The importance of training for credit intermediaries
Credit Intermediation is a regulated activity that requires adequate technical, legal and financial knowledge. The evolution of regulation, the complexity of financial products and consumers’ expectations make solid preparation essential to perform the activity with rigour and responsibility.
More than a requirement for entry into the profession, training contributes to improving service quality, protecting the consumer and strengthening trust between intermediaries, clients and credit institutions.
The legal framework for training
In Portugal, the activity is regulated by Decree-Law no. 81-C/2017 of 7 July, which sets out the conditions for accessing and practising the profession.
The legislation states that professionals must possess the necessary knowledge and skills, which may be demonstrated through training provided by entities certified by the Banco de Portugal or through qualifications that meet the legally established requirements.
The main training topics include:
- Legal and regulatory framework;
- Credit products and contracts;
- Creditworthiness assessment;
- Consumer protection;
- Professional ethics;
- Prevention of money laundering and terrorist financing.
Continuous updating: a professional advantage
In a constantly evolving sector, keeping knowledge up to date is a competitive advantage. Although there is no general obligation for periodic continuous training, ongoing updating makes it possible to keep up with legislative changes, new technologies and best market practices.
Areas such as digitalisation, data protection, risk analysis and customer relationship management now play an increasingly important role.
Training and technology
Digital transformation has simplified the management of credit processes. Therefore, it is important for professionals to know how to use tools that increase efficiency and facilitate compliance with legal obligations.
Solutions such as eGO CRM Credit Intermediation help centralise information, automate tasks, track processes and strengthen compliance control. In this way, technology complements training, enabling knowledge to be applied in a more efficient and organised manner.
Benefits of certified training
Investing in training enables the credit intermediary to:
- Strengthen technical and regulatory skills;
- Operate with greater legal certainty;
- Improve the quality of client advice;
- Increase credibility with consumers and financial institutions;
- Adapt more easily to changes in the sector;
- Make better use of digital tools.
Conclusion
Training is one of the pillars of Credit Intermediation, contributing to a more competent, transparent and responsible practice.
In an increasingly regulated and digital market, the combination of technical qualification and technology enables a more efficient and secure service. Tools such as eGO CRM support this evolution, helping professionals manage processes with greater rigour and respond to market demands.