Fintech
Marble Issues Annual Shareholder Letter
Vancouver, British Columbia–(Newsfile Corp. – December 22, 2021) – Marble Financial Inc. (CSE: MRBL) (OTC PINK: MRBLF) (FSE: 2V0) (“Marble” or the “Company”), an AI-driven financial technology company, is pleased to provide the following shareholder letter from Marble CEO Karim Nanji.
Dear Shareholders,
I thank you for supporting our Company and its mission to become a leader in providing financial solutions that will positively change the lives of many Canadians. It has been our goal from the onset to offer an alternative, prescriptive solution to the millions of people across Canada who are either underbanked or marginalized from mainstream financial services. In 2022, we strive to bring our unique solutions to the millions of financially underserved consumers in the United States.
2021 has been a transformative year for Marble as we were successful in accomplishing key initiatives on both operational and corporate fronts.
We augmented our direct-to-consumer customer (D2C) acquisition strategy with the launch of our business-to-business (B2B) marketing strategy that leverages our proprietary SAAS engagement platform and technology in partnering with financial services providers in the industry. This includes the release of our B2B product Marble Connect, which provides our clients with unique insights, data and scoring algorithms to better understand and assess their existing and potential customers. Mable’s technology can now be embedded inside our partners’ business processes and technology to improve the likelihood of customers transacting with them while also providing their consumers with a path towards financial wellness.
2021 was an exciting period for us as we positioned the Company for growth and expansion within the alternative financial services space. This year, we successfully accomplished multiple key corporate objectives, which included: completing the acquisition of Inverite Verifications Inc.; announcing 15 new B2B partnerships for Marble Connect and Inverite; securing a $10 million credit facility to relaunch our Fast-Track loan program; closing a $2 million financing; completing the definitive agreement for exclusivity for the Point Deductions Technology via the Marble Connect Application Programming Interface (API) and executing new product and operational initiatives.
Moreover, our Company has set new records on a number of fronts. Inverite reached a new monthly paid transactions volume milestone of 92,794 in November 2021, the MyMarble platform now has over 25,000 members and Marble Learn has increased its total course enrollments to 7,956. Additionally, Inverite has collected over 1.6 million unique customer financial data points on its platform to date. The aggregation of this data will complement our data science and machine learning initiatives and enable future monetization efforts by helping our partners conduct a more accurate financial and credit assessment of their consumers. Furthermore, we believe this would help more consumers achieve their financial goals.
As we continue to scale our Company, I wish to remind our Shareholders that the progress we made so far is only the beginning and that we are in pursuit of various growth initiatives that will take us a step closer to reaching new heights.
Fostering key B2B relationships
The acquisition of Inverite marked an important inflection point in our Company’s history as we have now brought advanced AI-driven banking verification solutions under the Marble umbrella. We now own this proprietary technology, which significantly accelerates the decision-making process for alternative lenders seeking to adjudicate consumers seeking credit.
As mentioned above, the launch of our Marble Connect, our B2B ‘white label’ API is transformational. This product and technology will benefit the alternative financial services industry by enabling businesses in this space to better understand their consumers such as their needs and qualifications. We believe it will improve customer engagement and retention, lower customer acquisition costs while increasing customer lifetime value for both Marble and our partners in the alternative financial services landscape.
To reiterate, these two platforms have established new business relationships for our B2B segment in which we announced 15 new clients in 2021 through Marble Connect and Inverite.
The growth in our B2B segment is imperative to our overall expansion strategy because it not only helps Marble penetrate new niche markets within the lending and alternative financial space but also, allows us to instantly adopt new customer data through our B2B partners who transact in both Canada and the United States. Moving forward, this will form the basis of our expansion strategy to enter the U.S. market without incurring exorbitant costs for marketing and delivering our products and services south of the border.
Focusing on our products and product development
While one of our goals is to scale up the delivery of the MyMarble platform and reach of our core product offerings, we are also focused on enhancing our product portfolio to create a multi-faceted and comprehensive offering for our users.
In July 2021, we entered into a $10 million arm’s length definitive credit facility agreement with Cypress Hills Partners Inc., a non-affiliated Canadian-based alternative specialty lender to facilitate additional Fast-Track loans. We are pleased that as of December 3, 2021, we have relaunched our Fast-Track loan program. Having the credit facility available should assist with our loan growth efforts as we are seeing increased demand for our Fast-Track loan product given the current macroeconomic environment. We also joined the Financial Data And Technology Associations (FDATA) as a member to advance our Open Banking and Data Privacy strategy. I believe that the next iteration of financial services will stem from the collection and study of user data to determine the most competitive financial solutions for consumers. This will be key to identifying distinct customer patterns, resulting in us understanding our customers better to offer them greater value in the services we deliver.
We launched two new products this past year including the ‘GIC Savings Loan’ with Jenson Graf Risk Management Inc., a leading credit solutions provider, and ‘Marble Boost’, a 12-month interest-free credit improvement program, which provides credit-challenged consumers with a unique savings and credit improvement offering. Boost offers our subscribers a 1-year paid subscription to MyMarble Premium through an innovative installment loan.
To further extend our suite of financial solutions, we will be introducing CreditMeds, a proprietary diagnostic tool that provides an online assessment to consumers and recommends debt re-structuring options based on their financial well-being.
I look forward to our future growth, scaling our platform and launching new products that are currently in development. The North American market continues to provide us with an opportunity to offer solutions for most consumers that remain underbanked and financially marginalized from mainstream financial services. I believe that we will be able to capture new opportunities within this market and help millions of underbanked and underserved consumers through our unique platform and technology.
Additions to our leadership and advisory team
We have expanded our management and advisory team with industry experts through the additions of the following individuals, who will strengthen our leadership team as we strive towards significant growth:
Lawrence Rhee – Special Situations Advisor
Mr. Rhee has been actively involved in the Canadian technology industry for over 20 years, having advised many technology companies in Canada. He has held senior investment banking and equity research leadership roles at firms such as Haywood Securities, GMP Securities and Genuity Capital.
Rose Zanic, CPA, CA – Chief Financial Officer
Ms. Zanic is a self-employed corporate finance professional with over 25 years of capital markets and corporate finance experience. She has previously served as Senior Vice-President, Corporate Finance with Wolverton Securities Ltd. for 19 years where she oversaw the firm’s corporate finance and syndication department.
Our plans for 2022 and beyond
In laying the groundwork to increase user growth and conversions in 2022, we plan to achieve multiple catalysts through the execution of impactful strategic initiatives next year. Our key focus will be to accelerate the expansion of our B2B segment, mainly through Marble Connect and Inverite to secure more business partners. We will also work towards completing and releasing new products for both our consumers and corporate clients, in order to provide a broader selection of solutions to drive revenue growth through multiple product offerings. Lastly, we are initiating our entry into the U.S. market through our existing business partnerships that are transacting on both sides of the border.
On behalf of the Marble family, we would like to thank our Shareholders for your confidence, support and patience to date. The pandemic and the macroeconomic environment have changed the financial lives of many. However, it has also brought a tremendous opportunity for Marble to capitalize on the largest sector of the economy that is not being served – the underbanked.
We anticipate a great year for Marble, and we look forward to sharing our journey and growth with all of our Shareholders. Our platform continues to gain greater customer traction, highlighted by the gains in our membership and transactional growth. We also look forward to reaching new milestones and setting the stage for another transformative year in 2022 that will lead to significant shareholder value creation.
I hope that all of you will have a wonderful holiday season in the comfort of your family and loved ones.
Happy Holidays!
Best Regards,
Karim Nanji,
CEO of Marble Financial Inc.
About Marble Financial Inc. (CSE: MRBL) (OTC PINK: MRBLF) (FSE: 2V0): Marble’s proprietary MyMarble platform utilizes the power of machine learning, data science, and artificial intelligence, in leveraging its proven data-driven strategies through technology solutions Connect, Inverite, MyMarble (formerly Score-Up), Fast-Track, Maestro and Boost to engage in and navigate a clear path towards financial wellbeing and a meaningful credit score, since 2016, Marble is proud to have empowered thousands of marginalized consumers to a positive financial future, and we continue to establish ourselves as leaders in financial wellness through the licensing of our proprietary products on the MyMarble Platform.
For further information about Marble Financial, please visit: mymarble.ca
Mike Marrandino, Executive Chairman
T:(855) 661-2390 ext. 104 Email: [email protected]
NEITHER THE CANADIAN SECURITIES EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATIONS SERVICES PROVIDER HAVE REVIEWED OR ACCEPT RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE.
Caution Regarding Forward-Looking Information
This release contains forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements do not guarantee future performance. They involve risks, uncertainties and assumptions and actual results could differ materially from those anticipated. Forward looking statements are based on the opinions and estimates of management at the date the statements are made and are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. Except for historical facts, the statements in this news release, as well as oral statements or other written statements made or to be made by Marble, are forward-looking and involve risks and uncertainties. The forward-looking information included in this release is expressly qualified in its entirety by this cautionary statement. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. The Company undertakes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements, other than as required by applicable law.
Fintech
Fintech Pulse: Your Daily Industry Brief (Chime, ZBD, MiCA)
As we close out 2024, the fintech industry continues to deliver headlines that underscore its dynamism and innovation. From IPO aspirations to groundbreaking regulatory milestones, today’s updates highlight the transformative power of fintech partnerships, regulatory evolution, and disruptive technologies. Here’s what you need to know.
Chime’s Quiet Step Toward Public Markets
Chime, the U.S.-based financial technology startup best known for its digital banking services, has taken a significant step by filing confidential paperwork for an initial public offering (IPO). As one of the most valuable private fintechs in the U.S., Chime’s move could potentially signal a renewed appetite for fintech IPOs in a market that has been cautious following fluctuating valuations across the tech sector.
With a valuation that reportedly exceeded $25 billion in its last funding round, Chime’s IPO could set a new benchmark for the industry. Observers note that its strong customer base and revenue growth may make it an appealing choice for investors seeking to capitalize on the digital banking boom. However, the timing and success of the IPO will depend on broader market conditions and the regulatory landscape.
Source: Bloomberg
ZBD’s Pioneering Achievement: EU MiCA License Approval
ZBD, a fintech company specializing in Bitcoin Lightning network solutions, has made history by becoming the first to secure an EU MiCA (Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation) license. This landmark approval by the Dutch regulator positions ZBD at the forefront of compliant crypto-fintech operations in Europe.
MiCA, which aims to harmonize the regulatory framework for crypto-assets across the EU, has been a focal point for industry players aiming to establish legitimacy and expand their offerings. ZBD’s achievement not only validates its operational rigor but also sets a precedent for other fintech firms navigating the evolving regulatory landscape.
Industry insiders view this as a strategic advantage for ZBD as it broadens its footprint in Europe. By leveraging its regulatory approval, the company can accelerate its product deployment and establish trust with institutional and retail users alike.
Source: Coindesk, PR Newswire
The Fintech-Credit Union Synergy: A Blueprint for Innovation
The convergence of fintechs and credit unions continues to reshape the financial services ecosystem. Collaborative initiatives, such as the one highlighted in the recent partnership between fintech innovators and credit unions, are proving to be a potent force in delivering tailored financial solutions.
This “dream team” approach allows credit unions to leverage fintech’s technological expertise while maintaining their community-focused ethos. Key areas of collaboration include digital payments, personalized financial management tools, and enhanced loan processing capabilities. These partnerships not only enhance member engagement but also enable credit unions to remain competitive in an increasingly digital-first financial environment.
Industry analysts emphasize that such collaborations underscore a broader trend of traditional financial institutions embracing fintech-driven solutions to bridge service gaps and foster innovation.
Source: PYMNTS
Tackling Student Loan Debt: A Fintech’s Mission
Student loan debt remains a pressing issue for millions of Americans, and a Rochester-based fintech aims to offer relief through its cloud-based platform. This innovative solution is designed to simplify loan management and provide borrowers with actionable insights to reduce their debt burden.
The platform’s features include repayment optimization tools, personalized financial education, and seamless integration with loan servicers. By addressing the complexities of student loan management, this fintech is empowering borrowers to make informed decisions and achieve financial stability.
As the student loan crisis continues to evolve, solutions like this highlight the critical role fintech can play in addressing systemic financial challenges while fostering financial literacy and inclusion.
Source: RBJ
Industry Implications and Takeaways
Today’s updates underscore several key themes shaping the fintech landscape:
- Regulatory Milestones: ZBD’s MiCA license approval exemplifies the importance of regulatory compliance in unlocking growth opportunities.
- Strategic Partnerships: The collaboration between fintechs and credit unions demonstrates the value of combining technological innovation with traditional financial models to drive customer-centric solutions.
- Market Opportunities: Chime’s IPO move reflects a potential revival in fintech public offerings, signaling confidence in the sector’s long-term prospects.
- Social Impact: Fintech’s ability to tackle systemic issues, such as student loan debt, showcases its role as a force for positive change.
The post Fintech Pulse: Your Daily Industry Brief (Chime, ZBD, MiCA) appeared first on News, Events, Advertising Options.
Fintech
SPAYZ.io prepares for iFX EXPO Dubai 2025
Leading global payments platform SPAYZ.io has confirmed it will be attending iFX EXPO Dubai 2025 on 14 to 16 January. Exhibiting at Stand 64 at Trade Centre Dubai, SPAYZ.io’s team of professionals will be on hand providing live demonstrations of its renowned payment services for payment providers. Attendees will also receive exclusive insight into SPAYZ.io’s plans for 2025 alongside early early access to its upcoming plans for the new year.
SPAYZ.io delivers a host of payment solutions that leverage the latest technological innovations and open access to the fastest growing emerging markets across Africa, Europe and Asia. Over the past year, there has been huge demand for its Open Banking and local payment method services, alongside bank transfers, mass payouts, online banking and e-wallets.
Yana Thakurta, Head of Business Development at SPAYZ.io commented: “We look forward to once again participating at iFX Dubai to expand our network of partners and clients. It’s a fantastic way to kick off the year, connecting with thousands of industry leaders from FOREX platforms to trading companies, and everything in between.
“Our key goal for iFX Dubai EXPO 2025 is to expand our portfolio of solutions and geographies. We’re using this as an opportunity to partner with like-minded entities who share our ambition to provide payment solutions that are truly global.”
Come meet SPAYZ.io’s team at the Trade Centre Dubai at Stand 64. You can also book a meeting slot with a member of a team.
The post SPAYZ.io prepares for iFX EXPO Dubai 2025 appeared first on News, Events, Advertising Options.
Fintech
Airtm Enhances Its Board of Directors with Two Strategic Appointments
Airtm, the most connected digital dollar account in the world, is proud to announce the addition of two distinguished industry leaders to its Board of Directors: Rafael de la Vega, Global SVP of Partnerships at Auctane, and Shivani Siroya, CEO & Founder of Tala. These appointments reflect Airtm’s commitment to innovation and financial inclusion as the company enters its next phase of growth.
“We are thrilled to welcome Rafael and Shivani to Airtm’s Board of Directors,” said Ruben Galindo Steckel, Co-founder and CEO of Airtm. “Their unique perspectives and proven track records will be invaluable as we continue scaling our platform to empower individuals and businesses in emerging markets. Together, we’ll push the boundaries of financial inclusion and innovation to create a more connected and equitable global economy. Rafael and Shivani bring a wealth of experience and strategic insight that will strengthen Airtm’s mission to connect emerging economies with the global market.”
Rafael de la Vega, a seasoned leader in fintech global partnerships and technology innovation, is currently the Global SVP of Partnerships at Auctane. With a proven track record of delivering scalable, impactful solutions at the intersection of fintech, innovation, and commerce, Rafael’s expertise will be pivotal as Airtm continues to grow. “Airtm has built a platform that breaks down barriers and opens up opportunities for people in emerging economies to connect to global markets. I am excited to contribute to its growth and help further its mission of fostering financial inclusion on a global scale,” said Rafael.
Shivani Siroya, CEO and Founder of Tala, is a pioneer in financial technology, renowned for empowering underserved communities through access to credit and essential financial tools. Her leadership in leveraging data-driven innovation aligns seamlessly with Airtm’s vision of creating more equitable financial opportunities. “Empowering underserved communities has always been at the core of my work, and Airtm’s mission resonates deeply with me. I’m thrilled to join the Board and work alongside such a dynamic team to expand access to financial tools that truly make a difference in people’s lives,” said Shivani.
The post Airtm Enhances Its Board of Directors with Two Strategic Appointments appeared first on News, Events, Advertising Options.
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