The global pandemic showed the importance of adaptivity for businesses. Those who quickly innovated and adopted new technologies gained an advantage and minimized the pandemic’s negative effects. It’s crucial to learn from this and be ready for future challenges. Understanding and embracing the top financial services technology trends is vital for businesses to stay competitive and meet evolving customer needs.
Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
AI and ML are booming in the financial services technology industry. They do more than just automate tasks; they boost productivity, streamline operations, personalize experiences, and create new products. AI chatbots in banking save millions of work hours, and searches for “AI in banking” are skyrocketing. ML and AI power efficient financial data processing, personalized services, and data-driven decision-making, making them essential in the financial services technology industry.
Robotic process automation in automated banking
Robotic process automation (RPA) and hyper-automation in banking are expected to reach about $5 billion by the end of the decade. Hyper-automation accelerates banking and financial transactions, reduces operational expenses, and minimizes human errors. It frees up staff time for other financial tasks and improves compliance. Around 80% of customers have previously interacted with RPA tools in the last year, highlighting its widespread adoption. Other sophisticated hyper-automation systems, coupled with AI, ML, and RPA, offer enhanced data analytics, facilitating informed decision-making, and generating new revenue streams.
Open banking and embedded finance
Open banking, although not a new concept, has gained recognition in recent years. It enhances digital experiences, facilitates faster onboarding, and provides broader access to alternative asset marketplaces. Open banking promotes data-sharing practices, enabling banks and FinTech firms to improve customer experiences and comply with regulations. Embedded finance, which integrates financial products into digital interfaces, complements open banking by transforming traditional banks, improving customer information sharing, and enhancing compliance.
Cybersecurity and data privacy
Cybersecurity and data privacy are crucial in today’s digital world. With rising cyber threats, businesses need strong cybersecurity measures to protect customer data and prevent data breaches. Compliance with data privacy regulations like GDPR and CCPA is necessary to maintain trust and avoid legal consequences.
Digital identity and biometrics
Digital identity verification and biometric authentication are becoming crucial in the financial sector. Technologies such as facial recognition, fingerprints, and voice recognition are being used to improve security, combat fraud, and streamline customer onboarding. These advancements provide a smooth and secure user experience while safeguarding sensitive information.
Cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology
Cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum, along with blockchain technology, have completely transformed the financial services technology industry. They provide secure, decentralized, and transparent transactions, cutting out intermediaries and lowering expenses. Companies can now tap into the power of cryptocurrencies and blockchain to boost productivity, simplify international payments, and introduce groundbreaking financial products.
Voice banking and virtual assistants
Voice technology is transforming the banking experience. Voice-activated virtual assistants enable customers to perform financial transactions, check balances, and access account information using natural language commands. Voice banking enhances convenience, accessibility, and customer engagement, catering to the growing demand for voice-enabled devices.
Agile and adaptive banking
The financial sector needs to be agile to remain competitive by launching new products quickly and efficiently. According to research from Gartner, by the end of the decade, about 80% of traditional financial institutions won’t exist anymore. Implementing Agile methods is crucial for banks and FinTech firms to overcome challenges such as rising financial crimes online, compliance pressure, lack of remote access for regulatory reviews, and an overload of new requests. Agile banking offers flexibility and simplification, ensuring timely responses to customer needs.
