AI and data reshape the commercial lending lifecycle

Experts from Chartis Research and FIS report that banks are shifting from disconnected point solutions to integrated, end-to-end lending platforms. They identify artificial intelligence, real-time analytics and API-enabled connectivity as priorities for underwriting, workflow automation, risk monitoring and servicing to speed decisions and improve oversight.

The discussion draws on the Chartis Credit Lending Operations 2026 report, which finds lenders are moving toward unified operating models that link data, processes, systems, partners and staff. The report describes efforts to replace fragmented workflows with a single operating framework that increases visibility and consistency across the credit lifecycle.

Market conditions are more complex and customer expectations are changing. Banks face pressure to raise efficiency, accelerate credit decisions and deliver a smoother borrower experience. Many institutions are pursuing modernisation approaches that limit wholesale system replacement and preserve existing infrastructure.

Common strategies include adding API layers to connect legacy applications, deploying AI models in areas with the largest measurable benefit, and using real-time analytics to surface actionable information during origination and servicing.

In underwriting, AI can augment traditional credit assessment by analysing broader data sets and speeding document review. Workflow automation reduces manual handoffs in loan origination and servicing. Continuous analytics and monitoring enable earlier detection of portfolio deterioration and tighter risk controls. API-enabled ecosystems make it easier to integrate third-party data, fintech partners and service providers into lending operations.

Data integration is a central focus. Connecting information from finance, credit, operations and client channels creates a more complete view of customers, exposures and opportunities. That visibility supports consistent decisions from origination through ongoing monitoring and can cut duplicated work and reporting gaps that arise from fragmented systems.

The report and panelists also address organisational change. Banks are expected to enable cross-functional collaboration, set clear data governance and define how external partners will be used to add capabilities while maintaining operational resilience.

Panelists listed for the webinar are Dale Glajchen, vice president and head of commercial loan servicing and syndication at FIS; Anish Shah, research director at Chartis Research; and Tim Probst, global head of commercial loan servicing, enterprise and client strategy at FIS. Sharon Kimathi will moderate the discussion.