Fintech is probably one of the most fast-paced industries in the world, with new trends and technologies being adopted regularly. To stay ahead of the curve and streamline revenues in an ever-changing climate, companies must develop long-term strategies, including the ability to anticipate shifts and prioritise the adoption of new technologies.
In May 2025, financial solution provider, Riverty, has launched the report ‘Fintech 2040: Trajectories for the evolution of the fintech ecosystem’, aiming to anticipate future technologies and their role in reshaping finances. As the relationship between customers, institutions, and regulators continues to redefine, it is crucial to understand how new technologies can be integrated into the financial system to create superior customer experience, streamline processes, and boost financial health.
The document discusses the future evolution of the fintech ecosystem by 2040, exploring technological advancements, their impact on financial services, and strategies for companies to adapt and thrive in a rapidly changing landscape.
By 2040, current disruptive technologies such as agentic AI and quantum computing will become mainstream and will be integrated into people’s daily lives and planning, uncovering a new era of hyperpersonalised services aimed to optimise people’s spending. As proven by the continuous shift in customer behaviour and expectations, one-size-fits-all finance is not the solution. Instead, people are looking for tailored solutions, flexible payment options, and dynamic communication.
Financial technology integrates technology with financial services to enhance efficiency and customer satisfaction. The fintech landscape is rapidly evolving, driven by technological advancements and changing consumer behaviours. There are significant shifts in the current fintech ecosystem, including the decline of traditional banks and the emergence of decentralised finance.
According to the report, there are six technology clusters that will reshape the fintech landscape by 2040, focusing on personalisation and automation. These include AI agents, AI-based cybersecurity, cryptocurrency and DeFi, embedded finance, financial transparency, and quantum computing.
These technologies are expected to enhance efficiency and consumer friendliness in the O2C value chain.
Agentic AI has been briefly discussed since 2024, with more companies looking into adopting the technology in 2025 and beyond. As the tech continues to develop, AI agents are expected to revolutionise customer interactions and financial management by 2040.
Cybersecurity is a critical concern for fintech companies, with AI playing a significant role in enhancing security measures. According to the predictions from the report, AI-based cybersecurity systems will automate threat detection and response, reducing the need for human intervention.
Moreover, the market for AI in cybersecurity is expected to grow from USD 28.51 billion in 2025 to USD 600 billion by 2040, while enhanced security measures will improve consumer trust and streamline financial transactions.
The paper emphasises the need for organisations to adapt to the evolving fintech landscape through strategic preparedness. Thus, companies must cultivate flexible, integrative business models to address technological advancements and emerging risks.
DeFi is rapidly changing financial services by using blockchain technology to eliminate intermediaries, offering secure and automated financial solutions. Smart contracts play a crucial role in enabling trusting transactions, while cryptocurrencies and CBDCs enhance global financial access and efficiency.
The integration of cryptocurrencies and DeFi into the O2C value chain enhances transparency and efficiency across all stages. Smart contracts automate agreements, while blockchain technology improves payment security and supply chain tracking.
Embedded finance integrates financial services into non-financial platforms, improving user experience and creating new revenue streams. This approach allows for personalised financial solutions and enhances operational efficiency. At the same time, embedded finance enables tailored financing options like BNPL.
Quantum computing offers unprecedented computational power, enabling advancements in risk modelling, fraud detection, and cryptography. This technology is expected to transform financial services by 2040.
To thrive in the evolving fintech landscape, companies should invest in emerging technologies, focus on customer-centric solutions, and strengthen cybersecurity measures. Balancing quick wins with potential investments will ensure sustained growth and competitiveness. The report also suggests some measures that could prove beneficial for companies in the long run, including:
Prioritising investments in quantum computing, AI, and blockchain;
Focusing on customer-centric solutions for hyper-personalisation;
Strengthening cybersecurity against evolving threats;
Balancing quick wins with long-term strategic investments.
The financial landscape of 2040 will see the integration of consumption, investment, and saving into a unified ecosystem, driven by technological advancements. This convergence will enhance consumer experiences and streamline financial services.
Everyday consumption, long-term investments, and saving will merge into a single ecosystem. At the same time, technological innovations will facilitate seamless interactions among these financial dimensions, while consumers could benefit from more integrated services.
By 2040, traditional banks are expected to lose their intermediary roles, as decentralised finance (DeFi) and peer-to-peer platforms will offer more direct and cost-effective alternatives. This shift will also challenge the traditional banking model significantly.
By 2040, fintech will increasingly intersect with various sectors, creating holistic ecosystems that embed financial services into everyday consumer experiences. This integration will unlock new revenue streams for fintech providers, as they will collaborate with various sectors, including ecommerce, healthcare, and real estate.
Consumer protection and data sovereignty will become crucial for fintechs, as individuals gain more control over their financial data. Trust will be built through user-centric design and transparent data practices.
Finally, decentralised finance and peer-to-peer finance will become the norm, using smart contracts to automate transactions and reduce operational friction. This shift will cater to consumer demand for transparency and direct value exchanges.
Want to read more about the future of fintech? Grab your free copy of the report and enjoy the extended research conducted by Riverty in defining the new era of fintech.
Irina is a Senior Editor at The Paypers, specialising in fraud and online payments. Leveraging her Ph. D. in Economics and a strong economic academic background, she constantly observes new developments in tech, innovation, and regulation, educating the audience about trends in fraud prevention, chargebacks, scams, social engineering, digital identity, GenAI, and ecommerce. You can reach out to her via LinkedIn or email at irina@thepaypers.com.
Riverty, the fintech company of Bertelsmann, supports thousands of merchants and over 28 million consumers by processing more than 80 million transactions monthly. Offering flexible payments, debt collection, and smart accounting solutions, Riverty empowers businesses and consumers with cutting-edge financial services. With a dedicated team of over 4,000 employees across 11 countries in Europe and North America, Riverty is a leader in delivering comprehensive financial solutions. www.riverty.com.
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