The Sezzle Inc (ASX: SZL) share price will be one to watch on Friday following the release of a positive update this morning.
What did Sezzle announce?
Earlier this month the buy now pay later provider's shares were sold off after it was dealt a blow by the California Department of Business Oversight (DBO).
The DBO alleged that Sezzle had engaged in "illegal unlicensed lending in the state" and advised of its intention to not approve the company's application for a California Financing Law license to make loans.
This was very disappointing as the licence would allow the company to move away from its existing and convoluted model in the state. Furthermore, it would give rival Afterpay Ltd (ASX: APT) an advantage in this massive market. The payments giant was granted its license in the middle of November.
Pleasingly for Sezzle and its shareholders, the DBO has had a change of heart. According to today's release, it has now formally approved Sezzle's application for a lending license in the State of California.
This will allow Sezzle to continue operating seamlessly in the state, which management believes will solidify its position as the leading US-based instalment payment platform.
Sezzle's Executive Chairman and CEO, Charlie Youakim, said: "We are thankful to the California Department of Business Oversight for their prompt and open approach to resolving this matter in such a timely and professional manner. This is a great result for Sezzle and provides the platform for us to continue our planned growth strategy in the state of California."
This development means Sezzle can now move from its retail instalment structure, which saw retailers initiate the instalment loan and transfer it to Sezzle to service, to a much simpler direct lending structure.
