Unlocking Alternative Data for Smarter Fintech Decisions

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

1. 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.