Editorial

Navigating the Future: Top Fintech Trends for 2024 

In this blog, we will explore the top ten emerging fintech trends for 2024 that are set to redefine the landscape of the financial sector in the coming year. 

Contributor

Philip is an experienced Chief Operating Officer, with significant experience in running technology, operations, transformation, procurement and cost reduction initiatives within Financial Services.

Philip Freeborn
Co-Head of Global Markets and Wholesale Banking Services

In the current age of technology, staying updated with digital transformations is not just beneficial, it’s crucial. The past year has seen remarkable advancements in financial technology. From the rise of artificial intelligence and quantum computing, the fintech landscape is poised for transformative change as financial firms navigate through technical turbulence, digital disruption, and market uncertainty.

1. Generative AI

It will be no surprise that Generative AI is predicted to be a significant trend in the fintech sector for 2024 that is expected to revolutionise banking by transforming spending insights, enabling more personalised and efficient customer experiences. The Temenos Global 2023 Report outlines that more than 71% of survey respondents see unlocking value from AI as a key differentiator between winners and losers, with 75% expecting generative AI to have a significant impact on banking. However, as ever the potential of AI in Banking/Fintech will be slower than these general predictions for three reasons:

  • Not all areas of Banking efficiency lend themselves to Generative AI.  Many areas used structured data that need other solutions to fix their problems.  However, perhaps the annual credit analysis or M&A comps can be radically streamlined.
  • As a highly regulated industry with lots of protection and oversight, the need to be able to explain and validate the AI models will be a critical brake on implementation
  • Finally, banks’ ability to test FinTech models given their controls around their security and production environments without sufficient sandbox environments.


According to the CEO and Senior Business Executive 2023 Gartner Survey, AI was identified as the top disruptive technology impacting industries. AI is reshaping fundamental processes and functions across industries, with everyday automation and machine learning becoming increasingly prevalent. However, evolving regulations on AI and concerns about AI’s effect on jobs are also significant considerations. 

2. Distributed Ledger Technology

Decentralised Finance (DeFi) and Distributed Ledger Technology (DLT) are becoming increasingly  

significant in the financial landscape. Our summary article on AFME OPTIC 2023 addresses key areas of focus in 2024 that include the Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCA), the EU DLT Pilot Regime, and the UK Digital Securities Sandbox. The 2023 SIZ annual Future of Finance report revealed that 45% of investment banks have prioritised the integration of DLT and blockchain as their primary technology focus for the next three years. 

The major limitation in adoption is when to move, the industry needs interoperability across Blockchains to make real progress.

3. Strategic Fintech Partnerships

Collaboration with fintech solution providers is becoming an increasingly strategic initiative allowing financial institutions to quickly incorporate innovative solutions without straining their internal resources and keep pace with the evolving landscape. The Financial Brand outlines how the right fintech partners, who prioritise speed and agility are crucial in today’s fast-paced market as they offer the ability to introduce new capabilities swiftly and smoothly.  

4. Sustainable Technology

2024 is poised to be a landmark year for sustainability. The tech industry’s recent innovations have been largely driven by a commitment to lessen our global carbon footprint and mitigate existing environmental damage. The power of digital transformation lies in its ability to enhance energy efficiency, reduce consumption, transition to alternative power sources, and cut down on carbon emissions. The shift towards virtual meetings and conferences eliminates the need for fuel-powered travel, thereby contributing to carbon reduction. The Grant Thornton mid-market tracker reveals that 32% of firms plan to increase their investment in Environment, Social, and Governance (ESG) initiatives.

5. Cybersecurity & Cyber Resilience

Over the past three years, cyberattacks have impacted one in every two businesses, highlighting the critical need for robust cybersecurity measures. Therefore, implementing technology to combat cybercrime has become a top priority for businesses. This is only exacerbated by the trend to implement AI. A comprehensive cyber resilience strategy is now seen as essential, encompassing automated cyber defence, integrated frameworks, and a well-prepared PR plan.  

6. Quantum Computing

Quantum computing is emerging as a top fintech trend in 2024 due to its potential to revolutionise the industry. Quantum computers can process vast amounts of data and perform complex calculations at speeds unattainable by traditional computers. This capability can be leveraged in the fintech industry for tasks such as risk modelling and fraud detection. McKinsey & Company Quantum Technology Monitor updated analysis for 2023 shows that the four industries likely to see the earliest economic impact from quantum computing - financial services, automotive, chemicals, and life sciences stand to potentially gain up to $1.3 trillion in value by 2035.

7. Digital Assets and Tokenisation

The tokenisation of real-world assets is on the rise, with financial firms exploring digital assets and blockchain-based tokens for liquidity, fractional ownership, and transparency in traditionally illiquid markets. Digital Assets and Tokenisation is a key fintech trend for 2024 due to its potential to transform traditional financial systems and democratise investments. The maturity of blockchain technology and growing institutional interest are driving this trend.  

8. Personalisation Through Data Analytics

Personalisation through data analytics is emerging as a key fintech trend for 2024. Consumers today expect personalised and relevant engagement from financial institutions, prompting banks to develop data strategies that build comprehensive customer profiles. The trend towards AI-powered personalisation is evident in customer assistance, credit risk evaluation, personalised marketing and user behaviour analysis.  

9. Shifting Consumer Behaviours

In 2024, shifting consumer behaviours will continue to significantly impact the fintech industry. The increasing preference for easier digital payment methods is driving fintech companies to innovate and provide more efficient and user-friendly solutions. Fintech companies are leveraging technology to meet this demand and extend financial services to those who traditionally lacked access.  

10. Regulatory Technology (RegTech) Advancements

Regulatory Technology is primed to be a pivotal force in the 2024 as the intensity of supervision and regulation will continue with marked changes to reviews and examinations. Financial firms are increasingly turning to RegTech solutions to streamline compliance processes, enhance risk management, and adhere to complex regulatory frameworks. Ten Key Regulatory Challenges of 2024 by KPMG explains that the dynamic nature of the fintech industry, underscores the importance for companies to reassess their business models and embrace new technologies to remain competitive.  

Summary

As we wrap up our discussion on the fintech trends for 2024, it’s clear that the future of financial technology is both exciting and transformative but not without its challenges. The fintech sector is set to continue its rapid growth and evolution, transforming the way we manage and interact with our finances. Understanding and implementing the latest fintech trends can provide businesses with a competitive advantage, enabling them to offer superior services and attract more customers.  

Our mission is to help the industry in identifying and creating mutualised managed services. Delta Capita can bring a combination of deep Capital Markets process knowledge, access to cutting-edge, stable, and resilient technology, and an intrinsic focus on operational performance improvement. This helps our clients realise a reduction in operational running costs and provides global scale.  

To understand how Delta Capita can help the industry respond to these challenges and more, contact us today.