AI, risk & reality: Inside modern lending decisions

In this episode of the London Fintech Podcast, Tony Clark speaks with Christoph Rieche, CEO and Co-Founder of iwoca, about his transition from Goldman Sachs to building one of Europe’s leading SME lending platforms.“More than 80% of our customers receive instant credit decisions… and can draw funding the same day.”That capability sits at the heart of iwoca’s proposition — transforming SME lending from a slow, uncertain process into something fast, data-driven, and accessible. Christoph explains how API integrations and real-time data sharing allow businesses to move from application to funding in record time, unlocking opportunities that would otherwise be lost.Christoph shares how a desire to “build something with my own hands” led him into entrepreneurship, and how iwoca has grown into a data-driven lender helping small businesses access fast, flexible financing. From the early days to scaling through uncertainty, he reflects on the “roller coaster” of building a fintech business with real-world impact.The conversation dives deep into how AI and data science are transforming credit decisioning, enabling faster and more accurate lending decisions for underserved SMEs. Christoph explains iwoca's hybrid approach, combining machine learning with human judgment, and why this balance is critical in modern lending.They also explore the rise of embedded finance and API-driven lending, and how partnerships are reshaping distribution across digital platforms. With insights into post-pandemic market dynamics, geopolitical pressures, and funding strategies, this episode offers a comprehensive view of where SME financing is heading.Whether you’re a fintech founder, investor, or operator, this is a practical and insightful look at scaling a lending business in today’s environment.📌 Topics covered:• Christoph's journey from banking to fintech founder• Building iwoca and scaling an SME lending platform• AI and data science in credit decisioning• Embedded finance and API-led distribution models• Navigating COVID-19 and macroeconomic challenges• Growth strategies for SME lenders• The role of partnerships in fintech ecosystems🔗 Learn more:Tony Clark: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tclark100/Christoph Rieche: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/christophriecheNextWave Consulting: www.nxwave.comiwoca: www.iwoca.co.uk/1929: The Inside Story of The Greatest Crash in Wall Street History: https://amzn.eu/d/09UYVP9LGo Beyond the Podcast: https://resources.nxwave.com/hub/london-fintech-podcast?c=cG9zdDo5OTI5NzY%3D&nav=aHViX3BhZ2U6MTA%3D&s=null#FinTech #SMELending #EmbeddedFinance #AI #DataScience #DigitalBanking #CreditDecisioning #UKSMEs #Startups #Entrepreneurship #BusinessGrowth #Lending #FinancialTechnology #APIs #LondonFintechPodcast