Understanding Business Value Proposition in Finance
Intro
In the world of business, a clearly articulated value proposition serves as the cornerstone of success. Essentially, itâs a promise of value to be delivered to customers. It explains why consumers should choose one product over another, particularly crucial in competitive landscapes like finance. A value proposition not only draws in clients but also keeps them engaged over time.
When looking at financial services and products specifically, understanding this concept is key for both providers and consumers. A strong value proposition clarifies offerings, differentiates a brand in a saturated market, and ultimately leads to sustained growth.
This guide will navigate you through the nuances of crafting a compelling value proposition tailored for the financial sector, enriched with real-world examples and effective strategies for communication.
Investment Overview
Investment isn't just about buying stocks or bonds; it's about understanding the landscape and making informed decisions.
Key Investment Concepts
- Risk and Return: The relationship between risk and potential return forms the bedrock of investment decisions. Higher returns often come with increased risk.
- Diversification: Spreading investments across various assets can mitigate risk. This practice ensures that if one investment underperforms, others might not be affected as severely.
- Time Horizon: Knowing your investment duration influences the types of products suitable for your portfolio. For instance, long-term growth strategies might differ markedly from short-term trading.
Types of Investment Products
When it comes to choosing where to put your hard-earned money, various types of investment products can cater to different goals and risk tolerances. Here are a few:
- Stocks: Represent ownership in a company and potential for dividend income.
- Bonds: Debt instruments that can provide regular income, often considered safer than stocks.
- Mutual Funds: Pooled investment vehicles managed by professionals, allowing for instant diversification.
- Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs): Similar to mutual funds but trade like individual stocks throughout the day.
"A well-structured investment strategy takes into account the intricate dynamics of market forces, risk factors, and the individualâs financial goals."
Financial Product Analysis
Understanding the nuances of different financial products is paramount for providing effective guidance.
Product Comparisons
To make informed choices, itâs essential to compare similar products. For example, individual retirement accounts (IRAs) can vary greatly in their features:
- Traditional IRA: Offers tax deductions on contributions, with taxes due on withdrawals.
- Roth IRA: Contributions are made with after-tax dollars, allowing for tax-free withdrawals in retirement.
Understanding these differences can dramatically impact investment outcomes.
Expert Reviews and Ratings
Trustworthy reviews and ratings can offer valuable insights into which financial products best fit individual needs. Sources like Morningstar provide in-depth analysis of mutual funds and ETFs, focusing on performance metrics, fees, and management quality.
To access more detailed evaluations and market trends, consider consulting platforms such as
Investopedia and CNBC for real-time updates and comprehensive financial news.
Defining Business Value Proposition
The concept of a business value proposition serves as the backbone of a successful enterprise. It is essentially a promise of value that a business offers to its customers, acting as a key differentiator in a crowded marketplace. In the financial sector specifically, this value proposition is critical, as it not only defines what sets a product or service apart but also helps in building trust and credibility.
The significance of defining a clear business value proposition cannot be understated. It lays the groundwork for understanding who your customer is, what they value, and how your offering can address their needs. This entails a deep dive into the functionality, benefits, and overall experience that your products provide, ensuring that customers know exactly what they stand to gain.
What is a Value Proposition?
A value proposition is the unique value that your product or service delivers to customers, a clear statement that communicates the primary benefits and solutions that your offering provides to the target audience. Itâs not just a slogan or catchy phrase; rather, it focuses on the distinct advantages that customers gain from choosing your offering.
To illustrate, consider the value proposition of Charles Schwab. Their motto, "Own your tomorrow," encapsulates a commitment to empowering clients through transparency and valuable financial advice. This promise is not just about investments but also about the journey and peace of mind that comes along.
The Importance of Value Propositions in Business
When it comes to business, particularly within the realms of finance and investments, a well-defined value proposition carries considerable weight. Here are some points to consider:
- Attracting Customers: A compelling and clear value proposition can immediately draw customers in. When potential clients understand what unique benefits theyâll receive, theyâre more likely to choose you over a competitor.
- Retaining Customers: It doesnât stop at attracting clients. A strong value proposition helps in retaining customers. When clients clearly see the value they are getting, they are less likely to jump ship to another service provider.
- Guiding Marketing Efforts: A defined value proposition acts as a compass for all marketing and sales efforts. It ensures that all messaging stays consistent and aligned with what the business stands for, creating a unified front that resonates with customers.
- Building Trust: Trust is paramount in finance. Delivering what your value proposition promises creates a foundation of reliability and trustworthiness, which leads to long-term relationships with clients.
"A great value proposition helps bridge the gap between customer expectations and business promises, paving the way for profound customer relationships."
In summary, understanding and articulating a business value proposition is crucial, particularly in finance. It is about delivering clear messages that resonate and settle into the minds of customers, guiding them to make informed decisions while fostering loyalty to your brand.
Components of a Strong Value Proposition
Creating a robust value proposition is not a walk in the park. It requires in-depth understanding of who your customers are and what they genuinely want. The components of a strong value proposition help businesses navigate this complex landscape. By dissecting customer needs, unique selling points, and quantifying value delivered, companies can tailor their offerings effectively. This ensures that they communicate a clear, compelling message to their target audience. A well-crafted value proposition can mean the difference between winning over a potential customer or losing them to a competitor.
Identifying Customer Needs and Pain Points
The bedrock of any value proposition rests on thoroughly understanding customer needs and the pain points they face. This isnât just about doing surface-level market research. Itâs imperative to delve deeperâuse surveys or interviews to gain insights into why customers feel frustrated or what they long for from products and services. For instance, consider a financial advisory firm trying to launch a new service aimed at young professionals. The firm might discover that this audience values flexibility and transparency over traditional, rigid structures.
When businesses comprehend these needs deeply, they can structure their offerings to precisely align with what matters most to customers. The key steps might include:
- Conducting focus groups to gather firsthand experiences.
- Analyzing online reviews and social media discussions to tap into current customer sentiments.
- Implementing an iterative process where feedback is actively solicited and applied to product development.
By identifying pain points accurately, companies can significantly enhance their value proposition and ensure they are addressing real customer concerns.
Clarifying Unique Selling Points
Once a business has a grip on customer needs, itâs time to pinpoint its unique selling points (USPs). What sets your solution apart from the rest? The distinguishing factors should resonate with the identified needs. When Apple launched the iPhone, they didnât just promote another smartphone; they emphasized user experience, design aesthetic, and ecosystem integration. Thatâs a perfect example of leveraging USPs.
To clarify USPs effectively, businesses can:
- Evaluate competitors to spot gaps in the market.
- Reflect on internal strengths: Is it superior customer service, specialized knowledge, or innovative technology?
- Craft a simple, memorable statement that encapsulates what makes them unique.
A well-defined USP can help a company communicate clearly why customers should choose them over others, reinforcing their value proposition.
Quantifying Value Delivered
Quantifying the value delivered is crucial; it transforms abstract benefits into tangible outcomes. Whether through increased ROI, time savings, or enhanced convenience, putting numbers to claims gives credibility. If a financial product promises to help users save an average of $500 annually, that statistic can pique interest and prompt a deeper engagement.
To quantify value effectively, businesses may want to:
- Use case studies to demonstrate successful customer outcomes.
- Implement metrics that reflect actual benefits realized by users.
- Develop a financial model that clearly articulates costs versus savings.
In the competitive world of finance, numbers resonate well with consumers looking for something concrete they can trust. Without clear quantification, even the strongest boasts can fall flat.
"Customers want more than promises; they need proof. Without quantifiable value, any proposition risks sounding more like a sales pitch than a genuine offer."
In essence, combining these components allows businesses to create powerful value propositions that not only resonate with potential clients but also establish a meaningful relationship that drives loyalty.
Crafting an Effective Value Proposition
Creating a robust value proposition is of paramount significance in todayâs fast-paced business landscape. A value proposition serves as a magnetic force, drawing customers towards a product or service by clearly articulating its benefits. The essence of crafting an effective value proposition lies in its potential to differentiate a business from its competitors, particularly within the challenging financial sector. A well-crafted proposition speaks directly to customer needs, addressing their pain points and presenting solutions that resonate.
When businesses articulate their value proposition effectively, they not only attract new clients but also bolster customer loyalty. Happy customers tend to spread positive word-of-mouth, acting as brand ambassadors. Ultimately, a compelling value proposition directly impacts a company's bottom line, leading to increased revenue and market share.
Research and Analysis
Before putting pen to paperâor fingers to keyboardâconducting thorough research is a crucial first step in the proposition crafting process. Start by gathering insights on your target audience; understanding who they are is like getting the lay of the land before setting forth on a journey. Look for common threads among customer demographics, preferences, and behaviors.
Using surveys, interviews, and market research, gather data that delves into customers' needs and the pain points that affect their decisions. The more granular the details, the better. Why do they choose certain financial products? What challenges do they face with existing offerings? This foundational research helps in shaping a proposition that is not just theoretically appealing but is a tangible solution to real problems.
Articulating the Message
Once the groundwork is laid through research, the next step involves articulating the value proposition clearly and succinctly. This is where clarity becomes your best friend. A strong value proposition should convey the essence of your offer in a way that is easily understood and memorable.
Using simple language can help ensure that your message resonates. Features are often followed by benefitsâwhat good will come from utilizing your service? For example, instead of saying "Our app provides seamless transaction capabilities," try, "With our app, you can send money in seconds, hassle-free!" Using direct and relatable language engages consumers.
"Clarity is the mother of good results."
Employing storytelling techniques can enrich the proposition by painting a picture of the positive changes customers will experience. A well-rounded message often includes specifics about how the product or service stands out, what unique aspects it brings to the table, and how these culminate to benefit the customer.
Testing and Refining the Proposition
After formulating a draft of your value proposition, donât jump to conclusions. Testing this proposition in real-world scenarios is vital. Start by deploying it across various channelsâsocial media, websites, and even in sales presentations. Gather feedback from your audience.
Refining isnât merely about tweaking wording; itâs about iterating based on real insights. You might find, for example, that a certain phrase resonates more than another. Additionally, use A/B testing to measure which variations lead to better engagement and conversion rates.
Establishing a feedback loop ensures that your value proposition evolves with market shifts and consumer expectations. Itâs a dynamic process; the goal is to stay relevant and appealing.
In summary, crafting an effective value proposition is a careful blend of exhaustive research, clear articulation, and ongoing refinement. With every step, itâs crucial to keep the target audience at the forefront, ensuring that their needs are met and their concerns adequately addressed.
Value Proposition in Financial Products
The financial sector operates on a landscape filled with complexity and competition. In such a fluid environment, a clearly articulated value proposition is not merely beneficial; it is essential. Organizations offering financial products must communicate their unique advantages effectively to differentiate themselves from the influx of options available to consumers. Highlighting what sets a product apart becomes a critical pathway for attraction and retention within this intricate marketplace.
A well-defined value proposition in financial products can lead to several significant benefits:
- Increased Customer Engagement: By standing out with unique selling points, businesses draw in potential clients who align with their specific messaging and needs.
- Enhanced Customer Loyalty: When a financial organization consistently delivers on its promise, trust builds, resulting in loyal customers who are less likely to switch.
- Streamlined Targeting: A strong value proposition helps businesses identify their target audience more effectively. This ensures marketing practices are aligned with the right demographic, leading to improved conversion rates.
Understanding Financial Consumer Behavior
Consumer behavior in financial markets is often nuanced and affected by a multitude of factors. Understanding these behaviors is paramount for companies looking to craft an appealing value proposition. Financial consumers tend to be rational, yet emotional drivers influence their decisions significantly.
Key Characteristics of Financial Consumers:
- Risk Aversion: Many consumers display careful consideration due to the inherent risks associated with financial products. They seek value propositions that address their security concerns.
- Demand for Transparency: Modern consumers prefer clear, straightforward information about fees and potential risks. A compelling value proposition will include transparent communication strategies.
- Customized Solutions: Tailored financial products resonate well with consumers. Individuals appreciate solutions that seem designed specifically for their circumstances, elevating the perceived value of the offerings.
Understanding these characteristics allows organizations to formulate messages that resonate deeply, speaking directly to the concerns and desires of potential clients. They become partners in their financial journey rather than just another vendor.
Tailoring Value Propositions for Diverse Audiences
To be effective, value propositions cannot take a one-size-fits-all approach, especially in finance. Different segments of the population have varying expectations and requirements. Thus, it becomes critical for companies to understand and tailor their propositions to fit the distinct needs of diverse audiences.
Considerations for Tailoring Value Propositions:
- Demographics: Age, income levels, and life stages play a huge role in financial decisions. For instance, millennials may prioritize user-friendly apps and social responsibility, while older generations might favor personal service and stability.
- Cultural Context: Financial institutions should consider cultural attitudes toward money when designing solutions. Customizing value propositions that address cultural nuances can create a deeper connection.
- Financial Literacy Levels: Different segments of the population have varying levels of understanding when it comes to financial products. Simpler language and more educational content may benefit audiences that require additional guidance.
By critically evaluating these factors, organizations can craft strategies that adapt their value propositions to appeal broadly while still addressing specific needs. This tailored approach not only improves conversion rates but enhances overall customer satisfaction in a highly complex market.
Real-world Examples of Strong Value Propositions
Understanding real-world examples of strong value propositions offers invaluable insights into how businesses effectively communicate their unique value to customers. These examples serve as touchstones, highlighting not just successful strategies, but also the diversity of approaches available in the financial sector. By examining case studies, one can glean critical elements such as clarity, relevance, and resonance with target audiences.
Case Study: A Successful Financial Institution
To illustrate the power of a well-crafted value proposition, consider Chase Bank. Chase has mastered the art of positioning itself in a crowded financial landscape. Their value proposition revolves around convenience and comprehensive service.
Chase promotes its ability to provide a full range of banking services under one roof, from personal banking to investment options. This multifaceted approach caters to customers who prefer a single trusted source for their financial needs. The bank emphasizes accessibility through its extensive network of branches and responsive digital interfaces that allow customers to manage their accounts with ease.
Moreover, they leverage customer loyalty programs, like the Chase Ultimate Rewards, which incentivizes users to choose them over competitors. This complexity of motivationâconvenience, trust, rewardsâmakes their proposition compelling. By clearly articulating these benefits through marketing communication, Chase effectively attracts and retains customers amid fierce competition.
Case Study: Innovative Fintech Companies
In contrast to traditional banks, fintech companies like Robinhood offer distinct value propositions that cater to emerging market needs. Robinhood's emphasis is simplicity and accessibility. It allows users to trade stocks without commissions, disrupting the conventional brokerage model.
Their value proposition focuses on democratizing investing, appealing particularly to younger, tech-savvy audiences. Robinhood markets itself as a platform that puts money management back into the hands of the everyday person, thus resonating well in an era where potential investors are often frustrated by high fees associated with traditional financial services.
By utilizing social media and engaging content that demystifies investing, Robinhood cultivates a sense of community among users. The newsletter feature, which updates users on market trends and educating them on investment strategies, further cements this engagement, offering a dual advantage of education and investment opportunities.
In these examples, we see the variety in how organizations articulate their value propositions. While Chase Bank aligns with established norms, emphasizing comprehensive service, Robinhood embodies disruption through accessibility. Each reflects a keen understanding of their target market and adapts their messaging accordingly. These case studies not only underscore the effectiveness of tailored value propositions but also highlight the need for ongoing evolution to maintain relevance in a rapidly changing market.
Challenges in Developing a Value Proposition
Creating a compelling value proposition is no walk in the park. The financial landscape is often crowded, and businesses must navigate several hurdles to stand out. It's essential to recognize that a strong value proposition can catalyze growth, but encountering challenges is part of the journey. This section delves into these obstacles, shedding light on the nuances that come into play when crafting a value proposition that resonates deeply with the target audience.
Overcoming Market Saturation
Market saturation poses a significant challenge for organizations striving to carve a niche for themselves. With countless options available, consumers can feel overwhelmed. Thus, distinguishing oneself is critical. The key here is to innovate and differentiate. You canât just rehash what everyone else is doing.
- Identify Gaps: To counter saturation, first understand where the gaps lie. Are customers unhappy with existing options? Are there features or services that competitors neglect? Discovering unmet needs can create opportunities.
- Unique Brand Narrative: Leverage storytelling to communicate your unique brand experience. Share your journey, values, and mission. This personal touch can resonate with potential customers, creating an emotional connection that surpasses the competition.
- Interactive Engagement: Foster an engaging platform for customersâ voices. Utilize social media to encourage discussions or feedback. This not only opens channels for communication but also gives insights into what customers genuinely desire.
An effective approach in overcoming market saturation is understanding that merely competing on price isnât sustainable. Developing innovative solutions that speak to customersâ core needs often creates a deeper connection than a plain discount.
"The goal isn't just to compete; it's to stand out in a way that echoes in your customersâ minds."
Addressing Customer Skepticism
In the financial realm, where trust is currency, customer skepticism can be a tough nut to crack. Clients are often hesitant to engage with new offers or providers. So, how do you build trust?
- Transparency is Key: Clear communication about fees, processes, and what clients can expect goes a long way. Customers donât want to feel like they are signing up for a hidden agenda. Honesty about potential downsides can foster credibility.
- Social Proof: Testimonials and case studies serve as powerful trust signals. Prospective clients feel more secure when they see that others have benefited from your services. Displaying these prominently can help shift perceptions from doubt to confidence.
- Responsive Customer Service: Make sure your customer service is top-notch. Quick responses to inquiries or issues build good rapport. If potential clients feel supported, they are more likely to overcome initial reservations.
Customer skepticism can be mitigated through consistent efforts to cultivate a reputation for integrity and accountability. Establishing this groundwork is vital for any financial institution looking for a long-term relationship with its audience.
Communicating Your Value Proposition
Effectively communicating your value proposition is not just a marketing gimmick; itâs a fundamental aspect of how businesses connect with their audience. In an inconceivably crowded marketplace, a clear value proposition can distinguish your brand from the competition. When potential clients understand what sets you apart and how your offerings address their specific needs, you're already halfway to winning them over â it's about clarity and relevance.
The importance of properly articulating your value proposition cannot be overstated. A strong message not only lays the foundation for all your marketing efforts but also shapes customer perception. Itâs like handing someone a readily open umbrella when theyâre caught in the rain â they know what you offer and how it can benefit them with clarity.
Utilizing Digital Marketing Strategies
Digital marketing offers various avenues to broadcast your value proposition to the relevant audience. Social media platforms, email campaigns, and search engine optimization (SEO) are just the tip of the iceberg. Each channel brings its unique strengths and challenges, but the goal remains the same: to showcase your value proposition effectively.
For instance, utilizing SEO can significantly boost your visibility online, allowing potential customers to find your business when theyâre actively searching for solutions. Keywords related to your value proposition, such as "affordable financial planning" or "efficient investment strategies," can attract a targeted audience. Just like using the right bait increases your chances of catching the big fish, optimizing your content will increase the opportunity for engagement.
"The best marketing doesn't feel like marketing."
- Tom Fishburne
Social media also presents a unique platform where you can tell your brand's story. Start by crafting posts that resonate with your audience's pain points and demonstrate your unique solution. Well-crafted posts can serve as mini-magnets, drawing potential clients toward a deeper engagement. Additionally, consider running targeted ads that explicitly highlight your value propositions. Such strategies lead to more leads and ultimately, conversions.
Leveraging Social Proof and Testimonials
Social proof is a powerful tool in shaping consumer behavior. When potential clients see that others are satisfied with your services, their trust in your brand grows. Itâs like seeing someone else successfully navigate a tricky path; it instills confidence in the observer.
Testimonials serve as personal endorsements from clients who have benefited from your products or services. Position these testimonials prominently on your website. Utilizing quotes in your digital communications can quickly establish credibility. Instead of saying, "Weâre the best financial advisors," a satisfied client saying, "I never knew managing my finances could be so easy thanks to [Your Brand]" comes across as far more genuine and convincing.
Consider also showcasing case studies that highlight your successful interventions. Outline the problems your clients faced, how you addressed them, and the results that ensued. A tangible example serves to anchor your value proposition and makes it relatable. Share these stories through blog posts, videos, or downloadable content â anything that portrays your reliability and expertise in a manner that feels personal.
Communicating your value proposition effectively isnât just about shouting from the rooftops. Itâs about weaving a narrative that resonates with your audience, demonstrating your unique contributions through relatable strategies like digital marketing and social proof. This approach not only builds trust but also encourages ongoing relationships with clients, leading to sustained business success.
Measuring the Effectiveness of Your Value Proposition
To really nail down a business value proposition, it's not just about coming up with the right words. What counts more is figuring out whether those words actually resonate with your audience. This section focuses on the necessity of measuring the effectiveness of your value proposition, which ultimately informs decisions that can lead to stronger customer relationships and increased company growth. When a value proposition strikes a chord, it sets the stage for not just attracting clients but retaining them, as they start seeing the tangible benefits of your offering.
By monitoring specific metrics, businesses can identify what works and what doesnât. Moreover, it enables an ongoing dialogue with your audience, highlighting their shifting needs and preferences. Without this ongoing measurement and adaptation, your value proposition can become stale, failing to engage customers in an evolving market.
Key Metrics to Monitor
When it comes to measurement, there are a handful of key performance indicators (KPIs) that should never be overlooked. Tracking these metrics offers insight into how well your value proposition is performing:
- Customer Acquisition Cost (CAC): This reflects how much you're spending to bring in each new customer. A low CAC alongside a strong value proposition is often a good sign of effective communication.
- Conversion Rates: Look at the percentage of visitors who take action, like signing up for a service. If this rate is climbing, your value proposition may be hitting the mark.
- Customer Retention Rate: Retaining existing clients is just as crucial, if not more so. High retention indicates your value proposition is working over the long haul.
- Customer Satisfaction Scores (CSAT): After interacting with your service or product, asking customers for feedback can reveal a lot. What do they appreciate? What do they think could improve?
- Net Promoter Score (NPS): This gauges customer loyalty and how likely they are to recommend your service. A high NPS can often mean your value proposition is well-received.
Each of these metrics offers a different lens through which to understand the resonance of your value proposition with your audience.
Feedback Loops and Iterative Improvement
To strengthen your positioning, creating feedback loops with your customers is non-negotiable. Imagine it as an ongoing conversation where you not just dish out your value proposition, but also listen closely to the responses. This engagement allows you to tweak your messaging or the product/service itself based on real-world interactions.
- Collect Feedback Regularly: Implement methods like surveys, focus groups, or even informal check-ins. Customers often provide insights that can illuminate points of confusion or dissatisfaction.
- Analyze Customer Behavior: Diving into data surrounding how customers engage with your brand can yield gems of information. What pages do they linger on? What offers do they ignore? Pinpointing these behaviors can highlight areas for enhancement.
- Implement Changes and Monitor Results: Adjustment needs to be swift. After making changes based on feedback, monitor the same KPIs mentioned earlier. Have the changes positively affected CAC or conversion rates? If not, it may prompt a deeper review of your overall strategy.
Ultimately, the goal is a dynamic value proposition that evolves alongside both your business goals and customer needs. By maintaining a cycle of measurement and improvement, you're not just setting yourself up for immediate success but for long-term sustainability in a highly competitive landscape.
"To improve is to change; to be perfect is to change often." - Winston Churchill
By consistently assessing and adjusting based on the metrics and feedback from customers, you ensure that your value proposition stays relevant and compelling in an ever-changing market landscape.
End
Wrapping up this exploration into value propositions, itâs clear that having a well-defined proposition is not just a feather in the cap for businessesâit's the backbone of their customer engagement strategy. For financial institutions, where options often abound, what truly differentiates a service or product is the unique value offered to potential clients.
Recap of Key Insights
Key insights drawn from our discussion can be summarized as follows:
- Defining Clarity: A strong value proposition articulates what sets a business apart, focusing on benefits over features.
- Understanding the Audience: Recognizing customer pain points and needs is essential. Businesses must listen intently to their target demographic to craft propositions that resonate.
- A/B Testing: Refinements should be an ongoing process, where businesses continuously test different propositions to find what works best and adapts to market demands.
- Utilization of Data: Employ metrics to gauge the effectiveness of your message; tools like A/B testing can give real, actionable insights.
In essence, a value proposition must be a living documentâone that evolves as the market and customer preferences change.
The Future of Value Propositions in Finance
Looking ahead, the landscape for value propositions in finance seems to be shifting. With the rise of digital financing options and fintech innovations, companies must navigate a fast-paced environment where customer expectations are continually changing.
- Customization: The future points to a demand for more personalized experiences. Companies should embrace data analytics to offer tailored solutions that speak directly to individual needs.
- Transparency: As trust becomes paramount, presenting a truthful and straightforward value proposition is vital. Customers nowadays seek brand authenticityâbusinesses that dare to be honest often earn loyalty in return.
- Sustainability and Ethics: Financial consumers are becoming more socially conscious, tuning in to the environmental and ethical standpoints of businesses they choose to engage with.
"A clear and compelling value proposition is key in the financial sector. It can mean the difference between first choice and last resort."