What Credit Bureaus Know, and How it Affects Your Financial Future

Host Bryn Griffiths explores the dynamic world of credit reporting with two experts from Equifax, a global leader in data analytics and credit information. Recorded at the National Credit Conference in Jasper, Alberta, today’s discussion features Ken Malin, a ten-year veteran of Equifax’s credit groups, and commercial data consultant Kevin Freeland. Together, they shine a spotlight on the evolution of credit management, the critical role of credit scores, and how companies like Equifax and MetCredit are helping Canadians and businesses navigate an ever-changing financial landscape. Whether you’re new to credit or looking to deepen your understanding, this episode offers timely perspectives and practical advice on leveraging credit data for smarter, safer business decisions. **Chapters** 00:00 Introduction to Bryn Griffiths and Equifax 00:24 Equifax's Role in Global Credit Data 00:58 Reinvention and Cultural Change at Equifax 01:58 Changes in Business Practices Post-Pandemic 02:33 Managing Credit Groups During and After COVID 04:15 The Shift to Virtual Business Interactions 06:07 Selling Big Deals via Video Conference 07:23 Equifax’s Specific Role and Data Use 08:32 Personal Stories and Data Privacy in Credit 09:18 The Importance of Financial Literacy for Youth 10:33 Building Credit Early and Its Impact 12:08 Credit Reports and Personal Financial Health 13:19 The Ecosystem of Business Credit 14:29 Teaching Kids About Credit and Math Skills 15:22 The Role of AI and Digital Skills in Future Finance 15:50 Encouraging Responsible Credit Use Among Youth 16:57 Ken Malin on Credit Groups and Industry Collaboration 17:50 The Role of Credit Data in Industry and Risk Management 18:48 The Value of Relationships and Trust in Credit 20:11 Future Challenges in Personal and Business Credit 21:40 Using Data to Support Business and Credit Decisions 24:38 Connecting with Experts for Financial Education   **Resources** Equifax Canada Official Website - https://www.equifax.ca *The Wealthy Barber* by David Chilton - https://thewealthybarber.com/ A Rich Future, Essential Financial Concepts for Youth by Noah Booth  Credit Safe - https://www.creditsafe.com **Guest links** LinkedIn - https://linkedin.com/in/kenmalin LinkedIn - https://linkedin.com/in/kevinfreeland