The Fintech Brief | Liberis’ Fintech Roadmap: 4 Ways They’re Powering SMB Growth

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Editor’s Pick 📌

4 Ways Liberis Is Reimagining Finance for Small Businesses

Liberis is a global embedded finance platform helping partners offer fast, flexible funding to small businesses.

In a recent product update, the company shared four innovations designed to help platforms better support SMBs—through smarter credit, seamless experiences, and scalable infrastructure.

Here’s a quick look:

1. A multi-product approach that grows with SMBs

2. Real-time funding powered by automation and AI

3. Broader capital access through alternative data and targeting

4. A platform built for global scale, with tools for partner success

From credit builders to always-on capital, Liberis is helping platforms deliver finance that’s timely, relevant, and easy to embed.

👉 View the full roadmap on LinkedIn →

Expert Opinion ✍️

How Acquirers and Payment Providers Can Lead in a Shifting Economy

U.S. credit card debt has surged past $1.3 trillion—but this isn’t just about overspending. It reflects a growing reliance on credit for essentials, not luxuries. For banks, acquirers, and payment partners, the pressure is mounting: delayed purchases and tighter consumer budgets mean fewer transactions and shrinking fee income.

But where traditional revenue streams falter, embedded finance offers a path forward.

Fintechs and ISOs are already stepping up, embedding real-time credit and cash flow tools into the platforms businesses use daily—from eCommerce sites to payroll systems. These API-driven solutions are enabling faster credit decisions, personalised offers, and flexible repayment options that meet SMBs where they are.

Here’s the kicker: only 44% of SMBs have access to external financing, leaving most exposed to cash flow shocks. Embedded finance bridges this gap—unlocking new value for the end customer and recurring revenue for those who deliver it.

The message for traditional players? It’s time to rethink your role.

• ✅ Partner strategically with fintechs to expand reach

• ✅ Leverage data to personalise financial services

• ✅ Innovate beyond payments to become a platform enabler

This moment isn’t just a risk—it’s a reset.

The players who can integrate flexible finance at the point of need will build stronger, more resilient ecosystems—and win.

The question isn’t whether to move. It’s how fast you can lead.

Industry Trends & Innovation 💡

FRAUD PREVENTION STRATEGIES

Biometrics and GenAI Enhance Fraud Prevention for Merchants and Acquirers

Acquirers are enhancing their fraud prevention strategies by integrating cutting-edge technologies like GenAI and biometrics, recognising that 72% of them face obstacles in maintaining seamless commerce due to fraud management issues. To respond to the rising fraud rates, especially affecting smaller acquirers, the investment in AI, machine learning systems, and behavioural analytics has bolstered their defences, although only 55% currently utilise biometric authentication.

DIGITAL ECONOMY

BNPL: Balancing Consumer Demand with Long-Term Financial Sustainability

The rise of Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) solutions is reshaping consumer finance, offering frictionless checkout experiences and greater purchasing flexibility. But behind the growth lies a dual challenge: promoting responsible use while ensuring business viability.

For fintech leaders, BNPL presents a compelling opportunity to boost conversion rates and average order values. However, it also raises questions about customer financial health and repayment risk. Strategic implementation—such as clear UX disclosures, adaptive risk models, and educational nudges—can strengthen trust and minimise default rates. As the BNPL sector matures, success will hinge on a careful balance of user convenience, regulatory alignment, and proactive data-driven insights.

B2B PAYMENTS

Virtual Cards Propel B2B Payments Amid Tariffs And Regulatory Challenges

Virtual cards are gaining traction in digitising B2B payments, driven by trade restrictions and regulatory hurdles. These cards streamline processes, allowing faster payments and improved compliance. With trade complexities increasing, firms reliant on traditional methods may find themselves left behind in a rapidly digitising landscape.

BANKING EXPANSION

Starling Bank Expands Banking Software Services to US Mid-Tier Institutions

Starling Bank's expansion into the US mid-tier banking sector with its Banking-as-a-Service (BaaS) platform, Engine, offers significant opportunities for mid-sized banks and non-banking businesses to enhance digital services without hefty infrastructure costs. This strategic move is fuelled by the substantial market potential among community banks and credit unions seeking digital solutions. As global demand for embedded finance grows, Starling's proven success in Europe and Australia signifies its capability to meet these needs efficiently.

BUSINESS BANKING

Banks Need to Embrace Technology to Meet Evolving Business Needs

Today’s businesses aren’t just looking for the best rates—they’re seeking banking partners who can deliver comprehensive, tech-enabled solutions. In an uncertain market, this means combining traditional lending with tools that offer real-time cash flow support, payment flexibility, and seamless platform integration.

Banks and financial institutions that embrace embedded finance and API-driven infrastructure are better positioned to meet these evolving needs—helping clients navigate volatility, improve operational efficiency, and unlock new growth. The path forward is clear: deepen relationships not just through capital, but through capabilities.