SaaS Backend Architecture (Auth, Subscription, Stripe, Access Control) — MVP Foundation

Description: We are building a SaaS platform focused on Investment Intelligence. The current stage is not UI — it is foundation. We are looking for a developer who can think in systems, not just implement features. Scope (MVP — Foundation Only) We are focusing on: • backend architecture • authentication (signup, login, session handling) • subscription system (free vs paid) • Stripe integration (subscribe, cancel, webhook handling) • access control (plan-based restrictions) • database structure (users, subscriptions, system-ready data models) Important This is not just about coding. We want to understand how you think about: • structuring a scalable SaaS backend • designing clean database schema • handling Stripe subscriptions correctly (webhook + status sync) • enforcing access control at system level • preparing the system for future data layers To apply Please explain: 1. How you would structure the backend for this system 2. What stack you would choose and why 3. How you would design the database (users, subscriptions, etc.) 4. How you would handle Stripe subscription lifecycle 5. How you would enforce free vs paid access Notes • No coding is required at this stage • This is an evaluation and planning phase before development begins • Clear thinking, communication, and system design are more important than coding speed • We are looking for someone who can assess requirements, identify risks, and help establish a strong technical foundation