On this episode of Fintech Insider Insights, host Kate Moody is joined by some great guests to take a look at SMEs. It's a tough funding landscape for SMEs in the UK and beyond right now, and the downturn in funding from big banks despite increasing demand. But it’s not all doom and gloom, the big banks’ hesitancy is creating an ideal opportunity space for fintechs, neobanks and alternative lenders to play in and become market leaders, further disrupting the banks, and furthering their growth journeys. We're joined by a fantastic panel of guests who know a thing or two about this space to dig deeper into this. This week's guests: Valentina Kristensen, Corporate Affairs Director at OakNorth Christoph Rieche, CEO and co-founder of iwoca Brian Baldacchino​​​​, Head of Lending Strategy & Corporate Development, at Allica Bank  ------------------------------ Fintech Insider by 11:FS is a bi-weekly podcast dedicated to all things finance, banking, technology, and financial services.  Our expert hosts, with real industry experience, are joined by the biggest decision-makers, VCs, and reporters from across financial services including guests from Visa, Nubank, M-Pesa, Starling, and JP Morgan Chase to discuss the latest news, developments, and trends within the industry. Our weekly news show drops every Monday and tackles the biggest news stories, from acquisitions and launches, to regulatory changes and innovation. Then, every Friday our Insights show dives deeper into the hottest topics shaping the industry like web3 and BNPL. Whether you’re already immersed in the world of financial services, or just keen to learn more, this is the #1 podcast for you. If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to subscribe and please leave a review Follow us on Twitter: @fintechinsiders where you can ask the hosts questions, or email [email protected]! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices