Fintech, or financial technology, refers to the technological innovation in the design and delivery of financial services and products. Technology in finance continues to evolve; advancements include the use of Big Data, artificial intelligence (AI), and machine learning to evaluate investment opportunities, optimize portfolios, and mitigate risks.

Increasingly focused on customer outcomes, the desired outcome of fintech is the ability to provide tailored, actionable advice to investors with greater ease of access and at lower cost.

Popular careers in fintech include more general technology careers, such as cybersecurity and AI, and those increasingly more pertinent to the asset management industry: blockchain development and quantitative analysis. A fintech career path requires a strong focus on computer science, programming, mathematics, and data science, in addition to a firm understanding of the financial market, including financial instruments and products.

Popular roles associated with fintech include data scientist, research analyst, software developer, data visualizer, machine learning expert, database architect, and system administrator.

Financial firms and practitioners must position themselves for industry transformation, including leveraging the benefits of both human and artificial intelligence. Recognizing the significant impact of fintech currently and on the future direction of the asset management industry—including trading, private wealth, and quantitative methods—CFA Institute has incorporated fintech topics into the CFA Program curriculum. Topics include AI, machine learning, algorithmic trading, data science, blockchain, and robo-advising

Fintech is a fascinating field that combines finance and technology to make financial services more accessible, efficient, and innovative. Fintech companies use software and digital platforms to provide a range of services, including:

1. Mobile payments and wallets

2. Digital lending and borrowing

3. Investment and wealth management

4. Insurtech (insurance technology)

5. Blockchain and cryptocurrency

6. Fraud detection and security

7. Digital banking and neobanks

Fintech has transformed the way people interact with financial services, making it easier to manage money, transfer funds, and access credit. It's also created new opportunities for entrepreneurship, innovation, and financial inclusion.

In India, fintech has seen tremendous growth, with many startups and established companies like Paytm, PhonePe, and BharatPe leading the charge.

Fintech in India has grown rapidly over the last decade, with an adoption rate of 87% compared to the global average of 64% . The Indian fintech industry has grown dramatically in recent years, with an estimated market size of $111.14 billion in 2024 and a projected CAGR of 30.55% from 2024 to 2029 ². Key drivers of growth including government Fintech in India has grown rapidly over the last decade, with an adoption rate of 87% compared to the global average of 64%. The Indian fintech industry has grown dramatically in recent years, with an estimated market size of $111.14 billion in 2024 and a projected CAGR of 30.55% from 2024 to 2029 . Key drivers of growth include government initiatives for a cashless economy, smartphone penetration, and innovative solutions from fintech startups ³. for a cashless economy, smartphone penetration, and innovative solutions from fintech startups.