Technology Propels FinTech-FI Alliances: A Global Survey Reveals Key Drivers

A recent comprehensive study highlights how technology is overwhelmingly shaping the future of collaborations between FinTech companies and established financial institutions (FIs). This pivotal research, drawing insights from 240 FinTech firms across six global regions, underscores the central role of technological advancements in fostering innovation and enhancing market positioning within the dynamic financial services landscape.

Unpacking the Global FinTech Landscape

Conducted jointly by the World Economic Forum and the University of Cambridge, this extensive analysis surveyed FinTech innovators operating in diverse regions including Europe, Asia-Pacific, North America, Latin America, and the Middle East and Africa. The findings, gathered through the second edition of the Future of Global FinTech Insight Survey, meticulously explored how these strategic partnerships are driving efficiency and market evolution across critical verticals such as payments, WealthTech, InsurTech, and digital banking.

Technology: The Foremost Catalyst for Collaboration

When FinTech respondents were asked to identify the primary motivations behind their partnerships with traditional FIs, an striking 48% pinpointed access to technological solutions and infrastructure as the leading driver. This finding firmly establishes technology as indispensable for operational efficiency, rapid innovation, and staying competitive in the evolving financial ecosystem.

Other significant factors, reflecting a broader strategic calculus, included:

• Enhanced Credibility and Trust: Cited by 34% of firms, emphasizing the value of leveraging established reputations.


• New Product & Service Development: Also at 34%, indicating a strong focus on joint innovation to bring novel offerings to market.


• Access to Capital and Funding: A crucial factor for 33% of respondents, facilitating growth and expansion.


• Broader Market Reach & Customer Access: Identified by 33%, highlighting the desire to tap into larger customer bases through FI networks.

Strategic Growth Beyond Tech Enablement

Beyond purely technological benefits, the survey revealed that these FinTech-FI partnerships serve a wider strategic purpose. Collaborations are increasingly viewed as essential for building scalable capabilities, reinforcing trusted brands, and achieving sustainable long-term growth rather than merely securing short-term competitive advantages.

Sector-specific nuances also emerged. For instance, enhanced credibility was particularly vital for firms in WealthTech and digital capital raising. Conversely, access to customer segments proved especially valuable for digital payments and WealthTech companies aiming for international expansion.

Regional variations further highlighted the adaptability of these partnerships. FinTech companies in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region and Sub-Saharan Africa placed a stronger emphasis on robust technology infrastructure and supportive digital public ecosystems, reflecting unique regional development priorities.

Ultimately, the consensus suggests that FinTech-FI collaborations are foundational elements of the global FinTech ecosystem, enabling profound transformation and sustainable development across the financial services industry.

Source: fintech.global