Here's some additional information about the criteria and methodologies used by the independent organizations mentioned :
1. 4th Way (formerly 4thWay Risk Ratings) :
- Loan Book Diversification : 4th Way assesses the diversification of a platform's loan book across different borrowers, sectors, and loan sizes. A well-diversified loan book helps mitigate risk.
- Underwriting Standards : They evaluate the platform's underwriting standards, including their assessment of borrowers' creditworthiness and the robustness of their risk assessment processes.
- Default Rates : 4th Way considers historical default rates as a key factor in evaluating a platform's risk management practices. Lower default rates indicate stronger risk management.
- Provision Funds : They assess the presence and strength of provision funds or loan loss reserves that protect investors from potential defaults.
- Platform Financials : 4th Way examines the financial health and stability of the platform itself as an indicator of its ability to manage risks.
2. Orca Money :
- Loan Performance : Orca Money analyzes the historical performance of loans originated through P2P lending platforms, including default rates, recovery rates, and overall loan book performance.
- Borrower Verification : They assess the platform's borrower verification processes, including checks on identity, creditworthiness, and affordability.
- Platform Financials : Orca Money examines the financial stability and sustainability of the platform, considering factors such as profitability, capitalization, and regulatory compliance.
- Risk Management : They evaluate the platform's risk management practices, including the existence of risk mitigation measures, collection processes for delinquent loans, and the platform's approach to managing defaults.
3. Brismo :
- Default Rates : Brismo focuses on default rates to evaluate the risk management practices of P2P lending platforms. They analyze historical data to assess the platform's track record in managing defaults and recovering funds.
- Recovery Rates : They consider the effectiveness of a platform's recovery processes and the percentage of funds recovered from defaulted loans.
- Investor Protection : Brismo examines the measures implemented by the platform to protect investors' interests, such as provision funds, insurance, or buyback guarantees.
- Loan Performance Metrics: They evaluate various loan performance metrics, including arrears rates, late payments, and the overall stability of the loan portfolio.
4. Explore P2P :
- Risk Profile : Explore P2P assesses the risk profile of P2P lending platforms, considering factors such as default rates, recovery rates, and loan book diversification.
- Provision Funds : They evaluate the presence and strength of provision funds or loan loss reserves as a risk mitigation measure.
- Platform Stability : Explore P2P examines the financial stability and sustainability of the platform, considering factors such as profitability, capitalization, and regulatory compliance.
- Transparency and Disclosure : They assess the transparency and clarity of information provided by the platform to investors, including details on loan performance, risks, and fees.
It's important to note that these organizations may have their own proprietary methodologies and criteria, and they may assign ratings or scores based on their assessments. It's advisable to review their websites or contact them directly for more detailed information about their specific evaluation methodologies.