John McNaughton Acquires Majority Stake in Philippine Fintech Startup C Credit
In a strategic move set to redefine the Philippine fintech landscape, seasoned investment banker John McNaughton has acquired a 51% stake in C Credit Financing Inc. (C Credit). This acquisition marks McNaughton’s most significant personal investment after a distinguished 30-year career in banking, mergers and acquisitions, and car financing on a global scale.
C Credit aims to bring affordable used cars to the Philippines, holding profound social significance by enhancing mobility and economic opportunities for a broader segment of the Filipino population. By making used cars more accessible, C Credit is not just offering a product but also providing a means to improve livelihoods and economic stability for many families and small and medium enterprises (SMEs). Affordable cars can significantly impact SMEs by reducing transportation costs and increasing operational efficiency.
John McNaughton is no stranger to the complexities of the financial world. With over three decades of experience, he has been instrumental in numerous high-profile deals and has developed a keen eye for identifying promising ventures. His extensive background includes significant expertise in car financing, a sector that aligns perfectly with C Credit’s mission. This acquisition represents a new chapter for McNaughton as it is his most significant investment made independently of his professional roles, signaling not just confidence in C Credit’s business model but also a personal commitment to driving its success.
John’s extensive experience in corporate governance and investor relations perfectly complements Viktor Zhuravlev’s rich background. Viktor, the CEO, founder, and fintech entrepreneur of C Credit, has extensive experience in operational management of credit businesses and launching technology startups from scratch in various countries. Viktor brings over two decades of comprehensive experience in the fintech and automobile sectors.
His career is marked by significant roles in business development, marketing, product management, and digital sales, consistently demonstrating his ability to drive growth, innovation, and efficiency. Viktor’s hands-on, collaborative leadership style, combined with his entrepreneurial spirit, positions C Credit for significant growth and ensures that the company not only meets but exceeds its strategic objectives.
Accessible at ccredit.ph, C Credit stands out by disintermediating the traditional supply chain. By removing dealers and brokers, C Credit reduces costs and passes these savings on to consumers. This approach not only lowers the price of used cars but also streamlines the purchasing process, making it more efficient and consumer-friendly.
A significant competitive advantage for C Credit lies in its use of technology. The company employs a 100% digitalized and AI-powered approach to customer acquisition, underwriting, and
onboarding. This advanced technological framework significantly reduces transaction costs, making car loans more accessible to a wider audience.
Moreover, C Credit’s commitment to ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) principles ensures that its business practices meet high ethical standards and contribute positively to the environment. By promoting the use of affordable used cars, C Credit helps reduce waste and the carbon footprint associated with new car production, aligning with global sustainability goals.
Reflecting on the journey, Viktor Zhuravlev commented, “Our first sale took place in June 2022, and over the past two years, we have successfully completed our Seed stage, validating both our business concept and product economics. We are now preparing for a significant scale-up. John McNaughton’s entry as a co-founder and Chairman of the Board will enhance our corporate governance practices and accelerate our growth trajectory.”
The infusion of McNaughton’s expertise and the accompanying capital will be pivotal as C Credit transitions from its startup phase to a more expansive growth phase. McNaughton’s role will be crucial in attracting further investments and leveraging his extensive network and experience.
With McNaughton’s backing, C Credit is well-positioned to expand its market presence and continue its mission of making affordable used cars available to more Filipinos. The company’s innovative approach, combined with its commitment to ESG principles, sets a solid foundation for sustainable growth and social impact.
As the Philippine fintech landscape continues to evolve, C Credit’s unique value proposition and strategic vision will likely attract further attention from investors and industry stakeholders. McNaughton’s involvement not only brings credibility and experience but also underscores the potential for C Credit to become a significant player in the market.
John McNaughton’s acquisition of a majority stake in C Credit Financing Inc. represents a significant milestone for both parties. For McNaughton, it is the beginning of a new journey as an investor and co-founder. For Viktor Zhuravlev and C Credit, it is an opportunity to leverage unparalleled expertise and accelerate its mission of bringing affordable used cars to the Philippines. Together, they are poised to disrupt the market, create value, and drive positive social and environmental change.
Want stories like this delivered straight to your inbox? Stay informed. Stay ahead. Subscribe to InqMORNING
