SoFi vs. Nu Holdings: Which Fintech Stock is a Better Buy Right Now?

Core Insights - Fintech is a rapidly evolving sector, with SoFi Technologies and Nu Holdings as prominent players, showcasing the shift towards digital-first banking solutions [1][2] SoFi Technologies (SOFI) - SoFi has expanded its services from student loan refinancing to a comprehensive suite including lending, investing, and banking [1] - In Q3 2025, SoFi reported record adjusted EBITDA of $277 million with a 29% margin, and non-lending revenues increased by 57% year over year [3] - The lending segment generated $481 million in revenues, a 23% increase from the previous year, with total loan originations reaching $9.9 billion, up 57% year over year [3] - SoFi raised $1.7 billion in new capital and increased total deposits by $3.4 billion to $32.9 billion, enhancing funding stability [4] - The company anticipates adding approximately 3.5 million members, reflecting a 34% growth rate, up from an earlier forecast of 30% [5] - Adjusted net revenue is projected at $3.54 billion, indicating a 36% year-over-year growth, surpassing the previous estimate of $3.375 billion [6] - Adjusted EBITDA is now guided to $1.035 billion, with adjusted net income expected at $455 million and adjusted EPS of $0.37 [6] - SoFi's tangible book value growth is forecasted at $2.5 billion, significantly above the earlier target of $640 million, indicating enhanced capital strength [6] - The company is embedding blockchain technology into cross-border payments, aiming to provide faster and cheaper international remittances [9] - SoFi's valuation reflects strong growth potential, with a forward P/E of 46.33X, justified by its accelerating profitability and diversified services [21] Nu Holdings (NU) - Nu Holdings has expanded its customer base to 127 million, adding over 4 million new users in Q3 2025, with an activity rate above 83% [11] - The company achieved a 39% year-over-year revenue growth on a currency-neutral basis, reaching $4.2 billion [12] - Nu's revenue model focuses on high-engagement products, avoiding high-risk credit, which helps stabilize performance during economic fluctuations [13] - The technology-led platform allows for efficient scaling of revenues, translating additional product sales into operating leverage [14] - Nu Holdings is projected to achieve a sales growth of about 36% and an EPS growth of 31%, trailing SoFi's projected EPS growth [18] Comparative Analysis - Both SoFi and Nu Holdings are recognized as high-quality fintech platforms with strong execution [7][22] - SoFi is viewed as the better investment currently due to its transition from growth to scalable profitability, supported by a diversified ecosystem [22] - SoFi's improving operating leverage and expanding fee-based revenues provide clearer visibility into sustainable earnings power compared to Nu Holdings [22]