Trends
Platform Update
Investor Insights
Startups
Equity
StartEngine Faces Revenue Decline and Investor Scrutiny Amid $2 Billion Valuation Raise
StartEngine, a leading US crowdfunding platform, reported a 17.5% year-over-year revenue decline in Q1 2026 and a swing to net loss, even as it launches a new fundraising round at a $2 billion valuation. The article examines StartEngine's self-funding practices, investor outcomes, regulatory fines, and the challenges facing retail investors. Industry data shows few significant returns for platform investors to date.
Market Data
Trends
Alternative Finance Market Projected to Reach $780.54 Billion by 2030
A new report forecasts the alternative finance market will grow to $780.54 billion by 2030, with a CAGR of 19.7%. The analysis covers key segments such as P2P lending and crowdfunding, highlights leading platforms like Funding Circle, Crowdcube, and Seedrs, and discusses emerging trends including blockchain-enabled financing and private credit funds. The report also details market segmentation and innovation drivers.
Trends
Market Data
Art
Art Crowdfunding Market Projected to Grow at 13.7% CAGR, Reaching $4 Billion by 2030
A new report forecasts the global art crowdfunding market will reach $4 billion by 2030, with a 13.7% compound annual growth rate. Growth drivers include NFT integration, virtual exhibitions, cross-border funding, and AI-powered audience targeting. The report highlights leading platforms and details market segmentation by model, art type, and application.
Trends
Market Data
SME
P2P lending
Europe
Study Finds International Convergence in Business Models of Leading Online Lending Platforms
A peer-reviewed study examines how top online lending marketplaces in the UK, USA, and Germany have converged toward similar business model components since 2005. The research highlights a shift toward peer-to-institution models, driven by regulatory, technological, and investor pressures. The findings offer a process-oriented model for understanding platform standardization and provide insights for stakeholders in regulated financial markets.
Trends
Market Data
Startups
Equity
USA
US Equity Crowdfunding Market Surged 58% in 2025, Led by Reg A+ Raises
Investment crowdfunding in the US reached $924.8 million in 2025, a 58% increase from the previous year, with Reg A+ accounting for most of the growth. Platforms like Wefunder, StartEngine, DealMaker, and Republic led the market. The article details average raise sizes, investor participation, and the evolving regulatory landscape impacting both investors and businesses.
Platform Update
Trends
Health & Science
Donation
Netherlands
Dutch Crowdfunding Platforms Criticized for Unproven Medical Fundraising Campaigns
Dutch health insurers and doctors have raised concerns about crowdfunding platforms hosting campaigns for unproven or misleading medical treatments. Platforms such as GoFundMe, Geef, WhyDonate, Steunactie, and Doneeractie.nl are cited for lacking adequate screening of medical claims. Insurers are calling for mandatory disclaimers and greater government oversight to protect donors and patients.
Trends
Market Data
P2P lending
USA
US Peer-to-Peer Lending Market Growth and Platform Overview for Consumers and Businesses
The US peer-to-peer lending market reached $52.7 billion in 2024 and is projected to grow to $164.6 billion by 2033. The article explains how P2P lending platforms like LendingClub, Prosper, and Upstart operate, their benefits for borrowers and investors, and how they differ from traditional bank loans. It also discusses trends, risks, and the evolving role of institutional investors.
Trends
Market Data
Art
Equity
USA
Screen Entertainment Crowdfunding Market Sees Record Growth and Shifting Trends Through 2026
Crowdfunding for film, media, and creator revenue shares has grown sharply since 2019, with 2025 marking a record $159.8 million raised. The sector now includes traditional film, digital media, and social channel revenue-share deals. Reg A+ offerings dominate large raises, while Reg CF remains key for volume. 2026 shows a slowdown, but new structures and platforms continue to shape the market.
Market Data
Trends
Litigation
Litigation Finance Market Forecasts 12.9% CAGR Growth Driven by AI and Global Expansion
A new report projects the global litigation finance market to grow at a 12.9% CAGR from 2026 to 2033, fueled by rising commercial litigation, legal costs, and adoption of AI-driven analytics. The study highlights regional growth trends, key market segments, and leading funders such as Burford Capital and Omni Bridgeway. North America leads the market, with Asia-Pacific expected to see the fastest growth.
Trends
Social cause
Donation
Bitcoin Crowdfunding Platforms Enable Direct Aid Delivery in Crisis Zones
Bitcoin-based crowdfunding platforms such as Agora and Geyser are enabling recipients in crisis zones to access funds directly, bypassing traditional banking restrictions. The article highlights a Gaza GoFundMe campaign that struggled with fund delivery due to payment barriers, illustrating the limitations of conventional platforms. These innovations aim to improve trust and accountability in humanitarian aid.
Trends
Platform Update
Startups
Wadiz Surpasses 10 Million Monthly Users as Global Crowdfunding Activity Expands
Wadiz reported over 10 million monthly active users and 7.32 million supporter actions in the first half of 2026, with funding payments processed in 25 countries. Overseas participation, especially from Japan and the U.S., has grown, and projects by foreign makers increased 3.4 times year-over-year. The platform is strengthening its role as a global hub for innovative brands.
Trends
Market Data
SME
UAE
UAE SME Financing Market Reaches USD 30 Billion, Driven by Digital and Alternative Lending
Ken Research's new report values the UAE SME financing market at USD 30 billion, highlighting rapid growth fueled by digital lending, government support, and rising demand for alternative funding models such as crowdfunding and P2P lending. The analysis covers market segmentation, regulatory developments, and technology trends shaping access to finance for SMEs. The report also benchmarks key players and outlines investment opportunities.
