AI Startup Series

 - Episode 2

Fintech Innovation Beyond Big Data

Dr. Holger Bartel

Episode Summary: 

In this episode of BetterTech, host Umair Javed is joined by Dr. Holger Bartel, Founder of RealRate, to explore how AI is fueling fintech innovation, especially in the domain of financial ratings. With a PhD in statistics and deep expertise in economics, Holger discusses how RealRate is setting a new standard in the industry by combining explainable AI, causal graphs, and small data to build transparent, conflict-free rating models. Unlike traditional black-box systems or GPT-based tools, RealRate’s approach emphasizes clarity, logic, and credibility. The company benchmarks entire industries using publicly available financial data, offering fintech leaders a scalable and ethical path to automation. This episode offers bold ideas and actionable insights for anyone building or investing in next-generation fintech solutions. A must-listen for anyone passionate about driving real change through fintech innovation.

Show Notes:

  1. How RealRate redefines financial ratings with explainable AI and causal modeling.
  2. Why RealRate avoids GPTs and big data, favoring structured small data and expert logic.
  3. The role of causal graphs in identifying performance drivers across financial statements.
  4. Industry benchmarking based solely on public financial data for unbiased insights.
  5. RealRate’s reverse rating model: rank first, then license a unique go-to-market strategy.

This episode is hosted by Umair Javed, Host, BetterTech

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