ATLC

Atlanticus Holdings operates as a financial technology and services company providing credit and related financial products to consumers traditionally underserved by mainstream financial institutions, emphasizing technology-enabled lending platforms and data analytics optimizing credit decisions and collection strategies. Headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, Atlanticus operates through multiple business segments including credit card lending offering secured and unsecured credit cards to subprime borrowers rebuilding credit, auto finance providing point-of-sale financing and loans for used vehicle purchases at independent dealerships, and consumer loans including installment products addressing emergency expenses or debt consolidation needs. The company's lending platforms leverage proprietary credit scoring models incorporating alternative data sources beyond traditional credit bureau information, potentially identifying creditworthy borrowers overlooked by conventional underwriting while managing risk through appropriate pricing and credit limits. Atlanticus generates revenues through interest income on outstanding loan balances, fees including annual credit card fees and origination charges, and merchant fees charged to retailers partnering with Atlanticus for point-of-sale financing offerings. The company reported annual revenues exceeding $300 million with profitability dependent on credit performance managing loan losses among inherently risky subprime borrowers, regulatory compliance navigating consumer protection laws including Truth in Lending Act and state usury restrictions, and funding costs accessing capital markets or warehouse credit facilities providing loan origination liquidity. Recent strategic initiatives emphasize expanding proprietary lending platforms reducing reliance on bank partnerships where Atlanticus previously originated loans through bank-sponsored programs, investing in machine learning credit models improving approval rates while maintaining acceptable loss levels, and diversifying product offerings beyond credit cards into adjacent consumer finance categories. The company faces intense competition from established subprime lenders including Credit One Bank, specialized auto finance companies, and emerging fintech competitors offering alternative credit products targeting similar customer segments.