A Growth Strategy of Fintech Startup Based on SER-M Model: Focusing on Credos Partners

This study applies the SER-M (Subject–Environment–Resources–Mechanism) model to analyze the growth mechanism of Credos Partners, an AI-based fintech startup specializing in alternative investment. Despite operating within the highly restrictive Financial Regulatory Sandbox environment, where only 5% of designated firms are small enterprises, the company secured core capabilities through expert human capital and its proprietary AI/Blockchain Wealth Management IT platform. To overcome internal infrastructure deficits and financial constraints, Credos Partners strategically employed the Delegated Testing (Consignment Test) system within the Sandbox as a Strategic Mechanism. The firm achieved the tangible result of consecutive designation for the Delegated Test in 2023 and 2024, a rare success rate achieved by only 0.8% of all fintech applicants in 2024. This shifted the firm's survival principle from an Environmental Adaptation Mechanism (ERS) to a Resource Creation Mechanism (SRE). This case study offers vital implications for small AI fintech firms seeking efficient market entry and sustained success in highly regulated sectors by applying the SER-M framework.