Equifax and Qlarifi Collaborate to Assess Buy Now, Pay Later Effects on Credit Risk and Fraud
Equifax, the noted data and analytics powerhouse, has recently announced its collaboration with Qlarifi, a pioneer in real-time consumer credit databases specifically designed for the burgeoning Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) sector. This partnership aims to embark on an ambitious study concerning the implications of BNPL on credit risk assessments and fraud prevention in the finance sector.
Recent statistics reveal that more than 50% of American consumers are currently utilizing BNPL options for their payments, with a significant 35% indicating their intent to increase their usage in 2025. Such an uptick in BNPL adoption has prompted both Equifax and Qlarifi to recognize the urgency for comprehensive insights into the predictive capabilities of real-time BNPL data. This forthcoming study marks the first major group initiative in the U.S. that will harness real-time BNPL data from various providers, aiming at a thorough exploration of its consequences on credit risk evaluations and the mechanisms of fraud deterrence.
Qlarifi offers a robust platform tailored for short-term credit schemes, affording lenders a secure and straightforward method for reporting on BNPL usage with real-time accuracy. Their infrastructure enables lenders to track consumer borrowing trends dynamically, thus facilitating the identification of potential loan stacking instantly while delivering vital insights relevant to the BNPL landscape. Jake Osborne, the Senior Vice President and General Manager of Fintech and Payments at Equifax, expressed optimism about the collaboration: "Working alongside an innovative partner like Qlarifi and multiple BNPL providers allows to spotlight the potential for minimizing loan stacking risks and emerging trends. Moreover, we can quantify how predictive BNPL data can be, ultimately benefiting consumers."
Understanding BNPL data's predictive impact is becoming increasingly crucial as more consumers opt for these payment methods. While traditional credit assessments provide valuable insights into a borrower’s history and financial integrity, lenders are looking to develop a more expansive view of potential customers to enhance their offerings and decisions. The study plans to investigate how BNPL data can fortify consumer protections, by presenting early warnings of financial strains, detecting loan stacking in real-time, and helping prevent consumers from overextending their finances. Additionally, when managed responsibly, BNPL can facilitate access to credit for individuals possessing limited credit history.
As Alex Naughton, CEO of Qlarifi, states, “BNPL service providers and traditional lenders have navigated uncertainties for an extended period. This collaborative study, utilizing real-time information from various lenders, will serve as a pivotal first stride toward comprehensively understanding how we can better meet the shifting demands of both borrowers and lenders with a clearer and complete perspective on how BNPL conduct can influence credit judgments.”
For those interested in the evolving dynamics of consumer finance, it will be crucial to follow the progress of this groundbreaking study. With both Equifax and Qlarifi’s extensive resources and technology, the outcomes are anticipated to provide vital guidelines on optimizing consumer credit evaluations and fostering financial wellness in a rapidly changing market.
In conclusion, the research between Equifax and Qlarifi marks a significant advancement in the examination of how alternative payment frameworks like BNPL are shaping credit assessments and fraud prevention strategies. With the study underway, stakeholders in the lending community will gain invaluable insights into the complexities of consumer borrowing behaviors and the critical importance of data in financial decision-making.