Trend Frenzy: Mobile-based AI blockchain micro-loans

Twiga Foods in Kenya, a platform helping farmers distribute produce to food stalls, partnered with IBM to extend microloans to stall vendors. IBM created a system to help these sellers receive credit scores; a machine learning algorithm analyzes their mobile purchase records and calculates a credit score. The end-to-end lending process is then managed via a blockchain-based system and executed via mobile devices and SMS. The pilot saw 220 loans made, with the average loan of USD 30 being extended for 4 to 8 days. The initiative is set to be expanded across Africa by the end of the year.