AI & Lending

A fast lending decision can still end with a slow payment. For the customer waiting to use the money, that is not a technical distinction; it is the experience.

An arrears dashboard can look reassuring if you read only one column. This week's Canadian data are a reason to read the next one.

A stablecoin strategy needs more than a token and a launch date. It needs an answer to the awkward questions about reserves, capital, permissions, and who is accountable when something goes wrong.

Six banks exploring a common approach to digital money deserve attention. It does not justify pretending the future has already shipped.

On September 9, Chime agreed to acquire Oklahoma-headquartered Stride Bank for $590 million in an all-cash deal at 1.5x tangible book, subject to OCC and Federal Reserve approval, closing in the first half of 2027. Stride will rebrand as Chime Bank NA. Chime says it expects more than $100 million in net synergies from sponsor-bank fee savings, expanded lending, and a lower cost of funds.