Day 1 of Vision 2025 is in the books – and what a start. From bold keynotes to breakout sessions and networking under the Miami sun, the energy and inspiration were undeniable. A wave of change: Jeff Softley opens Vision 2025 The day kicked off with a powerful keynote from Jeff Softley, Experian North America CEO, who issued a call to action for the industry: to not just adapt to change, but to lead it. “It isn’t a ripple – it’s a tidal wave of technology,” Jeff said. “Together we ride this wave with confidence.” His keynote set the tone for a day centered on innovation and the future of financial services – where technology, insight and trust converge to create lasting impact. Jeff continues this conversation in the latest Experian Exchange episode, where he explores three forces shaping the industry: the rise of AI, the demand for personalized digital experiences and the mission to expand credit access for all. Turning vision into action: Alex Lintner on agentic AI Building on Jeff’s message, Alex Lintner, CEO of Experian Software and Technology, took the stage to show how Experian is turning innovation into measurable results. His keynote explored how agentic and advanced AI capabilities are redefining financial services ROI and powering the next generation of the Ascend Platform™. For a deeper look into how Experian is reshaping the economics of credit and fraud decisioning, read the latest American Banker feature. Unfiltered insights from “Mr. Wonderful” The day’s highlight came from Kevin O’Leary, investor, entrepreneur and the always-candid “Mr. Wonderful.” With his trademark wit and honesty, Kevin shared sharp insights on thriving in a disruptive economy, offering candid advice on leadership, risk and opportunity. He even gave attendees a peek behind the Shark Tank curtain, revealing a few surprises and the mindset that drives his bold business decisions. Breakouts that inspired and informed The conference floor buzzed with energy as attendees joined breakout sessions on fraud defense, AI-driven personalization, regulatory trends and consumer insights. Sessions highlighted how Experian’s unified value proposition is fueling double-digit growth, how to future-proof credit risk strategies and how data and innovation are redefining customer engagement across the lifecycle. Hands-on innovation and connection The Innovation Showcase gave attendees an up-close look at Experian’s latest tools and technologies in action. Meanwhile, friendly competition kept the excitement high through the Vision mobile app leaderboard – with every check-in and connection earning points toward the top spot. Networking beyond the conference hall walls As the sun set, Vision 2025 shifted into high gear with unforgettable networking events across Miami – from golf at the Miller Course to art walks, brewery tours and a scenic cruise through Biscayne Bay. An evening to remember The day closed with the first-ever Vision Awards Dinner, celebrating standout leaders who are shaping the future of financial services. Up Next: Day 2 The momentum continues tomorrow as more keynote speakers take the stage. Stay tuned for more insights, innovation, and inspiration from Vision 2025.
Discover how data-driven risk management strategies are transforming credit risk management in the fintech industry.
Continuing our in-depth exploration of what automotive marketers are prioritizing, we’re taking a closer look at how refining communication and messaging strategies can help enhance the connection with consumers. As communication preferences continue to evolve for consumers, businesses have to rethink how they engage. By creating strategic plans to stay ahead, dealers, along with their advertisers and agencies, can build stronger relationships and drive better outcomes across various departments. Here are three ways to align your messaging with today’s consumers: 1. Leverage the Preferred Method of Communication for Consumers: Text messages are read 98% of the time and within 3 minutes 95% of the time, while answer rates for phone calls from unknown numbers have dropped below 15%. ¹ When it comes to Fixed Ops, Derek Simonds, Executive VP of Automotive at Numa, quotes Cox Automotive and CDK, “Over 90% of service customers would rather text with the service department than they would talk to them.” ² According to J.D. Power, client retention is key, with 82% of consumers choosing to cut ties with a dealership due to poor communication alone. 2. Assess Your Local Audience and Use Direct Mail to Connect: Rural markets may still appreciate traditional direct mail in smaller marketers. ³ When used strategically, direct mail could remind consumers of a dealer's presence and offerings. Dealers in these areas may find that physical mailers are still effective, especially when paired with offers or event invites that speak directly to the needs of the community. 3. Generate Offers by ZIP Code: Consider a ZIP code strategy and monitor local trends to move inventory with offers that focus on affordability for consumers. Do what makes sense for your ZIP, dial in what’s moving, what’s not, and experiment with messaging.4 Let your ZIP code data guide you: spot trends, adjust offers, and refine your message accordingly. This kind of geotargeting ensures you’re marketing to the right audience. Key Takeaway: Having a strong understanding of your consumer base and how they prefer to communicate is essential. Leading dealers and marketers constantly test, learn, and evolve. Right now, texting might be a preference for most consumers and direct mail could work in remote areas but be sure to pair these insights with a strategy that creates a well-rounded, responsive experience. Need help getting started? The Experian Marketing Engine can help with ZIP code targeting and unlock more meaningful consumer engagement. We empower automotive marketers to identify the right audience, uncover the most appropriate communication channels, develop messages that resonate, and measure the effectiveness of their marketing activities. Our data driven and predictive modeling audiences can identify consumer preferences and needs proactively. Connect with Experian Automotive and start reaching in-market consumers today! Discover More Sources: https://news.dealershipguy.com/p/dealers-are-saving-thousands-in-labor-in-fixed-ops-2025-05-30 https://news.dealershipguy.com/p/customers-calling-the-service-deptartment-best-dealerships-are-evolving-longo-toyota-numa-2025-07-18 https://news.dealershipguy.com/p/the-road-to-40-stores-within-10-years-proven-frameworks-to-scale-effectively-2025-07-25 https://news.dealershipguy.com/p/new-vs-used-car-sales-how-zip-code-specific-strategies-are-shaping-dealer-results-07-29-2025