Explore a case study examining the power dynamics between instant loan platforms and financially stressed users in India in this 17-minute conference talk presented at an Association for Computing Machinery (ACM) event. Delve into the complexities of algorithmic accountability and its impact on vulnerable populations. Gain insights from researchers Divya Ramesh, Vaishnav Kameswaran, Ding Wang, and Nithya Sambasivan as they discuss their findings on how platform-user power relations influence the implementation and effectiveness of algorithmic systems in the context of instant loan services. Understand the challenges and implications of these relationships for both users and platforms, and consider potential strategies for improving accountability and fairness in algorithmic decision-making processes within the financial technology sector.