ABS & Fintech Specialty Finance Forum 2026

Opal Group is proud to present the ABS & Fintech Specialty Finance Forum 2026, a premier

industry gathering designed to provide participants with comprehensive educational content

and exceptional networking opportunities. Taking place December 3–4, 2026, in Dana Point,

California, this highly anticipated event will convene a diverse group of professionals from

across the structured finance and fintech ecosystem for two days of meaningful dialogue,

strategic insight, and relationship building.

The ABS & Fintech Specialty Finance Forum will bring together investors, issuers, lending

platforms, underwriters, banks, rating agencies, lawyers, accountants, service providers, and

other key industry participants. The forum is structured to encourage collaboration and

knowledge sharing among decision-makers who are actively shaping the future of asset-backed

securities (ABS), specialty finance, and financial technology. By assembling stakeholders from

every corner of the transaction lifecycle, the event ensures a well-rounded perspective on both

opportunities and challenges within the market.

As the financial landscape continues to evolve at an accelerated pace, the need for actionable

intelligence and strong professional networks has never been greater. This forum is designed to

address the most pressing issues and emerging opportunities impacting the ABS and fintech

markets. Attendees will gain insights into strategies for maximizing investment returns,

mitigating risk exposure, improving operational efficiency, and identifying new areas of growth

within private credit and specialty lending.

A central theme of the 2026 forum will be the transformative role of artificial intelligence in

financial services. Industry experts will explore how AI-driven underwriting models,

automation, predictive analytics, and enhanced risk assessment tools are reshaping capital

markets and specialty finance. Participants will also examine the operational, compliance, and

regulatory considerations that accompany these innovations, ensuring they leave equipped

with both opportunity-focused and risk-aware perspectives. Discussions will highlight real-

world case studies demonstrating how firms are successfully integrating advanced technologies

into their existing platforms.

In addition to AI, the program will cover recent trends in embedded finance and private credit.

As non-bank lenders and fintech platforms continue to expand their presence, understanding

capital formation strategies, securitization structures, warehouse financing, and investor

appetite is critical. Panels and presentations will provide practical guidance on structuring

deals, navigating rating agency considerations, enhancing transparency, and responding to

evolving market conditions in a competitive funding environment.

According to Dan Meador, Head of Production & Business Development at Opal Group, the

forum is designed to foster meaningful engagement among all participants. “Bringing together

investors, issuers, underwriters, rating agencies, lawyers and accountants, the ABS & Fintech

Specialty Finance Forum will allow our participants to network and explore important topics

and trends to learn on topics related to maximizing investment returns, reducing risk, the

emerging opportunities and disruption expected from AI, and recent trends in embedded

finance and private credit,” said Meador.

Beyond its robust educational agenda, the forum emphasizes high-value networking in an

intimate and focused environment. Attendees will have numerous opportunities to connect

through panel discussions, interactive sessions, roundtable conversations, and dedicated

networking breaks. By facilitating direct access to capital providers, originators, and service

professionals, the event aims to spark partnerships, strategic alliances, and transactions that

extend well beyond the conference itself.

The setting in Dana Point provides an ideal backdrop for strategic conversations and

relationship building. The coastal location offers a professional yet relaxed atmosphere

conducive to thoughtful discussion and collaboration among senior-level executives and

industry innovators.

The ABS & Fintech Specialty Finance Forum is designed not only to inform but to equip

participants with practical tools, forward-looking strategies, and meaningful connections. By

addressing both current market dynamics and future disruptions, the forum empowers

attendees to strengthen their competitive positioning, adapt to technological change, and stay

one step ahead in an increasingly complex financial environment.

For more information about Opal Group’s ABS & Fintech Specialty Finance Forum, including

registration details and the full agenda, please visit:https://opalgroup.net/finance/abs-and-
Contact:

Sofia Avalos

Marketing Assistant

savalos@opalgroup.net

212.532.9898 x210