[germanier]

> In Germany there is "Schufa", which is not a bank but basically a private company with a de-facto monopoly position in regards to credit ratings in Germany

Just for anyone from Germany reading: There are multiple, less well known agencies that are used by banks and others as well. They are definitely worth keeping an eye on. I will only mention Creditreform Boniversum, Arvato Infoscore, and Bürgel.