Data Analytics in Lending – Understanding the Modern Borrower

In this feature, we take a look back at the Data Analytics in Lending discussion, filmed during the Canadian Lenders Association (CLA) Event held on February 27, 2020, in Toronto, Canada.

This panel brought together some of Canada’s top fintech and financial data experts to discuss how the lending industry is evolving – and how data-driven decision-making is transforming the way lenders understand and serve the modern borrower.

The Role of Data in the Future of Lending

The lending landscape is becoming increasingly digital, with lenders now relying on data more than ever to evaluate risk, tailor products, and improve user experiences.

The experts in this video discuss how access to real-time, alternative, and behavioral data allows lenders to make faster, fairer, and more personalized credit decisions. This evolution goes beyond traditional credit scores – it’s about building a 360° view of the borrower.

Featured Speakers

This video features insights from leading voices in fintech, analytics, and lending innovation, including:

• Mark Ruddock, CEO, BFS Capital

• Victor Comas, JUDY.AI

• Rebecca Oakes, AVP of Advanced Analytics, Equifax

• Randeep Purewal

• Vahan Der Khaloussian, Director of Data Science, Capital One

• Gene Sobolev, Head of Data Science, BFS Capital

• Lloyd Evetts, Director, Inverite

• Sol Sun, Manager of Data Science, Borrowell

• Tanay Delima, Co-Founder, Clearbanc

• Nikita Pillai, Head of Alternative Data Strategy, Canadian Pension Plan Investment Board

Together, these experts explored how lenders can leverage new types of data — from payment patterns to behavioral signals — to better assess creditworthiness and enhance customer experience.

Key Takeaways from the Discussion

1. Access to Data is Critical

“Do not underestimate the importance of 24/7, 365 access to data.”
Modern lending decisions require continuous, real-time insights rather than static reports.

2. Risk Models Must Evolve

“The bet with risk modelling is that whatever we cannot observe needs to stay consistent. But it doesn’t.”
Lenders need adaptive, flexible models that evolve with changing borrower behavior and market conditions.

3. User Experience (UX) is Everything

“User experience design is about frictionless onboarding and compelling reasons to stay.”
Today’s borrowers expect instant, digital-first service — making UX a competitive differentiator in fintech lending.

4. Alternative Data is the Next Frontier

Using non-traditional data points — like cash flow, business transactions, or even social indicators — allows for fairer access to credit, especially for underserved borrowers.

The Future of Data-Driven Lending

As discussed in this panel, advancements in data analytics and AI will continue to power personalized lending experiences, faster underwriting, and better borrower outcomes.

Fintech lenders who embrace alternative data sources will not only improve risk accuracy but also expand financial inclusion for Canadians who have historically been overlooked by traditional systems.

Our Take

The insights shared by these industry leaders highlight one clear message: data is the foundation of modern lending.

Smarter Loans is proud to be part of this evolution – helping Canadians connect with verified lenders who use responsible, transparent data practices to deliver better borrowing experiences.

Watch the full discussion above to explore how data is shaping the future of fintech lending in Canada.
Learn more about business loans and explore tools like our Business Loan Calculator to make informed funding decisions.

Video footage filmed at CLA Event on February 27th 2020 in Toronto, Canada. Original Music by Smarter Loans.

Thank you to the Canadian Lenders Association for hosting the event and to all the speakers for bringing thought leadership to the lending industry in Canada.