The Economic Times<\/a> weighed the pros and cons of making investments in bitcoins and P2P lending. The author cites the benefits of marketplace lending like easy credit and a higher annual return compared to other asset classes (e.g. equities, bonds, etc.). However, defaults remain a risk and investors need to research the platform before starting. Some also warn that economic downturns can impede returns, however, this is true of nearly all investments.<\/p>\n ***<\/p>\n BW Disrupt<\/a> offered five considerations to keep in mind when exploring P2P investing. The author discusses the importance of diversification, choosing many small loans, reinvestment of earnings, long-term planning and historical performance. Many of these critical strategies are applicable to other investment products because they manage risk and capitalize on compounding.<\/p>\n ***<\/p>\n The Investment Observer<\/a> discussed the rise of P2P in countries like Poland, Greece and Ireland. Based on research these countries have a significant credit gap. Capital needs among households and corporations aren\u2019t being satisfied with conventional lending. Therefore, marketplace lending can offer much-needed support. However, one researcher warned, \u201cAs it becomes more unified across Europe, the need for a supervising body and regulation will become more pressing.\u201d<\/p>\n ***<\/p>\n The Week<\/a> analyzed \u201cHow To Tell if Someone Will Repay Their Loan.\u201d The article reviewed several characteristics indicating the responsibility of a borrower. In many cases, lower credit utilization means a greater chance of repayment. The author explains that \u201cpeople with scores between 751 and 800 were using on average 12 percent of their available credit. By contrast, people with scores under 650 had utilization rates of 63 percent or more.\u201d<\/p>\n ***<\/p>\n