International growth and SME loan services in focus
Saldo Finance Plc continued its steady progress during Q2 2021 despite the temporary legislation restricting consumer credits and direct marketing. Turnover was EUR 6,8 million (2021 Q1 EUR 7,5 million) and net profit EUR 4 million (2021 Q1 EUR 5,2 million).
Q2 2021 Saldo’s results show continued steady progress
During Q1 2021, Saldo expanded its business into Lithuania and in Q2, credit activity in the new market stabilised. Saldo’s automated application process was well received, and market share is increasing. After the initial release, services in Lithuania have been further developed and new features will be presented during autumn. Sales are expected to increase for the remainder of the year, as awareness of the Saldo brand and its product offering increases.
In addition to international growth, Saldo has kept its focus on the Finnish market. To support online SME loan services, Saldo launched a new partnership program during Q2.
The program allows participating companies to offer corporate clients the option of Saldo SME Loans as a way of financing their procurements. This service has raised interest especially among businesses offering smaller machinery and spare parts. Loans granted by the partnership program are completely automated, so clients receive a credit decision instantly. The success of the program is evident in dozens of companies signing up to become partners.
Upcoming Regulatory Changes
Q3 2021 will bring significant changes to Saldo’s operations. The Finnish government is ending the temporary restrictions on interest rates at the end of September. After this, interest rates can be restored according to the original credit agreements, and direct marketing of personal loans is again permitted. In adapting to these changing regulations, Saldo is increasing communication in anticipation of customer needs, and continues to actively grant loans.
Saldo will release a new revolving credit, Saldo Kredit, to the Swedish market in Q3 2021. The product matches Swedish customer needs well and will allow Saldo to grant larger loans and extended loan maturity dates. This new product will be key to continued strong growth in the Swedish market.
Further information:
Jarkko Mäensivu
CEO
Saldo Finance Plc
Tel. +358 50 470 1006
jarkko.maensivu@saldo.com
Saldo in brief:
Saldo Finance Plc is a Finnish financial services company and a leading provider of fully automated credit solutions in Finland. Saldo offers flexible loans and car financing for both consumers and businesses. The company's advanced scoring system ensures responsible lending, and its own lending system supports business growth also internationally.
Saldo is a solvent and reliable partner whose whose profit has remained steady despite the pandemic. In 2020, the company's net sales were EUR 34 million and operating profit EUR 15 million. Saldo Finance Plc had 44 employees at the end of 2020.
