Alternative lending covers a broad scope of lending structures, peer to peer lending is one, balance sheet lending is another. While both seem fairly closely aligned, we highlight the key differences: peer to peer lending v balance sheet lending.This is the third in our mini-guide series for P2P beginners. This week we address peer to peer lending risks, what they are and how P2P lending platforms mitigate these risks.In this new series of 'Ask the Investor' interview posts, we talk to an experienced peer to peer investor about his motivations to invest, perception of the asset class and advice to new P2P investors.The FCA has proposed changes to the regulatory framework which governs peer to peer lending (and other crowdfunding investments). We respond to changes which may stifle market growth and innovation.In this P2P beginners mini-guide we address the question, what are the benefits of peer to peer lending? Read on to find out why people are investing in peer to peer lending.Appraising peer to peer loans is a core function of any peer to peer lending platform. We explore how they evaluate the quality of borrowers to mitigate risk for investors.British Pearl offers property backed share and loan investments. In this exclusive interview, we talk to British Pearl CEO, Ali Celiker, about his motivations to create British Pearl, how the platform works, what the plans are for the future, and much more.In our first in a new series of P2P Beginners mini-guides, we discuss 'what is peer to peer lending?' covering how it works and who is involved.In this new series of 'Ask the Investor' interview posts, we talk to an experienced peer to peer investor about his motivations to invest, perception of the asset class and advice to new P2P investors.