Peer-to-Peer Lending Explained [Infographics]

The global finance industry has changed a lot since Peer-to-Peer lending revolutionized the traditional way of giving out loans by excluding the role of banks from this process. This fintech revolution continues to gain momentum and, according to the recent analysis conducted by Learn Bonds, Peer-to-Peer lending is set to become a $1 trillion industry in the near future.

Peer-to-Peer lending, or simply P2P lending, represents itself a practice of lending money to individuals or businesses through online services that match lenders with borrowers. Operating online results in smaller overheads, which means that consumers can enjoy more competitive interest rates and associated costs, – obvious benefits of P2P over established financial sector organizations.

The operating environment of P2P sector is presented by online investment platforms provided by P2P lenders. Such services are designed to connect borrowers directly to investors. P2P lenders have their own independent credit models, developed to estimate prices and deliver approval for loans.

Among other benefits of P2P lending, the following can also be mentioned:

• total independence from stock markets fluctuations;
• higher rates in comparison to shares and traditional financial institutions;
• no need for an accredited investor;
• totally passive income;
• relatively affordable minimal deposits.

While P2P lending sector continues to grow and gain popularity, the possibility of its becoming a $1 trillion industry seems more than just real. It is already estimated to be worth $897 billion by the end of 2024. To know more about this rapidly growing industry, you may take a look at the infographics below, which demonstrate the history and perspectives of P2P lending:

Author Eugenia Kovaliova

Eugenia can call herself a multy-interested person, as she is always in search of new proffessional fields to encompass. After graduating from Belarussian State University with Bachelor degree in both International Communication and Public Relations, she joined a travel startup Fresh Adventures, where she worked for 3 years creating unique itineraries through exotic countries, travelling around the world and developing the company as a partner. Currently, she works as a business analyst in the field of information technologies. She believes that IT is the future, that is why it is so important to keep up with the latest trends in this rapidly growing industry.