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Fintech

Banking and Capital Markets: Navigating a Complex Future

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Curated in collaboration with the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE)

The global financial industry stands at a pivotal juncture, facing a rapidly evolving landscape shaped by technological disruption, sustainability mandates, and geopolitical uncertainties. The end of prolonged accommodative monetary policies has ushered in an era of increased scrutiny, regulatory tightening, and heightened demand for innovation. At the same time, financial technology (fintech) continues to transform the sector, driving new opportunities and challenges for traditional banking systems.

This article delves into the strategic issues currently defining Banking and Capital Markets. Drawing from expert insights curated by Lutfey Siddiqi, Visiting Professor-in-Practice at LSE, it examines the dynamic risk environment, emerging technology trends, shifts in banking business models, and the growing focus on sustainability and talent development.

Key Issues Influencing Banking and Capital Markets

  • The Financial Risk Landscape: Heightened geopolitical tensions and regulatory demands are reshaping the industry.
  • Financial Technology: Emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and blockchain offer potential but also pose significant implementation challenges.
  • Banking Business Models: Institutions are adopting diverse strategies to navigate competition and shifting market demands.
  • Financial Talent: Attracting the next generation of banking professionals requires a clear purpose and forward-thinking policies.
  • Sustainability and Finance: Balancing environmental and social goals with immediate business priorities is a growing challenge.

1. Latest Insights: Shifting the Banking Paradigm

Experts highlight the profound challenges and opportunities facing financial institutions today. From geopolitical volatility to advances in fintech, the banking landscape demands unprecedented agility. Recent developments include:

  • Monetary Policy Adjustments: China’s central bank explores easing policies to boost investment.
  • Regulatory Scrutiny: Global banking rules, such as Basel 3.1 reforms, are under review, signaling potential shifts in global supervision.
  • Financial Inclusion: Updates from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) aim to balance anti-money laundering standards with broader access to financial services.

These trends emphasize the need for financial institutions to anticipate disruptions while fostering resilience and innovation.


2. Strategic Context: Transforming Banking in a High-Stakes Era

2.1 The Financial Risk Landscape

Banks are grappling with an increasingly volatile environment characterized by geopolitical tensions, regulatory reforms, and market disruptions. The end of ultra-loose monetary policies has highlighted weaknesses in traditional funding models, exemplified by the high-profile collapses of Silicon Valley Bank and Credit Suisse in 2023.

Regulators are tightening oversight, expanding their focus to include non-bank institutions and fintech companies. Additionally, rising geopolitical tensions demand localized data operations, robust cybersecurity measures, and new approaches to global strategy.

Key takeaway: In an age of uncertainty, resilience and stability are essential.


2.2 Financial Technology

The Fourth Industrial Revolution continues to reshape banking through advancements like AI, blockchain, and quantum computing. However, challenges remain, such as limited real-world blockchain applications and increasing cybersecurity risks tied to digitalization.

Financial institutions must adopt technology thoughtfully, focusing on solutions that address specific operational pain points and align with organizational goals. Balancing efficiency with contingency planning for outages and cyber threats is paramount.

Key takeaway: Tech adoption must prioritize practicality, security, and alignment with purpose.

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2.3 Banking Business Models

Global trends are driving a diversification of banking models. Some institutions are scaling back operations in unprofitable markets, while others are leveraging acquisitions or digital innovation to expand. The rise of big tech competitors—armed with vast behavioral data—adds a new layer of complexity to the competitive landscape.

Emerging trends include:

  • Consolidation of corporate and private banking services.
  • Strategic retreats from costly markets, such as HSBC’s exit from US retail banking.
  • Big tech firms offering financial services as data-driven loss leaders.

Key takeaway: Differentiation and adaptability are critical in a fragmented, competitive market.


2.4 Financial Talent

The banking sector faces a mounting talent crisis, particularly among younger generations who view the industry as outdated or misaligned with their values. To attract top talent, banks must redefine their purpose and emphasize their commitment to sustainability, innovation, and career growth opportunities.

Surveys indicate that young professionals seek workplaces offering training, flexibility, and inclusive leadership. Reskilling initiatives and a focus on digital expertise will also be key to preparing employees for the future.

Key takeaway: A compelling vision for the future of banking is essential to attract and retain top talent.


2.5 Sustainability and Finance

Sustainability has become a focal point for the financial industry, driven by growing demand for ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) initiatives. However, backlash against greenwashing and tokenism has led banks to reevaluate their approaches.

Balancing short-term priorities like energy security with long-term goals like combating climate change requires bold leadership. Opportunities abound in areas such as carbon trading, green bonds, and sustainability-linked investment products. However, success demands authenticity and a commitment to systemic change.

Key takeaway: Embedding sustainability into core operations is vital for long-term success.


Transformation Maps: A Strategic Tool for Leaders

This analysis leverages the World Economic Forum’s Strategic Intelligence Transformation Maps, which provide an interconnected view of global trends and challenges. These tools enable leaders to explore key topics, such as cybersecurity, fintech, and sustainability, and understand how they shape the future of Banking and Capital Markets.


Conclusion

The financial industry’s journey through this transformative era requires agility, innovation, and a deep commitment to purpose. From adapting to geopolitical tensions to embracing sustainability and nurturing top talent, financial institutions must strike a delicate balance between tradition and progress.

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By leveraging technology, redefining business models, and embedding ESG principles into their strategies, the sector can navigate today’s challenges and build a resilient, forward-thinking future.

For more insights and resources, visit the World Economic Forum’s Strategic Intelligence platform.

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Fintech

Revolutionizing Rewards: How ZBD and Finfare Connect Are Bringing Bitcoin to Everyday Spending

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ZBD, a pioneer in merging gaming and payments through Bitcoin rewards, is taking a bold step beyond gaming with its new partnership with Finfare Connect. By offering instant Bitcoin cashback for everyday purchases at major retailers like Nike, Adidas, and Best Buy, ZBD is transforming how users engage with rewards. In this interview, Ben Cousens, CSO of ZBD, shares insights on the partnership, its impact on user loyalty, and how it’s shaping the future of Bitcoin adoption through seamless, real-world applications.

Q: ZBD has been a key player in merging gaming and payments through Bitcoin rewards. How does this new partnership with Finfare Connect enhance ZBD’s existing offerings, and what excites you most about giving users more ways to earn Bitcoin through everyday purchases?

Ben: The ZBD app has been used by millions of players to earn rewards instantly within games; a process made possible through our payments system.  We’re constantly looking to provide new ways for users to earn rewards within the ZBD app, building upon the credibility and growth we’ve seen in the games industry. Our partnership with Finfare provides instant cashback through the ZBD app to customers in the USA, as they shop at brands and retailers like Nike, Adidas, and BestBuy. What’s exciting to me is we get to flex the power of our payment system even more – instant payments with no minimums are an amazing cashback mechanic.

Q: With the ability for ZBD users to link payment cards and accounts to earn Bitcoin rewards from brands like Nike, Adidas, and Best Buy, how do you see this partnership impacting user engagement and loyalty within your platform?

Ben: I see audiences behaving in two ways. The first are users who may come to the shopping section of the app often to check available deals, and purchase accordingly to take advantage of the discounts offered.

At the same time, other users will just link their accounts, shop as they normally would, and automatically receive rewards in the ZBD app without even thinking about it. I actually find this second segment more exciting, as it just seems such a seamless and, from a payments point of view, pretty futuristic solution.

We are doing this to provide a valuable service and delight our users. If we can succeed in that, which so far seems to be the case, then engagement and loyalty will increase. It’s about fulfilling the promise of being the best place for rewards with real value, paid out instantly and available for people to use instantly.

Q: ZBD is known for integrating Bitcoin rewards with gaming and social experiences. How do you envision this partnership with Finfare Connect helping ZBD extend its appeal beyond gaming and into more mainstream shopping and daily transactions?

Ben: Providing more use cases outside of gaming fits with our ethos of being a tech-first company focused on revolutionizing online payments. Once payment accounts are linked to Finfare, ZBD seamlessly provides cashback with no input required from the user. This perfectly aligns with why users come to ZBD – we are using payments to make digital experiences more rewarding.

We believe the partnership allows us to bring our users a feature they will love, but it might also bring a different type of user to ZBD: one that comes primarily for the shopping aspects and sees the gaming and entertainment features as less important. This is something the market will show us and we’ll adapt based on the users and usage we see, but it’s certainly exciting.

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Q: The collaboration with Finfare Connect seems to make Bitcoin rewards more accessible for everyday users. How important is this accessibility to ZBD’s strategy, and how do you see it contributing to broader Bitcoin adoption in the long term?

Ben: ZBD is a payments company that plays heavily in the rewards space and the way we revolutionize payments is by using the Bitcoin lightning network as our underlying rail. This isn’t about pushing Bitcoin or making users aware of it, though I won’t lie, it can make user acquisition easier. It’s about laying groundwork and building out meaningful steps forward in online payment experiences, starting with rewards, and then going beyond.

It’s always our goal to make everything we do accessible to everyday users with no Bitcoin knowledge. We want the experience to be simpler, more seamless and faster than any other type of financial technology. The majority of our users are new to Bitcoin and find us through games. Our goal is to educate them a bit, but mostly to just give them products they can use intuitively and get value from even if they aren’t at all interested in Bitcoin. Now, we’re bringing this approach to shopping rewards.

Bitcoin adoption will happen if Bitcoin is used by a wide range of people as part of their everyday lives. Bitcoin will be used if it is useful, simple and solves a problem. So we aren’t ever thinking about Bitcoin adoption. We’re just doing what we do the best we can and adoption will take care of itself.

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Fintech

Fintech Pulse: Your Daily Industry Brief (Axos Bank, Global Trading Network, Fonepay, Compass Plus Technologies, Instacoins)

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Axos Bank Partners with Way.com to Address Rising Car Costs

Axos Bank has teamed up with Way.com to help customers mitigate increasing car expenses. This partnership focuses on vehicle refinancing and aims to offer savings through integrated digital solutions. By combining Way.com’s auto services with Axos’ financial products, users can streamline their vehicle-related expenses, from insurance to payments. This move reflects Axos’ strategy to enhance its consumer offerings by leveraging partnerships in niche sectors.

Source: Axos Bank.

Brazil’s Largest Drug Gang Under Investigation for Fintech Infiltration

Brazilian authorities are probing the country’s largest drug gang for using fintech platforms to launder money. This investigation highlights concerns over the growing use of digital financial tools by organized crime. The gang allegedly exploited fintech’s lack of stringent oversight compared to traditional banking, raising red flags about regulatory gaps in the digital financial landscape.

Source: Bloomberg.

GTN Appoints New CEO to Drive European Expansion

Global Trading Network (GTN) has appointed Christopher Gregory as CEO for Europe, marking a pivotal step in its strategic expansion across the continent. Gregory, known for his expertise in fintech and capital markets, is expected to lead GTN’s efforts in diversifying its product offerings and enhancing its market presence. This leadership shift underscores GTN’s commitment to capitalizing on Europe’s burgeoning fintech market.

Source: PR Newswire.

Fonepay and Compass Plus Launch Nepal’s First Virtual Credit Card

Nepal’s digital payments ecosystem takes a leap forward with Fonepay partnering with Compass Plus Technologies to introduce the nation’s first virtual credit card. This innovation aims to promote cashless transactions and enhance financial inclusion by offering secure, contactless payment options. This development aligns with Nepal’s digital transformation goals and is set to redefine consumer payment experiences in the region.

Source: Fintech Futures.

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Instacoins Partners with Luxury Brands for Digital Payments

Instacoins is expanding its footprint in the luxury market by partnering with high-end brands to enable cryptocurrency payments. This initiative is designed to offer affluent customers a seamless digital payment option, blending traditional luxury shopping with modern fintech solutions. The partnership also reflects the increasing adoption of cryptocurrency in mainstream commerce.

Source: PR Newswire.

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Bety Unveils Enhanced Offer of 20,000+ Crypto Games and Sportsbook Events

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Bety is a decentralized casino and sportsbook platform that supports Bitcoin deposits and withdrawals. It is owned and operated by 12 Stars International Gaming Solutions Limited, a company established in Seychelles.

Bety, one of the leading Web3 betting platforms with a decentralized approach to casinos and sportsbooks, has unveiled its enhanced offer, boasting over 20,000 crypto casino games, sports, and eSports events. The platform aims to become one of the top Bitcoin casinos with a fair, transparent, and unmatched gaming experience for everyone

Blockchain technology is a catalyst for innovation in all sectors, and online  casino gaming is no exception. The growing adoption of cryptocurrency into the mainstream supports the emergence of groundbreaking platforms in digital entertainment. Bety is one of the major players spearheading this revolution by offering secure and accessible gaming experiences to change how people interact with online gambling services.

The Advantages of Web3 Betting

Traditional online casinos have been around since the early days of the Internet. However, they have always faced the same challenges, such as slow payouts and high deposit/withdrawal fees. Moreover, users have often complained about the improvable fairness of game bets and their outcomes.

Web3 betting solves these issues and takes online casino gaming to the next level through blockchain gaming. Its use of decentralized ledger technology ensures a transparent gaming experience for all users. It also accelerates deposit and withdrawal times at considerably lower costs than what traditional casinos practice.

The processing times for deposits at traditional and crypto casinos are similar, often occurring instantly. However, there is a significant difference in withdrawal times between conventional online casinos and blockchain-based casinos.For example, traditional casinos can take several days to process withdrawals. Users often have to wait up to 3 days to transfer winnings to their credit/debit cards and 7 days via bank transfers. On the other hand, crypto casinos process payouts in only a few minutes, sometimes instantly, depending on the blockchain network’s congestion. This remarkable speed allows players to access their earnings faster and enhances the user experience.

The Rise of Blockchain Gaming

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Blockchain gaming is a game-changer for the online casino experience. This technology offers unprecedented levels of trust and transparency. Thanks to its decentralized nature, players from various regions can play in complete anonymity and privacy. Furthermore, the lack of a centralized authority enhances game insights. It sets the stage for provably fair game mechanics, thus empowering players to make informed choices.Bety is an innovative blockchain gaming platform that employs the Provable Fairness concept, which is fundamental for Web3 betting. The platform ensures that game outcomes are determined randomly and cannot be manipulated by the operator or any other party. Therefore, Bety guarantees equal winning odds for all players.

Innovation and Accessibility

Bety stands out as a popular crypto casino with a rich selection of classic casino games and sports events catering to high-end players. The platform excels through its user-centered approach, which includes various bonuses, an exclusive VIP program, and 24/7 customer support.Moreover, Bety embraces the latest technological advances by incorporating the many benefits of blockchain networks, such as Bitcoin payments. The platform supports quick Bitcoin deposits and withdrawals, offering higher privacy and accessibility than traditional payment methods, such as debit or credit cards.

Hash Games at Bety Casino

Blockchain technology increases the gaming offer for online casinos, providing games not supported by traditional casinos. For example, conventional casinos rely on the classic offer of vintage games with limited scalability and versatility potential. On the other hand, blockchain provides a fertile ground for boundless creativity, spurring innovative concepts, such as play-to-earn and hold-to-earn.Gaming diversity is one of the most exciting aspects of building a Web3 betting platform on blockchain technology. In addition to offering traditional casino games such as slots, poker, blackjack, and roulette, Web3 casinos also provide hash games.Hash games are fast-paced, simple games that mimic classic casino games while adding a pinch of excitement. The game mechanics use hash value calculation and blockchain algorithms to deliver a thrilling, straightforward gaming experience. Players must wager on a predicted hash interval and win if their prediction is correct. Hash games involve various betting options that broaden the winning odds.Bety has several hash games in its versatile blockchain gaming offer, including Hash Banker Player, Hash Bull, 3-Min Bull, 1-Min Banker Player, and more. These games function by simple, easy-to-understand rules and ensure provable fair outcomes with appealing RTP rates.

A Unique Classic Casino Gaming Offer

In the most recent offer upgrade, Bety reveals an enhanced gaming offer, including slots, live casino, table games, lottery games, and sports events. Users can pick from over 10,000 casino games from leading brands, such as PGSoft, Evolution Gaming, Evoplay, Yggdrasil, Red Tiger, EG Games, Spribe, JILI, AE Sexy, Ezugi, and PNG. This stellar collection of games from reputable brands ensures players have non-stop access to the latest games and live events while enjoying a cutting-edge gaming experience.Bety offers a versatile library of over 10,000 slot games from more than 100 leading brands. Many of these games involve highly appealing bonuses, making the playing experience even more exciting. The platform replicates an authentic casino experience through its live casino that players can enjoy without leaving their homes. Also, the table games section includes many traditional and fan-favorite games, such as poker, blackjack, baccarat, craps, roulette, and more.

Promotions & Bonuses

Bety also provides several promotions for new and veteran players to make the gaming experience even more thrilling and fulfilling. The platform offers bonuses on the first 4 deposits and 7-day and monthly bonuses. Furthermore, referring friends to Bety entitles players to additional bonuses and earning opportunities.

The VIP Program

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Bety invites players to explore its large blockchain gaming selection. They can quickly make transparent and instant Bitcoin deposits to play these games and boost their profiles on the platform. In time, the most loyal players can enter Bety’s VIP program and enjoy several advantages, including cash back incentives, free chests, free spins, and personal VIP assistants. Moreover, the platform also supports instant Bitcoin withdrawals.

 

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