The strategy: Tech platform Bluwhale has released a model for a scoring system that calculates real-time credit signals from both fiat and crypto assets, per Cointelegraph.
The details: This model gives users a score that acts similarly to a credit score, but takes into account consumers’ crypto activity.
- It connects to a user's crypto wallets, exchanges, and traditional bank accounts to get a fuller picture of customers’ finances.
The platform is designed to appeal to Gen Z's love of tracking and "flexing" their stats in comparison to their peers, per Cointelegraph, turning personal finance into a more engaging and social experience.
Why this matters: We called for FIs to consider incorporating crypto assets into lending products in our report “Home Lending Trends 2025.” Here’s why:
Our take: FIs aren’t currently offering Bluewhale’s system, but the model still illustrates how creditworthiness scoring could look in the future. FIs that include financial activity that demonstrates strength but doesn’t appear on a traditional credit report can assess loan requests more accurately—and potentially approve more customers.
For banks, getting on board with alternative credit scoring would demonstrate an understanding of a new generation's financial reality. They could start by piloting programs that use this kind of data for smaller loans or educational tools or games. It could ultimately help them build trust and brand loyalty with Gen Z, who often feel misunderstood and underserved by traditional finance.