Monmouthshire Building Society modernises mortgage journey with MQube
Monmouthshire Building Society today announces a new partnership with MQube, a mortgage technology provider.
0
The Society will adopt MQube's AI-powered mortgage origination platform, 'Origo', as part of a strategic move to enhance service delivery, cut processing times, and support more borrowers with faster, simpler mortgages.
Using advanced artificial intelligence and real-time data analysis, 'Origo', instantly reviews a broad range of financial, credit, and property data. This allows Monmouthshire Building Society to process mortgage applications far more quickly than traditional methods, cutting decision times from days to minutes.
This move comes as Monmouthshire Building Society continues its transformation journey. The integration of Origo will help the mutual stay agile in an evolving mortgage landscape, delivering more consistent decisions and reducing the friction borrowers and intermediaries often face.
By asking only the questions that can't be answered through other data sources, Origo also minimises repetitive document requests and back-and-forth with underwriters, improving the experience for brokers and customers alike.
MQube's team is working closely with Monmouthshire Building Society to tailor the platform to its unique needs, ensuring seamless integration with its systems and processes.
The platform is already live in the UK with MPowered Mortgages who introduced the one day mortgage earlier this year.
Will Carroll, Chief Executive Officer at Monmouthshire Building Society, commented: 'At Monmouthshire Building Society, we're committed to using technology to deliver better outcomes for our members. Borrowers today expect not just great service but also speed and certainty and we're determined to deliver on all fronts. Our partnership with MQube gives us access to cutting-edge technology that will help us simplify the mortgage journey while reducing costs and risk. It's a key step in our ongoing journey to be a modern mutual that truly puts members first.'
Stuart Cheetham, Founder and CEO of MQube, added: 'We're thrilled to welcome Monmouthshire Building Society to the Origo platform. As more lenders embrace AI and automation, it's great to see a forward-thinking mutual leading the way. Origo is already powering faster mortgages at MPowered and we're excited to help Monmouthshire bring those same benefits to their customers and brokers. We look forward to supporting them on their journey and continuing to help reshape the mortgage industry for the better.'
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Geeky Gadgets
2 days ago
- Geeky Gadgets
The Dark Side of AI: Are We Racing Toward a Future We Don't Want?
What if the future everyone is racing toward isn't the one we actually want? As artificial intelligence hurtles forward, promising to transform industries and redefine the workforce, the conversation often centers on its dazzling potential—efficiency, innovation, and progress. But beneath the surface lies a far more unsettling reality: the very foundation of our professional lives is shifting, and not necessarily for the better. Imagine a world where entry-level jobs vanish, career ladders collapse, and economic inequality deepens as millions are left scrambling to adapt. This isn't science fiction; it's a looming possibility that few are willing to confront openly. The AI future we're building may not be the one we're prepared to live in. Ai Grid explore the uncomfortable truths about AI's impact on work, society, and identity—realities that are too often glossed over in the race to embrace automation. From the disappearance of critical stepping-stone jobs to the psychological toll of widespread job displacement, the challenges ahead are as profound as they are complex. Yet, within these challenges lie opportunities to rethink what work means and how we can shape a more equitable future. By examining the risks, the societal implications, and the potential solutions, this piece invites you to grapple with the question: Are we ready for the AI future we're creating? AI's Impact on Jobs How AI Is Transforming the Workforce AI is already transforming industries such as finance, law, consulting, and technology by automating tasks traditionally performed by humans. Entry-level positions are particularly vulnerable, with experts estimating that up to 70% of these roles could be affected. This shift could result in a 10-20% increase in unemployment as AI systems take over tasks such as: Document review: Automating the analysis of legal and financial documents. Automating the analysis of legal and financial documents. Data analysis: Using AI to process and interpret large datasets more efficiently than humans. Using AI to process and interpret large datasets more efficiently than humans. Customer service: Replacing human representatives with AI chatbots and virtual assistants. These roles, often seen as critical stepping stones for career growth, are at risk of disappearing, creating an 'experience gap' that could hinder younger workers from advancing professionally. Even physical labor jobs, once considered less susceptible to automation, are increasingly at risk. Advances in robotics are allowing machines to perform tasks in manufacturing, warehouse operations, and other traditionally human-dominated fields. This trend is shrinking job opportunities across multiple sectors, leaving fewer options for workers at all skill levels and intensifying the need for adaptability. Economic and Societal Implications The widespread adoption of AI is expected to create profound economic and societal challenges. As jobs disappear, securing sustainable employment or advancing in your career may become more difficult. The loss of entry-level roles disrupts traditional career pathways, leaving many workers without the foundational experience needed to transition into higher-level positions. On a broader scale, economic inequality could widen as individuals with AI-related skills thrive while others struggle to adapt. This disparity may exacerbate social tensions, as the psychological toll of job insecurity and financial instability grows. The potential for social unrest underscores the urgency of addressing these challenges through proactive measures. The societal impact extends beyond economics. Communities may face shifts in identity and purpose as traditional industries decline. The psychological effects of widespread job displacement, including stress and anxiety, could further strain social systems. These challenges highlight the importance of fostering resilience and adaptability at both individual and societal levels. The AI Future Nobody Wants To Talk About Watch this video on YouTube. Enhance your knowledge on AI job displacement by exploring a selection of articles and guides on the subject. Corporate Strategies: Automation as a Priority Many companies are adopting 'AI-first' strategies, prioritizing automation to reduce costs and improve efficiency. This trend is evident across various industries, with notable examples including: Amazon: Using warehouse robots to streamline operations and reduce reliance on human labor. Using warehouse robots to streamline operations and reduce reliance on human labor. Media outlets: Organizations like Business Insider employing AI tools for content generation, leading to workforce reductions. Organizations like Business Insider employing AI tools for content generation, leading to workforce reductions. Freelance platforms: Platforms such as Fiverr encouraging workers to integrate AI tools into their services to remain competitive. These corporate strategies emphasize the importance of staying ahead of technological advancements. By understanding how AI is reshaping industries, you can better position yourself to adapt and remain competitive in an increasingly automated job market. Addressing the Challenges: Potential Solutions To mitigate the challenges posed by AI, several strategies are being proposed to ensure a smoother transition for workers and society: Upskilling and Adaptation: Developing expertise in AI tools and focusing on areas where human creativity, emotional intelligence, and critical thinking remain essential. Combining technical skills with uniquely human capabilities will be crucial for long-term success. Developing expertise in AI tools and focusing on areas where human creativity, emotional intelligence, and critical thinking remain essential. Combining technical skills with uniquely human capabilities will be crucial for long-term success. Universal Basic Income (UBI): As automation reduces job opportunities, UBI is gaining traction as a potential safety net. This approach aims to provide financial stability while society adjusts to the new economic landscape. As automation reduces job opportunities, UBI is gaining traction as a potential safety net. This approach aims to provide financial stability while society adjusts to the new economic landscape. Policy and Regulation: Governments must prioritize discussions on AI governance, creating policies that manage the transition and ensure equitable distribution of AI's benefits. Effective regulation can help mitigate economic disruption and promote societal well-being. These solutions require collaboration between individuals, corporations, and governments to address the multifaceted challenges posed by AI. By taking proactive steps, society can better navigate the complexities of this technological transformation. Emerging Opportunities in the AI Era While AI is expected to displace many jobs, it will also create new opportunities in emerging fields. Growth is anticipated in areas such as: AI-related roles: Careers in machine learning, data science, and AI system development. Careers in machine learning, data science, and AI system development. Green technologies: Jobs in renewable energy solutions and sustainable development. Jobs in renewable energy solutions and sustainable development. Healthcare: Roles in AI-driven diagnostics, personalized medicine, and advanced medical research. However, administrative, clerical, and repetitive physical labor jobs are likely to decline. The World Economic Forum emphasizes the importance of reskilling to bridge the gap between displaced workers and the demands of the future job market. By focusing on education and skill development, you can position yourself to thrive in these emerging industries. Adapting to Rapid Change The rapid pace of AI development is compressing the timeline for societal adaptation. Automation of automation—where AI systems improve themselves—further accelerates this transformation, making traditional economic adjustments more challenging. This raises critical questions about the future of work: Will AI augment human labor or replace it entirely? For you, this means staying informed and adaptable is more important than ever. Understanding AI's trajectory and its implications can help you make strategic decisions about your career and future. By embracing lifelong learning and focusing on areas where human skills remain indispensable, you can navigate the uncertainties of the AI era with confidence. Shaping the Future with AI The fantastic impact of AI demands preparation and collaboration at every level. As a worker, prioritizing education and skill development is essential to remain competitive in an AI-driven economy. Companies must adopt ethical approaches to AI deployment, making sure that technological advancements benefit both businesses and employees. Governments, meanwhile, have a critical role in establishing regulatory frameworks and supporting societal adaptation. The AI era presents both challenges and opportunities. By taking proactive steps today, you can help shape a future where technology enhances human potential rather than replacing it. The choices made now will determine whether AI becomes a tool for empowerment or a source of disruption. Your ability to adapt and prepare will be key to thriving in this rapidly evolving landscape. Media Credit: TheAIGRID Filed Under: AI, Top News Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
Telegraph
28-05-2025
- Telegraph
‘I'm polyamorous – my money is shared with hundreds of people'
Genevieve King describes herself not as polyamorous – where a person has more than one committed romantic relationship, and is open about all those relationships with everyone involved – but as a 'relationship anarchist'. This extends beyond the romantic or sexual sphere, eschewing the traditional set-ups that many of today's societies adhere to: things like exclusive marriage to one person, parenting in a twosome, or confining financial responsibility to people within one legally recognised family unit. Many of us grow up with vaguely traditional ideas about finances. We might hope to work and be paid for it, meet a spouse who also works and is paid, and buy a home with our shared income. In long-term relationships between two people, such daydreams often crash headlong into the reality of trying to plan with another person who might not share the same traditions or assumptions about money. 'So much pain in failed or failing marriages comes from a lack of structure to have those difficult financial conversations,' says Richard Davey, a certified financial planner and one of the founders of Marriage Money Bootcamp. But what if you find yourself not in a twosome at all? What if, unplanned or by design, you have to care for children or other dependents without the structure of a single long-term relationship? Who pays the mortgage if there are many of you in the relationship? 'Whatever is mine is theirs' King, 38, doesn't have one single romantic partner, or aspire to be part of a nuclear family. Rather, she has many different partners, and is part of a 'polycule' – a term used to describe a connected network of people that might include open relationships, polyamorous dynamics, friendships, ex-ships, and more. For King, this isn't about just being romantically playful with a multitude of people, though playfulness is certainly part of what she experiences with her partners. It's an ethical decision, based on how she and her closest friends and lovers, and their partners, want the world to be. And it's also how she thinks about money. 'All of my accounts and assets are independent,' and in her name alone, says King, who is American but lives in Berlin. 'However, all of my friends and partners, and their partners, I consider to be extended family. Whatever is mine is theirs. 'So while it is mine, if somebody needs anything, I see what I can do to help. Even if I'm not close to them, if they're in my extended network, we tend to rally, and pool our resources, to lift up anybody that might need it. And I think it offers a sense of security, because then if I am ever in need, I know that I'd be lifted up in the same way.' This financial peer support extends, for example, to subsidising rent for others in her network who have unstable housing. It might involve making sure people have what they need in other ways, like a phone, help with childcare, food, or emotional support. King's main work and source of income is offering peer support to people in non-monogamous relationships. Her Instagram handle, Chillpolyamory, has almost 190,000 followers. She tends to have multiple partners, some of whom come and go, while others last many years, and often overlap. She has 'spicy friendships', as she calls them, in Germany and around the world. Right now she also has a male partner to whom she is married – a decision that made sense, logistically, when the two of them wanted to move together from the US to Europe four years ago. She also 'chooses to be child-free'. But her financial responsibilities are manifold. 'I have savings, I have an investment fund. I'm financially stable with what I earn, which comes in the form of Patreon [a popular tool used to give money to content creators], and peer support calls,' which clients pay for, King says. 'It feels like my income is crowdsourced' 'I really enjoy that my income is dispersed over hundreds of people. So that way if one or two clients withdraw, it feels like my income is crowdsourced as well.' She doesn't have a pension, but mentions Germany's social safety nets as a potential fallback once she has citizenship. King doesn't think of her income – which would put her in a very comfortable earnings bracket as a single person – as hers alone. 'If my partner's partner is living on the poverty line, and I know my partner is paying for more things on their end, well then maybe I'll pay for more things on our end,' she says. In practical ways, the polycule is 'aiming to balance the scales in a world that doesn't give out resources equally to begin with … and make sure everybody feels taken care of,' she explains. When it comes to money, 'we just factor in the extended family network, of who has what and who is able to offer what,' King explains. That means thinking broadly about 'all kinds of labour, and all kinds of contributions,' not just monetary earnings. 'So if one person is paying for the entire mortgage, let's say, then another person might be growing food or making clothing or doing more of the labour around the home.' 'There are many types of labour' She notes that, in her network, emotional support is also a recognised contribution – one which often goes unrecognised in wider society. 'There are many types of labour that don't get compensated, systemically,' she says. 'We factor that in as a material contribution. So that way I don't feel like I'm giving more and they're giving less.' Can that lead to times when one person doesn't seem to be pulling their weight? And what about the pain and mess that can often be part of relationships? 'Obviously we have break-ups, and it's not always so clean,' King says. But she adds that, so far, they have mostly been able to work them out. Right now, King lives with the partner she is married to, but her living arrangements, and those of others in the polycule, remain fluid. She travels a lot, spends time with partners at their places or at her own, and would like to live with more people in the future. However, the set-up is nothing like a 70s-style commune. Rather, it involves a network of people with close ties, some of love and others of friendship, some of whom live near each other. Others might live far away, spend significant periods of time elsewhere, or travel a lot. Some have children. It has taken time, King admits, for her to really embrace the plural nature of what everyone in a polycule was able to give. 'Earlier on, my mindset was not where it is today,' she says. 'There was more conflict, when I was contributing more money and I did not see or weigh evenly the non-monetary contributions from people around me … I realised there was a lot of shifting in my own mindset that needed to happen around how I valued things.' She is currently house-hunting for a place to buy, which she hopes to do with only her name on the mortgage. She may need to look outside Berlin, she says, because she would like more space, so that she can live with a bigger, and potentially shifting, subset of the polycule. 'If I ever needed anything financially, my partners have my back' The phrase 'it takes a village to raise a child' is often quoted, yet many people find themselves living the opposite life. In Western society, we tend to raise children in small, financially dependent nuclear family units. We might pay for childcare, or rely on grandparents to help out, but don't often share the responsibility any wider, beyond the odd playdate. Earnings also tend to remain confined to families – relatives may help one another financially, but it's rare for friends to do so. In north London, however, AJ England – who also describes herself as a relationship anarchist – has found a way to bring three children up without adhering to any of those structures. It has involved three different co-parents with vastly different attitudes to their responsibilities, as well as those co-parents' families, other partners, and a lot of learning along the way. England became pregnant at 21, and her partner at the time had no involvement with the child. His family later stepped in to help, however, even paying for schooling at points. Now in her 50s, England has three children. While the eldest two are now financially independent, she co-parents her youngest son with his father, although they do not live together. England currently rents a flat in London, which she shares with her youngest son for a week of every fortnight, while he spends the other with his father. They both support their child in an amicable, informal arrangement. When it comes to making money, many of the non-monogamous relationships England has right now also have financial links. Two of her current partners – both men, whom she refers to as The Vikings – have recently been involved in England's work running wellness gatherings in her garden, building a sauna and other practical tasks. 'So there's been money crossing hands there,' she says. 'And I also know that if I ever needed anything financially, they'd have my back.' Meanwhile, she works with another of her partners, Ria, running a Queer sauna and sensual sauna events, and another partner, Mercury, styling interiors. She describes her work as as a portfolio career, which also includes combining therapy and counselling with 'breathwork and embodiment practices,' interior design for 'intimate spaces' and, recently, podcasting: a forthcoming series called Bathtime with AJ – in which she interviews guests while they share a bath in the clawfoot tub installed in her living room. She also owns two properties, and runs her own business. Her work is hugely varied, but she estimates she earns about £40,000 a year. 'I didn't really grow up knowing about money,' she says. 'It was never talked about, but there was a feeling of never-enoughness.' Such silence about finances is extremely common, according to Sara Jane Maxwell, founder of financial coaching business Wealth Coach. 'We're told, as kids… you don't ask somebody what they earn, that's so rude.' But it means we're often unprepared for such discussions as adults. 'In a relationship, during the early days, [we think] 'I can't really ask that person what they earn' in case it comes across as mercenary,' she adds. While England is in a stable financial position now, it hasn't always been the case. England says that until around the time she had her third child, she 'didn't even look at the cost of a pint of milk. I wouldn't have had a clue.' She lived in and out of debt, often using credit cards to keep afloat, especially once she became a parent. England's income also took a hit recently when she was going through cancer treatment. She has 'been on the receiving end of friends' generosity, with them lending me money when I was going through cancer treatment,' she says. When she couldn't work because of her medical needs, she knew she could rely on her partners – who also all have other partners – to help her both practically and financially. Facing her potential death spurred her to take out life insurance, she says, and she also has savings in a stocks and shares ISA, as well as a self-invested personal pension (Sipp). She often travels to the small properties she owns, one in Europe and the other in Southeast Asia, and says she uses a credit card to pay for everything during the month, paying it off in full every time, to earn air miles. Now, she helps friends with any support she can offer, including her business expertise. 'My friends are my family, so it's easy for me to give my time and knowledge,' England says. 'It really does 'take a village'. Currently I'm supporting two dear friends to navigate the process of buying their first home as they are expecting their first child, helping them understand the terminology, the financial implications, then the DIY aspect. Also the emotional aspect of money and all that brings up.' She enjoys working with her partners, coming up with schemes and projects. Right now she is talking about buying a property with her partner Mercury, but as an investment rather than to live with him there, and is setting up a new venture with 'erotic friend and business partner' Aleksandra that aims to bring 'inner desires into the aesthetics of the bedroom,' inspired by the Netflix series How to Build a Sex Room. 'It feels good to support the people in my life who matter,' England says. 'The exchanges that happen may be practical, it may be emotional support, financial support, shared business ventures, shared time. But it's connection and care at the centre of it all.'
Geeky Gadgets
27-05-2025
- Geeky Gadgets
The Dark Side of Generative AI : 10 Problems We Can't Ignore
What happens when a technology designed to transform creativity and innovation also threatens to unravel trust, fairness, and even the environment? Generative AI, hailed as a new force in industries from entertainment to healthcare, comes with a host of challenges that are impossible to ignore. From creating eerily convincing deepfakes to amplifying biases embedded in its training data, this technology is as controversial as it is fantastic. The stakes are high: while generative AI has the potential to reshape the future, its unchecked growth could lead to profound ethical dilemmas, societal disruptions, and environmental consequences. Are we prepared to confront the darker side of this innovation? The AI Grid team explores the 10 most pressing problems with generative AI, offering a critical lens on its technical, ethical, and societal implications. You'll uncover how biases in training data can perpetuate inequality, why the rise of AI-generated misinformation threatens public trust, and how the technology's energy demands are creating a hidden environmental toll. But these challenges are not insurmountable. By understanding the risks, we can begin to ask the right questions and demand solutions that prioritize transparency, fairness, and sustainability. As we navigate this uncharted territory, the question isn't just what generative AI can do—but at what cost? Generative AI Challenges Bias and Fairness Generative AI systems often reflect the biases present in their training data, which can lead to outputs that unintentionally reinforce stereotypes or discriminatory patterns. For instance, an AI trained on biased hiring data may favor certain demographics, perpetuating inequality in recruitment processes. This issue underscores the importance of using diverse and representative datasets during training. Additionally, implementing rigorous fairness testing and bias detection mechanisms is crucial to ensure equitable outcomes. By addressing these concerns, developers can create systems that promote inclusivity and fairness across various applications. Misinformation Risks The ability of generative AI to produce highly convincing fake content poses a significant threat to the integrity of information. Examples such as deepfake videos or fabricated news articles demonstrate how this technology can blur the line between reality and fiction. The misuse of AI-generated content can erode public trust and accelerate the spread of false information. To combat this, it is essential to develop robust verification mechanisms and tools that can distinguish between authentic and AI-generated content. These measures are critical for maintaining credibility and making sure the responsible use of generative AI in the digital age. 10 BIG Problems With Generative AI Watch this video on YouTube. Below are more guides on Generative AI challenges from our extensive range of articles. Intellectual Property Challenges Generative AI raises complex questions about intellectual property (IP) rights, particularly when it creates content inspired by existing works. For example, if an AI generates artwork influenced by a copyrighted painting, determining ownership becomes a legal gray area. This uncertainty is especially significant in creative industries, where originality and ownership are central to success. Addressing these challenges requires clear legal frameworks and policies that balance innovation with the protection of intellectual property. Establishing guidelines for attribution and ownership will be key to resolving disputes and fostering trust in AI-generated content. Ethical Implications The ethical challenges associated with generative AI are vast and multifaceted. On one hand, you might question whether relying on AI-generated content diminishes the value of human creativity. On the other hand, there are concerns about the potential misuse of this technology for malicious purposes, such as creating harmful propaganda or manipulating public opinion. For instance, generative AI could be weaponized to spread disinformation or incite social unrest. To address these risks, it is essential to establish comprehensive ethical guidelines that govern the development and use of generative AI. These guidelines should prioritize transparency, accountability, and the promotion of societal benefits. Environmental Impact The environmental impact of generative AI is a growing concern, as training and operating large models require immense computational power. This translates to significant energy consumption and carbon emissions. For example, training a single advanced AI model can emit as much carbon as several cars over their lifetimes. To mitigate this impact, developers must focus on optimizing algorithms to reduce energy requirements and adopt renewable energy sources for powering data centers. By prioritizing sustainability, the AI community can minimize the environmental footprint of generative AI while continuing to innovate. Lack of Transparency Generative AI models often function as 'black boxes,' making it difficult to understand how they produce specific outputs. This lack of transparency can undermine trust, especially in high-stakes applications such as healthcare, finance, or legal decision-making. For example, if an AI system recommends a medical treatment without explaining its reasoning, it can create uncertainty and hesitation among users. Developing explainable AI tools is essential to enhance accountability and ensure that users can trust the technology's decisions. Transparent systems will also enable better oversight and regulation, fostering confidence in AI-driven solutions. Dependence on Data Quality The performance of generative AI is heavily dependent on the quality and diversity of its training data. If the data is biased, incomplete, or outdated, the AI's outputs will reflect those flaws. For instance, an AI trained on outdated medical records might generate inaccurate diagnoses, potentially endangering patients. Making sure robust data curation and validation processes is critical to improving the reliability and accuracy of generative AI systems. By prioritizing high-quality data, developers can create models that deliver consistent and trustworthy results across various applications. Job Displacement Generative AI is transforming the workforce, particularly in creative fields such as content writing, graphic design, and music composition. While this technology can enhance productivity and efficiency, it also poses a risk to jobs that rely on human creativity and expertise. For example, AI-generated content may reduce the demand for traditional copywriting or design roles. Preparing for this shift requires reskilling and upskilling initiatives to help workers adapt to new roles that use human-AI collaboration. By embracing these changes, industries can create opportunities for innovation while minimizing the negative impact on employment. Security Risks Generative AI can be exploited for malicious purposes, such as creating deepfakes, automating cyberattacks, or generating convincing phishing emails. These threats pose significant challenges for cybersecurity professionals, as AI-generated content can be difficult to detect and counteract. Strengthening security systems and monitoring mechanisms is critical to mitigating these risks. Additionally, fostering collaboration between AI developers and cybersecurity experts can help identify vulnerabilities and develop proactive solutions to prevent misuse. Regulatory Uncertainty The rapid advancement of generative AI has outpaced the development of laws and regulations to govern its use. This creates uncertainty for stakeholders navigating unclear legal landscapes, particularly regarding liability, accountability, and ethical considerations. Policymakers must collaborate with technologists, industry leaders, and ethicists to establish clear and enforceable guidelines that balance innovation with societal protections. By addressing regulatory gaps, governments can ensure that generative AI is developed and deployed responsibly, fostering trust and stability in its applications. Media Credit: TheAIGRID Filed Under: AI, Guides Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
