Fintech
Fintech company Stash launches StashWorks, a SHRM-backed workplace benefit that partners with businesses to save energy for American workers
StashWorks also welcomes its first batch of customers totaling 20,000 employees from a mix of industries and trusted brands
NEW YORK, May 16, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Buffer stockthe investing app that helps Americans achieve financial goals, today announced the launch of StashWorks, a new employer benefits platform that enables salaried and hourly workers to improve their financial well-being. StashWorks simplifies saving for millions of employees, eliminating stress and encouraging financial and professional success.
Fintech company Stash launches StashWorks, a workplace benefit backed by SHRM
Introducing StashWorks and our list of launch partners
The StashWorks experience
StashWorks’ first group of partners includes Wonder, a company founded by entrepreneur Marc Lore that is redefining home catering and food delivery; Aurify Brands, one of New York City’s largest independent restaurant operators; PEAK6 Investments; and other major public and private brands in retail, customer service and insurance. Backed by SHRM, the world’s largest human resources association, StashWorks works directly with employers and can be accessed through top-rated PEOs and top-tier benefits brokers.
“It’s standard practice for employers to offer a 401(k) or pension for retirement, but hard-working Americans need just as much help saving for now,” said Liza Landsman, CEO of Stash. “StashWorks supports employees’ financial needs both in the short term AND long-term, with the broader impact of helping companies improve the employee experience, creating happier, healthier and more productive workplaces.”
“Stash is an innovative leader in personal finance and fintech, and we are thrilled to be both a strategic investor in Stash and a key partner in the launch of StashWorks, its disruptive new offering for businesses and their employees,” he said Johnny C. Taylor, Jr., SHRM-SCP and President and CEO of SHRM. “SHRM is the trusted authority on all things work, and we know that employers want to give their employees the tools to succeed financially, but that can be a challenge to manage. StashWorks makes it easier simple for everyone.”
For millions of Americans today, saving money is difficult and out of reach even with a regular source of income. Meanwhile, research also shows that inflation and the inability to grow wealth continue to negatively impact work experience. StashWorks makes saving a habit that lasts: Employees can designate any dollar amount or percentage of their paycheck to save on payday, quickly earning “savings streak” rewards when they reach key milestones on their journey to financial well-being .
“Offering employees a financial tool to save money not only promotes equity within our organization, but also contributes to a more inclusive and equitable workplace culture where everyone has the opportunity to thrive financially,” he said Marc Lore, President and CEO of Wonder. “StashWorks will be the first solution that offers our employees easy-to-use tools to save so they can easily achieve both short- and long-term goals in a cost-effective manner, with educational and structural frameworks that provide a holistic approach to their finances personal.”
About StashWorks:
StashWorks brings the innovation and accessibility of modern financial technology to employee benefits. StashWorks helps customers set and pursue financial goals of all sizes, one paycheck contribution at a time, creating a seamless all-in-one experience for employees to manage paycheck and savings goals in one place.1 StashWorks incentivizes profitable behavior with cash bonuses into the customer’s managed investment account when they reach specific milestones: a larger bonus to get started and, during the first six months of using the platform, the opportunity to receive additional “Series Rewards of savings” for each month the customer makes two paycheck deposits. The benefit also comes with Stash’s patented Stock-Back® Debit Mastercard®, which allows customers to earn up to 3% in equity when they spend with the card2, plus no overdraft fees3, ATM access, payday up to two days in advance4 and access to selected guidance and advice through the Stash Learn platform. With StashWorks, millions more people can use Stash to easily develop healthy habits and learn as they earn.
Stock information:
Buffer stock is an investment app dedicated to empowering people to invest and build a better life. Stash plans, starting at just $3 per month, unlock access to a suite of simple, automated solutions designed to help people find security and peace of mind through investing. In 2023, the company announced the appointment of Liza Landsman as CEO, a $40 million fundraising round, and its Smart Portfolio managed account was named the best-performing robo-advisor overall by Condor Capital.5 Stashers are 15% more financially savvy than others. average American6 and trust Stash for timely training, expert advice and clear next steps to help them grow their money and achieve lifelong goals.
For more information about Stash, visit www.stash.com.
StashWorks Saving Streak Rewards are subject to Terms & Conditions. Enrolled members will receive a $25 reward in their Smart Portfolio for their first successful direct deposit into their Stash. They will receive a $5 reward for each consecutive month with a successful direct deposit transaction for up to 6 additional rewards (total of $55 in rewards).
1 Stash offers access to investment and banking accounts in each subscription plan. Each account type is subject to different regulations and limitations. Stash monthly subscription pricing starts at $3 per month. Enrolled members will be responsible for this fee if they leave their employer or if their employer stops sponsoring the StashWorks program. Enrolled members remain responsible for any standard fees and charges reflected in the price of the ETFs, as well as fees for various ancillary services that are not included in the Stash monthly fee, as applicable, and for their Stash fee in the event that the StashWorks subscription is terminated for any reason. Please see the Consulting contract for details. Other fees apply to the bank account. Please see the Deposit account contract.
2 Stash Banking Services provided by Stride Bank, NA, Member FDIC. The Stash Stock-Back® Debit Mastercard® is issued by Stride Bank under license from Mastercard International. Mastercard and the circle design are registered trademarks of Mastercard International Incorporated. All equity rewards you earn will be stored in your Stash Invest account. The investment products and services provided by Stash Investments LLC are not FDIC insured, are not bank guaranteed, and may lose value.
All rewards earned through use of the Stash Stock-Back® Debit Mastercard® will be fulfilled by Stash Investments LLC and are subject to Terms and conditions. You will pay standard fees and expenses reflected in the price of the investments you earn, as well as fees for various ancillary services charged by Stash. To earn shares in the program, the Stash Stock-Back® Debit Mastercard must be used to make a qualifying purchase. Stock rewards paid to participating customers through the Stash Stock Back program are not FDIC insured, are not bank guaranteed, and may lose value. Restrictions apply; 3% Stock-Back Rewards available only to qualified bonus merchants on Stash+.
3 For the complete list of tariffs, consult the Deposit account contract for details.
4 Early access to direct deposit funds depends on when the payer submits the payment file. We generally make these funds available on the day your payment file is received, which is up to 2 days before your scheduled payment date.
5 Based on an independent third-party ranking by Condor Capital Wealth Management, published 11/16/2023, of 42 investment portfolios managed at 27 different providers from 01/23/20 to 9/30/23. Please see the full report for details on the methodology. The period tested was short in duration and may not provide meaningful analysis; Past performance does not guarantee future results and Candor Capital’s experience is not representative of all clients. All investments involve risk, including loss of principal. Stash has full authority to manage a “Smart Portfolio”, a discretionally managed account.
6 Based on surveys conducted online in the United States by Stash using SurveyMonkey technology in April 2021 and May 2022. 2022 surveys were completed by 1,256 non-Stashers and 1,006 Stash customers. “Financial literacy” is determined and defined on average by the percentage of correct answers to a series of financial questions by respondents. Users were grouped into groups based on the number of months they had been using Stash, then average scores were calculated for each group and the 12-month rolling average was plotted to show the clear trend between ownership and score.
Stash has full authority to manage a Smart Portfolio, a discretionally managed account.
Investment advisory services offered by Stash Investments LLC, an SEC registered investment advisor. Investing involves risk and investments may lose value. This content is for educational and informational purposes only. Nothing in this content should be construed as investment, tax, or legal advice.
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Fintech
US Agencies Request Information on Bank-Fintech Dealings
Federal banking regulators have issued a statement reminding banks of the potential risks associated with third-party arrangements to provide bank deposit products and services.
The agencies support responsible innovation and banks that engage in these arrangements in a safe and fair manner and in compliance with applicable law. While these arrangements may offer benefits, supervisory experience has identified a number of safety and soundness, compliance, and consumer concerns with the management of these arrangements. The statement details potential risks and provides examples of effective risk management practices for these arrangements. Additionally, the statement reminds banks of existing legal requirements, guidance, and related resources and provides insights that the agencies have gained through their oversight. The statement does not establish new supervisory expectations.
Separately, the agencies requested additional information on a broad range of arrangements between banks and fintechs, including for deposit, payment, and lending products and services. The agencies are seeking input on the nature and implications of arrangements between banks and fintechs and effective risk management practices.
The agencies are considering whether to take additional steps to ensure that banks effectively manage the risks associated with these different types of arrangements.
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Fintech
What changes in financial regulation have impacted the development of financial technology?
Exploring the complex landscape of global financial regulation, we gather insights from leading fintech leaders, including CEOs and finance experts. From the game-changing impact of PSD2 to the significant role of GDPR in data security, explore the four key regulatory changes that have reshaped fintech development, answering the question: “What changes in financial regulation have impacted fintech development?”
- PSD2 revolutionizes access to financial technology
- GDPR Improves Fintech Data Privacy
- Regulatory Sandboxes Drive Fintech Innovation
- GDPR Impacts Fintech Data Security
PSD2 revolutionizes access to financial technology
When it comes to regulatory impact on fintech development, nothing comes close to PSD2. This EU regulation has created a new level playing field for market players of all sizes, from fintech startups to established banks. It has had a ripple effect on other markets around the world, inspiring similar regulatory frameworks and driving global innovation in fintech.
The Payment Services Directive (PSD2), the EU law in force since 2018, has revolutionized the fintech industry by requiring banks to provide third-party payment providers (TPPs) with access to payment services and customer account information via open APIs. This has democratized access to financial data, fostering the development of personalized financial instruments and seamless payment solutions. Advanced security measures such as Strong Customer Authentication (SCA) have increased consumer trust, pushing both fintech companies and traditional banks to innovate and collaborate more effectively, resulting in a dynamic and consumer-friendly financial ecosystem.
The impact of PSD2 has extended beyond the EU, inspiring similar regulations around the world. Countries such as the UK, Australia and Canada have launched their own open banking initiatives, spurred by the benefits seen in the EU. PSD2 has highlighted the benefits of open banking, also prompting US financial institutions and fintech companies to explore similar initiatives voluntarily.
This has led to a global wave of fintech innovation, with financial institutions and fintech companies offering more integrated, personalized and secure services. The EU’s leadership in open banking through PSD2 has set a global standard, promoting regulatory harmonization and fostering an interconnected and innovative global financial ecosystem.
Looking ahead, the EU’s PSD3 proposals and Financial Data Access (FIDA) regulations promise to further advance open banking. PSD3 aims to refine and build on PSD2, with a focus on improving transaction security, fraud prevention, and integration between banks and TPPs. FIDA will expand data sharing beyond payment accounts to include areas such as insurance and investments, paving the way for more comprehensive financial products and services.
These developments are set to further enhance connectivity, efficiency and innovation in financial services, cementing open banking as a key component of the global financial infrastructure.
General Manager, Technology and Product Consultant Fintech, Insurtech, Miquido
GDPR Improves Fintech Data Privacy
Privacy and data protection have been taken to another level by the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), forcing fintech companies to tighten their data management. In compliance with the GDPR, organizations must ensure that personal data is processed fairly, transparently, and securely.
This has led to increased innovation in fintech towards technologies such as encryption and anonymization for data protection. GDPR was described as a top priority in the data protection strategies of 92% of US-based companies surveyed by PwC.
Financial Expert, Sterlinx Global
Regulatory Sandboxes Drive Fintech Innovation
Since the UK’s Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) pioneered sandbox regulatory frameworks in 2016 to enable fintech startups to explore new products and services, similar frameworks have been introduced in other countries.
This has reduced the “crippling effect on innovation” caused by a “one size fits all” regulatory approach, which would also require machines to be built to complete regulatory compliance before any testing. Successful applications within sandboxes give regulators the confidence to move forward and address gaps in laws, regulations, or supervisory approaches. This has led to widespread adoption of new technologies and business models and helped channel private sector dynamism, while keeping consumers protected and imposing appropriate regulatory requirements.
Co-founder, UK Linkology
GDPR Impacts Fintech Data Security
A big change in financial regulations that has had a real impact on fintech is the 2018 EU General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). I have seen how GDPR has pushed us to focus more on user privacy and data security.
GDPR means we have to handle personal data much more carefully. At Leverage, we have had to step up our game to meet these new rules. We have improved our data encryption and started doing regular security audits. It was a little tricky at first, but it has made our systems much more secure.
For example, we’ve added features that give users more control over their data, like simple consent tools and clear privacy notices. These changes have helped us comply with GDPR and made our customers feel more confident in how we handle their information.
I believe that GDPR has made fintech companies, including us at Leverage, more transparent and secure. It has helped build trust with our users, showing them that we take data protection seriously.
CEO & Co-Founder, Leverage Planning
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Fintech
M2P Fintech About to Raise $80M
Application Programming Interface (API) Infrastructure Platform M2P Financial Technology has reached the final round to raise $80 million, at a valuation of $900 million.
Specifically, M2P Fintech, formerly known as Yap, is closing a new funding round involving new and existing investors, according to entrackr.com. The India-based company, which last raised funding two and a half years ago, previously secured $56 million in a round led by Insight Partners, earning a post-money valuation of $650 million.
A source indicated that M2P Fintech is ready to raise $80 million in this new funding round, led by a new investor. Existing backers, including Insight Partners, are also expected to participate. The new funding is expected to go toward enhancing the company’s technology infrastructure and driving growth in domestic and international markets.
What does M2P Fintech do?
M2P Fintech’s API platform enables businesses to provide branded financial services through partnerships with fintech companies while maintaining regulatory compliance. In addition to its operations in India, the company is active in Nepal, UAE, Australia, New Zealand, Philippines, Bahrain, Egypt, and many other countries.
Another source revealed that M2P Fintech’s valuation in this funding round is expected to be between USD 880 million and USD 900 million (post-money). The company has reportedly received a term sheet and the deal is expected to be publicly announced soon. The Tiger Global-backed company has acquired six companies to date, including Goals101, Syntizen, and BSG ITSOFT, to enhance its service offerings.
According to TheKredible, Beenext is the company’s largest shareholder with over 13% ownership, while the co-founders collectively own 34% of the company. Although M2P Fintech has yet to release its FY24 financials, it has reported a significant increase in operating revenue. However, this growth has also been accompanied by a substantial increase in losses.
Fintech
Scottish financial technology firm Aveni secures £11m to expand AI offering
By Gloria Methri
Today
- To come
- Aveni Assistance
- Aveni Detection
Artificial intelligence Financial Technology Aveni has announced one of the largest Series A investments in a Scottish company this year, amounting to £11 million. The investment is led by Puma Private Equity with participation from Par Equity, Lloyds Banking Group and Nationwide.
Aveni combines AI expertise with extensive financial services experience to create large language models (LLMs) and AI products designed specifically for the financial services industry. It is trusted by some of the UK’s leading financial services firms. It has seen significant business growth over the past two years through its conformity and productivity solutions, Aveni Detect and Aveni Assist.
This investment will enable Aveni to build on the success of its existing products, further consolidate its presence in the sector and introduce advanced technologies through FinLLM, a large-scale language model specifically for financial services.
FinLLM is being developed in partnership with new investors Lloyds Banking Group and Nationwide. It is a large, industry-aligned language model that aims to set the standard for transparent, responsible and ethical adoption of generative AI in UK financial services.
Following the investment, the team developing the FinLLM will be based at the Edinburgh Futures Institute, in a state-of-the-art facility.
Joseph Twigg, CEO of Aveniexplained, “The financial services industry doesn’t need AI models that can quote Shakespeare; it needs AI models that deliver transparency, trust, and most importantly, fairness. The way to achieve this is to develop small, highly tuned language models, trained on financial services data, and reviewed by financial services experts for specific financial services use cases. Generative AI is the most significant technological evolution of our generation, and we are in the early stages of adoption. This represents a significant opportunity for Aveni and our partners. The goal with FinLLM is to set a new standard for the controlled, responsible, and ethical adoption of generative AI, outperforming all other generic models in our select financial services use cases.”
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