Happy Money

Today, Happy Money announced the launch of our eighth-generation proprietary credit model, enabling the delivery of high-quality assets and predictable, risk-adjusted returns for our funding partners while helping consumers make real financial progress. Built on more than five years of proprietary and bureau data spanning multiple economic cycles, this new model strengthens how we assess and price risk across the portfolio. “Our most expansive and comprehensive iteration to date, this model is performing well above previous generations as well as commercially available industry models,” said Gaurav Agarwal, Happy Money’s Chief Credit Officer. "Combined with our team’s deep credit expertise, modernized loss forecasting and pricing engine, this powerful proprietary model supports Happy Money in delivering the high-quality assets and returns our partners expect.” 🔗 Learn more: https://lnkd.in/gjFk75Xw #HappyMoney #RiskManagement #CreditRisk #ConsumerLending

There’s been a thoughtful conversation unfolding around credit card pricing, access to credit and the idea of a potential APR cap — and it’s clear how complex this issue really is. As our CEO Matt Potere noted recently, two things can be true at once: lenders need to price for risk, and a significant share of U.S. consumers are carrying revolving balances at rates that haven’t come down even as benchmark rates have eased. The discussion that followed touched on everything from loss rates and funding costs to rewards economics, underwriting models and consumer education. What stands out is the shared recognition that durable solutions won’t come from a single lever. Product design, risk discipline, data quality, borrower understanding and access to responsibly priced alternatives all matter. That tension between sustainability and accessibility is where the industry’s most important work sits right now. Worth a read and an ongoing conversation.

Credit unions are entering 2026 with a more complicated operating environment: tighter margins, more competition and higher member expectations. At the same time, this moment creates real opportunity for institutions that are thoughtful about how they deploy capital, diversify portfolios and support members through changing financial conditions. Our CRO, Matthew Tomko, shared his perspective in The CU Daily on what strategic growth looks like in this environment and where credit unions can be intentional as they plan for the year ahead. Read the full piece here: https://lnkd.in/gVrj8su6 #HappyMoney #CreditUnions #ConsumerLending #MemberGrowth

AI is moving quickly, and the tools are getting easier to access. What hasn’t changed is what actually creates value. In this post, our CEO Matt Potere shares an important point: AI is a powerful tool, but outcomes depend on who’s directing it. In lending, that means judgment, credit expertise, and risk discipline matter more than the technology itself. At Happy Money, we use AI where it meaningfully improves the borrower experience, strengthens decision-making, and supports capital partner returns — with humans firmly in the loop. Curious how others are thinking about responsible AI adoption in lending as expectations continue to evolve. #ResponsibleCredit #AI #ConsumerLending #HappyMoney

As credit unions head into 2026, the conversation around AI is shifting—from whether to use it to how to use it well. In Credit Union Times, Happy Money CRO Matthew Tomko Tomko reflects on what stood out in 2025 and what’s next: credit unions that made the most progress weren’t chasing the latest technology, but embedding AI thoughtfully into everyday lending workflows—with clear objectives, measurable outcomes, and the right oversight in place. Looking ahead, the opportunity is about balance. AI and fintech partnerships can help modernize lending, streamline operations, and deliver more personalized member experiences—but trust, transparency, and a human-in-the-loop approach remain essential. When used intentionally, AI doesn’t replace relationships. It strengthens them. Read more from Matt in Credit Union Times: https://lnkd.in/eBt5FiAY #CreditUnions #HappyMoney #2026LendingTrends #AI

🌟 With the new year upon us, the conversation in banking is increasingly focused on how institutions can use new tools—and sound judgment—to better serve customers. In BankNews, Happy Money CEO Matt Potere shares his 2026 outlook and why community banks and credit unions are well positioned to help consumers make real progress—especially as technology and AI reshape how financial guidance and credit are delivered. One clear opportunity: helping customers simplify high-interest credit card debt through debt consolidation loans that offer predictable, fixed monthly payments and APRs that average about 7.5% lower than credit cards. For borrowers, that structure can provide help them regain control of their financial futures. For banks, it’s a practical way to deepen relationships, diversify balance sheets, and grow responsibly. Read the full article here: https://lnkd.in/g2mdvjdE #2026BankingPredictions #ConsumerFinance #HappyMoney

As the year winds down, we’re taking a moment to pause—and look ahead. This work only happens because of the credit unions, capital partners, and Happy Money team members who show up every day committed to responsible lending that helps people make real progress toward their financial goals. We’re grateful for the trust, the partnership, and the shared belief that credit should be simple, transparent, and designed to help people move forward. Wishing our partners, members, and community a restful holiday season and a strong start to the year ahead. Thank you and happy holidays! 💛 #HappyHolidays #HappyMoney #CreditUnions #FintechPartners

💭 What matters more to members – competitive rates or great member experience? The Credit Union Connection polled LinkedIn and asked industry experts like Happy Money CRO Matthew Tomko. Matt weighed in: "While the rates may be what initially attracts the member, retention typically hinges on how well an institution balances the two. A positive member experience – especially seamless digital experiences – has become table stakes for keeping members engaged.” 🔍 Read more about what the experience vs. rates conversation means for credit unions in 2026: https://lnkd.in/eTD5iuNT #CreditUnions #InterestRates #HappyMoney #2026LendingPredictions

🎁 What’s on your credit union's tech wish list for 2026? Our CEO Matt Potere shares how financial institutions can prioritize responsible use of AI, which has reshaped member expectations and the financial services landscape more broadly. Matt notes, “The credit unions that excel won’t be the ones that rush to deploy the newest tools, but those that take a strategic and purposeful approach – recognizing that AI is a means to an end, not an end in itself, and integrating it thoughtfully into existing operations.” 💡 Read more in Finopotamus - Fintech News for Hungry CUs on how credit unions can approach AI strategically and set themselves up for success in 2026 and beyond: http://bit.ly/48XAlRb #HappyMoney #CreditUnions #Lending #AI #2026Predictions

Our CEO Matt Potere offers a grounded take on yesterday's rate cut: Lower rates can open doors for consumers, but the real impact comes from access to responsibly priced credit and underwriting that supports long-term financial health. Discipline matters — in pricing, in servicing, and in helping borrowers use credit as a tool to move forward with confidence.