Total Expert, a leader in customer engagement software for financial services, has unveiled its AI Sales Assistant at HousingWire’s The Gathering event. Currently in private beta with top lenders, this enterprise-grade AI system enables intelligent, human-like conversations over voice and SMS, designed to enhance mortgage lending workflows and boost productivity
In a powerful show of collaboration, Pinnacle Financial Partners, Tarkenton Companies, and gener8tor are launching a new startup accelerator program focused on empowering underrepresented FinTech founders. With an initial $1 million investment from Pinnacle, the program is set to provide access to capital, mentorship, and business infrastructure to entrepreneurs who have historically been excluded from such opportunities.
Stash, the innovative platform helping millions build financial futures, has successfully raised $146 million in an oversubscribed Series H funding round. Led by Goodwater Capital, with participation from investors such as Union Square Ventures, StepStone Group, Serengeti, and the University of Illinois Foundation, this new capital will help propel Stash’s mission to make financial guidance accessible to all. The company plans to deepen its investment in AI technology to enhance its financial advice capabilities.
Variant Investments, LLC, an SEC-registered alternative credit investment manager, has announced that Ryan Leach, a seasoned industry professional, has joined the firm as vice president of investor relations. With nearly $3 billion in assets under management, Variant continues to strengthen its presence in the institutional market, and Leach’s addition marks a key step in expanding its institutional relationships across the Midwest and Southeast.
Tonik, the leading neobank in the Philippines, continues to set new standards in digital banking with rapid growth, operational efficiency, and cutting-edge customer experience enhancements. Powered by Finastra’s Essence core banking solution, Tonik is driving financial inclusion in Southeast Asia while expanding its offerings and optimizing operations.
The 2025 Innovate Finance Global Summit (IFGS) returned to London’s historic Guildhall as a pulse check on the global fintech industry. The event brought together thousands of innovators, regulators, and financial leaders to map the road ahead for financial services. Among the standout contributors was OpenPayd, a key player in digital financial infrastructure, which leveraged its presence to spark conversations on cross-border payments, embedded finance, and inclusive innovation.
Pomelo Group, a leading provider of omnichannel acquiring platforms, has announced the appointment of Abdul Aleem Abdul Gafoor as its first Country Manager for South Asia. Based in the Maldives, Aleem will support Pomelo’s key clients in both Sri Lanka and the Maldives, driving growth and strengthening Pomelo’s presence in the region.
