Private credit is lending negotiated outside public debt markets, often through investment funds rather than banks. This guide explains how loans are funded, how investors receive returns, where the risks sit and how regulation differs across major financial centres.
Euro area banks tightened lending standards for businesses and consumer credit in the third quarter of 2026, while higher interest rates weighed on demand, according to the ECB. Banks also expect a gradual increase in borrowing to finance AI infrastructure.
Embedded finance puts payments, lending, accounts or insurance inside a non-financial service. This guide explains how it works, who provides the regulated product, how customer money is protected and what to check across major jurisdictions.
