Here's how you can thrive in the future of Financial Technology.

Exciting opportunities are emerging for both banks and fintechs as new, innovative payment trends gain momentum. The cashless revolution The Global Payments Summit brought together payment providers from across Central Europe. We were able to share expertise and discuss the difficult questions across the entire payments landscape - card, banking, cross-border and crypto. Cashless transaction volume is set to double by 2030 (PwC Strategy & global payments model, 2021). And, as our own Global Payments Report calls out cheques and cash are no longer the dominant methods they once were, equalling roughly a fifth of global payment volume combined.

To thrive in the future of Financial Technology, embrace continuous learning and innovation. Stay updated with emerging trends such as blockchain, artificial intelligence, and decentralized finance. Cultivate a strong foundation in data analytics and coding, as these skills are becoming increasingly essential. Networking with industry professionals and participating in fintech communities can provide valuable insights and opportunities. Additionally, focus on developing a customer centric mindset, as understanding user needs and preferences will drive successful fintech solutions. Adaptability and a proactive approach to problem solving will set you apart in this rapidly evolving field.

To thrive in the future of financial technology by embracing change, you can: 1. Stay Updated: Keep abreast of the latest fintech trends, innovations, and regulatory changes. 2. Adapt Quickly: Be flexible and open to adopting new technologies and methodologies. 3. Continuous Learning: Invest in ongoing education through courses, certifications, and industry events. 4. Cultivate a Growth Mindset: View challenges as opportunities to learn and grow. 5. Leverage Data: Utilize data analytics to make informed decisions and stay ahead of the curve. 6. Network Actively: Build and maintain relationships with industry professionals to exchange insights and opportunities.

To thrive in the future of Financial Technology, continuously update your skills with cutting-edge courses in blockchain, AI, and cybersecurity, staying ahead of industry trends. Build a strong professional network by attending FinTech conferences and participating in online forums. Develop a diverse portfolio showcasing innovative projects and obtain relevant certifications to enhance your credibility. Embrace collaboration with other professionals to gain diverse experiences and market yourself effectively through social media and thought leadership activities. Regularly review and adapt to new technologies and regulations to maintain a competitive edge.

'Skate to where the puck is gonna be', a quote from Ice Hockey legend Wayne Greztky, which perfectly captures how you can thrive and embrace change by looking to the future. Those 'in the know' are that way because they spend their spare time and weekends learning about new trends and technology, before it becomes mainstream. This is a vital skill. Stay ahead of the curve by embracing exponential technologies and be creative and think about how they will affect the industry you work in. For example, what currency will prevail in a lunar base or space economy in 20 years from now? How will you make payments with no banking infrastructure? Think outside of the box, so when these crazy ideas become a reality you're already ahead of the curve.

Continuous learning is crucial in the dynamic field of Financial Technology. Stay ahead by enrolling in specialized courses on platforms like Coursera, edX, and Udacity, focusing on blockchain, AI, machine learning, and cybersecurity. Attend webinars, workshops, and industry conferences to gain insights from experts and stay updated on the latest advancements. Join professional associations and online forums to engage with peers and discuss emerging trends. Subscribe to leading FinTech journals and newsletters for regular updates. Finally, seek mentorship from industry veterans to gain practical knowledge and career guidance. This commitment to ongoing education ensures you remain competitive and innovative.

Networking is a superpower. I tell students that I mentor to always be networking, be memorable, be kind and leave an impression so that at any given point in the future someone can associate you with a particular problem or opportunity they are looking to solve. Ensure you cultivate your network and give back to it constantly asking for nothing in return - you'll be surprised how often 'karma' winks back at you unexpectedly!

Networking in FinTech: Seeds for Success Agreed - networking is vital in FinTech and banking. Key points: Start early: Build connections from day one. Be consistent: Network regularly, not just once. Have patience: Benefits often come with time. Use multiple channels: Meetups, forums, social media. Network without agenda: Casual interactions can be valuable. Give and take: Offer value to your connections. Stay open: You never know where a connection might lead. In FinTech, your network can be as crucial as your skills. Plant seeds, nurture relationships, and stay patient. The payoff may not be immediate but it can be significant.

Networking is essential for thriving in FinTech. Attend industry conferences, seminars, and workshops to meet experts and peers, exchanging insights and opportunities. Join professional organizations like FinTech associations or local business groups to access resources and events. Leverage social media platforms like LinkedIn to connect with industry leaders, participate in discussions, and share your expertise. Engage in online forums and communities focused on FinTech innovations. Consider joining or forming mastermind groups for regular, focused networking. Building a robust network enhances your knowledge, opens doors to collaborations, and keeps you informed about industry trends and opportunities.

Actually a key challenge with data is to remove the silos and being able to look at data across the organization. In many organizations, their is a lack of capabilities/tooling to go beyond silos and really articulate a global vision cross department. Ask yourself, what if you could correlate data from CRM, from channels of engagement (digital & physicals), from marketing, from contact centers, from post interactions survey … you could unlock the potential of your data with a 360 view and align your organization on the same vision and understanding of your business.

It's not always about the data itself. Just as important is asking the right questions. As the adage goes, "A problem well-defined is one-half solved." Identifying the right questions to ask can guide your data analysis and lead to more impactful insights and decisions.

Mastering data analytics is crucial for identifying opportunities, mitigating risks, and personalizing services. It enables better strategic planning and customer satisfaction, ultimately driving innovation and competitive advantage in FinTech.

Strong cybersecurity practices safeguard your reputation, maintain client trust, and comply with regulatory standards. Investing in continuous security education and robust protection measures is essential for long-term success and resilience in FinTech.

Innovation is best served by an open mind and going back to first principles, questioning why something is a particular way and what is the best solution. Innovation means new and novel ways to solve problems - old and new - which may or may not require new technology. Maybe something outside of traditional approaches within the industry may already exist in an entirely different sector, which could be the solution you are looking for. Think laterally, be creative.

nnovation is at the heart of FinTech, but not all innovations are created equal. Focus on smart innovation by solving real problems rather than just creating flashy technology. Identify gaps in the market or inefficiencies in current systems and develop solutions that address these issues effectively. By aligning innovation with genuine needs, your contributions to FinTech will have lasting impact and value. This approach ensures that innovations are practical and beneficial, enhancing user experience and operational efficiency. It helps build credibility and trust within the industry, leading to sustainable growth and competitive advantage.