Upstart uses AI to improve lending access, focusing on 2,500 variables for thorough borrower analysis. Despite revenue fluctuations, it’s disrupted the financial services industry with $50B in loans originated. American Express thrives with an 11% revenue increase, 9% payment volume growth, and 5.7M new active cards in Q3 2025.

American Express benefits from a strong brand presence and network effect, connecting 151M cardholders and 160M merchant locations. The premium positioning attracts higher-income consumers, keeping default rates low and providing pricing power. A decade outlook shows growth potential from digital transactions and rising spending.

Investors face a choice between Upstart and American Express. Upstart’s AI-driven innovation offers potential upside, while Amex, a market leader in credit cards, provides stability. Both have their merits, with Upstart suitable for risk-tolerant investors seeking growth and American Express for those seeking reliability.

Read more at Yahoo Finance.: Should You Forget Upstart and Buy American Express Instead?