Should banks remain mere lenders, or should they evolve into full operational partners for small and mid-sized enterprises (SMEs)?

And how can artificial intelligence and automation finally deliver the efficiency and inclusivity that SME finance has lacked for decades?

Thorsten Seeger, SME Bank Management Board Member, shared his insights with Richard Bostock and C-Innovation on the shift that is happening in SME finance.

Key Takeaways from the Conversation:

• Beyond Credit: The new model uses lending as an entry point to a deeper relationship, integrating treasury tools, invoicing, payroll, and accounting services directly into the SME’s workflow.
• The Power of AI: SME Bank is leveraging AI and automation to deliver lending decisions in under 24 hours, proving that efficiency is directly linked to financial inclusion and competitive edge.
• “Embed Deepest” Wins: The decisive factor is shifting from “who lends cheapest” to “who embeds deepest” into the daily operations of the business, creating true loyalty.

Tune in to the full podcast here. Or if you prefer to read, here.