LendingClub and Varo Money are making inroads into the traditional financial system, but other fintechs still face long odds.

Some institutions say the combination of chatbots and social media could entice new borrowers, but burdensome legacy systems may limit their effectiveness.

The challenge for other fintechs will be to find banks that are as compatible as Radius Bank, an online-only lender, is for LendingClub.

The move comes as the fintech tries to shake off criticism that its main products are payday loans by another name.

When established card networks such as Visa, American Express and Mastercard start investing in fintech lending platforms such as Divido and ChargeAfter — as well as in the fintech lenders themselves such as Klarna and Vyze — it’s a clear signal that the future of unsecured personal loans may not be delivered by banks.

The game has changed and bank executives will have to do more homework before striking a deal.

Clearer standards make it easier for shareholders to boost their stakes in banks without having to file for bank holding company status.

The deal for Boston-based Radius would be the first in history in which an online lender buys a mainstream bank.

Long-term success in the adoption of cloud technology requires a focus and integration of cloud within the broader business transformation plan, says Unisys' Maria Allen.

As well-funded rivals pounce, Dwolla founder and CEO Ben Milne is looking for new leadership and a new strategy.