Fintech

Why fintech companies acquire microfinance banking licenses – CEO of Baobab

Published

10 months ago

19 June, 2024

Baobab Microfinance Bank Acting Chief Executive Officer, Eric Ntumba, talks about how Nigeria can leverage technology to promote savings and financial inclusion, among other industry issues, in this interview with ANOZIE EGOLE

Candies do we increase aggregate savings in Nigeria by liberalizing the banking sector?

Yes, I believe so. Technology has always been a catalyst to speed up processes. A digital savings product can increase the speed and efficiency of saving, leading to an increase in the country’s overall savings if widely adopted.

Do you see fintechs replacing banking microfinance in Nigeria?

It depends on what you define as fintech. Many fintech companies eventually acquire a microfinance banking license to gain more options. Most fintechs present themselves primarily as payment platforms. However, once they obtain their microfinance banking license, they can also lend. Therefore, they become relevant competitors because they are equipped to carry out the same regulatory activities that we carry out. Whether we are a fintech depends on the definition, but fundamentally we are a financial institution that uses technology.

Can microfinance banks reduce the cost of saving to be encouraged?

Yes, by digitizing the savings process, we eliminate the cost of physical transactions, making saving more convenient and cost-effective. While some costs such as Internet access remain, we plan to introduce a USSD format for people without smartphones or Internet access, extending the reach of our product to people who use feature phones.

With the current economic difficulties, do you think people can still save?

Yes, one way to fight inflation is to ensure that money earns interest between income and expenditure. Jollof+ allows all this, making savings relevant even in difficult economic times. While some people may find it difficult to save, earning interest could help ease the effects of inflation.

What inspired Baobab to launch the Jollof+ app?

The app was designed to provide greater convenience to our customers, allowing them to save from the comfort of their home, business or office. The initiative is part of Baobab’s transformation efforts, as we believe that banking should no longer be a place you go to whenever you need it. The goal is to enable our customers to become their own bankers, managing their savings and investments independently. Additionally, digitalization allows us to extend our reach far beyond the structural limitations of physical branches, helping us reach more people, tap into new segments and better serve our existing customers. This is the key rationale behind the launch of Jollof+.

Can you elaborate on this topic?

Yes, the main driver of the application is to push for convenient savings. Saving is intrinsically an effort; choose to defer an expense. Therefore, adding additional effort, such as traveling to a branch, can complicate this process. By eliminating these peripheral barriers, such as transportation to the branch during opening hours, we make it easier to save. Customers can fund their Jollof+ portfolio and choose the best investment or savings option that suits their needs. This convenience increases the likelihood of greater savings volumes.

Can you explain the options available on the app?

Each option on the app has specific features and benefits. Since JollofLock is primarily designed for long-term savings, this fixed deposit product offers upfront interest for a predefined period. You can top up the initial amount during the period. The baby playpen was designed to save for children’s future needs. You can start saving even before the baby is born and save for as many children as you want. The Ajo can be used for individual or collective savings, suitable for individuals or groups with specific savings goals, while the Jollof flex ensures that the balance in your Jollof wallet also earns interest, providing flexibility before deciding on a specific investment option or savings.

Are microfinance banks ready for a trillion-dollar economy?

It depends on how readiness is defined. Microfinance banks play their legitimate role at different levels. We at Baobab are financially solid and supported by a strong shareholder structure that enables us to make the investments necessary to make relevant contributions to the national effort.

Do users need a Baobab account to use Jollof+?

No, non-Baobab customers can also use Jollof+. The account can be funded using a debit card from any bank.

Is there a need for recapitalization in the microfinance sector?

The regulator sets the capitalization thresholds. Only the regulator can evaluate and issue guidelines. For now, we comply with current requirements and are prepared to address any future changes if and when they arise.

Has the increase in MPR and interest rates affected your loan repayment ability?

The quality of our portfolio has not deteriorated, with a portfolio at risk of less than 3%, better than the industry average. Our goal is to ensure that our clients continue to manage their debts effectively.

The main challenge is to overcome the limit of financial inclusion. Many people remain unserved or underserved. We need to be relevant to them through our product offerings and outreach. Digital solutions, including USSD, can help overcome barriers and increase the industry’s reach.

How competitive is your interest rate?

We believe we are transparently offering the best interest rate – up to 21.60% net on the Jollof+ app.

What message do you have for your customers?

We can’t wait for people to enjoy Jollof+. It offers convenience, targeted savings options and good saving habits, especially for tech-savvy young people. The interest earned can help fight inflation, making Jollof+ a valuable financial management tool for everyone.

Source

Related Topics:Baobab Microfinance Bank Eric Ntumba

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Fintech

US Agencies Request Information on Bank-Fintech Dealings

Published

9 months ago

30 July, 2024

FinCrypt Staff

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?

Published

9 months ago

30 July, 2024

FinCrypt Staff

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.

Sebastian Malczyk

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.

Arid Islam

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.

George Blandford

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.

Dr. Rhett Stubbendeck

CEO & Co-Founder, Leverage Planning

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Fintech

M2P Fintech About to Raise $80M

Published

9 months ago

30 July, 2024

FinCrypt Staff

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.

Source

Fintech

Scottish financial technology firm Aveni secures £11m to expand AI offering

Published

9 months ago

30 July, 2024

FinCrypt Staff

Aveni, Investment Management, AI, NLP, UK

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.”