Karsten Wenzlaff, Advisor
August 26th, 2025
Karsten Wenzlaff is a Crowdfunding and Fintech Expert from Germany. He is Secretary-General of Digit[...]
Davos 2025 Themes and Takeaways for Fintech
WEF | Jan 24, 2025
Image: Davos 2025 Annual Meeting (WEF website)
Davos 2025: Key Themes and Implications for Fintech
The World Economic Forum is currently hosting Davos 2025, its annual meeting in Switzerland, from January 20 to 24. This year's theme is “Collaboration for the Intelligent Age” bringing together global leaders, innovators, and policymakers to address pressing global issues around geopolitics, economic transformation, AI advancements, and the future of sustainable finance. While over 50 heads of state and government are participating, a number of prominent leaders are not participating like Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping, likely due to differing global priorities.. Below is an overview of select speeches relevant to fintech and their implications for the sector.
1. Economic Growth and Deregulation
Donald Trump’s Return to Power
The U.S. President Donald Trump spoke virtually and delivered an aggressive agenda to stimulate economic growth, highlighting priorities including deregulation, energy independence, and domestic manufacturing. He declared that, “Under the Trump administration, there will be no better place on Earth to create jobs, build factories, or grow a company than right here in the good old USA”. He also announced $500 billion in private sector funding for AI infrastructure known as Stargate Project, and stressed that the U.S. was open for business and a hub for innovation. Trump also plans to slash corporate taxes to 15%.
Additional points from Trump's speech:
- Trump proposed tariffs on goods manufactured outside the U.S., saying: “If you don’t make your product in America, which is your prerogative, then very simply, you will have to pay a tariff.”
- He criticized oil producing countries like Saudi Arabia for keeping oil prices so high, arguing that reducing prices could hurt Russia's revenue thus putting an end to the Ukraine conflict.
- Trump said interest rates are linked to economic growth and consumer spending. He criticized prior interest rate hikes for increasing borrowing costs and called for immediate reductions in interest rates.
- Accused major banks like Bank of America for discriminating against conservatives. He also criticized the EU for its antitrust fines on American tech companies and advocated for fairer trade practices.
- Encouraged NATO member countries to increase their defense spending to 5% of GDP, highlighting the disproportionate financial burden the U.S. is carrying for being a member of NATO.
The implications of Trump’s policies should make it easier for businesses to operate -- supporting innovation and growth, cutting regulations, lowering interest rates, and investing in AI technology.
See: Trump Signs New Order for Crypto Rules, Bans CBDCs, Eyes Asset Reserve
All of these changes provide fintech companies with opportunities to grow in areas like credit services or AI driven financial tools. Tariffs and trade rules may also encourage fintech firms to build and operate within the U.S. markets (although the tariffs being talked about are largely applied to physical goods).
2. Technological Advancements and Artificial Intelligence
Ursula von der Leyen on Innovation and Values
In the European Commission President's speech by Ursula von der Leyen, she urged Europe to lead tech innovation while maintaining its regulatory frameworks. She also mentioned the importance of public-private collaborations and streamlining regulations to close the innovation gap. Asking for global cooperation to ensure ethical AI implementation and sustainable growth.
"we are likely to continue to see a frequent use of economic tools, such as sanctions, export controls and tariffs. [Its] important that we balance the imperative of safeguarding our security with our opportunity to innovate and improve our prosperity."
See: How AI Is Evolving Finance, Security, and Global Economies
Europe’s commitment to balancing innovation with strong regulations, signals an opportunity for fintechs focusing on compliance and sustainability. Companies that align with ESG standards could gain a competitive edge in Europe.
Tony Blair on AI in Governance
Former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair discussed the game-changing potential of AI in public services. He referenced Togo’s rapid development of a digital payments platform (learn more)during COVID-19 as an example of innovation driven by strong leadership. “Properly harnessed, AI can transform healthcare, education, and governance,” he said emphasizing the importance of top-down support for such initiatives. There's potential for fintechs to lead in areas like public sector payment systems, digital identity verification, and financial inclusion. Collaboration with governments could accelerate fintech adoption globally, and produce a massive win-win.
3. Global Cooperation and Sustainability
Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Europe’s Strategic Role
Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy highlighted Europe’s strategic importance in global security and economic cooperation, urging Europe to align its priorities with its allies and avoid taking a backseat to geopolitical risks. There's a role for fintech to facilitate cross-border collaboration, facilitating secure transactions and financial innovation to support economic stability.
See: 2024 Global Fintech Funding Insights for Investors & Founders
Ding Xuexiang’s Call for Multilateralism
China’s Vice-Premier Ding Xuexiang talked about the importance of multilateral cooperation to address global economic fragmentation, calling for open global markets and greater collaboration. With many calling for improved collaboration, it signals opportunities for the development of integrated payment systems for more streamlined global transactions.
“Trade wars have no winners.”
Cyril Ramaphosa’s Vision for South Africa
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa discussed Africa’s potential to lead in fintech innovation. He highlighted Africa's milestones and growth in digital transformation while calling for greater economic integration to unlock new opportunities. Africa's growing fintech ecosystem and underbanked population is a great opportunity for partnerships between global fintech firms and African governments to provide scalable and inclusive solutions that can support financial access and education for underserved populations.
“Technology is key to driving financial inclusion and economic growth across Africa."
Javier Milei on Economic Freedom
Argentinian President Javier Milei advocated for transparency and economic freedom while criticizing interventionist policies. He urged countries to embrace libertarian principles. His speech signals a more open and competitive market for fintechs in Argentina, supporting regional fintech growth and innovation.
“The winds of change are blowing in the West.”
Outlook
While the final day at Davos 2025 still remains to be seen, the convergence of technology, governance, and sustainability are key to the future of global finance, partnerships and collaboration.
See: OpenAI’s U.S. Economic Blueprint and Takeaways for Canada
Without a doubt the fintech sector will play a critical role in driving resilience, growth, inclusivity and innovation in the age of intelligence.
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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