All posts by Destiny White

I recently had the opportunity to attend Money20/20 in Las Vegas, where one theme dominated nearly every conversation: artificial intelligence is reshaping financial services. But amid all the excitement around algorithms and technology, the data that powers it all often gets overlooked. AI is only as effective and trustworthy as the data behind it. For financial institutions, high-quality, differentiated data determines how confidently they can assess creditworthiness, detect anomalies, and manage risk. Ultimately, it’s data that allows lenders to innovate responsibly, personalize experiences, and deliver better outcomes for consumers. At Experian, we see measurable impact when institutions strengthen their data foundations. Our clients are making faster lending decisions, reducing default rates, and expanding access to credit through responsible, data-driven innovation. Turning Better Data Into Better Decisions Experian’s industry-leading core credit data, alternative credit data, cash flow insights, and more gives lenders a more holistic view of financial health. These differentiated data assets, combined with our history or continuous innovation, enable AI systems that are more transparent, explainable, and fair. On example of this is our Experian Assistant for Model Risk Management, a new AI-powered capability that automates the most complex and time-intensive areas of compliance. This solution continuously analyzes model documentation, detects model drift, and recommends corrective actions in real time. Ultimately, this is transforming compliance from a barrier to a driver of ROI and innovation that benefits consumers and businesses. Bridging the Gap Between Innovation and Compliance While at Money20/20, I had the opportunity to share more about how we are leveraging differentiated data and technology to help make room for innovation during an interview with Fintech Futures. Reporter Tyler Pathe and I discussed the fact that many institutions still rely on manual processes for compliance — with some involving up to 50 people just to document and validate models. That level of inefficiency slows progress and increases operational risk. Through automation and AI, and differentiated data at our foundation, we are changing this narrative and helping our clients move faster and innovate with confidence. You can tune into my full interview with Fintech Futures below.

Recent developments in the pricing of credit solutions for the mortgage industry have raised concerns about rising costs negatively impacting financial institutions and ultimately home buyers. We understand why lenders and trade groups are frustrated and we share in the concern. The system is complex yet there are also blatant attempts by some to take advantage of that complexity by spreading misinformation that makes it difficult to understand the drivers of cost and their implications. Here are the facts: Fact #1: Experian is not increasing the price of its credit reports for mortgage. In fact, the price of an Experian credit report for mortgage in 2026 will be exactly the same compared to 2025. Any accusations that we are raising the price of our credit reports by 50% are simply false. Fact #2: We made a marginal adjustment to the price of our data being used for processing scores in 2026. This reflects increasing complexity in consumer support, continued investments in data security, data accuracy, and regulatory compliance. This includes efforts to include more modern data sources, such as rent, utilities, buy now, pay later, short-term loans and cashflow advancements, among other sources, to more accurately reflect a consumer’s history and use of emerging financial utilities. Fact #3: National credit bureaus do not determine the price of tri-merge credit reports. The cost of these reports are based on a combination of inputs priced independently by multiple parties. Credit bureaus – Experian being one – make up only a portion of that equation. Tri-merge providers contract directly with originators, that pricing reflects our data usage/services, score algorithm costs and fees for services the reseller themselves provide.  Sometimes those combined costs are reflected as “credit reports”, which is at best an oversimplification, at worst a misrepresentation. Experian is committed to transparency in our pricing.  Fact #4: In October, FICO increased its royalty fees for its credit score from $4.95 to $10, an increase of approximately $5 per borrower, essentially doubling the cost of the FICO credit score in tri-merge credit reports. FICO also introduced their direct license program, which introduces unnecessary technological, operational and regulatory complexity for lenders and other market participants (including Experian), placing an even greater financial burden on the industry and inevitably, consumers. Mortgage decisions and credit scores are only as impactful and informed as the data that powers them. And simply put, scores do not exist without credit data powered by the credit bureaus. Credit reporting agencies like Experian operate under rigorous regulatory oversight, unlike score providers like FICO, because the accuracy, security, and fairness of the data we power is critical to the health of the U.S. financial system. Our costs reflect that responsibility, and the continued investments we are making to ensure data accuracy, security, and regulatory compliance to drive value for lenders and consumers alike. We share in the overall goal of making homeownership more accessible and affordable, but that can only happen through pricing transparency and collaboration, not deception and rhetoric. I’ve been in this industry for more than two decades, and I believe our industry only moves forward when it moves together. It’s time we focus on fairness and innovation to make meaningful progress toward a more efficient, inclusive, and sustainable mortgage ecosystem that brings financial power to all.

As COP30—the world’s largest UN climate summit—wraps up in Belém, Brazil, the global community is focused on turning commitments into action. At Experian, climate action is not just about reducing emissions. It’s about creating a fair and inclusive opportunities that benefit everyone. We’re using data and innovation to make that vision a reality, and this global summit is an important platform to share and accelerate this work. An area we’re particularly excited about is inclusive economic growth, in other words, creating opportunities for everyone to prosper while protecting the planet. For example, we’re seeing great progress in our agribusiness sector, where Experian is helping small producers access affordable credit through responsible, tech-enabled financial inclusion. This is sustainability in action, where climate resilience and social impact go hand in hand. Experian has also officially launched our Net Zero Transition Plan, detailing how we’re reducing emissions across our operations and supply chain while supporting a fair and inclusive transition. Here’s how we’re tracking: Operations: Progressing toward our target to cut Scope 1 and 2 emissions, meaning, those we generate directly such as fuel we burn on-site or in company vehicles, and energy we purchase to power our operations, by 50% by 2030 (a baseline we set in 2019), reaching 84% reduction in the first half of our 2026 fiscal year. Supply Chain: Advancing our Scope 3 goal to have 78% of suppliers adopt science-based targets by 2029, with coverage in the first half of our 2026 fiscal year, reaching 38%. These milestones reflect our award winning commitment to climate leadership and transparency. COP30 is about implementation, emphasizing collaboration and action. Experian’s participation reinforces our commitment to harness the power of data as a catalyst for climate solutions. From enabling businesses to measure and manage emissions to unlocking financial inclusion for communities most vulnerable to climate impacts, Experian is creating pathways for growth that are future-ready.

Fraud impacts more than just the bottom line. It affects confidence, relationships, and the sense of security that every business and customer depends on. At Experian, helping to rebuild that trust through data and technology has become part of who we are. That commitment was recently recognized when our Commercial First Party Fraud Score received the Gold Award for Banking Fraud Prevention in Juniper Research’s 2025 Fintech & Payments Awards. First party fraud is one of the most difficult types of financial crime to uncover. It often begins with what looks like a legitimate credit application, only to turn into a default or a “bust out” once credit has been extended. The losses can be significant, but what makes this type of fraud so challenging is how well it hides in plain sight. Our teams developed a new model that uses advanced machine learning and blends consumer and business insights. The Commercial First Party Fraud Score analyzes credit patterns and behavioral data from more than 250 million consumer records. It spots early warning signs that traditional credit models often miss, giving lenders a clearer picture of who they are working with from the start. In testing, the model identified 22 percent more fraudulent applications and 33 percent more high-risk applicants compared with older systems. This improvement helps organizations reduce costs, speed up onboarding, and better serve genuine customers. The recognition from Juniper Research is more than an award. It represents progress toward a safer and more transparent financial system. By combining innovation, data, and purpose, we continue to help businesses make smarter choices and protect the trust that keeps the economy moving. Learn more about the Juniper Research Fintech & Payments Awards here.

This week marks the start of International Fraud Awareness Week, a global initiative dedicated to raising awareness about fraud prevention and empowering businesses and individuals to take proactive steps against financial crime. At Experian, we’re dedicated to helping organizations and consumers stay ahead of fraudsters and anticipate future threats. That’s why I’m excited to announce the launch of a new Experian DataTalk podcast series: Fraud Frontlines. This series will feature conversations between myself and industry experts and innovators on the latest fraud trends and strategies to mitigate risk. Introducing DataTalk’s Fraud Frontlines Series: Insights from Episode One In our inaugural Fraud Frontlines episode, I sat down with Nash Ali, Experian’s VP of Fraud Strategy, to discuss how fintech innovation has reshaped the fraud landscape and what that means for the future. As financial technology continues to revolutionize how people transact online, it’s also changing how fraudsters operate. The rise of GenAI and automated scams has introduced a new level of sophistication that demands equally advanced defenses. Key Themes & Insights: AI vs. AI: The New Battleground: Fraudsters are weaponizing GenAI to create sophisticated scams. What’s the way forward? Deploying AI-powered defenses that detect anomalies, identify malicious bots, and uncover coordinated fraud rings in real time. Smart Friction, Not Roadblocks: Consumers demand security without sacrificing convenience. Leading fintechs are embracing risk-based orchestration, applying adaptive controls tailored to user behavior instead of rigid authentication. Behavioral Biometrics to Combat Bots: Experian’s behavioral analytics powered by NeuroID enable the detection of bots and are evolving to recognize and distinguish between good agents and fraudulent agents. This capability analyzes multiple new digital and behavioral signals without adding friction to the user experience. The Rise of Agentic AI: Transactions are beginning to involve autonomous agents acting on behalf of humans. Businesses must prepare to authenticate these agents, validate the human and the intent behind them and distinguish automation from bad actors. Fintechs have enabled great new digital experiences, rapid response rates and a focus on user convenience. This digital transformation has also led to new attack surfaces for fraudsters. Traditional industry players and fintechs alike are joining forces to fight these new types of fraud. The challenges are complex, but the opportunities to innovate have never been greater. These are exciting times for those shaping a safer digital economy. I invite you to listen or watch the episode and stay tuned for new episodes and ongoing insights into fraud trends and prevention strategies. Listen to the episode Watch on YouTube Learn more about Experian’s fraud prevention solutions

I still remember the first apartment my husband and I rented. It was a modest one-bedroom in a less-than-ideal neighborhood, but affordable nonetheless. We cherished the independence it gave us, though I couldn’t help but dream of the day we’d own a home of our own. Like many renters, I worried about whether we would ever be “ready.” Was my credit strong enough? Would we be able to save for a down payment? Did we even understand the mortgage process? Those questions stayed with me for years until we finally purchased our first home. Looking back, I realize I could have saved myself a lot of stress if I had better understood the steps to prepare for homeownership. That’s why I’m so passionate about helping today’s renters feel more confident as they plan their journeys. Renters are more optimistic than ever Experian recently surveyed U.S. renters and found nearly half (47%) believe they’ll be ready to buy a home in the next four years. And when looking out over the next eight years, that jumps to 67%. This optimism is encouraging, especially among Gen Z and Millennials, who represent the next wave of homeowners. But optimism alone isn’t enough. Renters told us their biggest barriers include saving for a down payment, keeping up with rising home prices, and managing their credit scores. Nearly 40% also admitted they don’t feel fully confident in their financial knowledge around homeownership. The good news? There are concrete steps you can start taking today to put yourself in the best position possible when you’re ready to buy. Four tips to help you prepare for homeownership Understand your credit profile Your credit history plays a big role in qualifying for a mortgage. Sign up for a free Experian membership to check your credit report, get alerts about changes, and see where you stand. Knowledge is power and checking your credit report regularly can help you understand ways to improve your credit score to better prepare for homeownership. Get credit for paying rent As a renter, one of your biggest monthly expenses may not even be reflected on your credit report. By using Experian Boost®[1], you can add eligible rent, utility, and even streaming service payments to your credit file. This can instantly help strengthen your credit history and show lenders you consistently pay on time. Your landlord or property management may also report your positive rent payments to Experian RentBureau – the industry’s largest rental data base. With the introduction and increased adoption of modern scores in mortgage decisions, payments like this may help improve your ability to qualify for a mortgage. Build your financial knowledge Your path to homeownership will undoubtedly come with questions and we want to be a trusted resource to help consumers build their financial knowledge. Start building your knowledge now by joining Experian’s free #CreditChat every Wednesday or exploring our Ask Experian blog. Small, consistent learning adds up. Seek trusted guidance You don’t have to figure everything out alone. Nonprofit organizations like HomeFree-USA offer education and personalized support for renters pursuing homeownership. Through the Experian CreditCenter, we’ve partnered with HomeFree-USA to provide free tools tailored to your financial journey. Your bank or credit union likely also has a dedicated resource to help you better understand your homebuyer readiness. Utilize that resource! You can take steps today If I could go back and give my younger, renter-self advice, I’d tell her this: don’t wait to start preparing. Even small actions like checking your credit report, learning about the mortgage process, or making sure your rent payments count, can bring you closer to homeownership. The journey might feel overwhelming at times, but remember, you’re not alone. At Experian, we’re here to provide the resources and support you need to help turn the dream of owning a home into reality. [1] Results will vary. Not all payments are boost-eligible. Some users may not receive an improved score or approval odds. Not all lenders use Experian credit files, and not all lenders use scores impacted by Experian Boost®.

Homeownership has long been the foundation for financial security, stability, and generational wealth. But for millions of Americans, especially younger renters, the dream of buying a home can feel out of reach. We recently surveyed U.S. renters[1] to better understand their outlook on the prospects of owning a home. The findings reveal a surprising sense of optimism: nearly half (47%) believe they’ll be ready to purchase a home within the next four years, and that figure jumps to 67% when looking over the next eight years. Gen Z and Millennials, in particular, see a future where they will step confidently into homeownership. This optimism is encouraging, but it also underscores the responsibility we share as an industry to help these aspirations become reality. Data plays a significant role. Why modern credit scores matter Every lending decision and credit score is built on a foundation of good data. And in the mortgage market, we believe data has the power to change lives and turn today’s renters into tomorrow’s homeowners. Recent changes in the industry, including the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) and Director Pulte’s approval of VantageScore® 4.0 for use in mortgage decisions, are a testament to the value of data. Unlike traditional models, VantageScore 4.0 considers alternative data, including rental payments, that reflect how consumers manage their everyday financial commitments. Now, with the introduction of more modern scores in mortgage lending, millions of responsible renters can have a fairer shot at achieving their dreams of homeownership. For renters, this move is significant. Paying rent on time can be a strong indicator of readiness for homeownership, yet it historically wasn’t factored into mortgage credit scoring. Building on Director Pulte’s move to make VantageScore 4.0 available for use in the mortgage market, as well as his call to uncover creative ways to make credit scoring more competitive and mortgages more affordable for Americans, we recently took the step to offer VantageScore 4.0 for free to mortgage lenders. As the first credit reporting agency to include positive rental payments on credit reports, and operator of the industry’s largest rental database with nearly 40 million rental profiles, we understand how beneficial predictive data, such as on-time rental payments, can be for improving consumers’ creditworthiness. We’re well equipped to help the industry leverage these insights while helping renters use their positive payment history to their advantage. This change is an example of how smarter data can create a more inclusive financial system. A shared opportunity for the industry Today’s renters are motivated, ambitious, and ready to invest in their futures. As industry leaders, we have a responsibility and an opportunity to meet them where they are with modern tools and better data. Together, we can help more people unlock the door to homeownership, strengthen financial resilience, and ensure the next generation of homeowners is equipped to thrive. [1] Experian commissioned Atomik Research to conduct an online survey of 2,005 adults throughout the United States. The margin of error is +/- 2 percentage points with a confidence level of 95 percent. Fieldwork took place between May 15 and May 20, 2025.

At Experian, we often say our people are our biggest superpower - and today, I’m thrilled to share that this belief has been recognised once again. Experian has been named one of the 2025 World’s Best Workplaces™ by Fortune and Great Place to Work® for the second year in a row. This achievement reflects the culture we’ve built together – one that’s welcoming, inclusive, and rooted belonging. It’s a celebration of every colleague who brings their whole self to work, who lifts others up, and who powers opportunities for our clients, consumers, and communities. We’ve made it our mission to create a workplace where everyone feels included, respected, and empowered. That’s why we’re proud to have earned top scores on the Corporate Equality Index and the Disability Equality Index, and to be recognised with the Outie Award for Workplace Excellence and Belonging. These recognitions matter. But what matters most is how our people experience life at Experian. Whether it’s collaborating, innovating, or growing through world-class development of products, services and contributing to our communities, our culture is designed to help everyone thrive. We’ve also made bold commitments to career development. Initiatives like Global Careers Week, the AI-driven performance coach Nadia, and the NextGen Forum – a global leadership development programme for emerging talent from across our regions – give our people the resources to take charge of their growth and build a “One Experian” mindset. Being named one of the World’s Best Workplaces is a moment to celebrate but also a reminder to keep aiming higher. The world of work is evolving fast, and so are we. From embracing AI to enhancing our digital workplace experience, we’ll continue to push forward and listen to our people every step of the way.

Across financial services, conversations centered about the power of data, including insights gathered through open banking, are becoming more common – for good reasons. These insights offer a dynamic and holistic view of consumer financial health, capturing not just what has happened in the past, but how consumers are managing their money today. At Experian, we’ve always believed in the power of data to drive financial inclusion. That’s why we’ve combined the full strength of our industry-trusted credit data and alternative data assets with rich, consumer-permissioned cash flow information to create something entirely new: the Experian Credit + Cashflow Score. This innovative model harnesses the unmatched depth and quality of Experian data to deliver a more predictive, fair, and forward-looking view of creditworthiness. We’ve long believed in a future where the power of credit data is augmented by cash flow insights to drive inclusion. And with this new score, we’re taking an important step forward in making that vision a reality. Credit + Cashflow Score serves as a catalyst for a transformative shift in how lenders evaluate creditworthiness. One where innovation and inclusion move hand in hand. This is the latest example of how Experian is moving the industry toward a more connected, transparent, and equitable financial future. Bringing the Best of Credit and Cash Flow Together This is the first credit score to combine the predictive strength of consumer-permissioned cash flow data with our industry-trusted, differentiated data assets, including: Credit data, detailed credit account information on more than 220 million U.S. consumers. Trended data, providing a 24-month view of how consumers manage credit over time. Clarity Services data, the nation’s largest alternative credit bureau, expanding visibility into tens of millions of consumers who use nontraditional financial services and may otherwise lack traditional credit histories. By merging these powerful sets into a singular score, we’re helping lenders unlock a more complete and accurate understanding of consumer creditworthiness – enhancing predictive performance by over 40% when compared to conventional credit scores. Simply put, Experian Credit + Cashflow Score represents the next generation of credit scoring—bringing together the power of traditional credit data and real-time bank transaction insights to create a smarter, fairer system that works better for everyone. Powering Financial Opportunity for All The future of credit decisioning is transparent, inclusive, and powered by data that truly reflects how people live today. As we look forward to this, it’s critical we lean not just on the data itself, but on the infrastructure, trust and stewardship that support it. We are uniquely capable of meeting this moment and enabling our clients to leverage the combined power of cash flow information and differentiated data at scale to drive better consumer outcomes, expand access to credit and ultimately bring financial power to all. As lenders embrace open banking and real-time analytics, Experian is setting the standard for what’s next: responsible innovation that balances opportunity with trust.