James Downing and Connie Wang Spotlight NerdWallet’s Reliability in a Misinformation-Filled World

In a world where misinformation spreads like wildfire—from fake political endorsements to AI-generated deep fakes—knowing who to trust has never been more challenging. This makes consumers feel vulnerable, particularly when it comes to their finances. Faced with uncertainty, many turn to friends, family and self-proclaimed finance experts for advice, yet they may not have the financial expertise needed. If consumers want confidence that they're making smart financial decisions, they need to turn to Nerds at NerdWallet.

In NerdWallet’s latest spot, "Fact Check Your Finances," created in partnership with Deutsch LA, they take a playful jab at the misinformation surrounding financial decision-making. The ad features a fraudulent CFO who dramatically sheds his suit and tie—symbols of the stereotypical finance expert—as he transforms before our eyes, bringing to life the notion that things aren't always what they seem.

Starring James Downing (from Suits and Fargo) and Connie Wang (from The Boys), Fact Check Your Finances will launch on linear TV, both cable and broadcast, online video/ digital streaming, podcast and social media today. It will also air during major sporting events including the NBA’s opening game on TNT, throughout the NFL and MLB seasons on FOX, and during the college football season, as well as air on podcasts including SmartLess and Revisionist History.  

NerdWallet is powered by real-life finance Nerds who develop rigorous methodologies to inform criteria for selecting the best products and are passionate about guiding consumers to pick the smartest products for their needs. They’re a reliable resource for financial products and they have the proof to back it up. As of June 2024, Nerds have:

• Dedicated over 27,000 hours researching and reviewing financial products in the last 12 months Over 850 years of combined financial reporting, editing, and writing product recommendation experience.
• Researched and reviewed more than 1,300 financial products.

"Consumers are more focused than ever on finding the best financial options to fit their individual needs, but with the rise of new technologies, it can be increasingly difficult to discern what sources are credible. The Nerds are a trusted resource that offers the guidance and tools consumers need," said Alison McCoy, vice president brand marketing, NerdWallet. "Our Nerds invest countless hours researching financial products, setting us apart from the competition. We're here for consumers who are ready to apply for a credit card with the lowest interest rate, start saving more with a high-yield savings account and save money with the best car insurance rate, and so much more."

"In a world where faux financial experts are everywhere, we wanted to create a spot that takes the viewer along for the ride as a seemingly trustworthy source completely devolves into nothing more than a piece of confetti cake," said Carly Blitz, creative director at Deutsch LA. 

“While we definitely had fun with the visuals, the core of the idea is actually pretty simple: get people thinking about who they’re trusting when it comes to financial decisions--because if it’s not NerdWallet, it might not be the smartest decision they could make.” said Max Pollak, creative director at Deutsch LA.