Hope Macy, an FCA-regulated Payments Institution and Credit Reference Agency, has announced the strategic acquisition of Slick Solutions. The move aims to revolutionise financial access for low-income and vulnerable consumers by integrating Hope Macy’s advanced technology into Slick’s loan origination platform.
The acquisition strengthens Hope Macy’s mission to protect consumers from financial harm through its app, Family Connect. With technology already trusted by major retail banks, Hope Macy now extends its influence to Slick’s full-service loan platform, used by over 20 major institutions, including credit unions and responsible lenders. The integration enhances the loan process, enabling lenders to make faster, more accurate decisions while prioritising consumer welfare and meeting FCA consumer duty obligations.
Advanced machine learning tools from Hope Macy play a central role. Their APIs predict the likelihood and timing of loan defaults without relying on traditional credit scores, which often disadvantage individuals with limited or poor credit histories. These tools allow lenders to assess risks more inclusively, offering vulnerable consumers improved and more affordable access to credit while lowering costs and risks for financial institutions.
Sam Manning, CEO of Hope Macy, described the acquisition as transformative. “We wanted to protect consumers from financial harm, starting with the credit process. By assisting lenders at the earliest stages, we ensure better decisions and advance FCA consumer duty. Building on our expertise, we provide one of the largest credit platforms designed to achieve good financial outcomes for consumers.”
For Slick Solutions, the merger brings expanded services, including automated credit agreement reviews, enhanced payment gateways, and streamlined loan management processes. The combined platform offers lenders a one-stop shop for assessing and managing loans efficiently while prioritising consumer protections.
Luke Scowen, CEO of Slick Solutions, called the merger a game-changer for the credit industry. “By merging our technologies and regulatory expertise, we set a new benchmark for efficiency and consumer care. This partnership puts duty to protect consumers at the start of the credit journey, ensuring high-quality loan management and better outcomes for all stakeholders.”
The need for these solutions is urgent, with a growing number of low-income and vulnerable consumers requiring tailored financial support. Lenders gain access to APIs that identify unique risks associated with these groups, ensuring safer and more responsible lending practices.
Ethical commercial firm Square One Law advised on the acquisition. Ashraf Ali, Corporate Partner at Square One Law, highlighted the deal’s significance. “This merger empowers financial institutions to better support low-income and vulnerable consumers. It reflects shared values of integrity and consumer-first commitment.”
Ali’s team, including colleagues Vanessa Middleton, Helen Brain, Emily Warman, and Dominika Cudak, collaborated to complete the transaction, which marks a pivotal moment in ethical consumer finance.
As the financial landscape evolves, the combined technologies of Hope Macy and Slick Solutions promise to deliver smarter, safer lending options, setting a new industry standard while championing consumer welfare.