We're all aware of Wall Street when it comes to the financial world, but with the urge for digitalization major new players are not just around the corner, but already here to shape the financial world of tomorrow. The EU has been pretty quiet in the past few years when it came to the fintech sector, but things seem to be changing.

The financial sector is changing drastically and the following years will bring more variety and opportunities than ever. Digitalization will change the way we pursue banking and address financial services. The future is still uncertain in many aspects, but one thing is for sure — the fintech sector will have a growing impact on our daily life.

While regulations around financial technology are unfolding in many countries, new opportunities are also arising at the same time for this sector. You can also check how the PSD2 Regulation will impact financial services within the EU. 👈

Record growth of investment in H1 📈🙌

Just recently, KPMG announced a record growth of investment that was established in Ireland. The report shows that the Fintech sector acquired $900 million in transactions and investment in the first half of 2021. This is a significant increase compared to last year's same period, and also beat the last record of $700 million from 2011.
Three investments are particularly important — a "$600 million buyout of Fenergo; the $200 million acquisition of Taxamo; and $76 million VC raise by Wayflyer".

Crypto regulations for Ireland & a solid plan on the horizon 💪

Another piece of news comes from BNY Mellon. The banking corporation has urged Irish officials to adopt crypto regulation and push for national cryptocurrency rules earlier than 2023, which is expected within the EU. New regulations are essential to protecting investors and making digital currencies more accessible within the EU.

Northern Ireland also took the lead within the industry and delivered a roadmap plan to accelerate growth over the next three years. This ambitious plan could put the region on the global fintech map. 📍

The focus is both on attracting foreign investors and connecting with new international partners. But investment is not the whole story. Another goal is to develop local talent and boost the economy to attract skilled workers within the region.
Besides Ireland and Northern Ireland, the EU also proposed to invest in data infrastructure and blockchain. Almost 20% of the pandemic recovery fund will be allocated to digitalization inside the region by the end of 2030. Some of the main focuses will be blockchain, 5G communication, digital infrastructure, and digital skills development amongst the EU citizens. 🇪🇺 📚

Urge for digitalisation 📲

Is the global pandemic the driving force behind these actions, or is it something else? Covid-19 was just the tip of the iceberg. It led to a higher demand for digitalization and alternative payment and banking options. The increased interest in Blockchain and DeFi might have started due to the opportunity to streamline the finance sector. Now, though, people are seeing new ways to stabilize the economy and tackle social inequality.

Financial services are becoming more accessible for everyone. Besides big corporations and financial institutions, small companies and startups also started pioneering in the fintech industry. There are massive opportunities, and this is just the beginning.

Demand is on the rise, but some questions are still unanswered. Do we have the right solutions to meet the demand? If yes, do we have enough resources and skilled workers to ensure quality services for as many people as possible? 🤔
On a macro scale, things are looking hopeful. The fintech industry grows to provide new services and conveniences and more people are throwing their hats into the game.

3 fintech companies to keep an eye on 👀

Before closing the topic, you might consider keeping a few Irish Fintech companies on your watchlist.

WhenThen, a fresh new startup, is focusing on how to improve payment flow and manage multiple transactions in minutes.
Moco is working on developing a faster and easier mortgage application experience.
Assure Hedge’s projects looks very promising as well — their focus is to simplify currency hedging.

If we zoom in, though, you will see that companies are dealing with unique challenges while developing the next fintech apps.🐺 👉 Take a look at our whitepaper on designing and building fintech apps to get an overview, plus expert advice on how to ensure your project is a success, and if you have any questions live us a comment in the chat, or don’t be afraid to drop us an email. ✅

David

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