AFTER THE BELL: Fretting about fintech while AI transforms lending and creates new risks
Fintech is transforming banking through AI-powered lending and rapid expansion into underserved markets. But as algorithms make ever-faster financial decisions, regulators face the challenge of managing the risks without stifling innovation.
Fintech is revolutionizing banking through AI-powered lending and rapid growth into underserved markets. Regulators are grappling with managing risks without stifling innovation, as algorithms make faster financial decisions. Optasia, an international fintech operator, reported a 58% revenue increase and 46% Distributed Value growth in its interim results.
The company expanded into markets like Gabon, South Sudan, Pakistan, and Indonesia, boasting a low default rate of 1.3%. Established banks, such as FirstRand and Absa, have acquired fintech players to compete with them. Fintech providers aim to help poorer people better control their money, contributing to the democratisation of banking.
AI plays a crucial role in this transformation, enabling banks to make faster decisions without human intervention. However, there are concerns about faulty algorithms leading to people taking loans they can't afford. In such cases, it's challenging to determine responsibility and recover funds. Regulators face a headache, striving to balance risk management and fintech growth while maintaining financial stability.
Written by urgent.news from Daily Maverick's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
