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The mortgage industry stands at a turning point. As acquisition costs climb and regulatory changes reshape long-held practices like mortgage trigger leads, lenders must rethink how they identify and engage qualified borrowers. What’s emerging is a smarter, more strategic approach—one that begins long before a credit application is submitted and leverages alternative data to illuminate borrower readiness, income, and risk.  Traditional lead generation methods, often reliant on credit pulls and costly verification, are becoming less sustainable. Instead, forward-thinking lenders are embracing a layered data strategy—one that aligns each stage of the mortgage funnel with the right type of data at the right time.  Rental History as a Window into Readiness  A consumer’s rental history is far more than a record of where they’ve lived. It’s a powerful signal of their financial behavior, stability, and capacity to take on a mortgage. By analyzing verified rental payment data through sources like Experian RentBureau—the largest such database in North America—lenders can uncover early indicators of income, affordability, and risk.  For instance, rental payments are highly correlated with income, typically showing a 3:1 ratio. This allows lenders to estimate income at the top of the funnel without relying on more expensive, verified income and employment data. It’s a practical way to reduce cost while preserving accuracy in segmentation.  Alternative Data: From Insight to Action  In today’s mortgage market, it’s not just about what data you have—it’s about when and how you use it. A tiered approach to data usage allows lenders to optimize both performance and spend:  Prospecting and Segmentation: Observed data and rental history provide an affordable way to predict income and flag early risk signals without triggering compliance thresholds.  Prequalification: Lightweight verification products help validate consumer-reported income and employment for prequal decisions at a lower cost.  Decisioning: At the underwriting stage, verified income and employment data from trusted sources become critical to ensure compliance and close quality loans.  This progressive framework improves lead quality, reduces fallout, and allows marketing and lending teams to focus their efforts on high-potential borrowers.  Behavioral Indicators That Predict Mortgage Success  Certain data points consistently emerge as predictors of mortgage readiness:  Employment Tenure: Borrowers with more than six months in a verified job are twice as likely to apply for a mortgage.  Rental Payment Behavior: Renters with more than two late payments are four times more likely to become delinquent on their mortgage.  Affordability Thresholds: Consumers tend to feel comfortable with mortgage payments that are 25% to 75% higher than their rent—a range that correlates with lower delinquency and higher satisfaction.  These insights allow lenders to flag risk and readiness early—reducing reliance on one-size-fits-all targeting and creating more meaningful, data-driven engagement.  Preparing for a Post-Trigger Lead Environment  With the elimination of mortgage trigger leads looming, lenders will need to replace reactive lead generation tactics with proactive, insight-driven strategies. Alternative data provides the foundation for this shift. Rather than waiting for a credit inquiry to act, lenders can use rent data, employment patterns, and observed financial behaviors to predict who is most likely to engage—and succeed—on the path to homeownership.  Tools like Experian’s RentBureau and Observed Data platforms enable this transformation by providing access to decision-grade behavioral data earlier in the funnel. These tools not only reduce acquisition costs but also offer a better experience for the consumer—less invasive, more personalized, and more aligned with their financial journey.  Modernizing the Mortgage Funnel  The modern borrower expects a digital-first, seamless experience. For lenders, meeting this expectation requires more than a responsive website or fast application—it requires a reimagined data strategy.  The key is precision. Mortgage lenders that align the right data with the right decision point—from prequal to close—will outperform in efficiency, risk management, and consumer satisfaction. By layering alternative and verified data sources, they can build a funnel that is not only cost-effective but also calibrated to real indicators of borrower success.  Looking Ahead  The future of mortgage lending will be defined by agility, intelligence, and inclusivity. As the market moves away from legacy lead gen tactics and toward data-informed decisioning, the role of alternative data will only grow.  Lenders who adopt this shift early will be positioned to say yes to more borrowers, reduce costs, and deliver a better customer experience. Those who cling to traditional models risk falling behind as the industry evolves.  Now is the time to rethink the mortgage lead strategy. Not just to reduce cost—but to build a better, smarter path to homeownership for the next generation of buyers.  For a deeper dive into how alternative data is transforming mortgage lead generation, watch the recent HousingWire and Experian webinar: “Rethinking Mortgage Lead Strategy: How Alternative Data Sources Can Predict Income, Risk, and Readiness.” Learn how to apply these insights across your funnel—from prospecting to prequalification—and hear directly from Experian product leaders on practical strategies to boost efficiency and performance. Watch the full webinar on demand here.   

Published: January 16, 2026 by Ted Wentzel

A Realignment is underway  The U.S. housing market is no longer waiting on the sidelines. After enduring over two years of historically high mortgage rates, the Federal Reserve began implementing rate cuts in fall 2025, with additional reductions forecast for early 2026. For lenders, this marks more than a turning point—it’s a call to action.  Whether you’re targeting first-time buyers, tracking refinance-ready loans, or watching affordability trends, today’s environment demands rapid, strategic adjustments.  Rate cuts are fueling renewed demand  Mortgage rates, which hovered around 7% for much of the past year, have begun to ease. Even a modest drop has the potential to unlock substantial borrower interest—particularly among the 4.4 million U.S. mortgages now “ripe” for refinance.  Expect a spike in both rate-and-term refinances and cash-out activity, as homeowners look to lower payments or access equity. Lenders must scale up quickly, especially around digital capacity, prescreen targeting, and streamlined closings.  Affordability is still a roadblock—Especially for younger renters  Despite improving borrowing conditions, affordability remains a systemic challenge. The national rent-to-income (RTI) ratio stands at 46.8%, up 7.7% since early 2023. In high-cost states like California and Massachusetts, it exceeds 56%.  Experian data reveals that 62% of renters fall into the low-to-moderate income category, spending over half their income on rent. Over 50% now fall into Near Prime or Subprime credit tiers, making alternative credit data—like rental payment history—vital for inclusive underwriting.  Refinance isn't the only opportunity—Target first-time buyers strategically  Gen Z is now the largest segment of the rental population, and many are financially strained yet aspirational. A major opportunity exists in helping these renters transition to homeownership using expanded credit models and customized offerings.  With Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA)-approved models like VantageScore 4.0 and FICO 10T on the horizon, lenders should explore how newer scoring frameworks and rent payment reporting can increase access to mortgage credit.  Region-specific strategies are more important than ever  From Miami to Minneapolis, market conditions vary drastically. Some metros, like Kansas City (+16.7%) and Louisville (+14.2%), are experiencing double-digit rent growth, while cities like Atlanta and Jacksonville are seeing declines.  Lenders must tailor outreach based on local affordability trends, migration patterns, and housing supply constraints. Dynamic analytics tools—like Experian’s Ascend or Mortgage Insights Dashboard—can guide regional strategy at scale.  The supply side may not keep pace  Even with rate cuts stimulating demand, housing supply could remain a bottleneck. Multifamily completions are outpacing starts 1.5 to 1, and single-family construction, though recovering, remains cautious.  In markets with tight supply, reduced borrowing costs may drive up prices faster than inventory can absorb, exacerbating affordability for first-time buyers.  What lenders should prioritize now: Build Refinance Infrastructure: Prepare for increased volume with instant income verification tools like Experian Verify to streamline processes. Target First-Time Buyers: Use rental history, cashflow scores, and rent-to-income metrics to assess nontraditional credit applicants fairly. Get Granular with Geography: Align product offerings with local affordability, vacancy rates, and rent growth. Leverage Self-Service Prescreen Tools: Act on opportunities quickly using Experian’s agile targeting platforms. Model with New Credit Scores: Take advantage of the Experian Score Choice Bundle to test VantageScore 4.0 and FICO 2 side by side. Final Thought: The market is not rebounding—It is realigning  The current housing shift is not a return to old norms—it’s the start of a redefined landscape. Lenders who act decisively, invest in technology, and prioritize inclusivity will lead the next chapter in mortgage growth.  Experian is here to support you—with data, insights, and tools designed for this very moment.   

Published: January 15, 2026 by Ivan Ahmed

The Quiet But Real Shift in Mortgage Marketing  Despite the media’s focus on digital advertising, the mailbox is quietly becoming a major battleground again for mortgage and home equity lenders. The environment is ripe for this: interest rates are stabilizing near 7 % (which opens up refinance & home equity demand), and consumer credit profiles remain robust yet tightening in certain segments. For lenders, precision outreach is now a key differentiator.  Why Direct Mail Still Works — and Why It Matters Now  According to a 2025 industry study, direct‑mail marketing continues to deliver the strongest ROI: for example, direct mail’s ROI is cited at ~$58 for every dollar spent, compared with ~$19 for PPC and ~$7 for email. PostGrid  A separate piece notes that physical mail pieces still command attention: “Consumers are more likely to trust physical mail than digital ads … response rates can range from 2% to over 5% depending on targeting and message quality.” KYC Data+2Highnote+2  But the most important reason mail is working now: data + personalization. Lenders who combine accurate consumer/credit/property insight with mail campaigns are seeing better alignment of offers and borrowers. A recent article emphasizes that “when backed by high‑quality data sources and AI‑driven triggers, mortgage direct mail can outperform digital‑only campaigns.” Megaleads  For mortgage & home‑equity marketers specifically, Experian’s data shows direct mail and refined segmentation remain growth levers in a market where originations are modest, but competition for good borrowers is intense. Experian+1  Why this matters now, for lenders:  With rates comparatively high, many borrowers are choosing to postpone purchases or full refinances—but still open to tapping equity. That makes mail‑based offers (especially those tailored with relevant property/equity/credit data) very timely.  Digital advertising is crowded, algorithmic, and increasingly expensive — mail provides a differentiated channel.  The exit or pull‑back of certain large players in home equity creates opportunity gaps.   The Data Speaks: From ITA to Prescreen — and What’s Changing  Here’s a breakdown of key shifts:  In May 2025, for mortgage and home‑equity offers:  Mortgage ITA (Invitation to Apply) volume: ~29.2 million  Home Equity ITA volume: ~25.8 million  Mortgage Prescreen volume: ~15.6 million  Home Equity Prescreen volume: ~19.0 million Experian  Further, recent trends report that home equity direct mail offers have now surpassed first‑mortgage offers in some segments — driven by aggressive marketing and AVM‑based personalization. Experian  The latest data from the ICE Mortgage Technology November 2025 Mortgage Monitor shows that falling mortgage rates have expanded the pool of homeowners who can reduce monthly payments via refinance or access home equity, which in turn supports more targeted direct‑mail outreach. Mortgage Tech  What this means for campaign strategy:  Prescreen (where the lender sends offers to pre‑qualified or high‑propensity segments) is edging into prominence over broad ITA campaigns — because it enables targeted, efficient spend and stronger conversion.  Lenders can use property and credit data (e.g., equity levels, credit score, loan‑to‑value, tenure) to craft mail offers that align with actual borrower situations (not just “Dear Homeowner”).  The gap left by large players exiting or backing off in home equity means agile lenders can expand mail volume and capture incremental market share.   Market Movers: Who’s Winning — and Why  In the direct mail and home-equity space, a mix of established players and newer entrants is reshaping the competitive landscape. Overall mortgage mail volume is being driven by institutions that lean heavily on prescreen strategies and sophisticated, data-driven segmentation. At the same time, leadership in ITA mail offers is shifting away from traditional incumbents toward organizations using more agile marketing approaches and refined offer logic.  Notably, several non-traditional and alternative-model providers now rank among the top mailers in the home-equity category, signaling growing consumer interest in options such as shared equity or sale-leaseback structures. Fintech and digitally native lenders, in particular, are accelerating home-equity prescreen activity; their speed, experimentation, and product innovation are raising expectations for both relevance and simplicity in borrower outreach.  Meanwhile, pullbacks and exits by some large financial institutions have opened meaningful white space in the home-equity market, creating opportunities for others to capture unmet demand.  For lenders looking to compete, the playbook is becoming clearer: rapid testing and iteration, tight coordination between direct mail and digital follow-up, a strong focus on homeowner equity, and precise, data-driven targeting. The most effective campaigns align product design to well-defined segments – for example, borrowers with substantial equity, strong credit profiles, and established tenure – ensuring offers are both timely and highly relevant.  Prescreen vs. ITA: Why Targeting Wins  The shift from broad ITA to prescreen‑based campaigns might seem nuanced, but its implications are strategic:  Prescreen advantages:  Better alignment with borrower creditworthiness and property profile — because you are sending offers to those who meet risk and propensity criteria.  Improved conversion and campaign efficiency — by reducing wasted mailings to low‑probability recipients.  Lower marketing spend per funded loan — because you spend less to reach the right audience.  Faster speed‑to‑market — thanks to platforms that allow weekly refreshed data and custom lists. For example, Experian’s self‑service prescreen platform offers weekly data updates and FCRA‑compliant targeting.  Regulatory and operational clarity — prescreen infrastructure has matured, with aligned credit data, reason‑codes, and compliance built in.  ITA (Invitation to Apply) still has use cases:  When you want to cast a wider net (e.g., first‑time homebuyers, large volume builds)  When brand awareness is a goal rather than immediate action  When the product is straightforward and broader, not highly segmented  But the winning strategy in 2025 and beyond is data‑driven prescreen + targeted direct mail, especially in home equity. As one blog post notes, direct mail campaigns that are personalized can deliver up to ~44% stronger conversions compared with less personalized campaigns. Megaleads  Strategic Opportunities for Lenders & Marketing Teams  Based on the data and competitive shifts, here are actionable recommendations:  Expand Home Equity Prescreen Offers: With home equity direct mail offers now pushing ahead of first‑mortgage offers in volume (and with tappable equity reaching trillions), this channel is ripe. For instance, a recent BCG report estimates ~$18.3 trillion in tappable equity in the U.S. system. BCG Media Publications+1  Leverage the Player Exits: Large institutions reducing or exiting HELOC/home‑equity lines provide space for nimble lenders to increase direct‑mail volume and connect with households previously under‑targeted.  Integrate Multi‑Channel Touchpoints: While mail is the vehicle, the journey often involves digital follow‑up, landing pages, and timely calls. Studies show layering direct mail with digital channels improves results. Highnote+1  Use Data for Targeting, Not Just Volume: Utilize property, credit, income, and behavioral data (from providers like Experian) to identify segments like: homeowners with >30% equity, 5–10 years of tenure, credit score 700+, and interest in renovations or cash‑out use cases.  Speed Matters: Campaigns should be nimble. Weekly data refreshes, agile list creation, rapid mail deployment, and timely follow‑up matter in a competitive environment.  Measure & Optimize: Track response, conversion, ROI per piece. For example, what are funded loans per 1,000 mail pieces? Which segments convert better? Optimize creative, offer, timing.  Stay Compliant & Transparent: Prescreen offers must follow FCRA rules; mail pieces must clearly disclose terms. Consumers and regulators are increasingly sensitive to over‑targeting or over-personalization — balance personalization with respect and transparency.* Megaleads  Putting It All Together: Rethinking Your Direct‑Mail Strategy  If your marketing playbook still treats direct mail as a “safe‑bet, high‑volume fallback”, it’s time for an upgrade. Today’s borrowers expect relevance, personalization, and fast follow‑through. They are homeowners — not just buyers — and many are seeking home‑equity options rather than traditional purchase refis.  Lenders that find success in this space are likely to:  Use data and analytics (credit + property + behavior) to identify the right audience.  Deploy prescreen‑based campaigns rather than generic blanket offers.  Combine direct mail + digital + phone as an orchestrated funnel.  Monitor performance in near real‑time and iterate quickly.  Offer products aligned with what the borrower wants (e.g., interest‑only draw period HELOCs, fixed‑conversion options, etc).  Operate with speed, precision, and compliance.  As the market shifts, the channel is shifting too. Direct mail isn’t dead — it’s evolving, and those who invest in the right mix of data, targeting, creative, and execution stand to win.   Call to Action  Ready to elevate your direct‑mail and prescreen strategy? Contact Experian’s Mortgage & Housing solutions team to explore how our platform enables:  Weekly refreshed, bureau‑grade credit + property data  Self‑service prescreen campaign build and list generation  Custom segmentation using credit, equity, tenure, and product propensity  Compliance‑ready reason codes and targeting workflows* Visit: experian.com/mortgage or speak with your Experian account executive today.   Next in the Series  Blog Post 3 – “Beyond the HELOC: Why the Future of Home Equity Might Not Involve Loans at All”  *Clients are responsible for ensuring their own compliance with FCRA requirements. 

Published: January 13, 2026 by Ivan Ahmed

In our latest Experian fireside chat, Unlocking Alternative Data for Smarter Fintech Decisions, two powerhouse voices in the industry, Ashley Knight, SVP of Product Management at Experian, and Haiyan Huang, Chief Credit Officer at Prosper Marketplace, came together for an exclusive discussion on how alternative data is transforming risk, marketing and growth strategies across the fintech space. Now available to watch on demand, the conversation reveals the data-driven innovations that are empowering fintechs to reach new markets, improve decision-making, and build more inclusive financial experiences. What you'll learn During the session, Ashley and Haiyan explored how fintech leaders are utilizing alternative data to address real-world challenges with smarter, more scalable solutions. Topics include: Identity matching redefined: Discover how Individual Taxpayer Identification Numbers (ITINs), Clarity insights, and device intelligence empower fintechs to gain a competitive edge in verifying and validating identities for thin-file or underserved applicants. Precision credit marketing: Learn how email and phone intelligence help fintechs more accurately connect with qualified consumers, driving better engagement and higher conversion rates. Enhanced risk management with real-time data: Discover how Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) data and open banking insights are providing fintechs with a more comprehensive view of consumer financial behavior, beyond what traditional credit scores can reveal. To understand how fintech professionals are approaching alternative data, we asked attendees to weigh in throughout the webinar. Here's what we learned: What the audience had to say Which alternative asset is most important for the underwriting of the insurance? 50% chose open banking. 38% selected behavioral/device intelligence. 12% pointed to asset ownership. Takeaway: Open banking is leading the way, but fintechs are clearly embracing a multi-dimensional data approach. 2. Are you currently using ITINs or planning to in the future? 53% said yes. 47% said no. Takeaway: The adoption of ITINs is gaining momentum, supporting efforts to expand access to underrepresented segments. 3. What’s the most compelling reason to use open banking data? 70% said to better assess risk. 10% said to say yes to more consumers. 10% said to price more effectively.  10% said to improve marketing and personalization. Takeaway: Risk assessment remains the top use case, but marketers and pricing teams are starting to take notice. Why it matters Alternative data isn’t just a trend; it’s a response to the urgent need for smarter, more inclusive lending models. As fintechs continue to grow, the ability to reach new audiences, personalize offers, and manage risk with greater accuracy is no longer a competitive advantage; it’s a requirement. Whether you're already integrating cash flow, open banking, and behavioral insights, or just beginning to explore the possibilities, this webinar offers valuable frameworks and firsthand examples from industry leaders who are putting alternative data into action. Don’t miss this opportunity to catch up on the conversation that's helping define the future of fintech innovation. Watch on-demand webinar

Published: January 12, 2026 by Laura Burrows

By: Perry DeFelice & Angad Paintal, Experian, and Michael Pyatski, IVolatility Freddie Mac’s November 2025 launch of Loan-Level Directed Collateral (LLDC) capabilities (details here) marks a significant advancement in mortgage-backed securities (MBS) capital markets. Historically, investors have been constrained by security-level pooling constructs that limit the expression of differentiated loan-level analytics. By allowing loan-level customization of Freddie pools & REMIC classes, LLDC empowers institutional investors to construct pools which reflect differentiated analytics—creating a competitive edge while simultaneously enhancing market-wide efficiency.  A historical lens: Evolution of MBS disclosure  The agency MBS market began its transformation in the 1980s with the release of pool-level data, enabling the rise of specified ("spec") pools that traded on unique characteristics like origination loan size, credit score at origination, or geography.  Specifications made the MBS market incrementally more efficient by allowing finer gradation of pricing for prepayment and credit risk.    The next leap came in 2013 with the public release of agency MBS loan-level data, which kicked off a new era of advanced analytics and precision modeling.  The introduction of loan-level data further improved pricing efficiency by allowing the evaluation of layered risk (ie, credit score + LTV) at the loan level.  Unlike agency MBS markets, non-agency MBS disclosure remains fragmented. Hundreds of issuers lack a standardized data format. Third-party aggregators attempt to normalize disparate trustee and servicer data, but uniformity and quality still lags behind agency disclosures. The rise of 144a private placements over the past decade has reversed transparency progress—despite broader data availability and technological breakthroughs.  The opacity of the growing 144a MBS market is particularly concerning and carries public policy implications, since market discipline for performance degradation is most efficiently meted out with greater transparency.  Despite AI-driven advances in data processing, disclosure remains stuck in an analog past. Borrower and property data remain static snapshots at origination, rarely updated. As a result, market participants operate with stale inputs, undermining the accuracy of risk assessments and pricing.   The Data Gap: What’s Missing in Current MBS Datasets  Across the MBS landscape, investors lack visibility into:  Borrowers' current credit health (beyond loan pay status)  Borrowers’ current income and DTI  Updated property valuations and lien statuses  Behavioral trends like refinance propensity, ie, how many mortgages has this borrower refinanced in the past?  Even state-of-the-art prepayment and pricing models frequently diverge from empirical performance. As shown in the table below, models often misalign with actual data from agency pools and inverse IO CMOs (IIOs):   *Source:  IVolatility MBS Data-Driven portal, and a prevalent Agency MBS valuation model A Data Renaissance: Experian’s Mortgage Loan Performance Dataset (MLP)  To address these shortcomings, Experian created the Mortgage Loan Performance Dataset (MLP), a joined dataset capturing real-time borrower credit behavior, loan performance, and subject property data. MLP covers nearly 100% of U.S. mortgage loans dating back to 2005.  MLP Highlights:  Current Credit Profile: Updated credit scores, credit inquiry activity (ie, is borrower shopping for a new mortgage?), non-mortgage debt balances and pay performance (student loan, auto loan, credit card, etc.)  Current modeled income and DTI  Behavioral History: Number of past refinances, payment habits (does this borrower pay off credit card balance in full each month?), utilization patterns  Property Insights: Current AVM, current junior liens (including those opened after the loan was securitized), total CLTV  With this richer dataset, investors can:  Improve credit and prepayment modeling accuracy  Create new spec pool stories (e.g., serial refinancer, credit revolver utilization, current CLTV inclusive of subsequent second liens, credit inquiry activity)  Overlay cohort-level data to bid more confidently on highly customized pools and REMICs structured under LLDC  Market Impacts: Efficiency and Equity  LLDC’s value lies in enabling more refined segmentation—particularly when enhanced with datasets like MLP. This facilitates better execution for originators and more precise pricing for investors. In turn, borrowers benefit from lower mortgage rates.  Importantly, MLP-driven segmentation could especially aid lower-income or weaker-credit borrowers. Currently, the less negatively-convex loans of these borrowers subsidize (from a pricing and rate perspective) the more negatively-convex loans of stronger credit, higher-income borrowers due to the averaging effect within generic pools. By identifying loans with better convexity (lower prepay likelihood), investors can price them more favorably, improving affordability in the form of lower mortgage rates for lower-income, weaker-credit borrowers.  Case Study: Predicting Prepayment with Credit Inquiry Data  In the coming weeks, we’ll provide illustrative analyses that highlight new fields and scores available in the MLP dataset.  To start, we’ll focus on perhaps the most intuitive datapoint for prepayment prediction:  mortgage credit inquiry activity by the borrower.  Specifically, credit inquiry activity is captured in a newly introduced field: Days Since Latest Mortgage Credit Inquiry.  Why It Matters:  Traditional prepayment models rely on widely available market-level data (e.g., PMMS, HPI, MBA Index) and loan characteristics (loan size, fixed vs. ARM, margin, etc.)  MLP offers new and scarce loan and borrower-level inputs, which provide additional forecasting power  Key Insight:  Borrowers with low current DTI (≤36%) are significantly more likely to refinance compared to those with high current DTI (>36%), and to do it faster after mortgage credit inquiry activity.  Note that the current DTI is available in MLP, but not in most MBS disclosures.  *Source: Experian Mortgage Loan Performance Dataset, hosted on the IVolatility MBS Data-Driven Portal This field is especially useful and practical for traders targeting specific mortgage cohorts (coupons, loan sizes, credit score range) for TBA roll trades, as an example.  Looking Ahead: A Richer Lens for MBS Analysis  This article is the first in a series exploring new data fields in the MLP dataset. Future installments will examine:  Prior refinance behavior   Total number of owned properties, credit card utilization, and payment behavior   Want to explore how MLP insights could improve your portfolio strategy?  Contact Experian to access the full MLP dataset and see your lift potential.  _____________________________________________________ Michael Pyatski advises MBS traders, portfolio managers, quants, risk managers, loan originators, and technology professionals on making informed, data-driven business decisions that drive revenue growth, enhance risk management, and reduce trading costs. With more than 15 years of experience as an Agency RMBS trader—including serving as Head of the Proprietary Trading Desk at BNP Paribas—Michael developed and successfully implemented relative-value, data-driven profitable trading strategies to capture market opportunities embedded in data but not fully priced by the market. His trading experience, combined with a Ph.D. in econometrics, led him to found the Data-Driven Portal (https://datadrivenportal.com/), a platform that provides advanced technology for MBS trading and risk management. The platform’s No-Model Data-Driven technology leverages big data, econometric analysis, and AI to help traders identify relative-value opportunities in RMBS markets and generate above-market, risk-adjusted returns. _____________________________________________________

Published: January 12, 2026 by Perry DeFelice, Angad Paintal, Michael Pyatski

Rental affordability in the U.S. isn’t just about rising prices—it’s about where those increases are happening. Some cities and states are becoming increasingly unaffordable compared to others, and renters are feeling the financial pressure differently across the country.  Not all rent increases are equal  National rent prices have increased by about 16% in two years, but where you live plays a huge role in how much of your paycheck goes toward housing. In places like California and Massachusetts, the average renter now spends over 56% of their income on rent. That’s nearly double the “affordable” threshold of 30%.  But even traditionally affordable states are feeling the heat. Oklahoma, Kentucky, and Louisiana all saw rent hikes between 6% and 10%—with Oklahoma topping out at 9.7%. These increases are hitting renters in places that used to be considered “safe” from housing inflation.  Regional breakdown:  Here’s how the rent-to-income ratio compares across regions:  West: Rent-to-income ratio of 46.4%  Northeast: 48.1%  South: 43% (but fastest-growing burden)  Midwest: 37.7% (still below the national average, but climbing fast)  Florida, for example, saw its rent-to-income ratio jump by 12.1% since 2023. Arizona isn’t far behind, with an 11.7% increase. These changes are tied to migration patterns—many people moved to these states during the pandemic, and now demand is far outpacing supply.  City-level surprises  Some of the biggest rent increases are happening in cities you might not expect:  Miami, FL: Up 21.1% YOY  Kansas City, MO: Up 16.7%  Louisville, KY: Up 14.2%  Chicago, OH: Up 13%  On the flip side, a few cities have seen rent drops:  Jacksonville, FL: Down 3%  Atlanta, GA: Down 2.2%  Austin, TX: Essentially flat  These shifts show how local economic factors and population trends can quickly change a market’s affordability.  More renters are moving—and struggling to settle  Another sign of pressure: renters are on the move. The percentage of renters with more than one lease has jumped since 2023, especially among Gen X and older millennials. People are relocating more often—sometimes chasing affordability, sometimes being priced out.  At the same time, vacancy rates are rising—from 6.6% to 7.1% nationally. That may sound good for renters, but it’s often a sign of mismatch: more units are being built, but not always where people can afford them.  The bottom line  If you’re a landlord or investor, these geographic insights matter. Rent pressure isn’t universal—but knowing where it’s concentrated can help you adjust screening, pricing, and retention strategies. For renters, this means being more informed and prepared before moving or signing a lease.  In our final post, we’ll explore the macro trends shaping the future—like mortgage rates, construction slowdowns, fraud risks, and how better data is helping landlords and lenders keep up. 

Published: January 6, 2026 by Manjit Sohal

Traditional credit data has long been the end-all-be-all ruling the financial services space. Like the staple black suit or that little black dress in your closet, it's been the quintessential go-to for decades. Sure, the financial industry has some seasonality, but traditional credit has been reigned supreme as the reliable pillar. It's dependedable. And for a long time, it's all there was to the equation. But as with finance, fashion and all things – evolution has occurred. Specifically, how consumers are managing their money has evolved, which calls for deeper insights that are still defensible and disputable. Alternative credit data is the new black. It's increasingly integrated in credit talks for lenders across the country. Much like that LBD, it's become a lending staple - that closet (or portfolio) must-have to - to leverage for better decisioning when determining creditworthiness. What is alternative data? Alternative data expands the traditional credit picture by incorporating additional, compliant insights that help lenders better understand consumer financial behavior. In our data-driven industry, "alternative" data as a whole may best be summed up as FCRA-compliant credit data that isn't typically included in traditional credit reports. For traditional data, think loan and inquiry data on bankcards, auto, mortgage and personal loans; typically trades with a term of 12 months or greater. Types of alternative data Alternative data encompasses a range of non-traditional credit signals that provide broader visibility into how consumers manage their financial lives. Some examples of credit data sources include alternative financial services data, rental payment data, full-file public records and account aggregation. These insights can ultimately improve credit access and decisioning for millions of consumers who may otherwise be overlooked. Common types of alternative data sources include: Financial services data: Information related to short-term or non-bank financial products, such as payday loans or installment loans, which can offer insight into borrowing patterns and repayment behavior Rental payment data: Records of on-time or missed payments that demonstrate payment responsibility for consumers with limited traditional credit history Account-level data: Consumer-permissioned information that offers visibility into cash flow, balances, and transaction activity Expanded public records: Publicly available financial records around a consumer's financial obligations and history How lenders use alternative data Lenders leverage alternative credit to enhance decisioning, improve risk assessment, and responsibly expand access to credit. Alternative or not, every bit of information counts. FCRA-compliant, user permissioned data allows lenders to easily verify assets and income electronically, thereby giving lenders more confidence in their decision allowing consumers to gain access to lower-cost financing. From a risk management perspective, alternative credit data can also help identify riskier consumers by identifying information like the number of payday loans acquired within a year or number of first-payment defaults. Alternative credit data can give supplementals insight, through alternative credit scoring, into a consumer's stability, ability, and willingness to repay that is not available on a traditional credit report that can help lenders avoid risk or price accordingly. How Experian supports lenders Experian helps lenders responsibly incorporate alternative credit data to gain deeper consumer insights while maintaining compliance and confidence in decisioning. From closet finds that refresh your look to that LBD, alternative credit data gives lenders more transparency into their consumers, and gives consumers seeking credit a great foundation to help their case for creditworthiness. It really is this season's - and every season's - must-have. Explore Alternative Credit Data Solutions Explore Data Solutions

Published: January 5, 2026 by Zohreen Ismail

We’re excited to share that Experian Automotive’s client Hamlin & Associates and Honda World have been named winners of the 2025 Automotive News / Ad Age Global Automotive Marketing Award for Best Use of Data — an honor that celebrates meaningful, measurable impact. Why this work stood out Hamlin & Associates' client, Honda World of Louisville, KY, faced a clear challenge: re-engage customers and recover declining service revenue, particularly for vehicles with open recalls. Hamlin & Associates approached the problem with a simple belief: clean, accurate data leads to better outcomes for customers and dealerships alike. They began with data hygiene, then enriched each vehicle record using Experian Automotive’s Recall VIN Verification solution. This created a precise view of who owned which vehicles, which recalls were still open, and when repairs could be completed — all essential to a smooth customer experience. A smarter, more human outreach strategy Over the course of a year, Hamlin delivered four waves of direct mail designed to cut through the noise. Each letter: Spoke directly to the customer Highlighted their specific vehicle Explained the recall in clear language Showed how easy it was to book a free repair The result was a data-driven communication plan grounded in trust and simplicity — and it worked Results that show what’s possible 26% response rate 1,953 repair orders $811,834 in service revenue Thousands of customers are now driving safer vehicles These outcomes reflect more than campaign performance. They demonstrate what happens when dealers, agencies, and data partners collaborate to guide individuals toward safer, more informed decisions. In their words John Hamlin, Hamlin & Associates:“Clean data builds trust. When we combine our hygiene process with Experian Automotive insights, dealers uncover opportunities they never knew they had.” Mike Porro, Honda World:“They keep it simple, and data-driven ‘simple’ gets done. We follow the process, train our staff, and see the results.” Looking ahead We’re proud to celebrate Hamlin & Associates and Honda World for showing what’s achievable when data, insight, and clear communication come together. Their work helps people stay safe, strengthens customer relationships, and sets a new standard for recall outreach. Congratulations to the entire team — and here’s to helping even more drivers move forward Learn more about how to enrich your first-party data with Recall VIN Verification insights!  

Published: December 18, 2025 by Trish Radaj

From the vehicles we drive to the way we purchase them, everything in the automotive industry is evolving as new technologies, shifting incentives, and changing consumer expectations continue to develop. As electrified vehicles continue to grow their presence on the road, Experian’s Automotive Market Trends Report: Q3 2025 took a deep dive into this segment and found that 5.5 million electric vehicles (EVs) and 11.7 million hybrids were in operation this quarter. Furthermore, data through the third quarter of this year found that 73.8% of EV owners returning to market replaced their EV with another EV and only 16.5% switched to a gas-powered vehicle. The significant EV loyalty among consumers signals that the ownership experience is delivering on core expectations. While some owners continued to opt for an EV because they’ve grown accustomed to certain conveniences such as charging stations at home or workplace to avoid traditional fueling and the perks of lower maintenance needs, others took advantage of the EV tax credits before they expired at the end of September. However, as these motivations shift, it will be important to monitor how the EV market unfolds over the next six months. Notably, 11.7% of gas-powered vehicle owners replaced their vehicle with a gas-hybrid vehicle this quarter, suggesting that hybrids are acting as an effective bridge toward deeper electrification. In fact, drivers may see hybrids as the ‘happy medium’ vehicle that offers improved fuel efficiency without requiring full reliance on charging infrastructure. Why this matters for the aftermarket As the majority of consumers replace their EVs with another one and some switch their gas-powered vehicle for an electrified one, these trends signal potential long-term commitment to alternative fuel segments. This is important to monitor for aftermarket professionals as the EV service volume continues to grow, requiring different parts and technician training. With consumers increasingly turning to the aftermarket for cost-effective support, professionals who adapt to diverse powertrains will be best positioned to navigate this evolving wave of post-warranty demand. To learn more about EVs and other vehicle market trends, view the full Automotive Market Trends Report: Q3 2025 presentation on demand.

Published: December 18, 2025 by John Howard

Credit marketing is entering a new era of precision. Data privacy, personalization and digital-first expectations are rewriting the playbook for financial services marketers. The winners in 2026 won’t just optimize; they’ll orchestrate, using connected intelligence — the linking of data, AI models and insights across platforms — to find, know and grow the right customers. Our latest checklist breaks down what it takes to compete in this new environment, including how to: Master the new prospecting formula Use data to drive personalization at scale Create cohesive, compliant messaging across channels Whether your focus is to expand your portfolio, deepen existing relationships or improve marketing efficiency, this checklist can help you drive stronger, smarter growth all year round. And if you're interested in diving deeper, register for our upcoming webinar on January 15, 2026 to hear directly from Experian experts. Access checklist Register for webinar

Published: December 18, 2025 by Theresa Nguyen

The pickup truck market is shifting gears, and hybrids are emerging as a driving force behind the change. As more drivers prioritize fuel efficiency while still expecting towing power, hybrid models are stepping in to redefine the segment. According to Experian’s Automotive Consumer Trends Report: Q3 2025, gas-hybrid and plug-in hybrid pickup trucks accounted for nearly one-in-five new light-duty trucks sold, coming in at 17.8% this quarter. This signals a major shift in a historically ICE-dominated category. Hybrids are likely gaining traction because they offer the best of both worlds. While their systems provide fuel efficiency by combining gas or diesel engines with electric motors to avoid range anxiety, they’re also meeting most towing and hauling requirements that accompany the traditional gas-powered trucks. Overall pickup truck market trends fueling hybrid growth When looking at the market from a broader perspective, there were 55.3 million light-duty trucks on U.S. roads in the third quarter of 2025, representing 20.10% of all vehicles in operation. Furthermore, as of Q3 2025, 34% of U.S. households with one-or-more vehicles also own a light-duty pickup truck, giving this segment a strong foothold in transportation options. The widespread presence underscores the pickup truck’s influence in the automotive industry as they set the pace for consumer expectations and steer market trends. The increased momentum for hybrid trucks can also help OEMs and dealers capitalize on growing their presence in an increasingly competitive space. It’s important for automotive professionals to consider aligning sales strategies with evolving buyer preference to elevate consumer engagement as this trend offers benefits today and even greater potential ahead. To learn more about pickup truck insights, view the full Automotive Consumer Trends Report: Q3 2025 presentation.

Published: December 16, 2025 by Kirsten Von Busch

In a labor market where 51% of employees are actively seeking new opportunities and 42% of turnover is considered preventable, employers are under increasing pressure to stand out. One of the biggest shifts driving this competition is the growing emphasis younger generations place on employee benefits when evaluating job offers. As a result, companies are looking beyond salary to attract the best talent and retain their top performers. One of the ways companies are addressing this problem is through modern, or non-traditional, employee benefits. These are typically perks and programs that go beyond the traditional compensation package of salary, health insurance, and retirement plans. They’re designed to address the evolving needs, values, and lifestyles of today’s workforce. Modern employee benefits can include flexible work options, which allow team members to perform their jobs remotely and/or with flexible hours. In addition to standard healthcare benefits, some businesses provide access to mental health services, such as counseling and mindfulness programs. Other businesses offer learning and professional development programs that include tuition reimbursement and job-related sabbaticals. Modern employee benefits could also include lifestyle rewards, such as gym memberships, wellness retreats, volunteer days or travel stipends. One of the most attractive benefits are financial wellness programs, which can consist of financial coaching, identity protection and restoration, and device and data protection tools. Financial wellness: a key modern employee benefit What exactly is financial wellness? The U.S. Consumer Financial Protection Bureau defines it as “the feeling of having financial security and financial freedom of choice, in the present and when considering the future.” How employees feel about their finances, especially in the face of rising costs and higher interest rates, can impact their job performance. Employees often find themselves under pressure from their everyday financial challenges. This pressure can bleed over into work performance, directly impacting productivity. Morgan Stanley’s State of the Workplace 2025 report found that 66% of employees indicated that financial stress was negatively impacting their work and personal life. The study further revealed that 91% would have a greater investment in the company if their employer provided financial benefits that met their specific needs. And 84% of those surveyed believed their employers should be assisting them with their financial issues. Modern employee benefits that focus on financial wellness can address this need. It’s important to note that financial wellness isn’t simply about bolstering employee savings and building their credit standing. Providing programs that enable employees to protect themselves against the threat of identity theft and fraud is equally important. One employee survey revealed that 77% of employees faced some form of identity theft in 2024, and 42% indicated that worries about this led to higher stress levels at the workplace. Providing a comprehensive financial wellness program that includes financial and credit literacy, as well as identity theft protection and restoration is not only good for employees, but for businesses as well. A closer look at financial wellness tools When modern employee benefits include financial wellness tools, companies are better able to secure top talent, improve retention, and increase overall workforce satisfaction. Some tools that can help employees include: Identity protection and restoration – Businesses can offer employees vital tools they can use to avoid falling victim to identity theft and fraud. Such a tool can monitor personal information, send potential fraud alerts, and provide invaluable resolution services to aid in faster recovery. By minimizing fraud risk, employees feel their personal information is safe, which allows them to focus on being productive. Credit education and financial management – When employers offer a comprehensive credit education and financial management program, employees can gain crucial best practices for paying down debt and increasing their credit score. This type of guidance is absolutely critical for empowering employees to set goals, make actionable plans, and track their progress. Providing instructive credit education resources demonstrates the employer’s commitment to supporting employees beyond the office. Device and data protection – Employees are acutely aware of the constant threats to their personal data. Providing tools that can empower team members to take ownership of their financial data and protect their information from falling into the wrong hands is essential. Employers can provide proactive digital privacy tools that help keep passwords and other personal information private and secure while browsing. Digital identity management and exposure remediation – As data breaches continue to rise, employees need support reclaiming control of their personal information. Digital identity management tools can help individuals identify where their data has been exposed online, remove or suppress sensitive information from risky sites, and monitor for future exposure. Modern employee benefits from a trusted source When offering modern employee benefits geared toward financial wellness, it is important that these tools come from a trusted source. Experian® is a leader in the industry, supporting and protecting more than one billion consumers with a proven track record of credit education and identity protection. Experian’s My Financial Expert® platform, which offers more than 50 powerful financial wellness features, helps employees be better prepared to manage their financial well-being.   Employers can also avail themselves of an anonymized and aggregated analysis of the overall financial health of the company’s employee population. By utilizing metrics such as credit snapshot, debt-to-income (DTI) ratio, credit delinquencies and more, Experian offers a roadmap to tailor benefit strategies that meet the specific needs of employees. When modern employee benefits include robust, easy-to-use financial wellness tools, employees feel supported. By educating and enabling employees to address pressing financial and security concerns, employers are able to reduce stress, minimize distraction and improve job satisfaction. This can lead to better job retention and the ability to attract high-quality applicants. In short, modern benefits can be a potent tool that shows employers value their employees, while improving productivity and strengthening the business. Register for our upcoming webinar or visit our website to learn more about our financial wellness programs. Learn more Register for webinar

Published: December 16, 2025 by Julie Lee

The U.S. housing market is no longer waiting on the sidelines. After enduring over two years of historically high mortgage rates, the Federal Reserve began implementing rate cuts in fall 2025, with additional reductions forecast for early 2026. For lenders, this marks more than a turning point—it’s a call to action. Whether you’re targeting first-time buyers, tracking refinance-ready loans, or watching affordability trends, today’s environment demands rapid, strategic adjustments. Rate cuts are fueling renewed demand Mortgage rates, which hovered around 7% for much of the past year, have begun to ease. Even a modest drop has the potential to unlock substantial borrower interest—particularly among the 4.4 million U.S. mortgages now “ripe” for refinance. Expect a spike in both rate-and-term refinances and cash-out activity, as homeowners look to lower payments or access equity. Lenders must scale up quickly, especially around digital capacity, prescreen targeting, and streamlined closings. Affordability is still a roadblock—Especially for younger renters Despite improving borrowing conditions, affordability remains a systemic challenge. The national rent-to-income (RTI) ratio stands at 46.8%, up 7.7% since early 2023. In high-cost states like California and Massachusetts, it exceeds 56%. Experian data reveals that 62% of renters fall into the low-to-moderate income category, spending over half their income on rent. Over 50% now fall into Near Prime or Subprime credit tiers, making alternative credit data—like rental payment history—vital for inclusive underwriting. Refinance isn't the only opportunity—Target first-time buyers strategically Gen Z is now the largest segment of the rental population, and many are financially strained yet aspirational. A major opportunity exists in helping these renters transition to homeownership using expanded credit models and customized offerings. With Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA)-approved models like VantageScore 4.0 and FICO 10T on the horizon, lenders should explore how newer scoring frameworks and rent payment reporting can increase access to mortgage credit. Region-specific strategies are more important than ever From Miami to Minneapolis, market conditions vary drastically. Some metros, like Kansas City (+16.7%) and Louisville (+14.2%), are experiencing double-digit rent growth, while cities like Atlanta and Jacksonville are seeing declines. Lenders must tailor outreach based on local affordability trends, migration patterns, and housing supply constraints. Dynamic analytics tools—like Experian’s Ascend or Mortgage Insights Dashboard—can guide regional strategy at scale. The supply side may not keep pace Even with rate cuts stimulating demand, housing supply could remain a bottleneck. Multifamily completions are outpacing starts 1.5 to 1, and single-family construction, though recovering, remains cautious. In markets with tight supply, reduced borrowing costs may drive up prices faster than inventory can absorb, exacerbating affordability for first-time buyers. What lenders should prioritize now • Build Refinance Infrastructure: Prepare for increased volume with instant income verification tools like Experian Verify to streamline processes. • Target First-Time Buyers: Use rental history, cashflow scores, and rent-to-income metrics to assess nontraditional credit applicants fairly. • Get Granular with Geography: Align product offerings with local affordability, vacancy rates, and rent growth. • Leverage Self-Service Prescreen Tools: Act on opportunities quickly using Experian’s agile targeting platforms. • Model with New Credit Scores: Take advantage of the Experian Score Choice Bundle to test VantageScore 4.0 and FICO 2 side by side. Final Thought: The market is not rebounding—It is realigning The current housing shift is not a return to old norms—it’s the start of a redefined landscape. Lenders who act decisively, invest in technology, and prioritize inclusivity will lead the next chapter in mortgage growth. Experian is here to support you—with data, insights, and tools designed for this very moment.

Published: December 11, 2025 by Ivan Ahmed

As we move into the final stretch of 2025, the U.S. housing market is balancing sustained, but stagnant originations volumes with softening credit performance. For mortgage lenders and servicers, this presents both challenges and opportunities. Experian’s highlights a housing market that is not in crisis but showing signs of strain that require attention and strategic adaptation. Identified risk trends: Escrow pressures and student loan headwinds Meanwhile, the return of student loan repayments is having a ripple effect across mortgage performance — particularly among borrowers with sub-660 credit scores and those already behind on student loans. These borrowers are exhibiting significantly higher mortgage delinquency rates, revealing an urgent need to track cross-credit dependencies more closely. In the home equity space, the delinquency picture is mixed. HELOC delinquencies have flattened, while HELOANs are experiencing a divergence — early-stage delinquencies are falling, but late-stage delinquencies are rising. These trends indicate relative stability in home equity credit performance, but attention should be paid to segments of the market, like securitized home equity, for deterioration in credit performance. Refinance revival: A glimmer of growth Despite these risk signals, growth is returning in key areas. Refinance activity is rebounding, driven by dips in Treasury yields and renewed borrower interest in lowering monthly payments. Originations are increasing, and mortgage direct mail marketing has resumed after a period of stagnation. Both prescreen and invitation-to-apply (ITA) campaigns are on the rise, signaling a re-engagement with the borrower market. Home equity lending is also heating up, particularly in the prescreen space, with fintechs aggressively scaling their outreach. This resurgence in marketing creates an opening for lenders — but only those equipped to act quickly. Market fundamentals: Why housing supply still lags Beneath these lending and marketing shifts lies a broader macroeconomic narrative. GDP growth is slowing, unemployment is creeping upward and inflation remains stubbornly high. Mortgage rates hover between six and seven percent, contributing to one of the most prominent constraints in today’s market: the lock-in effect. Over 80% of U.S. homeowners hold mortgage rates significantly below current levels, discouraging movement and keeping housing inventory tight. Even as new listings improved earlier this year, seasonal adjustments and elevated rates have brought supply back down. Construction activity remains uneven. While there’s been some progress in completions, overall new starts remain weak. Large-scale developers remain cautious, further constraining supply and sustaining price pressure in many markets. Strategic imperatives for lenders Given this context, what should lenders prioritize? First, portfolio risk management must evolve to keep pace with borrower realities. Custom risk models, proactive account reviews and early-warning systems can help surface emerging risks, especially among vulnerable cohorts with multiple debts or high debt-to-income ratios. Second, marketing strategies must become more agile. Investing in scalable tools like Experian’s self-service prescreen and/or account review enables faster execution, real-time list building, and more efficient targeting. With refinance activity picking up, this agility is key to capturing demand before it fades. Third, lenders must lead with data. From credit performance to macroeconomic indicators, strategic decisions need to be grounded in real-time insights. Aligning marketing, servicing, and risk teams around shared, data-driven intelligence will separate the winners from the rest. Bottom line: A controlled descent, not a crash In summary, the November 2025 housing market presents a picture of controlled deceleration, not a free fall. Borrowers are under pressure, but the system remains stable. For lenders, the message is clear: act now to optimize your portfolio, accelerate outreach and prepare for cyclical demand shifts. With the right strategies, lenders can not only weather the current environment but position themselves for the next wave of opportunity. This article uses data from both Experian Credit Bureau and Mintel: Global Market Intelligence & Research Agency

Published: December 8, 2025 by David Fay

In today’s fast-evolving digital landscape, fraud prevention is no longer a reactive function, it’s a strategic imperative. As financial institutions, fintechs and government agencies face increasingly sophisticated threats, the need for scalable, transparent and AI-powered solutions has never been greater. Experian stands at the forefront of this transformation, delivering proven technology, unmatched data intelligence and regulatory-ready innovation that empowers organizations to stay ahead of fraud. One platform. Every fraud challenge. Experian’s fraud prevention ecosystem delivers scale, speed and sophistication. Unlike fragmented solutions that require patchwork integrations, Experian offers a unified platform that spans the entire fraud lifecycle from identity verification to transaction monitoring and case management.  With the exciting acquisition of NeuroID, Experian is delivering more value than ever before with our shared commitment to staying ahead of emerging fraud threats.   Embedding NeuroID’s behavioral expertise into Experian’s data systems and platforms is transformative. Together, we’re redefining what fraud prevention can look like in a real-time, AI-driven world. – Kathleen Peters, Chief Innovation Officer, Experian With tools like NeuroID, FraudNet and Precise ID, Experian delivers real-time decisioning and orchestration across diverse use cases. These technologies are not just buzzwords, they’re battle-tested engines driving measurable impact across millions of daily decisions. Data dominance that drives accuracy Experian’s proprietary datasets and global consortia provide unparalleled access to fraud intelligence. This data advantage enables clients to detect anomalies faster, reduce false positives and optimize fraud strategies with precision.  Experian supports over five billion fraud events annually across the largest banks, fintechs and government agencies. That’s 10x more fraud and identity use cases than most competitors can manage across industries and institutions of all sizes. AI innovation with guardrails While many vendors are just beginning to explore AI, Experian has spent the last two decades embedding it into its core products and services. The launch of the Experian Assistant for Model Risk Management exemplifies this commitment. Integrated into the Ascend Platform and powered by ValidMind technology, this AI assistant streamlines model governance, enhances auditability, and accelerates deployment, all while remaining compliant with evolving regulations. Experian’s AI is not a black box. It’s explainable, auditable and developed with governance in mind. This transparency gives clients the confidence to innovate without compromising compliance.  Compliance is built in, not bolted on Experian’s solutions are designed with compliance at the core. From FCRA and GLBA to KYC and CIP, Experian has a long-standing track record of aligning with regulatory frameworks. The company’s ability to demystify machine learning and make it transparent and explainable sets it apart in an industry where trust is paramount. As AI adoption accelerates, Experian’s governance models ensure that innovation doesn’t outpace accountability. Clients benefit from automated documentation, synthetic data generation and model transparency which are all essential for navigating today’s complex regulatory landscape. Empowering clients to own their outcomes Experian doesn’t just deliver tools, it empowers users. With self-service model building, clients can customize fraud strategies, optimize performance, and respond to threats in real time. This flexibility ensures that organizations aren’t just reacting to fraud, they’re proactively shaping their defenses.  Experian’s fraud prevention solutions are designed to be intuitive, scalable, and user-centric, enabling teams to make smarter decisions faster. A global brand you can trust Trust is earned, not claimed. Experian’s decades-long commitment to data stewardship, innovation and client success has made it a globally recognized authority in fraud prevention. With thousands of enterprise clients and strategic partnerships, Experian delivers unmatched reliability and scale. From supporting the largest financial institutions to enabling fintech startups, Experian’s infrastructure is built to manage complexity with confidence. Thought leadership that moves the industry  Experian continues to lead the conversation on fraud prevention and identity verification. As a sponsor of the 2025 Federal Identity Forum & Expo, Experian showcased its latest innovations in behavioral analytics and fraud detection, helping government agencies stay ahead of evolving threats.   The company’s U.S. Identity & Fraud Report, now in its tenth year, provides actionable insights into shifting fraud patterns and consumer behavior reinforcing Experian’s role as a trusted thought leader. In a market flooded with noise, Experian delivers clarity. Its unified fraud prevention platform, backed by decades of AI innovation and regulatory expertise, empowers organizations to protect their customers, optimize operations, and lead with confidence. Experian isn’t just keeping up with the future of fraud prevention, it’s defining it. Learn more

Published: December 8, 2025 by Laura Davis

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