E-commerce firm Lazada and Gokongwei-backed financial technology (fintech) Cashalo have expanded their strategic partnership to offer zero-interest loans to Lazada customers.
Lazada shoppers can avail of micro loans of up to P2,500 and checkout their carts using digital credit at no extra cost or hidden processing fees.
“We have seen encouraging traction for Lazada Loans since we introduced it last year," said Cashalo General Manager Chino Flor.
Hence, "We want to be able to continue growing that momentum and empower more Filipinos to buy online by offering them a zero-interest, zero-processing fee option.”
Lazada is the Southeast Asian flagship platform of the Alibaba Group. It aims to serve 300 million shoppers by 2030.
On the other hand, Cashalo has been downloaded in over 9.5 million devices to date.
Cashalo is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Hong Kong-based Oriente, whose founders are behind internet giants Skype and LU.com.
JG Summit is a strategic partner and investor of Oriente.
Paloo Financing Inc. funds all loans under the Cashalo Platform.
To apply for a Lazada loan, users have to register online through Cashalo’s microsite, download the Cashalo app, fill out a Lazada loan application, and wait for approval.
"This new payment option is best for those who would like to do their Christmas shopping online or those who simply need products that are readily available on Lazada,” according to Flor.
Cashalo also hopes to entice Lazada loan users to avail of other Cashalo products, such as the zero-interest installment in select Cashalo partner stores, and cash loans for urgent needs.
“Since day one, our goal has always been to promote financial inclusion in the country " Flor underscored.
"Our vision is to provide Filipinos greater and easier access to a wide array of financial services,” he concluded.