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On a Twitter account where she shared occasional selfies, life updates and memes, Sara Mason, 26, posted about a man in a motorcycle helmet being outside her home the night of Wednesday, Dec. 18, less than 20 minutes before police were called to the scene. "Trying not to be scared suburban white woman about the dude waiting outside of my house for a .... While now? Wanting to speak to my brother while wearing a motorcycle helmet (drive in a car)," she posted at 9:22 p.m. Within a minute, she added, "He like left but will probably be back. Anyway." Mahomet police were called at 9:41 p.m. to the residence on Riverside Court, where they discovered Mason, who was pronounced dead at the scene; and her mother, 61-year-old Janis Mason, and brother, 23-year-old Caleb Mason, who both died a little later after being taken to Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana. It does not appear that Sara Mason recognized John R. Lyons, 24, the man police suspect in the triple homicide. Lyons fled to suburban Chicago, where he was killed in a confrontation with police in Berwyn. Champaign County court records indicate that in June, Lyons filed a lawsuit alleging Caleb Mason had harmed him in some way and requesting compensation in an amount between $15,000 and $50,000. Mahomet police Chief Mike Metzler said Lyons knew one of the victims. Police reports thus far have not included details about whether Lyons was wearing a motorcycle helmet. However, on Thursday, Dec. 19, far-right political pundit and streamer Nicholas Fuentes posted that an armed individual who arrived at his house late Wednesday night wearing a motorcycle helmet had "committed a triple homicide in southern Illinois." "Last night an armed killer made an attempt on my life at my home, which was recently doxed on this platform," Fuentes wrote. He said the killer broke into his neighbor's home in Berwyn, where police said Lyons broke in and killed two dogs while attempting to evade arrest. Fuentes posted multiple clips of footage from Ring security cameras that show a man in brown pants, a blue coat and a white motorcycle helmet who is carrying a firearm and crossbow. In the footage, the man gets out of a car while wearing a motorcycle helmet and appears to ring the doorbell and knock on the front door, then attempt to gain access through multiple entry points. The only audio in any of the clips is while the man is at the front door and apparently says "Yo, Nick." Timestamps on footage Fuentes posted indicate the events around his home in Berwyn beginning at 11:29 p.m., about one hour and 50 minutes after police were called to the home in Mahomet. About 10 minutes later, at 11:38 p.m., Berwyn police responded to a report of a man with a gun.
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Share Tweet Share Share Email Alternative finance is reshaping how businesses, individuals, and startups raise capital. Traditional funding methods, such as bank loans or venture capital, no longer hold the same dominance they once did. Instead, non-traditional funding mechanisms are gaining momentum, offering more flexible, accessible, and diverse options. What is Alternative Finance? Alternative finance refers to any funding method that falls outside traditional banking and financial institutions. It encompasses a wide range of non-traditional financial services, from crowdfunding and peer-to-peer lending to invoice financing and cryptocurrency-based investments. These methods are typically facilitated by online platforms or networks, leveraging technology to connect lenders and borrowers, investors and entrepreneurs, more directly and efficiently. The Factors Behind the Rise of Alternative Finance Several factors have contributed to the rise of alternative finance. Understanding these factors provides insight into why businesses and individuals are increasingly turning to non-traditional funding mechanisms. Digitalization and Technology The internet and digital platforms have made it easier for individuals and businesses to access financing. Technological advancements, particularly in fintech, have streamlined processes and made financial transactions faster, cheaper, and more transparent. This has allowed platforms like Kickstarter, LendingClub, and others to flourish. Technology also enables the use of data analytics, enhancing credit risk assessments and providing more tailored financing solutions. Limited Access to Traditional Financing For many businesses, particularly startups and small enterprises, traditional funding routes have become increasingly difficult to navigate. Banks have tightened their lending criteria, and venture capital is often out of reach for those without established reputations or substantial assets . Alternative finance has emerged as a solution to this problem, offering more inclusive and accessible options for funding. Changing Consumer Preferences Consumers are becoming more inclined to explore non-traditional funding options. This shift is driven by the desire for greater flexibility, lower interest rates, and faster access to capital. Furthermore, millennials and Gen Z are particularly receptive to alternative finance platforms, attracted by their digital-first nature and the opportunity to support causes or businesses they believe in. Lower Regulatory Barriers While traditional financial institutions are heavily regulated, many alternative finance mechanisms operate with less stringent oversight. This regulatory flexibility enables quicker decision-making and lower costs, benefitting both lenders and borrowers. However, it is essential to note that this relatively relaxed regulatory environment also poses certain risks that must be managed appropriately. Popular Types of Alternative Finance Alternative finance encompasses a variety of models. These models offer different approaches to funding and can cater to a wide range of financial needs. Crowdfunding Crowdfunding allows individuals to pool their resources to fund a business idea, product, or project. Platforms such as Kickstarter, Indiegogo, and GoFundMe have become well-known for helping entrepreneurs raise funds through contributions from a large number of people. Crowdfunding can be donation-based, rewards-based, or equity-based. In donation-based crowdfunding, backers donate without expecting any financial return. Rewards-based crowdfunding provides supporters with tangible rewards or recognition. Equity crowdfunding allows contributors to invest in a company in exchange for shares. Peer-to-Peer Lending (P2P) Peer-to-peer lending, also known as P2P lending, involves individuals lending money to other individuals or businesses via online platforms like LendingClub, Prosper, and Funding Circle. P2P platforms bypass traditional financial institutions, reducing the costs associated with borrowing and lending. This form of lending also opens up opportunities for individuals with lower credit scores or limited access to capital to secure funding. Invoice Financing Invoice financing allows businesses to borrow against the value of their outstanding invoices. This provides immediate cash flow, without waiting for clients to settle their bills. Invoice financing is particularly useful for businesses that experience long payment cycles. Platforms such as Fundbox and MarketInvoice offer businesses access to cash by using invoices as collateral. Equity Investment and Venture Capital Equity crowdfunding has gained significant traction in recent years. It enables businesses, particularly startups, to raise capital by offering shares of their company to a large number of investors. In contrast to traditional venture capital, where investors take an active role in business decisions , equity crowdfunding allows businesses to raise funds without giving up too much control. Cryptocurrencies and Blockchain Cryptocurrency investments, facilitated by blockchain technology, have become an emerging form of alternative finance. Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other cryptocurrencies have attracted significant investment, driven by their potential for high returns and the decentralization of financial systems. Blockchain technology also allows for faster and more secure transactions, making it a promising area for alternative finance. Benefits of Alternative Finance The rise of alternative finance offers numerous benefits for borrowers, lenders, and investors alike. These benefits make non-traditional funding mechanisms an attractive option. Increased Access to Capital One of the most significant advantages of alternative finance is its ability to provide businesses and individuals with easier access to capital. Traditional banks often impose strict criteria for lending, which can be difficult for startups, small businesses, or individuals with low credit scores to meet. Alternative finance platforms offer more lenient conditions, increasing the pool of eligible borrowers. Flexibility and Speed Non-traditional funding mechanisms typically offer more flexibility and speed compared to traditional financial institutions. Borrowers can often receive funding in a matter of days, rather than weeks or months. Additionally, many alternative finance platforms provide customized loan terms or investment structures that better suit the needs of borrowers and investors. Lower Interest Rates Since alternative finance platforms generally have lower overhead costs than banks, they can offer more competitive interest rates. This makes borrowing cheaper for individuals and businesses that may not have access to traditional financing. Peer-to-peer lending, in particular, often provides lower rates due to the direct nature of transactions. Diversification for Investors For investors, alternative finance offers the opportunity to diversify their portfolios by exploring non-traditional investment avenues. Crowdfunding, P2P lending, and equity investments all present opportunities for individuals to participate in a broader range of projects or startups. This can enhance an investor’s potential for higher returns while mitigating risks through diversification. Challenges of Alternative Finance Despite its numerous advantages, alternative finance does have some challenges and risks. These issues must be carefully considered by both borrowers and investors. Regulatory and Legal Risks Since alternative finance operates in a less-regulated environment compared to traditional financial markets, both lenders and borrowers face higher legal and regulatory risks. Inadequate regulation can lead to fraud, misinformation, or unfair lending practices. There is also a lack of consistent legal frameworks across different regions, which can create uncertainty for participants. Credit Risk For lenders, alternative finance carries the risk of borrower defaults. While P2P lending platforms use algorithms to assess creditworthiness, these models are not foolproof. Furthermore, borrowers on alternative finance platforms may not have a proven track record or sufficient collateral, increasing the risk of non-repayment. Limited Investor Protection Unlike traditional financial markets, alternative finance platforms may offer limited investor protection. Investors in crowdfunding or P2P lending may have little recourse if the business fails or defaults. Although some platforms offer insurance or guarantees, these protections can be minimal and vary significantly from one platform to another. Market Volatility Alternative finance markets, especially those involving cryptocurrencies, can experience significant volatility. For instance, the value of digital currencies can fluctuate dramatically, leading to substantial risks for investors. Similarly, crowdfunding projects and startups may not always achieve their funding goals or experience market setbacks, resulting in financial loss. The Future of Alternative Finance The future of alternative finance appears bright, with continued growth expected across all sectors. As technology continues to advance, more efficient and secure platforms are likely to emerge, addressing current concerns and expanding the reach of non-traditional funding mechanisms. Regulatory bodies are also gradually implementing measures to ensure greater transparency and protect participants from fraud and market manipulation. The growing interest in environmental, social, and governance (ESG) investing will likely play a significant role in the evolution of alternative finance. Many alternative finance platforms already support businesses with sustainable or socially impactful goals, and this trend is expected to accelerate. Conclusion Alternative finance is rapidly transforming the global financial ecosystem, providing new opportunities for borrowers, lenders, and investors. Its rise is driven by advancements in technology, the increasing demand for flexible financing solutions, and the need for greater inclusivity in the financial sector. However, challenges such as regulatory risks, credit defaults, and market volatility must be addressed for alternative finance to reach its full potential. As the sector evolves, it will continue to disrupt traditional funding models and play an essential role in shaping the future of global finance. Related Items: Alternative Finance , Digitalization and Technology , Non-Traditional Funding Mechanisms Share Tweet Share Share Email CommentsSatellite Island. Emilie Ristevski With the change in weather comes warmer, longer days. The festive season approaches, holidays are right around the corner, and opportunity awaits for the lucky people venturing to the island. Black Friday Sale Subscribe Now! Login or signup to continue reading All articles from our website & app The digital version of Today's Paper Breaking news alerts direct to your inbox Interactive Crosswords, Sudoku and Trivia All articles from the other regional websites in your area Continue For this edition of Travelways, much like any other, we want to emphasise the incredible experiences that await you. From stunning and award-winning accommodations and adventures to some of our smaller markets, you never know what may inspire you to feel like you're living your best life. The summer season is blessed to feature astounding festivals that bring locals and travellers together to celebrate inspiring Tassie produce and culture. Dive through our pages to find tips and tricks to make your family road trip across the state even more fun, or update your to-be-read list with some book recommendations that we've recently devoured. Click here to read the e-edition. - - - - - Travelways is made on lutruwita (Tasmania) Aboriginal land. We acknowledge the traditional owners of this land, the palawa people. For editorial enquiries, email phoebe.christofi@austcommunitymedia.com.au. For sales enquiries, email rebecca.szabo@austcommunitymedia.com.au. Share Facebook Twitter Whatsapp Email Copy Phoebe Christofi Journalist Phoebe is living and working on the lands of the Kaurna people. She has worked as the commissioning editor of a book publishing house, film and television reviewer, and bookseller. When she's not writing, she's complaining about not having enough time to read every book in the world. Phoebe is living and working on the lands of the Kaurna people. She has worked as the commissioning editor of a book publishing house, film and television reviewer, and bookseller. When she's not writing, she's complaining about not having enough time to read every book in the world. More from Life Travelways | December - January 2024-25 No comment s Ask Fuzzy: Why does a dash of milk reduce the bitterness of tea? No comment s Best tech, home and appliances deals for Black Friday 2024: Save big this season! No comment s Choose the perfect Christmas tree this holiday season No comment s Swyftx vs CoinSpot: Which to use in 2024? 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