Karsten Wenzlaff, Advisor
August 26th, 2025
Karsten Wenzlaff is a Crowdfunding and Fintech Expert from Germany. He is Secretary-General of Digit[...]
Category Archives: Digital, NEO, Open Banking, Open Finance
The Top Trends from Forbes’ 2025 Fintech 50 List
Fintech Ranking | Feb 20, 2025
Image: 2025 Forbes Fintech 50 (Illustration by Óscar Raña for Forbes)
What We Can Learn from the Forbes Fintech 50 in 2025
Every year, Forbes publishes their annual ranking of the top Fintech companies. Checkout the Forbes Fintech 50 in 2025, showing fintech companies that continue to grow despite pressure on company valuations and a slowdown in investment in the sector. According to the judges who select and rank the top 50 at Forbes, this year there's been a rise of business-t0-business fintechs, as well as the increasing importance of fraud prevention and financial security companies.
| Category | Total Funding ($M) | # Companies |
| Payments | 4482 | 11 |
| Personal Finance | 3812 | 8 |
| Business to Business Banking | 3794 | 11 |
| Wall Street and Enterprise | 1892 | 9 |
| Insurance | 1742 | 4 |
| Blockchain and Cryptocurrencies | 1670 | 3 |
| Real Estate | 508 | 2 |
| Investing | 265 | 2 |
1. B2B Fintechs Strong Showing
More than half of the companies on the list provide fintech services to other businesses rather than consumers. Categories like Payments and B2B Banking are seeing strong growth as businesses turn to fintechs to automate and improve their operations, reduce costs and streamline regulatory challenges. Fintech goes well beyond innovative consumer digital banking, it's morphing into improving financial systems at scale. Wall Street & Enterprise fintechs are also playing an outsized role in modernizing financial infrastructure at the institutional level.
See: 10 Fintech and Crypto IPOs 2025 – Boom or Bubble?
The chart below illustrates the number of fintech companies in each category, emphasizing the dominance of business-focused fintechs:
Image: Total # of Fintech Companies by Category (Forbes Fintech 50, 2025)
The chart below shows the total funding received by fintech category, showing which categories are bucking the trend despite the downturn.
Total Funding by Fintech Category Forbes Fintech 50, 2025
Payments fintechs still lead the pack with over $4.4 billion in total funding. This aligns with their critical role in powering e-commerce and digital transactions worldwide.
2. Focus on Profitability Amidst a Funding Slump
In the early 2020s, fintech companies focused on rapid growth but times have changed and they are now after profitability and sustained growth. This year, 13 companies on the list reported official profits (up from just eight last year). Investors and businesses alike are prioritizing financial health over unchecked expansion.
See: CIX 2025 Fintech and AI Startup Award Winners
Even though global fintech funding fell from $144 billion in 2021 to $34 billion in 2024, most companies on this year’s Forbes Fintech 50 have shown resilience. Major players like Stripe and Ramp have adapted by pivoting, reducing costs while focusing on efficiency.
3. Fraud Prevention and Security Are More Important Than Ever
As digital transactions increase so do fraud risks. Security based fintechs are gaining traction as businesses need stronger protections against cyber threats and fraud. DataVisor, a company that uses advanced machine learning to detect fraudulent transactions experienced a 67% increase in revenue in 2024, reaching $50 million.
4. Lending Fintechs Comeback
Companies like Arc, Aven, and Imprint have made their way onto this year’s list, showing that the lending market is regaining investor confidence. Nova Credit, for example, previously fell off the list but re-emerged this year with a renewed focus on cash flow underwriting and a fresh approach to risk assessment.
5. One Canadian Contender, Relay
While much can be argued about the methodology of actually being selected for the Forbes Fintech 50 list. To be honest there are several significant Canadian fintechs that should be on the list but aren't for whatever reason, such as Wealthsimple. But Relay made it so something to cheer about.
See: Key Findings from 2025 Advanced Payments and Fintech Survey
They are a Toronto-based digital banking platform for small businesses and provide financial management tools that integrate with accounting software, making it easier for businesses to manage their money. In 2024, they raised $32.2 million in a Series B funding round, strengthening their market position and offerings.
Top Fintech Companies by Category
Here’s a closer look at a couple of standout fintech firms within each category:
Payments
- Stripe – A global online payments leader providing seamless transaction infrastructure for businesses
- DailyPay – Helps employees access earned wages before payday, improving financial flexibility for millions
Business-to-Business (B2B) Banking
- Relay – Canada’s only fintech on the list offering digital banking for small businesses
- Parafin – Uses marketplace data to underwrite loans, achieved 100% revenue growth in 2024
Wall Street & Enterprise
- DataVisor – Specializes in AI powered fraud detection, growing revenues by 67% in the past year
- Alloy – Provides identity verification solutions for financial institutions, automating compliance and security processes
Personal Finance
- True Link – Offers financial services for vulnerable populations including the elderly and those with disabilities
- Chime – A digital bank providing fee-free accounts and early direct deposits
Insurance
- Ethos – Makes life insurance more accessible with a fast, tech-driven application process
- At-Bay – A cyber insurance company that proactively monitors digital risks for clients
Blockchain & Cryptocurrencies
- Figure – Uses blockchain to offer home equity lines of credit and mortgage refinancing
- Fireblocks – Provides secure infrastructure for handling digital assets
Real Estate
- Aven – Introduces innovative financing solutions to make real estate investments more accessible
- Valon – A mortgage service provider making home loan management simpler and more transparent
Why This Matters
The 2025 Forbes Fintech 50 shows the race for scale is now about profitability with payments, security, infrastructure, and B2B services leading the way. For Canada, Relay’s presence on the list is promising but begs the question, why aren’t more Canadian fintechs on the list?
The National Crowdfunding & Fintech Association (NCFA Canada) is a financial innovation ecosystem that provides education, market intelligence, industry stewardship, networking and funding opportunities and services to thousands of community members and works closely with industry, government, partners and affiliates to create a vibrant and innovative fintech and funding industry in Canada. Decentralized and distributed, NCFA is engaged with global stakeholders and helps incubate projects and investment in fintech, alternative finance, crowdfunding, peer-to-peer finance, payments, digital assets and tokens, artificial intelligence, blockchain, cryptocurrency, regtech, and insurtech sectors. Join Canada's Fintech & Funding Community today FREE! Or become a contributing member and get perks. For more information, please visit: www.ncfacanada.org
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10 Fintech and Crypto IPOs 2025 – Boom or Bubble?
Public Market | Feb 13, 2025
Image: Freepik
A Raft of Fintech and Crypto IPOs in 2025
According to many reports online, several prominent fintech and crypto firms are espousing Initial Public Offering (IPO) ambitions to publicly list in 2025 due to recent economic conditions in public markets. Is this growth sustainable or indicative of an overheated market? Lets explore these IPO ambitions, the companies and some of the risks and considerations for issuers and investors.
See: How Fintechs Are Unlocking Value in Private Markets 2024
In 2024, the number of companies that went public in the U.S. grew significantly. According to EY, IPO proceeds jumped 45%, and the number of listings increased 40% compared to the previous year. Despite this improvement, IPO activity was still below pre-pandemic levels. U.S. News reports that Renaissance Capital is expecting 2025 to be a significant year for IPOs, estimating between 155 to 195 IPO deals that will raise $40-50 billion.
Why More IPO Ambitions in 2025?
The surge in potential IPOs this year comes down to several key factors. Economic conditions have stabilized although we've yet to see the full impact of the Trump administration's tariff and trade war. Inflation has cooled and central banks are looking to keep interest rates lower which will make it easier for businesses to raise money. The stock market has been on fire, boosting company valuations, making going public an attractive option for high growth firms looking to expand. Important to understand that many companies that initially announce IPO ambitions may not ultimately follow through on their plans, and may delay or cancel the listing. There are also concerns that high stock valuations and investor speculation could further fuel a market bubble, which many analysts have written about. So, are these IPOs a sign of longer term recovery or a more temporary reaction to positive market conditions awash in capital?
10 Fintech and Crypto IPOs in 2025
Here's a list of ten highly anticipated fintech and crypto IPOs slated for 2025 with each offering a unique opportunity and set of risks.
1. BitGo (USA 2013)
BitGo is a leading crypto custody firm providing multi-sig wallets and custodial services for institutional clients and exchanges.BitGo is reportedly exploring an IPO in the second half of 2025. Institutional adoption of crypto is here now and there's growing demand for regulated crypto and digital asset storage solutions.
2. Gemini (USA 2013)
Founded by the Winklevoss twins, Gemini is a regulated cryptocurrency exchange and custodian with robust compliance and security. Bloomberg also reports Gemini is considering an IPO this year, looking to expand its offerings to global markets.
3. Bullish Global (USA 2013)
Peter Thiel backed Bullish Global, a crypto trading platform focused on offering deep liquidity and algorithmic trading services for institutional investors. Like other crypto exchanges, they are currently evaluating an IPO, looking to scale amidst growing interest and institutional adoption of regulated digital asset trading.
4. Circle (USA 2013)
Circle is the issuer of USDC, one of the most widely used stablecoins in the crypto industry. The company has filed for an IPO with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission and plans to move its headquarters to New York ahead of the listing. A date has not yet been announced.
5. Kraken (USA 2013)
Kraken is a major cryptocurrency exchange known for its wide range of trading pairs and regulatory compliance. They've long hinted at an IPO and could move forward with plans in 2025, depending on market conditions and how things line up.
6. Klarna (Sweden 2005)
Klarna is a leading "buy now, pay later" (BNPL) fintech that is a game-changer in the retail payments sector. The Swedish firm is targeting a U.S. IPO in 2025, at an expected valuation of $15-20 billion.
7. Chime (USA 2013)
Chime is a digital banking platform offering fee-free banking and early paycheck access. The company is reportedly working with Morgan Stanley on a 2025 IPO, aiming for a $25 billion valuation.
8. Revolut (UK 2015)
Revolut is a UK-based digital banking app that offers a range of financial services such as currency exchange, stock and cryptocurrency trading. Rumours have it Revolut is preparing for an IPO in 2025, and its one to watch.
9. eToro (Israel 2007)
eToro, a social trading and investment platform, allowing users to trade different financial assets, including stocks and cryptocurrencies. The Israel-based company filed confidentially for an IPO in January 2025, seeking a valuation of around $5 billion.
10. Stripe (USA 2013)
Stripe is a leading global payments processing company that has been a highly anticipated IPO candidate for several years. They've made some strategic moves including hiring a seasoned CFO who issued tender offers for employees to sell shares, indicating preparations for an IPO.
Risks and Investor Considerations
Not every company announcing an IPO will go through with it. Some may delay or cancel if market conditions change or they secure better private funding. Overvaluation is key risk. Some IPOs launch at inflated prices that don’t match a company’s actual financial strength, which can lead to potential losses if stock prices drop after the initial excitement of the IPO fades.
There’s also concern about a market bubble. If too many companies go public at high valuations, investor speculation could outpace business fundamentals, triggering a downturn.
See: M&A Opportunity as Fintech Valuations Drop
In fintech and crypto, regulatory changes are another factor. While the Trump administration is quite pro-crypto they are still developing a digital asset regulatory framework. Many other governments are still developing rules for both crypto and modernized payments, so in the case of tighter/stricter regulations, it may impact company operations and thus stock performance.
Outlook
Due diligence is key for investors. Understanding each company’s financials, growth potential, and competitive outlook, while avoiding hype and speculation, helps avoid costly mistakes. While 2025 looks to present several pent-up large IPO opportunities, smart investing means balancing excitement with caution.
The National Crowdfunding & Fintech Association (NCFA Canada) is a financial innovation ecosystem that provides education, market intelligence, industry stewardship, networking and funding opportunities and services to thousands of community members and works closely with industry, government, partners and affiliates to create a vibrant and innovative fintech and funding industry in Canada. Decentralized and distributed, NCFA is engaged with global stakeholders and helps incubate projects and investment in fintech, alternative finance, crowdfunding, peer-to-peer finance, payments, digital assets and tokens, artificial intelligence, blockchain, cryptocurrency, regtech, and insurtech sectors. Join Canada's Fintech & Funding Community today FREE! Or become a contributing member and get perks. For more information, please visit: www.ncfacanada.org
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Revolut Pushes into Commercial Real Estate Lending
Revolut | Jan 31, 2025
Image: Freepik/rawpixel.com
Competition Heats Up As Revolut Launches Commercial Real Estate Lending Unit
As reported by PYMTS, Revolut has launched a new business unit focused on Commercial real estate lending Revolut, one of the largest fintechs globally, is moving into commercial real estate lending, a sector that is traditionally dominated by large banks and institutional investors. Reading between the lines, this move signals that large fintechs are on the move seeking new revenue opportunities, and entering one of the most capital intensive areas of finance. What are the implications?
See: Real World Implementation of Real Estate Tokenization
The entry of a large fintech player like Revolut could disrupt commercial real estate with a digital-first approach that integrates the latest artificial intelligence capabilities while fast tracking approvals and automating real-time underwriting. If successful, it will put pressure on incumbent lending institutions and give borrowers more choice and lower barriers. Revolut has appointed Duncan Batty from M&G Investments to lead the initiative.
Revolut has been aggressively expanding its product offerings recently and is also launching a private banking division for high net work individuals, along with applying for a banking license to become the first global digital bank in New Zealand.
Why This Affects the Fintech Industry
Until now most large fintech companies have largely focused on payments, consumer lending and wealth management services. By entering commercial real estate lending it's a sign of maturing fintechs since that type of lending requires higher capital risks, more robust risk management, and with that comes stringent regulatory oversight. In the past, Revolut experienced regulatory growing pains taking several years to acquire a UK banking license, investigated by the FCA in 2023 for allowing withdrawls from suspicious accounts, and was urged by the European Central Bank to improve financial crime and governance controls.
See: Revolut’s Crowdfunding Success from Start-up to $45 Billion
If Revolut can improve the process and offer more competitive rates, it will force traditional lenders to rethink their business models as fintech competition could ramp up quickly.
Regulators may be more encouraged to allow Revolut to operate as a digital first global bank at scale. All told, if Revolut can make things work then other fintechs may likely follow by entering more capital intensive markets.
What About Canada?
Revolut entered Canada in 2019 with a beta version of its digital banking services but announced its exit in 2021 due to regulatory challenges that didn't allow them to offer the full range of services they had planned. While Revolut kept the idea open to the possibility of returning to Canada, at the time of writing, they have not re-entered nor has there been any progress of a (digital) Canadian banking license application.
Despite its exit, Revolut left open the possibility of returning to Canada in the future. As of today, it has not reapplied for a banking license or re-entered the market, leaving Canadian fintechs to fill the gap in digital banking and alternative financial services.
See: Wealth Management Insights for Fintechs and Investors
Having said that, Canada's fintech ecosystem does have various participants making strides in fintech real estate lending. Companies like Lendwire, Nesto, and Pine are already offering digital lending solutions.
Closing Thought
Canada’s regulatory and ologopolistic banking environment are key barriers to faster fintech growth in this sector which can slow innovation. However it begs the question, if Revolut is able to develop a successful real estate lending model abroad, will Canadian fintechs push for regulatory changes that allow them to compete more effectively at home before global fintechs consider/re-consider entering the market?
The National Crowdfunding & Fintech Association (NCFA Canada) is a financial innovation ecosystem that provides education, market intelligence, industry stewardship, networking and funding opportunities and services to thousands of community members and works closely with industry, government, partners and affiliates to create a vibrant and innovative fintech and funding industry in Canada. Decentralized and distributed, NCFA is engaged with global stakeholders and helps incubate projects and investment in fintech, alternative finance, crowdfunding, peer-to-peer finance, payments, digital assets and tokens, artificial intelligence, blockchain, cryptocurrency, regtech, and insurtech sectors. Join Canada's Fintech & Funding Community today FREE! Or become a contributing member and get perks. For more information, please visit: www.ncfacanada.org
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Trump Media’s Patriot Economy Expands into Fintech
Fintech | Jan 31, 2025
Image: TMTG website
Trump Media Launches into Financial Services with Truth.Fi Brand
On Jan 29 2025, Trump Media & Technology Group (TMTG, operator of Truth Social and Truth+) announced an expansion into financial services under a brand new fintech platform called Truth.Fi to provide alternative investment options to people in the 'patriot economy' or that want to align with America-first philosophy and opportunities outside of big tech or Wall Street.
What’s the Plan?
According to the release, the TMTG board has approved an initial investment of up to $250 million from its $700 million cash treasury. The funds will be custodied by Charles Schwab and split into various accounts including (1) exchange traded funds; (2) separately managed accounts; and (3) Bitcoin and digital assets. An affiliate of Yorkville Advisors will be the Registered Investment Advisor on record and advise on investments and strategy likely focused on U.S. growth, manufacturing, and energy related companies aligned with the patriot economy.
See: Trump Signs New Order for Crypto Rules, Bans CBDCs, Eyes Asset Reserve
Devin Nunes, TMTG CEO and Chairman:
"We look forward to launching Truth.Fi, introducing TMTG's investment vehicles, and unlocking synergies. Truth.Fi is a natural expansion of the Truth Social movement. We began by creating a free-speech social media platform, added an ultra-fast TV streaming service, and now we're moving into investment products and decentralized finance. Developing American First investment vehicles is another step toward our goal of creating a robust ecosystem through which American patriots can protect themselves from the ever-present threat of cancellation, censorship, debanking, and privacy violations committed by Big Tech and woke corporations."
Isn't Musk Doing the Same Thing: Fintech Frenemies?
This isn’t happening in a vacuum. Elon Musk’s X is also expanding into finance and on the same day as Truth.Fi launched, Linda Yaccarino the CEO of X announced that X Money digital wallet will launch later in 2025 in partnership with Visa Direct who will allow American users to fund, send payments, tip creators and eventually make purchases directly in the app. It's part of Musk's bigger, longer term vision of turning X into a super app, kind of like WeChat but for global users.
So are Truth.Fi and X Money on a collision course?
Maybe (but not immediately). Truth.Fi is focused on investments and wealth creation while X money is targeting real time global payments. Having said that, with crypto, financial independence, free speech, and alternative finance as overlapping themes between the two models, there's bound to be crossover at one point so expect some deals and/or fireworks and the possibility of real competition in the longer term.
What About Energy Policy?
This is an obvious wrinkle given Trump's energy policies currently who are pushing for more oil and fossil fuel production 'drill baby drill' and deregulation, which contrasts with Musk's Tesla model built on the promise of a renewable future.
See: Musk Challenges Funding for Trump’s AI Stargate Initiative
Tesla's sales have been struggling lately due to rising competition and higher interest rates aren't helping either. If Trump applies 25% tariffs on Canada's oil exports then gas prices will be more expensive for Americans, making EVs more attractive causing friction. On the other hand, if Trump manages to lower gas prices then EVs will become less attractive.
Outlook
Trump Media is looking to build an altfi ecosystem that aligns with its worldview. If Truth.Fi works, it could change how groups of the population invest but there will no doubt be roadblocks from regulators and competition from incumbent financial players. Meanwhile, Musk is walking a tight rope working within the Trump administration while also running his various global companies X, Tesla and SpaceX, each with their own agenda. Fintech, media, egos, ambition, and politics collide.
The National Crowdfunding & Fintech Association (NCFA Canada) is a financial innovation ecosystem that provides education, market intelligence, industry stewardship, networking and funding opportunities and services to thousands of community members and works closely with industry, government, partners and affiliates to create a vibrant and innovative fintech and funding industry in Canada. Decentralized and distributed, NCFA is engaged with global stakeholders and helps incubate projects and investment in fintech, alternative finance, crowdfunding, peer-to-peer finance, payments, digital assets and tokens, artificial intelligence, blockchain, cryptocurrency, regtech, and insurtech sectors. Join Canada's Fintech & Funding Community today FREE! Or become a contributing member and get perks. For more information, please visit: www.ncfacanada.org
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CFPB Recognizes FDX as U.S. Open Banking Standards Leader
Open Banking | Jan 9, 2025
Image: Freepik
FDX Earns CFPB Approval to Establish Secure Open Banking Standards in the U.S.
The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) has officially recognized the Financial Data Exchange (FDX) as a standard-setting body for open banking in the United States. This allows FDX to develop and maintain American standards for customers to securely share their financial data with authorized third parties. This data sharing aims to bolster competition and innovation in financial services by furnishing consumers with more choices and better control over their financial data.
CFPB's Personal Financial Data Rights Rule
In October 2024, the CFPB introduced the Personal Financial Data Rights rule that requires financial institutions to give consumers FREE access to their personal financial data along with the ability to transfer it to other (third party) providers upon request. To advance this initiative, the CFPB regulator setup a process to recognize standard-setting bodies that can create guidelines for secure and efficient data sharing. FDX is the first recognized standard-setting body under this new rule.
FDX's Role and Conditions
FDX is a non-profit operating in the U.S. and Canada with over 200 members including banks, fintech companies, data aggregators, and consumer groups. Its core mission is to develop a common, interoperable standard for secure consumer and business access to financial data records.
See: Canada’s Open Banking Journey: Interview with Steve Boms, Executive Director Financial Data and Technology Association – North America “FDATA”
The CFPB's recognition of FDX as a standard-setting body is valid for 5 years with the following conditions:
- FDX must avoid deals that give unfair advantages to certain companies to ensure standards are created without bias.
- FDX must track and share updates on how its standards are being used and provide public tools for companies to show they follow the rules.
- FDX must make its standards available to everyone for free with equal access including members and non-members.
Industry Perspectives
The recognition of FDX has garnered support from various industry stakeholders including the American Bankers Association who noted that FDXs API data format is already used to connect over 94 million consumer accounts and is available at no cost for parties that sign the FDX API License Agreement.
See: Open Banking in Canada Delayed to 2026, Favours Banks Over Innovation
Kevin Feltes, FDX CEO:
“This recognition provides helpful clarity to the market at a critical time. Many firms are running fast to come into compliance with the CFPB’s recent Open Banking regulation and give customers more control over their financial data. The recognition underscores FDX’s position as a leading forum for companies and nonprofits from across the financial ecosystem to collaborate on interoperable methods for secure, consumer-permissioned data sharing,”
Outlook
FDX's recognition opens the doors for fintech innovation and more choice and better services for consumers, and increased collaboration across the financial sector. The result? Consumers gain greater control, businesses unlock innovation, and the industry moves toward a more interconnected future.
The National Crowdfunding & Fintech Association (NCFA Canada) is a financial innovation ecosystem that provides education, market intelligence, industry stewardship, networking and funding opportunities and services to thousands of community members and works closely with industry, government, partners and affiliates to create a vibrant and innovative fintech and funding industry in Canada. Decentralized and distributed, NCFA is engaged with global stakeholders and helps incubate projects and investment in fintech, alternative finance, crowdfunding, peer-to-peer finance, payments, digital assets and tokens, artificial intelligence, blockchain, cryptocurrency, regtech, and insurtech sectors. Join Canada's Fintech & Funding Community today FREE! Or become a contributing member and get perks. For more information, please visit: www.ncfacanada.org
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UK Banking Competition Remedies, Lessons for Fintech Growth
Competition | Dec 19, 2024
Image: Pixabay/geralt
How the UK's Banking Competition Remedies Program (BCR) Boosted Fintech Growth
What happens when a government takes bold action to increase competition in its banking sector? The UK’s Banking Competition Remedies program offers a fascinating case study. Both the UK and Canada face similar challenges with highly concentrated banking sectors dominated by a few major players. In Canada, the "Big Six" banks controlled 93% of banking assets in 2023, while in the UK, the 'Big Four' control 85% of UK business accounts and 75% of current accounts.
The result is a lack of competition, stifling innovation, higher fees and limited consumer choice. The difference here is that the UK government took action to remedy the situation by investing in fintech and encouraging customer mobility (read: easier to switch banks/providers), empowering consumers and businesses which lead to economic growth. Here’s what happened, why it matters, and how Canada can learn from it.
See: Competition Act Amendments and What It Means for Fintech
What was the problem with UK banking?
After the 2008 financial crisis, the UK’s banking system had four banks (HSBC, Barclays, Lloyds, and NatWest) that controlled over 70% of the market, which lead to high fees, limited innovation and significant barriers for small to medium sized businesses (SMEs) to source financial support. A 2016 retail banking report by the UK's Competition and Markets Authority found that 60% of UK small businesses stayed with their banks for over 10 years due to the difficulty of switching. Kudos to the UK government for recognizing that without intervention, the systemic issue of lack of competition would persist.
What did the UK government do to fix it?
So in 2017, to address these challenges the UK government launched the Banking Competition Remedies (BCR), which used £775 million from fines levied on RBS for failing to divest parts of its business as required after the financial crisis, to setup two funding components to stimulate competition:
- The Capability and Innovation Fund (CIF) - £425 million to smaller banks and fintech startups to enhance their technology and expand their services. Awardees like challenger Starling Bank received £100 million to develop better products for small businesses.
- The Incentivized Switching Scheme (ISS) - £350 million to encourage 120,000 small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to switch from traditional banks to challengers like Metro Bank, Tide, and Monzo.
Huge impact from these investments?
- Digital first banks like Starling and Monzo used the funding to roll out modern and user friendly mobile apps, faster payment systems, and lower fees. Starling Bank, for example, grew its SME customer base by 600% between 2018 and 2021. Challenger banks flourished.
- The ISS increased customer mobility and helped over 85,000 SMEs switch banks, giving smaller financial institutions the opportunity to compete and grow their market share.
See: Reversing Canada’s Digital Economy Productivity Decline
- The UK became a global fintech leader and hub, attracting $11.6 billion in fintech investment in 2021 alone, according to Innovate Finance. This was more than the combined fintech investment of Germany, France, and Sweden that year.
- The fintech sector contributed over £11 billion to the UK economy in 2020 and supported over 76,000 jobs.
Why it matters? Canada can learn from the UK
Adopting some of the UK’s strategies would increase competition and innovation in Canada, which is plagued with low productivity, higher fees, limited choice. With targeted investments in fintech through funds like CIF, more Canadian fintech startups could develop leading financial tools.
See: Canada Can Learn from UK’s £100M Public Service Reform
Further, adopting Open Banking (consumer-driven finance) on an accelerated timeline where customers can share their financial data securely would also make it easier to switch bank providers and spur competition, giving small businesses and consumers better options, lower fees, and improved services. This all leads to a growth orientated economy where all stakeholder's needs are met in a modernized, reinvigorated financial sector.
Closing Thought
Canada is making some progress with Open Banking but the pace is slow compared to global peers. By learning from the UK’s experience, Canada could accelerate innovation, attract investment, and ensure a more inclusive financial system.
"Improving banking competition isn’t just about breaking up monopolies. It’s about creating a financial system that works for everyone."
The National Crowdfunding & Fintech Association (NCFA Canada) is a financial innovation ecosystem that provides education, market intelligence, industry stewardship, networking and funding opportunities and services to thousands of community members and works closely with industry, government, partners and affiliates to create a vibrant and innovative fintech and funding industry in Canada. Decentralized and distributed, NCFA is engaged with global stakeholders and helps incubate projects and investment in fintech, alternative finance, crowdfunding, peer-to-peer finance, payments, digital assets and tokens, artificial intelligence, blockchain, cryptocurrency, regtech, and insurtech sectors. Join Canada's Fintech & Funding Community today FREE! Or become a contributing member and get perks. For more information, please visit: www.ncfacanada.org
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Open Banking Delayed to 2026, Favours Banks Over Innovation
Consumer-Driven Finance | Dec 18, 2024
Image generated by AI
Open Banking Delayed to 2026, Leaving Canada Behind While Favouring Banks
If you haven't realized it, Canada likes to delay the rollout of national projects (i.e, Trans mountain pipeline, national housing strategy, Phoenix pay system, high speed rail projects etc), and while it was painfully anticipated, the Canadian government announced its complete framework for the implementation of Consumer-driven Finance (Open Banking) in the 2024 Fall Economic Statement (FES), which will now be delayed to 2026. It's one of those 'we told you so moments' and this comes after years of promises and stalled progress. These delays and execution challenges put fintechs and consumers at a disadvantage, and undermines Canada's capacity for financial innovation and to remain globally competitive (among peer countries).
The announcement at least included more funding to the tune of $44.3 million over three years for the Financial Consumer Agency of Canada (FCAC) to enhance its capacity to supervise and regulate the consumer-driven finance framework. But it's the extended timeline that has left many industry stakeholders and investors questioning Canada's ability to keep pace with modern times. Countries like the UK and Australia have shown how robust open banking systems can unlock competition and innovation in financial services. Yet, Canada’s fragmented and overly cautious approach risks falling further behind these global leaders.
What’s the Problem?
The government is opting for a phased rollout, starting with mandatory participation of large, federally regulated banks. Then smaller financial institutions, such as credit unions, and fintech companies must opt in, assuming they can meet the same strict accreditation standards as large banks. This uniform approach to accreditation doesn't differentiate between the size or risk level between participants, imposing an undue burden on smaller players. A one size fits all requirement will make it harder for smaller players to participate, stifling the very innovation the framework is hoping to stimulate in the first place (sigh).
The plan is to start with limited functionality such as read-only data sharing, delaying more advanced functionality like payment initiation to the future (without a clear timeline leaving fintechs in the dark). It's likely the combination of prioritizing large incumbent banks while delaying access for smaller more innovative fintechs will hurt competition and innovation in the fintech sector.
See: Why Canadian Banks Are Fighting Open Banking
Originally the Financial Consumer Agency of Canada (FCAC) was adorned to supervisor and regulate open banking but adding to the complexity it was announced in FES 2024 that provincial regulators will now also be involved, risking fragmentation and unnecessary layers of bureaucracy. It echoes past mistakes made during the rollout of equity crowdfunding (also see NCFA's submission to Finance Canada re: urgent need for regulatory change and support) where fragmented provincial rules created confusion and inefficiencies, discouraging adoption while adding costs to compliant operators - only to realize this mistake several years later and work to harmonize regulations which was far too late, hurting the investment crowdfunding sector before it got off the ground.
Meanwhile, consumers are still dependent on screen scraping practices which is an outdated and risky practice with cyber security issues rampant.
Why It Matters
Globally, countries that have adopted open banking are seeing boosts to financial inclusion, productivity, and market driven innovation. In the UK for example, open banking has driven competition and productivity by making financial services more accessible and transparent. They are now advancing further ahead and expanding towards open finance.
In Australia, its Consumer Data Right policy is ushering in a new wave of fintech solutions that are giving consumers more choice and improving business efficiency.
Without any sense of urgency, Canada (again) risks falling further behind and sends the wrong message to investors and leading innovators that is 'Canada is hesitant to innovate' and struggles with implementing national frameworks that drive economic growth.
Lessons from the UK and Australia
Both the UK and Australia have implemented TIERED accreditation systems (not a one size fits all like Canada), which allows a diverse range of participants in open banking while maintaining high standards for security and consumer protection.
In the UK, the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) employs a flexible, risk-based approach, allowing small fintechs to enter the market without being overwhelmed by compliance requirements. Early functionalities like payment initiation and account aggregation have become widely available, demonstrating how a structured yet inclusive system can deliver great value to consumers.
See: U.S. Open Banking Rule Lawsuit and Canada’s Implications
Australia's Consumer Data Right (CDR) framework also uses a tiered accreditation system to ensure participation by innovative fintechs. Smaller fintechs can partner with Accredited Data Recipients (ADRs) to access data under reduced compliance obligations using a “Trusted Adviser” model, allowing lower risk entities like financial advisors to provide services without heavy regulatory burdens. It's this tiered approach together with a clear timeline for expanded functionality that has accelerated adoption and innovation.
Finding Solutions for Canada
Canada’s framework should be more inclusive with less friction and more in line with global peers. It's uniform accreditation process is too ridged and should be a risk-based system. Smaller players offering low-risk services like a budgeting app should not face the same compliance burdens as payment processors or lending platforms. Adopting a tiered accreditation model like in the UK and Australia would stimulate a more innovative and competitive fintech environment.
Streamlining governance and oversight is also paramount. The FCAC should take a leading role with minimal provincial overlap to avoid jurisdictional conflicts and inefficiencies. The whole framework should encourage participation from coast to coast and reduce compliance burdens for fintechs.
See: Canada’s Open Banking Framework 2024 Preview
The FCAC should take their increased funding and fast track the open banking timeline and add clear deadlines for introducing core functionalities like payment initiation. Fintechs, investors, consumer alike all need more certainty and collaboration if open banking is to be more practical, widely adopted and successful.
Outlook
Canada should learn from global leaders in open banking who have amassed a ton of implementation experience if they want to avoid missteps. Canada needs to use this opportunity to boost its position as a global innovator in financial services. Delays hurt everyone from consumers to fintechs and the economy at large. It's time for Canada to step up and get open banking right.
The National Crowdfunding & Fintech Association (NCFA Canada) is a financial innovation ecosystem that provides education, market intelligence, industry stewardship, networking and funding opportunities and services to thousands of community members and works closely with industry, government, partners and affiliates to create a vibrant and innovative fintech and funding industry in Canada. Decentralized and distributed, NCFA is engaged with global stakeholders and helps incubate projects and investment in fintech, alternative finance, crowdfunding, peer-to-peer finance, payments, digital assets and tokens, artificial intelligence, blockchain, cryptocurrency, regtech, and insurtech sectors. Join Canada's Fintech & Funding Community today FREE! Or become a contributing member and get perks. For more information, please visit: www.ncfacanada.org
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