Business In:Brief with Arun Maharaj (HashChing)
Arun Maharaj
CEO of HashChing 2019-present
Arun Maharaj is the CEO of HashChing. HashChing is one of Australia's fastest growing digital loan platforms, which allows consumers access to home loan and business loan deals without the need to shop around. Free to consumers, HashChing connects customers directly with verified broker partners who can further negotiate a potentially better deal from the lenders. It aims to be both more cost efficient and time efficient for users.
HashChing's partners have access to unique proprietary software allowing them access to exclusive products and market leading CRM lead management tools.
Arun tells us about his experience, achievements and plans for the business. He also reminds us all that often, the best advice we can get is from our mums.
What was your first job?
My first job was as a fast food attendant at a McDonald's in Auckland. I was 16 at the time, and found it to be a fantastic learning opportunity.
What's your proudest achievement?
Seeing staff that I have hired and mentored excel in their chosen field and become outstanding leaders.
What's something that you have learned in business that took you by surprise?
How hard it can be to say "no" and the impact it often has on relationships. I've learnt that it's how you say it that matters most.
How do you plan on growing your business in the near future?
HashChing is continuing to evolve its platform to help customers find better loans and to make lending more efficient for mortgage brokers. That's why in January this year we completed a successful capital raise, led by Heworth Fund Management and Sapien Ventures. We're using this funding to bring about a change in strategic direction – we're retaining our free-to-use model for customers, but modifying our offering to mortgage brokers. We're also expanding our offerings to include SMB lending on top of mortgage broker lending.
What other business leader do you most admire and why?
Allan Moss. He's a true visionary and his ability to be both humble and fearless as a leader is truly inspiring.
What's the best piece of business advice you've ever received?
A long time ago, my mum told me "if you believe in your abilities, then trust them, and don't allow your failures to get in the way".
What advice would you pass on to someone starting out in your area?
I love to describe things using cricket analogies. Starting out in FinTech is like walking to the batting crease to face your first ball. You don't know what to expect and you are hoping to score quickly to get some momentum. You play each ball on its merits and above all, it's your mental toughness that will see you through. So focus on being mentally strong and don't give up or give in.
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