Fintech

Financial Institutions Utilize Diverse and Maturing Fintech Solutions

Published

6 years ago

May 20, 2019

Newsfile

Reading Time: 7 minutes

The evolution of technology has completely reshaped many industries around the world. Now, almost every industry has incorporated technology into their business models in order to thrive among the competition. Sectors ranging from communication, food, education, business, to even finance have all integrated innovative and advanced technology. Specifically, the financial world has been deeply impacted by the growth of technology. Moreover, banks and firms have been heavily investing in financial technology or “fintech” solutions to provide their consumers with exceptional services. Fintech is described as a technology that seeks to improve or potentially automate financial services. For instance, many banks have launched mobile banking services which eliminate the need for consumers to physically go to a bank. Instead, consumers can now access their bank accounts, make payments, and deposit funds in the palm of their hand. A large majority of global banks, insurers, and investment managers have already dove into the fintech industry, however, within the next 3 to 5 years, even more are expected to enter into the market. Furthermore, with the adoption of fintech solutions, companies can expect a 20% average return on investment on their innovation projects. Through the use of these technologies, companies are able to create and deploy low-cost personalized products for consumers. And as a result, the innovative products are having a significant impact on the consumer, pressuring traditional firms to adapt to the competition. According to data compiled by Mordor Intelligence, the global fintech market is expected to register a CAGR of 13.2% during the forecast period from 2019 to 2024. CLPS Incorporation (NASDAQ: CLPS), First Data Corporation (NYSE: FDC), Overstock.com, Inc (NASDAQ: OSTK), BGC Partners, Inc. (NASDAQ: BGCP), LendingClub Corporation (NYSE: LC)

Primarily, infrastructure-based technologies, through platformification and open application interfaces (APIs) are reshaping the fintech industry. Other operation advancements such as robotic process automation, chatbots, and Distributed Ledger Technology are all enabling greater agility, efficiency, and accuracy. According to Capgemini’s 2018 World Payments Report, there were approximately 600 billion total digital transaction. Furthermore, the report suggests that digital transactions are on pace to grow by 46% over the next four years, growing to 876 billion transactions by 2021. Capgemini also notes that the Asian markets are expected to lead the pack, exhibiting a CAGR of 29% during the period. Other developing markets include regions like Central Europe, the Middle East and Africa, which are expected to register a CAGR of 20%. However, concerns over fraud and security are expected to undermine the industry as consumers fear that cyber attackers can access their accounts or e-wallets and steal personal information or even digital currency. Nonetheless, tech companies and financial institutions have partnered together in order to provide more secure platforms. “If you have not heard about the Fintech revolution that is happening right now, you need to get out from under your rock. These revolutionary advancements are not just impacting the financial industry. They have the potential to change the way we conduct transactions in all aspects of business,” said Daniel Newman, Chief Executive Officer of Broadsuite Media Group and Principal Analyst at Futurum. “Technology has driven us to where we are. As an industry with a heavy focus on technology, it is obvious that changes will happen rapidly and frequently. With the Fintech revolution being the newest disruptor of choice, the banking industry and its consumers will need to hold on for the ride. It will take some time for this technology is gain enough speed to become widely accepted. However, it is definitely on the horizon. Only time will tell what we can expect when we visit our local bank for this is only the beginning.”

CLPS Incorporation (NASDAQ: CLPS) earlier this week announced, “a strategic investment in Economic Modeling Information Technology Co., Ltd. (“EMIT”), a financial big data company. Upon closing of the transaction, CLPS will hold a 30% ownership stake in EMIT.

Established in 2017, EMIT was founded by a team of PhD faculty members from Shanghai University of Finance and Economics (“SHUFE”) in cooperation with SHUFE’s Fintech Research Institute. EMIT provides financial modeling and analysis services to financial services companies and delivers a full range of value-added data mining and data analytics IT solutions to its clients that include intelligent investment systems, risk warning systems, and credit card decision engine core systems. EMIT’s “financial data modeling platform + financial risk warning platform” business model provides its customers with comprehensive financial data services, such as financial data strategic planning, service mode design, and risk control.

Mr. Raymond Lin, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of CLPS, commented, ‘Big data has become an important area of technological advancement in the financial industry. Our strategic investment in EMIT allows us to expand upon our expertise in providing the financial industry with applications of industry-leading technologies. EMIT’s expertise in data modeling, deep learning and machine learning, and blockchain technology will benefit CLPS’s future development by further expanding our client network. In addition, by offering applications of data mining, we will be able to extend our competitive edge in the banking, insurance and financial sectors.’

About CLPS Incorporation: Headquartered in Shanghai, China, CLPS Incorporation (the “Company”) (Nasdaq: CLPS) is a global leading information technology (“IT”), consulting and solutions service provider focusing on the banking, insurance and financial sectors. The Company serves as an IT solutions provider to a growing network of clients in the global financial industry, including large financial institutions in the US, Europe, Australia and Hong Kong and their PRC-based IT centers. The Company maintains ten delivery and/or research & development centers to serve different customers in various geographic locations. Mainland China centers are located in Shanghai, Beijing, Dalian, Tianjin, Chengdu, Guangzhou and Shenzhen. The remaining three global centers are located in Hong Kong, Singapore and Australia. For further information regarding the Company, please visit: http://ir.clpsglobal.com.”

First Data Corporation (NYSE: FDC) is a global leader in commerce-enabling technology, serving approximately 6 million business locations and 4,000 financial institutions in more than 100 countries around the world. First Data Corporation and Fiserv (NASDAQ: FISV) recently announced that their boards of directors had unanimously approved a definitive merger agreement under which Fiserv will acquire First Data in an all-stock transaction. The transaction unites two premier companies to create one of the world’s leading payments and financial technology providers, and an enhanced value proposition for its clients. This highly complementary combination will offer leading technology capabilities that enable a range of payments and financial services, including account processing and digital banking solutions; card issuer processing and network services; e-commerce; integrated payments; and the Clover cloud-based point-of-sale solution. The combined company will offer comprehensive distribution channels and have deep expertise in partnering with financial institutions, merchants and billers of all sizes, as well as software developers. “I have long admired what Fiserv has achieved over the years, and I look forward to working with the talented associates of both companies as we set a higher standard of innovation and service in the industry,” said First Data Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Frank Bisignano. “Our goal at First Data has always been to provide our clients with the most comprehensive suite of innovative, highly-differentiated solutions and services, and I am excited by the significant value that the combination with Fiserv creates for all stakeholders.”

Overstock.com, Inc (NASDAQ: OSTK) is an online retailer and technology company based in Salt Lake City, Utah. Overstock.com, Inc. and its subsidiary tZERO Group, Inc. recently announced that Hong Kong-based private equity firm GSR Capital has retained tZERO to develop a smart contract token that will be utilized for an upcoming sale of cobalt. Subject to compliance with applicable regulatory requirements, the sale is expected to offer recurring tranches of electric vehicle (EV) battery-grade cobalt, with up to USD 200 Million of the material projected to be available for sale in 2019, with more planned for 2020. tZERO Group, Inc. is a majority owned subsidiary of Overstock.com, focusing on the development and commercialization of financial technology (FinTech) based on cryptographically-secured, decentralized ledgers – more commonly known as blockchain technologies. Since its inception, tZERO has pioneered the effort to bring greater efficiency and transparency to capital markets through the integration of blockchain technology. tZERO and GSR Capital intend to build an ecosystem in Asia for tokenized commodity purchase contracts that would simplify the process of identifying, purchasing and tracking the supply of rare minerals. The companies also envision adding a security token trading platform in the region, subject to compliance with applicable regulatory requirements. “We are excited to work with GSR and their partner on this innovative cobalt token offering,” said Overstock Chief Executive Officer and tZERO Executive Chairman, Patrick M. Byrne. “Smart contract automation of these transactions will significantly reduce overall costs while effectively improving transparency in rare earth metals purchases throughout the supply chain process. We look forward to bringing the future of commodities purchasing to the global marketplace.”

BGC Partners, Inc. (NASDAQ: BGCP) is a leading global brokerage and financial technology company. BGC Partners, Inc. recently announced that it has completed the acquisition of Ed Broking Group Limited, an independent Lloyd’s of London insurance broker with a strong reputation across Accident and Health, Aerospace, Cargo, Energy, Financial and Political Risks, Marine, Professional and Executive Risk, Property and Casualty, Specialty and Reinsurance. Ed will become part of BGC’s insurance division, which was established in 2017 with the acquisition of Besso Insurance Group Limited. Steve Hearn, currently Group Chief Executive Officer of Ed, will become Head of BGC’s insurance division. Mr. Hearn will report directly into Mr. Lynn. Under the terms of the agreement, BGC acquired 100% of Ed, which includes broking operations under the Ed brand in the UK, Singapore, Hong Kong, Dubai, Miami and China; Ed’s German marine broking arm Junge & Co. Versicherungsmakler GmbH; Ed’s managing general agent (MGA) operations Globe Underwriting Limited based in the UK; Epsilon Insurance Broking Services Pty Ltd in Australia; and Cooper Gay (France) SAS, which is based in Paris. Shaun D. Lynn, President of BGC Partners, commented on the announcement: “We are delighted to complete the purchase of Ed, a company with a great reputation, a global footprint and an excellent management team that will continue to build on BGC’s success in growing the insurance brokerage business.”

LendingClub Corporation (NYSE: LC) was founded to transform the banking system to make credit more affordable and investing more rewarding. Leading fintech analytics platforms, dv01 recently announced an expanded reporting partnership with LendingClub, securing its role as loan data agent for all completed CLUB Certificate transactions. Prior to this partnership, dv01 has provided reporting services for USD 2.75 Billion of LendingClub securitizations. As loan data agent, dv01 will receive loan data directly from LendingClub, which it will normalize, validate, and roll up for monthly servicer reporting. The company will also prepare and provide monthly loan tapes; reconcile the monthly remittance report; and provide approved investors access to the data through dv01’s portal, which features a suite of reporting, analytics, and cashflow tools designed specifically for the online lending asset class. “LendingClub’s previous work with dv01 has made it clear that investors appreciate the ability to conduct deep analysis into structured products, both before and after purchase,” said Valerie Kay, Chief Capital Officer of LendingClub. “The unique structure of these CLUB Certificate transactions appealed to a new investor audience, and we’re excited to offer these investors access to dv01’s reporting and analytics portal as part of their introduction to the online lending asset class.”

SOURCE FinancialBuzz.com

Fintech

Fintech Latvia Association Releases Fintech Pulse 2024: A Guide to Latvia’s Growing Fintech Hub

Published

22 hours ago

November 25, 2024

Adrienn Sarkany

fintech-latvia-association-releases-fintech-pulse-2024:-a-guide-to-latvia’s-growing-fintech-hub

The Fintech Latvia Association has launched the latest edition of its annual publication, Fintech Pulse 2024, unveiling insights and resources that position Latvia as a thriving hub for European fintech.

Announced at this year’s Fintech Forum, the magazine is now available in digital format, offering a comprehensive guide for fintech professionals and entrepreneurs navigating the Latvian market and exploring its advantages.

This issue covers essential topics, from support tools provided by Latvijas Banka and newcomer roadmaps to Riga’s investor resources and fintech education opportunities. Readers will find the latest fintech news from Latvia, coverage of this year’s key industry events, and member insights on the future of fintech. The Fintech Landscape section provides a comprehensive overview of the Latvian fintech ecosystem.

Tina Lūse, Managing Director of Fintech Latvia Association, expressed excitement about the ecosystem’s growth: “We are excited to unveil the third annual edition of Fintech Pulse. This year has been pivotal for our ecosystem, and together with public sector stakeholders, we are enhancing financial inclusion, democratizing investments, and driving innovation throughout the sector. This is a testament to Latvia’s emergence as a fintech hub, establishing itself as an equal partner in innovation and support within the Baltic region.”

Minister of Finance Arvils Ašeradens highlighted Latvia’s fintech potential in the magazine, stating: “Latvia has already made strides in adapting its regulatory framework to support a stable financial system. Now, we encourage financial market players to invest in modern technologies to meet the growing demand for inclusive financial services and solidify Latvia’s position in the fintech landscape. We are confident that with the combined offer of the government, Latvijas Banka and Riga city, we are a great place to start your next scalable European FinTech!”

Minister of Economics Viktors Valainis expressed Latvia’s ambition in the magazine, stating: “Latvia wants to become a WEB 3.0. innovation hub and solidify itself as one of the leaders of a newly regulated EU crypto-asset market. We welcome international companies to choose Latvia, a flexible and fast-paced country, where you can obtain a MICA license in just 3 months. Open your office in Latvia, receive a MICA license and serve the whole EU market!”

The Fintech Latvia Association brings together fintech and non-banking financial service providers to represent their interests at both the national and international levels. It promotes sustainable development in Latvia’s financial sector by fostering reliable, responsible, and long-term industry practices that earn trust from consumers and regulatory authorities. The association is committed to supporting innovation and growth opportunities within the fintech landscape.

The post Fintech Latvia Association Releases Fintech Pulse 2024: A Guide to Latvia’s Growing Fintech Hub appeared first on News, Events, Advertising Options.

Fintech

Quantum Security and the Financial Sector: Paving the Way for a Resilient Future

Published

24 hours ago

November 25, 2024

Zoltan Tundik

quantum-security-and-the-financial-sector:-paving-the-way-for-a-resilient-future

The World Economic Forum (WEF) has released a pivotal white paper in collaboration with the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), titled “Quantum Security for the Financial Sector: Informing Global Regulatory Approaches”. This January 2024 publication underscores the urgent need for global cooperation as the financial sector transitions from a digital economy to a quantum economy, highlighting both the immense opportunities and cybersecurity challenges posed by quantum computing.

Quantum: A Double-Edged Sword for Finance

Quantum computing offers transformative benefits for the financial sector, such as accelerated portfolio optimization, enhanced fraud detection, and improved risk management. Yet, it simultaneously threatens the very foundation of cybersecurity. With quantum’s ability to break traditional encryption methods, sensitive data and financial transactions face significant risks. The white paper warns that such vulnerabilities could erode trust in the financial system and destabilize global markets.

The urgency to prepare is evident, with some quantum threats, such as “Harvest Now, Decrypt Later” attacks, already emerging. Governments and regulators, including the United States with its National Security Memorandum on Quantum (2022), have begun advocating for quantum security readiness by 2035. However, as noted in the paper, transitioning to a quantum-secure infrastructure is a monumental task requiring unprecedented coordination between regulators, industry leaders, and technology providers.

A Collaborative Framework: Four Guiding Principles

To address the complex challenges posed by quantum technologies, the WEF and FCA have proposed four guiding principles to inform global regulatory and industry approaches:

Reuse and Repurpose: Leverage existing regulatory frameworks and tools to address quantum risks, rather than creating entirely new systems.
Establish Non-Negotiables: Define baseline requirements for quantum security, ensuring consistency and interoperability across organizations and jurisdictions.
Increase Transparency: Foster open communication between regulators and industry players to share best practices, strategies, and knowledge.
Avoid Fragmentation: Prioritize global collaboration to harmonize regulatory efforts and avoid inconsistencies that could burden multinational organizations.

These principles aim to create a unified, forward-looking strategy that balances innovation with security.

A Four-Phase Roadmap for Quantum Security

The white paper introduces a phased roadmap to help the financial sector transition toward quantum security:

Prepare: Raise awareness of quantum risks, assess cryptographic infrastructure, and build internal capabilities.
Clarify: Formalize engagement between stakeholders, map current regulations, and model the cost and complexities of transitioning to quantum-safe systems.
Guide: Address regulatory gaps, translate technical standards into actionable frameworks, and develop industry-wide best practices.
Transition and Monitor: Implement cryptographic management modernization and adopt iterative, adaptable regulatory approaches to remain resilient in the quantum economy.

This roadmap emphasizes adaptability, encouraging stakeholders to continuously refine their strategies as quantum technologies evolve.

The Path Forward: Collaboration as a Catalyst

The transition to a quantum-secure financial sector is not merely a technological shift but a comprehensive rethinking of how industries and regulators approach cybersecurity. The interconnected nature of global finance means that collaboration between mature and emerging markets is crucial to avoid vulnerabilities that could undermine the entire system.

Regulators and financial institutions must act with urgency. As Sebastian Buckup, Head of Network and Partnerships at the World Economic Forum, notes in the report:
“The quantum economy era is fast approaching, and we need a global public-private approach to address the complexities it will introduce. We welcome this opportunity to collaborate with the FCA to chart the roadmap for a seamless and secure transition for the financial services sector.”

Similarly, Suman Ziaullah, Head of Technology, Resilience, and Cyber at the FCA, emphasizes:
“Quantum computing presents considerable opportunities but also threats. The financial sector relies heavily on encryption to protect sensitive information, the exposure of which could cause significant harm to consumers and markets. Addressing this requires a truly collaborative effort to transition to a quantum-secure future.”

Global Impact: Ensuring Resilience in an Evolving Landscape

As quantum technologies mature, they will redefine the landscape of cybersecurity. The financial sector, as one of the most sensitive and interconnected industries, must prioritize preparedness to ensure stability, protect consumers, and maintain trust.

The Quantum Security for the Financial Sector: Informing Global Regulatory Approaches white paper offers an essential foundation for continued dialogue and action. By adhering to the guiding principles and roadmap outlined in the report, stakeholders can navigate this transformation with foresight and cooperation.

The full report, published by the World Economic Forum, highlights the need for a unified global approach to quantum security, serving as a rallying call for industry and regulatory leaders alike.

Source: World Economic Forum, “Quantum Security for the Financial Sector: Informing Global Regulatory Approaches”, January 2024.

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Fintech

Fintech Pulse: Daily Industry Brief – A Dive into Today’s Emerging Trends and Innovations

Published

5 days ago

November 21, 2024

Peter Tolan

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The fintech landscape continues to redefine itself, driven by innovation, partnerships, and groundbreaking strategies. Today’s roundup focuses on the latest digital wallet offerings, evolving payment trends, strategic collaborations, and notable funding achievements. This editorial explores the broader implications of these developments, casting light on how they shape the future of fintech and beyond.

Beacon’s Digital Wallet for Immigrants: A Gateway to Financial Inclusion

Beacon Financial, a leading player in financial technology, recently launched a digital wallet tailored to meet the unique needs of immigrants moving to Canada. This offering bridges a critical gap, enabling seamless financial integration for newcomers navigating a foreign system.

By combining intuitive technology with user-centric features, Beacon aims to empower immigrants with tools for payments, savings, and remittances. This aligns with the growing demand for tailored financial products that resonate with specific demographics.

Op-Ed Insight:
Financial inclusion is more than just a buzzword; it’s a moral imperative in the fintech space. Products like Beacon’s digital wallet highlight the industry’s potential to create tangible change. As global migration trends increase, such offerings could inspire similar initiatives worldwide.

Source: Fintech Futures.

Juniper Research Highlights 2025’s Payment Trends

Juniper Research’s latest report unveils pivotal payment trends poised to dominate in 2025. Central themes include the adoption of instant payment networks, a surge in embedded finance solutions, and the rise of crypto-backed financial products.

The research underscores the rapid adoption of real-time payment systems, fueled by increasing consumer demand for speed and efficiency. Meanwhile, embedded finance promises to blur the lines between traditional banking and non-financial services, delivering personalized and context-specific solutions.

Op-Ed Insight:
As the lines between financial services and technology continue to blur, these trends emphasize the industry’s shift toward convenience and personalization. The growing role of crypto-based solutions reflects an evolving consumer mindset, where decentralization and digital-first experiences gain precedence.

Source: Juniper Research.

MeaWallet and Integrated Finance Partner to Revolutionize Digital Wallets

MeaWallet, a prominent fintech solutions provider, has partnered with Integrated Finance to advance digital wallet capabilities and secure card data access for fintech companies. This collaboration focuses on empowering fintechs to deliver better, safer digital payment experiences.

MeaWallet’s role as a technology enabler aligns seamlessly with Integrated Finance’s goal of simplifying complex financial infrastructures. Together, they aim to create scalable, robust platforms for secure payment solutions.

Op-Ed Insight:
Partnerships like this underscore the importance of collaboration in driving innovation. As security concerns grow in tandem with digital payment adoption, solutions addressing these challenges are essential for maintaining consumer trust. The fintech ecosystem thrives when synergy and innovation coalesce.

Source: MeaWallet News.

Nucleus Security Among Deloitte’s Fastest-Growing Companies

Nucleus Security has achieved a remarkable milestone, ranking 85th on Deloitte’s 2024 Technology Fast 500 list. This achievement is attributed to its robust cybersecurity solutions, which cater to the increasingly digital fintech environment.

With cyberattacks becoming more sophisticated, fintech companies are under immense pressure to safeguard their platforms. Nucleus Security’s growth reflects the rising demand for comprehensive, scalable security solutions that protect sensitive financial data.

Op-Ed Insight:
In a digital-first world, robust cybersecurity isn’t optional—it’s fundamental. The recognition of companies like Nucleus Security signals the growing importance of protecting fintech infrastructure as the industry scales globally.

Source: PR Newswire.

OpenYield Secures Funding to Transform the Bond Market

OpenYield has announced a successful funding round, aiming to revolutionize the bond market through innovative technology. The platform promises greater transparency, efficiency, and accessibility in fixed-income investments.

This funding underscores the growing appetite for digitizing traditionally opaque financial markets. By leveraging cutting-edge technology, OpenYield seeks to democratize bond investments, making them accessible to a broader audience.

Op-Ed Insight:
The bond market, long viewed as complex and inaccessible, is ripe for disruption. OpenYield’s efforts to modernize this space highlight fintech’s transformative potential to democratize finance and empower individual investors.

Source: PR Newswire.

Key Takeaways: Shaping the Future of Fintech

Today’s developments underscore several critical themes in the fintech landscape:

Personalization and Inclusion: Products like Beacon’s wallet highlight the importance of understanding and addressing specific user needs.
Collaborative Ecosystems: Partnerships, like that of MeaWallet and Integrated Finance, emphasize the power of collaboration in solving industry challenges.
Emerging Technologies: Juniper Research’s predictions affirm the continued influence of blockchain, embedded finance, and instant payment networks.
Security at the Core: The recognition of Nucleus Security underscores the essential role of cybersecurity in fintech.
Market Transformation: OpenYield’s funding signifies the ongoing disruption of traditional financial markets, paving the way for broader accessibility.

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