Auto Finance 2.0: Is the Pie Big Enough For All?

The future of automotive finance intermediaries is currently at a critical crossroads as digital-first fintechs challenge the long-standing dominance of big banks and traditional dealership models. This session investigates the friction between legacy indirect lending and the rapid rise of direct-to-consumer platforms that promise a more transparent car-buying journey. As consumer expectations shift toward instant approvals and personalized rates, the role of the middleman is being scrutinized like never before.

While big banks possess the scale and capital to endure market shifts, many are questioning if the future of automotive finance intermediaries can survive the agility and technical superiority of fintech disruptors. The panel explores whether the industry is witnessing a total displacement of the traditional broker or if a new hybrid model of collaboration will emerge. To secure the future of automotive finance intermediaries, legacy institutions must decide whether to build their own direct channels or integrate deeply with the technology providers currently unbundling their services. Technical insights from this session highlight how data-driven underwriting and mobile-first interfaces are redefining the value proposition for every player in the lending ecosystem. Ultimately, the future of automotive finance intermediaries depends on their ability to adapt to a landscape where the customer, not the institution, dictates the speed of the transaction.

• The competitive advantages of direct-to-consumer fintech models versus legacy bank systems.
• Strategies for traditional lenders to maintain relevance through digital transformation and API integration.
• Forecasts on market capacity for both intermediary-led and direct sales channels through 2026.

Watch the full panel discussion to understand how your organization can navigate the evolving landscape of vehicle lending and consumer credit.