Question · Q3 2025
Peter Christiansen asked about the quality of leads following improvements in marketing channels, considering the AI system's conservatism, and whether an improvement in non-prime auto delinquencies would significantly impact Upstart's auto originations.
Answer
Paul Gu, CTO of Upstart, explained that marketing improvements optimize for both application and conversion propensity, and while conversion rates were lower due to model conservatism, it wasn't a chosen strategy. He also noted that Upstart has seen very good credit performance in auto, and market shifts could present opportunities for growth in 2026.