loan payments, credit scoring, deposit marketing, and more. Don't miss this insightful discussion on the future of financial institutions! Stay connected with The Lending Link! Subscribe and follow us on our listening and social platforms, and access exclusive GDS Link offerings at: https://linktr.ee/thelendinglink.

Explore the latest trends in vehicle values and the dynamic auto industry in this episode of The Lending Link podcast. Join host Rich Alterman and guest Brian Clegg, Senior Lender Solutions Manager at Black Book, for insights into car payments, remote work's impact, electric vehicles, and more. Stay informed with expert analysis—tune in now!   Stay connected with The Lending Link! Subscribe and follow us on our listening and social platforms, and access exclusive GDS Link offerings at: https://linktr.ee/thelendinglink.

Explore financial trends, risk management strategies, and best lending practices in this episode of The Lending Link podcast. Join Rich Alterman and lending expert Kevin Moss as they break down topics like credit risk assessment, economic forecasts, insights into the economy, fintech advancements, and risk reduction. They cover a range of subjects, spanning from historical decisions to predictions for the future.    Stay connected with The Lending Link! Subscribe and follow us on our listening and social platforms, and access exclusive GDS Link offerings at: https://linktr.ee/thelendinglink. 

Discover the impact of consumer permission data on the latest episode of The Lending Link featuring MeasureOne's CEO, Elan Amir. Uncover key insights into enhancing underwriting, leveraging permission data's power for better conversion rates, and seamless integration with MeasureOne's platform. Learn how MeasureOne's customer-centric approach advances financial inclusion and navigates data privacy and compliance. Join us for a glimpse into the future of lending and financial services. Stay connected with The Lending Link! Subscribe and follow us on our listening and social platforms, and access exclusive GDS Link offerings at: https://linktr.ee/thelendinglink.

Discover the evolution and future of income and employment verification in lending in this captivating episode of The Lending Link Podcast. Join industry experts from Equifax and Best Egg as they discuss digital verifications, compliance considerations, and the importance of financial inclusion. Gain invaluable insights into the changing lending landscape and the role of income verification. Tune in now! Stay connected with The Lending Link! Subscribe and follow us on our listening and social platforms, and access exclusive GDS Link offerings at: https://linktr.ee/thelendinglink.

Join host Rich Alterman in this captivating episode of The Lending Link as he explores the realm of consumer lending and credit risk with Richard Weil, renowned for his extensive experience in underwriting strategy. Tune in to gain valuable insights into the world of effective lending practices and take advantage of unraveling the secrets behind credit risk management.  Stay connected with The Lending Link! Subscribe and follow us on our listening and social platforms, and access exclusive GDS Link offerings at: https://linktr.ee/thelendinglink.

Join GDS Link's Carl Spilker, EVP of Global Analytics and Advisory, and Matt Shubert, VP of Predictive Analytics and Data Science at West Coast University, along with guest host, GDS Link's VP of Global Marketing, Matthew Tepper, as they discuss the wide-ranging impact of artificial intelligence (AI) in the financial industry.  Gain valuable insights into AI applications, benefits, leveraging data, best practices, market adaptation, insurance and lending, regulatory concerns, fraud detection, and the potential of AI in transforming financial processes.  Stay connected with The Lending Link! Subscribe and follow us on our listening and social platforms, and access exclusive GDS Link offerings at: https://linktr.ee/thelendinglink.

Join Rich Alterman in an illuminating episode of The Lending Link as he engages in a dynamic conversation with John Baird, CEO and Co-founder of Vouched.   Explore Vouched.ID's groundbreaking ID verification solutions and its ambitious mission to create the largest identity and reputation management platform worldwide. Discover the significance of reputation, the seamless ID verification process, AI technologies, and the battle against Deep Fake technology.   Don't miss out on this captivating episode that unveils the path toward a more secure and trustworthy digital future.  Stay connected with The Lending Link! Subscribe and follow our listening and social platforms, plus access exclusive GDS Link offerings here: https://linktr.ee/thelendinglink. 

In this episode of The Lending Link, host Rich Alterman is joined by Frank McKenna, Chief Fraud Specialist for Point Predictive, to discuss the turning points that have led to significant changes in the lending industry, particularly in relation to fraud prevention. With over two decades of experience in the industry, Frank provides valuable insights into the world of predictive lending, auto lending, and consumer loan fraud. Frank and Rich explore a range of critical topics related to fraud prevention in the lending industry, including: • The evolution of predictive lending from auto lending to mortgage • The differences between credit card and mortgage fraud • The role of data in fraud detection and prevention, and much more! Gain valuable insights and knowledge on fraud prevention in the lending industry by tuning into this informative episode of The Lending Link. Stay connected with The Lending Link! Subscribe and follow our listening and social platforms, plus access exclusive GDS Link offerings here: https://linktr.ee/thelendinglink.

In this special episode of Lending Link, GDS Link's President and CEO, Paul Greenwood, sits down with the FedFis' Fintech Cowboys to discuss his 20+ years within the credit risk industry and the challenges of making changes to credit policy. Paul shares his insights on using data to target marketing to qualified borrowers and how GDS Link Marketing Services provides customized solutions for lenders through an omnichannel marketing strategy.   Paul also discusses the commercial repricing opportunity in the current cycle, the impact of the work-from-home shift on banking, and the emergence of fintech in the last ten years. He explores the increasing need for banks to embrace online lending and plug into the lead side of marketing. The episode ends with a discussion on some of the drawbacks of digital banking, the importance of storytelling, and the unique feeling that community banking delivers.   Join us for this insightful conversation on the future of banking and the importance of outreach within community banking. Stay connected with The Lending Link! Subscribe and follow our listening and social platforms, plus access exclusive GDS Link offerings here: https://linktr.ee/thelendinglink

In this episode of The Lending Link, host Rich Alterman is joined by Tom McDermott, Managing Director at Cambridge Wilkinson, to discuss the constantly evolving world of investment banking. With over 25 years of experience in the industry, Tom shares valuable insights on mezzanine financing, private equity, and ESG investing. Tom and Rich delve into a range of critical topics related to the investment banking industry, including: • Defining investment banking and tips on raising capital • Differences between family offices, private equity, and venture capital • The importance of speed when raising equity and mezzanine financing • The significance of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) investing and how it impacts the industry Tune in to this informative episode of The Lending Link to gain valuable insights and knowledge on the world of investment banking. Be sure to follow Tom and our host Rich on LinkedIn, and for the latest GDS Link updates and news, follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn. You can subscribe to the Lending Link on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Play, YouTube, or wherever you prefer to listen to your podcasts! Stay connected with The Lending Link! Subscribe and follow our listening and social platforms, plus access exclusive GDS Link offerings here: https://linktr.ee/thelendinglink

As the world continues to undergo a rapid digital transformation, e-commerce has become an indispensable aspect of our daily lives. However, with the increasing popularity of online shopping, the threat of e-commerce fraud has also grown significantly.  Experts have predicted that e-commerce fraud will soar to an astounding $48 billion by 2023, emphasizing the severity of the issue. To combat this growing problem, the e-commerce fraud detection and prevention market is expected to reach a staggering $69 billion by 2025.  Joining us on this episode of The Lending Link is Carlos Osuna Zemelman, Senior Director of International Business Development with Kount.  Carlos sheds light on the unique challenges posed by emerging technologies such as cryptocurrency from a fraud perspective and how Kount's tools and artificial intelligence have become increasingly crucial in combating the growing problem of e-commerce fraud. With his expertise in international business development, Carlos provides valuable insights into the e-commerce fraud landscape and the importance of staying ahead of the constantly evolving threat.  Carlos and Rich also explore a wide range of critical topics related to the e-commerce industry, including:  - Fraud detection and prevention in the digital age  - The increasing prevalence of account takeovers and their impact on the industry  - Leveraging the Identity Trust Global Network to combat fraud  - The unique challenges of using data effectively in fraud prevention  - Opportunities and challenges of working in Latin America's e-commerce market  - Essential factors to consider when evaluating a company's strategy in the e-commerce industry Tune in to gain valuable insights into these and other key topics on navigating the complex world of e-commerce fraud.  About Carlos Osuna  Carlos Osuna has been leading transformation across emerging markets at Equifax since 2013. Throughout his career, he has served as a trusted strategic advisor to executives and has taken on a variety of leadership roles within marketing, product management, fraud strategy, and business development.   With 17 years of combined experience working with global brands, Carlos has an extensive knowledge of Latin American markets and a proven ability to build and execute complex business strategies. He also served as external staff for the World Economic Forum (WEF), participating in their annual Davos meeting.   Carlos studied business engineering at the Adolfo Ibáñez University, where he also earned his master's in human resources with a specialization in management excellence.   Be sure to follow Carlos and our host Rich on LinkedIn, and for the latest GDS Link updates and news, follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn. You can subscribe to the Lending Link on  Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, YouTube, or wherever you prefer to listen to your podcasts! Stay connected with The Lending Link! Subscribe and follow our listening and social platforms, plus access exclusive GDS Link offerings here: https://linktr.ee/thelendinglink

The Banking-as-a-Service (BaaS) market is having a profound impact on the financial service industry, with a projected market size of $48.40 Billion by 2030. The rise of BaaS has pushed traditional banks to adapt and digitalize their services, resulting in more partnerships between banks and fintech organizations. This has led to greater innovation and a changing regulatory landscape. Join our host Rich Alterman, on this episode of The Lending Link as he sits down with Josh Williams, EVP, Chief Banking Officer & Head of Partnerships at Seattle Bank, to explore the impact of BaaS on the financial services industry. Josh and Rich discuss the early days of embedded banking, the trade-offs and pain points involved, and how to identify new partners amidst changing regulations. Josh and Rich cover a wide range of topics, including:

Stay connected with The Lending Link! Subscribe and follow our listening and social platforms, plus access exclusive GDS Link offerings here: https://linktr.ee/thelendinglink On this episode of The Lending Link, we delve into the rapidly growing world of Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) services. With the BNPL market expected to reach a staggering $467.34 billion by 2026, this innovative payment option is changing the way consumers approach shopping and financial management. Our guest, Liz Pagel, SVP and Consumer Lending Business Leader at TransUnion, shares her passion for BNPL, how it may further financial inclusion, and the challenges of accurately defining it in credit reporting. Rich and Liz also provide valuable insights into the current state of BNPL lending and the efforts being made to improve the industry, including: • Overcoming BNPL challenges, such as updating infrastructures and educating lenders on dispute handling • The evolution of underwriting in the BNPL space and the move towards traditional methods, using dynamic credit models and fraud checks • The role of open-banking data in BNPL credit reporting • Promoting women in management roles within the FinTech space and the industry's progress in promoting women into senior-level positions Don't miss out on this informative discussion on the future of BNPL services. Tune in now! Show Notes In this episode, we take a deep dive into the world of Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL). Access the resources below to learn more about this topic:

In the digital era, personal lending products emerge daily from various banks, credit unions, and fintech companies. When it comes to the U.S. and Canadian markets, it is critical to understand the full credit lifecycle of lending and risk management to remain agile and competitive. While the countries may share a border and many similarities, they have several significant differences. In this episode of The Lending Link, we sit down with credit risk specialist and author of Unsecured Lending Risk Management, Frank Tian, to dive deeper into how these markets have evolved over the past 20 years and delve into their discrepancies within the lending market. Frank and Rich also discuss a variety of topics, such as: The making of the book Unsecured Lending Risk Management The booming of Fintechs and Big Tech's interest in banking A forecast on 2023's economy, will it continue to improve? And examine the value of open banking data Show Notes: To purchase Unsecured Lending Risk Management, visit here. Are you looking to further your consumer lending education? Lending Link Listeners receive a discounted rate for Frank's Consumer Lending Risk Management Essentials Course. Enter GDSLink at the time of checkout to receive the $50 off (25% discount). Learn more here. About Frank Tian: Frank Tian is a seasoned risk management professional in the unsecured lending industry. His work over the past two decades has spanned the full spectrum of retail risk management, from credit strategy and risk modeling to credit systems and fraud management. Frank has held various risk positions at multiple financial institutions in the US and Canada, including Wells Fargo, MUFG Union Bank, GE Money, BMO, and CIBC. He holds a Master's Degree in Economics from the University of Ottawa and is a certified Financial Risk Manager (FRM). Stay connected with The Lending Link! Subscribe and follow our listening and social platforms, plus access exclusive GDS Link offerings here: https://linktr.ee/thelendinglink

There isn't a period in the present day that we can equate to the COVID global pandemic and the effects that this era has had on the lending industry. Society was forced to isolate, everyone was left indoors, and not to mention that spending fell off a cliff. It was only natural from a lending perspective to withdraw and stop to wait and see what would happen before making any other determinations. During this time, the CAREs Act also rolled out to help the consumer base households weather the severity of the coronavirus storm. As the CAREs Act avoided the tsunami of delinquencies and charge-offs, it did raise questions about forbearance, payment holidays, and stimulus checks. Did this create an environment that was artificial and not sustainable? On this episode of The Lending Link, we sit down with Tom O'Neill, risk advisor with Equifax where he leads consulting engagements for clients across Equifax's 23-country footprint. In this insightful discussion, Tom and Rich also delve into a variety of topics spanning from: Are the rising credit scores contributing to higher credit limits? Why are 65% of households living paycheck to paycheck? What has changed in the adoption of alternative data? Buy Now Pay Later data and its impact on consumers, and much more! About Tom O'Neill Tom O'Neill brings over 20 years of experience leading analytic consulting engagements within Financial Services and other industries. As Risk Advisor at Equifax, O'Neill provides analytic thought leadership to client senior management, public forums, and various industry and advisory councils. While at Equifax, upon the onset of COVID-19 and resulting CARES Act, Tom became responsible for producing weekly market insight summary reports for client groups spanning industries and lifecycle stages. He also regularly presented macroeconomic and industry trends within various forums and continues to do so at Equifax. O'Neill's consulting career began in process engineering and solution requirements, helping design a GIS-mapping and reporting application for the US Department of Agriculture. He previously led Optimization Consulting groups responsible for developing and implementing. Stay connected with The Lending Link! Subscribe and follow our listening and social platforms, plus access exclusive GDS Link offerings here: https://linktr.ee/thelendinglink

Bias may present itself in a variety of ways within lending. When assessing biases, two issues frequently arise: Was someone treated differently because of who they are? Or did a sincere goal activity end as being harmful to one group? A recent wave of technological innovation has enabled lenders to better comprehend how distinct subpopulations might perform differently than the kind of borrower they're used to seeing or that's effectively represented in the data. On this episode of The Lending Link, we sit down with Kareem Saleh, CEO and co-founder of fairplay.ai, which assists lenders in identifying potential disparities in the decisioning systems, provides options to increase profitability and fairness, and helps in demonstrating to consumers, regulators and the public that they are taking strong steps to be fair. Kareem and Rich discuss how to assess algorithms for bias and optimize them for failures and as well as discuss a number of topics, including: The role of alternative data in credit underwriting and machine learning What is the adverse impact ratio? How is it determined? How does it function? How to identify variables for the protected groups that may not be in your initial model Opportunities for lenders to meet the requirements under the Community Reinvestment Act and more! About Kareem Saleh Kareem Saleh is the founder and CEO of FairPlay, the world's first Fairness-as-a-Service company. Financial Institutions use FairPlay's APIs to embed fairness considerations into their marketing, underwriting, pricing, and loss mitigation algorithms and automate fair lending testing and reporting. Previously Kareem served as Executive VicePresident at Zest.ai, where he led business development for the company's machine learning-powered credit underwriting platform. Prior to Zest.ai, Kareem served as an executive at SoftCard, a mobile payments company that Google acquired. Kareem also served in the Obama Administration, first as Chief of Staff to the State Department's Special Envoy for Climate Change, where he helped manage the 50-person team that negotiated the Paris Climate Agreement, then as Senior Advisor to the CEO of the Overseas Private Investment Corporation (OPIC) where he helped direct the U.S. Government's $30B portfolio of emerging market investments with responsibility for transaction teams in Europe, Latin America and the Middle East. Kareem is a Forbes contributor and a frequent speaker on the application of AI to financial services. He is a graduate of Georgetown University Law Center and an honors graduate of the University of Chicago. Be sure to follow Kareem and our host Rich on LinkedIn, and for the latest GDS Link updates and news, follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn. You can subscribe to the Lending Link on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Play, or wherever you prefer to listen to your podcasts!

Lenders within both consumer and SMB rely on data from a multitude of third-party sources to make informed credit decisions. Understanding a borrower's income with a high degree of certainty is critical in terms of the borrower's ability to repay. Today, we see income verification solutions employed across a variety of different applications, whether leveraged within marketing efforts, typically in the form of targeted prescreen offers, as well as within income solutions, usually through targeted credit line increase offers. In this episode, Don Chapman, Head of Strategic Partnerships at Powerlytics, whose core focus is partnering with platforms, data providers, and others to leverage data and solutions that deliver value to banks and lenders. Rich and Don analyze a variety of unique credit solutions and take a deeper dive into topics like: The increase in reliance of income solutions by both banks and non-traditional lenders Recent trends in the market, including which cities are best prepared to take on a recession Three critical items lenders look for in data providers The value of proactive credit line increases and navigating the CARD Act How a nine-digit ZIP Code can accurately estimate a household's income or a confidence score against the household's stated income About Don Chapman Don Chapman joined Powerlytics in 2020 as Head of Strategic Partnerships. Don is focused on partnering with platforms, data providers, and others to leverage Powerlytics' data and solutions to deliver value to banks and lenders. Don brings over 20+ years of senior marketing, business development, and sales experience in the financial services, technology, and consumer goods industries. Prior to joining Powerlytics, Don served as Head of Marketing for internet services company Verisign where he was responsible for the company's global marketing efforts. Before that, Don spent 18 years with Capital One and American Express where he served in a range of marketing and partner-facing roles, including building and managing co-branded card partnerships with JetBlue, Sony, and Fidelity. Don earned a BS in Marketing from The University of Illinois and an MBA from the Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth College. Be sure to follow Don and our host Rich on LinkedIn, and for the latest GDS Link updates and news, follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn. You can subscribe to the Lending Link on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Play, or wherever you prefer to listen to your podcasts!

By end of this year, fraud is projected to cost U.S. businesses roughly $2.5 Billion, with some research suggesting that figure could rise as high as $5 Billion by 2025. There's no doubt that every business is vulnerable to fraud, due largely to the numerous ways in which scammers can attack your organization. So how do you prevent the unthinkable from occurring? A proper plan in place can assist you, and your company in effectively reducing the likelihood of fraud and minimizing losses. In this information prevention discussion, we're joined by Tom Algie, IDology's National Sales Manager for Consumer Finance, and Rich and Tom delving into the necessary fraud topics like: - What is ID verification authentication and fraud mitigation - First-party Fraud vs. Synthetic Fraud - How to identify a Synthetic Identity - Most common gaps in fraud mitigation process within financial services today - Correlations between fraud tools and loan increases available, and much more! About IDology IDology, a GBG company, delivers some of the industry's most innovative multi-layered identity verification solutions to help businesses drive revenue, deter fraud and maintain compliance. IDology's ExpectID® platform leverages thousands of diverse data sources to deliver the most accurate customer locate results, actionable transparency, and on-demand control over the identity-proofing process. With frictionless, secure digital identity verification, IDology empowers businesses to onboard more legitimate customers quickly and confidently. Under their parent company, GBG, IDology and Acuant recently united to form GBG Americas, the largest pure-play identity verification and fraud prevention provider in the Americas. About Tom Algie Tom Algie is National Sales Manager for Consumer Finance at IDology. As an 18-year veteran of fintech, his experience includes consulting and management roles in lending software, data processing, and payments processing industries. Tom actively participates in multiple industry trade associations, including Online Lenders Alliance, INFiN, American Financial Services Association, and National Automotive Finance Association. Be sure to follow Tom and our host Rich on LinkedIn, and for the latest GDS Link updates and news, follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn. You can subscribe to the Lending Link on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Play, or wherever you prefer to listen to your podcasts! From the Episode: Fifth Annual Consumer Digital Identity Study: https://www.idology.com/5th-Annual-Consumer-Digital-Identity-Study/

As much as lending has changed in the last few years, its fundamental tenet—putting the customer at the center of every choice—remains unchanged. Nevertheless, the last few years have brought an abundance of changes fueled by digitization and the adoption of big data. This, combined with shifting borrower expectations, has driven positive impacts in the financial services space. Today, as the UK and the rest of the world experience economic difficulty and uncertainty, lenders must fully comprehend how these conditions affect their customer's creditworthiness and ability to pay. And most importantly, lenders must effectively leverage technology and analytics to make accurate decisions and quickly respond to changing conditions. In this episode, we're joined by Gary Byrne, who manages GDS Link's UK Sales Operations. Gary boasts over 25 years of experience within credit risk and is intimately familiar with the nuances and challenges facing UK lenders and organisations. Gary brings his expertise to the table to shed light on key topics such as: Some steps lenders should take to account for inflation The role of speed and transactional data in the decisioning process Factors slowing down the adoption of Open Banking data How to future-proof your technology stack About Gary Byrne: Gary heads GDS Link's UK business and is responsible for building a scalable, sustainable, targeted sales model focused on forging lasting client partnerships across a diverse yet highly sophisticated market. Gary's experience stretches from First Direct and HBOS to Experian Scorex, Provenir, Earnix, FICO, and more recently, TransUnion UK, where he was accountable for UK Software Sales. Be sure to follow Gary and our host Rich on LinkedIn, and for the latest GDS Link updates and news, follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn. You can subscribe to the Lending Link on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Play, or wherever you prefer to listen to your podcasts!

Shortly after the 2008 financial crisis, a new phrase emerged, and we were quickly introduced to the thriving "Fintech" industry. When it comes to financial inclusion, the more approachable you are, the more success you will have. New financial technology has made it possible for businesses to offer their goods and services for significantly less money. On this episode of The Lending Link, we're joined by a special guest, Dan Quan, who has developed several policies that have enabled the thriving Fintech environment, such as Open Banking, AI, and alternative data. Dan is the Co-Founder of Nevcaut Ventures, and he joins us to discuss his time at the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) and various technologies that are shaping the industry's future. In this informative discussion, Dan and Rich explore topics like: • The lasting impact and lessons learned from 'No Letter Actions' issued by the CFPB • Disparate Impact and how lenders can fairly and profitably navigate • Dan's insights into various FinTech pioneers and how this innovation impacts his current investments • Advice for startup companies seeking funding, and much more!

There is little doubt that having to deal with a global pandemic for a few years has altered the behaviors of both consumers and lenders. In fact, FinTechs are currently operating in an environment with increased inflation and interest rates for the first time ever. Many people are left wondering, "How do we navigate this new domain?" In this week's episode, we are joined by Kevin Moss, a 40+ year veteran of banking and credit risk management and compliance, who discusses navigating the effects of rising inflation and interest rates. Kevin and Rich delve further into a variety of subjects, including: the value of data for the future what's driving the market right now the greatest distinctions between bank loans and personal loans why financial literacy is so important for businesses and much more Listen to learn Kevin's advice for lenders on navigating the current storm successfully. Let's get synced! About Kevin Moss: Kevin Moss is a Senior Advisor at Boston Consulting Group, Inc., who is actively involved with financial institutions and Risk & Compliance practices. Kevin works with clients on credit, fraud & banking risk management, FinTech, and advisory. Kevin has a strong history of advising clients in risk management & related matters for deposit/credit products, with deep knowledge of digital channel strategies. From the Episode: New Reality Check - The Paycheck-to-Paycheck Report: The Consumer Savings Edition: https://www.pymnts.com/study/reality-check-paycheck-to-paycheck-inflation-stock-portfolios-consumer-savings/ Be sure to follow Kevin and our host Rich on LinkedIn, and for the latest GDS Link updates and news, follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn. You can subscribe to The Lending Link on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Play, or wherever you prefer to listen to your podcasts!

You're tuning in and syncing up with The Lending Link, GDS Link's brand new industry podcast designed for the modern-day lender. In this introductory episode, we're chatting with the man of the hour and host of The Lending Link, Rich Alterman. Rich has a deep-rooted history in credit risk management within consumer lending, where he boasts over 40 years of helping lenders stay competitive in our ever-changing environment. Matt Tepper, GDS Link's Global Marketing Director, sits down with Rich to talk about how he got started within the industry, the wealth of experience that GDS Link brings to the market, how the landscape of underwriting has evolved since Rich started his career, as well as current pressing issues lenders may be facing. Be sure to subscribe to the Lending Link on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Play, or wherever you prefer to listen to your podcasts. Are you interested in learning more about The Lending Link? Visit our webpage here, and head over to GDS links, LinkedIn and Twitter pages to hit those like and follow buttons. It's time to sync up with GDS Link!

You are syncing up and tuning in with The Lending Link Podcast, powered by GDS Link and hosted by Rich Alterman. Join us as we explore unique strategies for modern-day lenders and take a deep dive into the innovative advancements from both GDS Link and industry powerhouses. Listeners will gain insights from captivating guests within the FinTech, banking, and credit union worlds. Be sure to follow us and subscribe to the Lending Link on Apple Podcast, Spotify, or wherever you enjoy listening to this podcast too. Let start syncing!