FiveT Fintech has appointed Mathias Brenner and Tobias Haeckermann as Growth Partners. The pair co-founded Sherpany, a meeting management platform that grew to serve over 450 enterprise clients, including Raiffeisen, Zurich Insurance, and Julius Baer, before its acquisition by Datasite in 2024. In their new roles, Brenner and Haeckermann will work directly with FiveT Fintech’s portfolio companies, primarily B2B software businesses serving financial services, to support growth, refine go-to-market strategies, and scale operations. The appointments coincide with the firm’s second fund, which targets Series A and later-stage companies developing software for financial services and related enterprise sectors. FiveT Fintech’s approach leverages relationships with Swiss and European financial institutions to validate market demand prior to investment and focuses on off-market opportunities, including secondaries and carve-outs. FiveT Fintech’s first fund, launched in 2020, has returned more than two-thirds of capital to investors through exits including Metaco (acquired by Ripple) and Assetmax (acquired by Infront), placing it among the top-performing venture capital funds globally. Mathias Brenner “FiveT Fintech’s demand-validation model means these companies already have traction with tier-one enterprises,” said Brenner. Tobias Haeckermann “Our role is helping them execute the playbook to scale efficiently.” Haeckermann added: “At Sherpany, we’ve seen the common pitfalls of scaling in financial services: inefficient procurement processes, difficult sales and implementation cycles, complex pricing models. Our focus is helping management teams navigate these specific challenges as they expand across European markets.”     Featured image credit: Edited by Fintech News Switzerland, based on image by lifeforstock via Freepik The post Mathias Brenner and Tobias Haeckermann Join FiveT Fintech as Growth Partners appeared first on Fintech Schweiz Digital Finance News - FintechNewsCH.

Checkout.com has partnered with Freenow by Lyft, the European taxi app, to manage digital payments across nine European markets. Freenow operates in over 180 cities in Germany, the UK, France, Italy, Spain, Poland, Greece, Austria, and Ireland, offering taxis, private hire vehicles, e-scooters, e-bikes, e-mopeds, carsharing, and public transport through a single app. Freenow selected Checkout.com for its acquiring technology, ease of integration, and expertise in local payment systems. The partnership covers payment processing across all Freenow’s European markets and provides access to AI-driven transaction insights. These analytics help identify authorisation patterns, optimise payment performance, and improve reliability for millions of users. Checkout.com has also supported Freenow’s post-paid payment model, where payment is taken after a journey. The process can be complex, particularly when initial payment attempts fail. Checkout.com introduced digital wallet options and smarter retry mechanisms to improve collection efficiency and enhance the customer experience. Chris von Rumohr “For Freenow, empowering users with effortless mobility means providing a payment experience that is inherently seamless and dependable,” said Chris von Rumohr, Vice President of Product & Engineering Fintech at Freenow by Lyft. “We chose Checkout.com for its AI-driven optimisations, high payment performance and strong local payment processing capabilities across Europe. The team took the time to understand the unique challenges of operating in the enterprise mobility market and delivered solutions that fit our needs exactly.” Antoine Nougué “Freenow by Lyft is a leader in the European taxi and mobility market, and we’re proud to partner with them as they continue to scale across Europe,” said Antoine Nougué, Chief Revenue Officer at Checkout.com. “Payments serve as a critical backbone for delivering smooth, reliable passenger experiences. By strengthening the resilience of Freenow’s payment flows and supporting complex post-paid journey models, we’re helping power their growth in the mobility ecosystem.”     Featured image credit: Edited by Fintech News Switzerland, based on image by mkmult via Freepik The post Checkout.com to Handle Payments for Freenow Across Nine European Markets appeared first on Fintech Schweiz Digital Finance News - FintechNewsCH.

Global X ETFs Europe, a provider of exchange-traded funds (ETFs), has announced the appointment of Gea Blumberg as Head of Business Development and Co-Head of Global X ETFs Europe. She will work alongside George Taylor, Chief Operating Officer and Co-Head of Global X ETFs Europe. Blumberg and Taylor will jointly shape the company’s strategic direction, with a focus on addressing the needs of both existing and prospective clients. In her role, Blumberg will oversee client-facing teams across sales, marketing, communications and investment strategy. She will be based in Germany. Global X ETFs Europe reported significant growth over the past year, with assets under management increasing from approximately US$2 billion to more than US$7 billion as of January 2026. The appointment comes amid rising demand from both institutional and retail investors. Gea Blumberg “Since entering the European market in 2020, Global X ETFs has introduced a range of distinctive solutions for European investors and established itself as a recognised participant in the European ETF market,” Blumberg said. “I am pleased to be joining Global X at this stage and to be part of the team supporting the next phase of the company’s development.”       Featured image credit: Edited by Fintech News Switzerland, based on image by masaideeabdulkoday70 via Freepik The post Global X ETFs Europe Appoints Gea Blumberg as Head of Business Development and Co-Head appeared first on Fintech Schweiz Digital Finance News - FintechNewsCH.

NCR Atleos has appointed Rohan Pal as Chief Information Officer (CIO). Pal has more than 25 years of experience in technology leadership and digital transformation, with a background in IT modernisation, cybersecurity, cloud infrastructure and digital product development. His appointment comes as Atleos continues to focus on service delivery, automation and growth. Before joining Atleos, Pal was Chief Technology Officer at WillScot, where he led changes to the company’s technology strategy, including the use of AI to improve operations. He previously served as Chief Transformation Officer at ServiceNow, advising customers and boards on digital transformation initiatives. Earlier in his career, he held senior roles across fintech, manufacturing and product transformation at organisations including Brinks, Tyco, HD Supply and Home Depot. Rohan Pal “I am joining Atleos at a pivotal time,” Pal said. “I look forward to working with the team to advance digital transformation and support our customers’ needs.” Pal holds an MBA from Dartmouth’s Tuck School of Business, a Master’s degree in Supply Chain Strategy from Georgia Tech, a Master’s degree in Computer Engineering from St. Mary’s University and a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science from Trinity University.     Featured image credit: Edited by Fintech News Switzerland, based on image by noob via Freepik The post NCR Atleos Appoints Rohan Pal as Chief Information Officer appeared first on Fintech Schweiz Digital Finance News - FintechNewsCH.

McLaren Racing has entered a multi-year partnership with Hedera Foundation to use the Hedera public network for decentralised applications. Hedera will be an Official Partner of both the McLaren Mastercard Formula 1 Team and the Arrow McLaren IndyCar Team. The collaboration will connect racing operations with Web3 infrastructure, providing fans with digital experiences and officially licensed activations. McLaren Racing’s first initiative on Hedera will be a digital collectibles programme, with free-to-claim items released during F1 Grand Prix weekends. Arrow McLaren IndyCar digital collectibles will also return for the 2026 season, including experiences, prizes, and incentives for fans. Hedera branding will appear on McLaren’s Formula 1 car and driver race suits, as well as the No. 6 and No. 7 Arrow McLaren Chevrolets and team kit. Nick Martin, Co-Chief Commercial Officer at McLaren Racing, said: Nick Martin “Innovation off the track is just as important as performance on it. Partnering with Hedera allows us to deliver Web3 experiences for our fans. We’re excited to welcome Hedera to the McLaren family as we continue to push boundaries on and off the track.”     Featured image credit: McLaren Racing The post McLaren Racing Partners with Hedera Foundation for Web3 Initiatives appeared first on Fintech Schweiz Digital Finance News - FintechNewsCH.

The Canton of St. Gallen has launched a new online portal, Startup-Guide, to simplify and digitalise company formation and related processes. Business founders can now complete company registrations and commercial register updates entirely online. Free tools and advisory services are also available to support planning. The portal provides resources for developing and reviewing business models and preparing business plans. It includes templates, examples, and practical guidance. Users can also access information on the cantonal startup ecosystem and relevant events. At the centre of Startup-Guide is a digital formation service. Founders can complete all key steps of company registration online. The service prepares all required documents in line with legal requirements. Users sign them digitally, and the system submits them directly to the commercial register. This removes the need to visit a notary or municipal office. Existing companies can also manage commercial register updates online. “The Startup-Guide marks an important step in implementing St. Gallen’s startup support strategy,” said the cantonal government. The portal was developed and is maintained by the IFJ Institut für Jungunternehmen. It complements the cantonal startup advisory offices in Buchs, Rapperswil-Jona, and St. Gallen. The government sees the digital service as part of broader efforts to improve the canton’s innovation and business environment. In parallel, the Office for Commercial Registers and Notaries, together with SECO and the cantons of Lucerne and Zurich, is developing a portal for all commercial register services. St. Gallen aims to position itself as an innovation hub linking education, research, and industry. Other initiatives include advancing SME innovation support, establishing a new vocational and continuing education centre in Rapperswil-Jona, constructing Campus Platztor for University of St. Gallen students, and creating a joint professorship with ETH Zurich and Empa.     Featured image credit: Edited by Fintech News Switzerland, based on image by thanyakij-12 via Freepik The post St. Gallen Launches Digital Portal for Company Formation appeared first on Fintech Schweiz Digital Finance News - FintechNewsCH.

The partnership between Yuh and BSC Young Boys (YB) will be expanded from the 2026/27 season, with Yuh becoming the main shirt sponsor of YB’s first men’s team in domestic competitions. In international competitions, the shirt sponsorship will be carried by Yuh’s parent company, Swissquote. The move builds on the existing relationship between the two organisations. Since May 2025, Yuh has been a premium partner of the YB women’s team. Jan De Schepper “We are pleased to expand our existing partnership with YB,” said Jan De Schepper, CEO of Yuh. “YB stands for ambition, continuity and a strong connection with its supporters, values that also guide Yuh as a company. This commitment reflects our support for Swiss football and the YB organisation.” YB Chairman of the Board Marcel Brülhart said the partnership aligns with the club’s long-term objectives. Marcel Brülhart “Our goal is to continue developing YB across all areas and to be well prepared for the future. The collaboration with Yuh as our new main partner fits well with this direction. Yuh’s long-term commitment is an important sign of trust.” Further joint activities involving Yuh users and the YB fan community are planned as part of the partnership.     Featured image credit: Yuh The post Yuh Becomes Main Partner of BSC Young Boys Men’s Team appeared first on Fintech Schweiz Digital Finance News - FintechNewsCH.

UBS is planning to make cryptocurrency investing available to some private banking clients, a move that would mark a notable shift into digital assets for one of the world’s largest wealth managers. The Swiss banking group, which oversaw about US$4.7 trillion in wealth assets as of Sept 30, is in the process of selecting partners for a potential crypto offering, people familiar with the matter told Bloomberg. Discussions have been ongoing for several months, and UBS has not yet made a final decision. UBS is expected to initially allow select private banking clients in Switzerland to buy and sell Bitcoin and Ether, before potentially expanding the offering to Asia Pacific markets and the US. Offering direct access to cryptocurrencies would represent a change in stance for UBS, which has historically been cautious on digital tokens. The shift comes as peers such as JPMorgan Chase and Morgan Stanley expand their crypto-related services following Donald Trump’s return to the White House, increasing competitive pressure across global wealth management. “As part of UBS’s digital asset strategy, we actively monitor developments and explore initiatives that reflect client needs, regulatory developments, market trends and robust risk controls,” a UBS spokesperson said. “We recognise the importance of distributed ledger technology like blockchain, which underpins digital assets.” Until now, UBS has focused its digital asset efforts on blockchain-based infrastructure, including tokenised funds and payments, rather than crypto trading. Like other global banks, strict capital requirements under the Basel III framework have constrained UBS. UBS has previously allowed wealthy clients in Hong Kong to trade crypto-linked exchange-traded funds and continues to assess broader opportunities as institutional involvement in digital assets grows.     Featured image credit: Edited by Fintech News Switzerland, based on image by jofreepik via Freepik The post UBS Plans Crypto Trading for Select Private Banking Clients appeared first on Fintech Schweiz Digital Finance News - FintechNewsCH.

Nu has entered a multi-year partnership with the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team, becoming an Official Team Partner ahead of the 2026 FIA Formula One World Championship season. The partnership offers Nu a platform to reach a global audience of over 827 million Formula One fans, with particular focus on Latin America, the US and other strategic markets. It aligns with Nu’s long-term growth strategy, supporting engagement in Brazil, Mexico and Colombia, countries with strong F1 followings. Founded in 2013, Nu serves over 127 million customers worldwide, challenging traditional banking with a digital-first approach and AI-driven technology. Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team, one of the sport’s most successful teams, has won eight Constructors’ and nine Drivers’ World Championships. The partnership will include on- and off-track branding and fan activations, featuring drivers George Russell and Kimi Antonelli, as well as CEO and Team Principal Toto Wolff. Cristina Junqueira “F1 is one of the few truly global fan platforms, and the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team is a defining force in the sport,” said Cristina Junqueira, co-Founder, Chief Growth Officer and CEO of Nu’s emerging US business. “This partnership gives us a powerful opportunity to connect with hundreds of millions of fans. There is much more to come.” Toto Wolff “Innovation and disruption is at the heart of everything we do and our partnership with Nu reflects those joint values,” said Wolff. “We have a shared commitment to pushing boundaries and finding smarter, more efficient ways to perform.”     Featured image credit: Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 The post Nu Joins Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team as Official Partner appeared first on Fintech Schweiz Digital Finance News - FintechNewsCH.

With more than 1,600 fintech companies, among which some of the sector’s most successful and valuable ventures, London is one of the largest and most prominent fintech hubs globally. This burgeoning fintech ecosystem has made the city a premier destination for fintech events, attracting industry leaders from around the world to explore opportunities and address emerging challenges. Among the many conferences scheduled in the coming months, the following 14 stand out as the most significant gatherings in the first half of 2026. These events are expected to bring together top decision-makers, regulators, and innovators to shape the future of the sector and foster collaboration.   Top Fintech Events to Attend in London in H1 2026 TechEx Global February 04-05, 2026 Olympia, London, United Kingdom TechEx Global will take place on February 04 and 05, 2026, at Olympia in London. It is an international technology conference designed for senior technology leaders, including CIOs, CTOs, IT directors, enterprise architects, and other decision-makers from large enterprises and the public sector. The event will provide a strategic overview of key technology areas such as AI, cyber security, the Internet of Things (IoT), data infrastructure, and digital transformation. Participants will get to understand current and emerging trends, identify priorities, reduce risk in transformation initiatives, and make informed decisions about their technology roadmaps. TechEx Global will bring together multiple technology-focused conferences under one umbrella. With a single ticket, attendees can access seven co-located events covering AI and big data, digital transformation, data centers, and intelligent automation. The event is expected to welcome around 8,000 attendees, feature more than 200 speakers, and host over 150 exhibitors. Confirmed speakers in 2026 include: Daria Catalui, CISO, Allianz Rod Evans, EMEA VP, Supercomputing & AI, NVIDIA Paul Watts, CISO, Keyword Studios Dr Anne Meckbach, Chief Compliance Officer, BestSecret Group Paul Yates, CIO, ING Andrea Willem, Chief Global Data Protection Officer, Portobello Group Patty O’Callaghan, Technical Director, Head of AI (Architecture and Engineering Group), Charles River Laboratories Eric Bobek, Global Director Analytics, Just Eat Takeaway.com Fabrizio Degni, Chief of AI, Webuild Anca Lordanescu, VP Engineering, Store of the Future, IKEA Sebastian Raaff, AI and Innovation Change Director, Novartis Konstantina Kapetanidi, VP, Global Data Solutions & Head of Data Science, Europe, Visa Monika Kashyap, Head of Decisioning, Customer Lifecycle, CMB, HSBC Daniel Cuthbert, Global Head of Research, Santander Andrei Muraru, Head of Automation, Superbet Alex Gomez, VP, Global Head of IT Security, Risk and Compliance, Adecco Group Amrutha Saseendran, GenAI Tech Lead, AstraZeneca Dr Nikos Papapesios, Associate, Head of Innovation Analytics, Knight Frank Rogin Robert, Senior Solutions Engineering Manager, Forvis Mazars Group Ahmed Elahi, Senior Director of AI & Technology Transformation, SkyShowtime Divyansh Saxena, VP of AI & Data, HomeServe EMEA Pedro Fonseca, Head of Cloud Center of Excellence, Saint-Gobain Finovate Europe 2026 February 10-11, 2026 InterContinental O2, London, United Kingdom Finovate Europe 2026 will take place on February 10 and 11, 2026, at the InterContinental O2 in London. It is a leading European fintech conference focused on showcasing market-ready innovations, facilitating executive-level networking, and providing practical insights into the future of financial services. The event brings together senior banking leaders, investors, fintech innovators, and technology providers to explore how financial services are evolving. Finovate Europe is designed for decision-makers who are directly involved in transformation, partnerships, and technology adoption within banks and financial institutions. The 2026 edition is expected to welcome more than 1,000 senior-level attendees, including over 500 participants from banks, investors, and financial institutions. The program will feature more than 100 speakers, over 30 live product demonstrations, and thousands of one-to-one and small-group meetings across the two days. The conference program will span eight stages over two days, delivering insights into digital transformation, technology adoption, customer experience, and revenue growth. It will cover a broad range of fintech themes through keynote presentations, expert panels, and interactive demos. Key topics will include customer experience and personalization, embedded finance, AI, payments, open banking, fraud prevention and security, lending, digital banking, wealth management and investing, cryptocurrencies and stablecoins, small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) and small business banking, and financial inclusion. Confirmed speakers include: Ishtiaq M Ahmed, Senior Product Manager, Emerging Tech, Innovation & Ventures, HSBC; Michelle Rockson, Senior People Partner, Starling Bank; Victor Alexiev, Global Head Venture Investments and Partnerships, Citi; Suraya Randawa, Head of Omnichannel Experience, Curinos; Thea Loch, Head of Strategic Planning, Lloyds Banking Group; and Matthijs van Voorst, Director Strategic Partnerships, ABN AMRO. New for 2026, Finovate Europe will introduce Impact+: the Funders and Founders Spotlight. This dedicated session will connect early-stage fintech founders with leading investors through startup pitches and investor-led discussions to support innovation and foster direct engagement. MoneyLIVE Summit 2026 March 09-10, 2026 Business Design Centre, London, United Kingdom MoneyLIVE Summit 2026 will take place on March 09 and 10, 2026 at the Business Design Centre in London. It is a leading international conference focused on the future of banking and payments, bringing together senior executives and decision-makers from across the financial services ecosystem. Hosted in London, MoneyLIVE Summit positions itself as a key forum for setting strategic direction in banking, payments, and financial innovation. The event is designed to unite established financial institutions, technology providers, regulators, investors, and fintech startups to discuss the challenges and opportunities shaping the industry. The 2026 edition will cover a wide range of strategic and operational topics relevant to banking and payments leaders. Day one will focus on long-term strategy, innovation, and transformation, which key themes including future banking strategies, intelligent customer experience, next-generation payments, digital identity and authentication, core banking and data transformation, climate and sustainability challenges, and the evolution of customer journeys and propositions. Day two will examine competitive pressures and regulatory and structural change in the sector, addressing topics including responding to digital challengers, FIDA and open finance, commercial payments, regulatory simplification, central bank digital currencies and digital assets, and the future of building societies. MoneyLIVE Summit 2026 is expected to attract more than 2,000 attendees, with approximately 75% holding C-level, director, vice president, or head-of-function roles, and around 60% being from financial institutions. The program will feature more than 200 speakers across two days, including: Vim Maru, Chief Executive Officer, Barclays; Dr Francesca Carlesi, Chief Executive Officer, Revolut; Marnix van Stiphout, Chief Operating Officer, ING; Amit Thawani, Chief Information Officer, Lloyds Banking Group; James Reid, Central Communities, Chief Information Officer, Nationwide Building Society; William O’ Carroll, Chief Risk Officer, Handelsbanken; Bianca Zwart, Chief Strategy Officer, bunq; and Divya Bhardwaj, Chief Operating Officer, Uber Payments. CX BFSI Exchange 2026 March 16-17, 2026 Hilton Syon Park, London, United Kingdom The CX BFSI Exchange 2026 will take place on March 16 and 17, 2026, at the Hilton Syon Park in London. Now in its 15th edition, it is a premier invitation-only forum for C-level executives in customer experience (CX), operations, digital, and transformation within the financial services sector. The 2026 edition will focus on helping financial institutions leverage data, empathy, and AI to create differentiated, end-to-end customer experiences that drive loyalty and commercial outcomes. Attendees will gain access to case studies, collaborative think tanks, and personalized agendas, allowing them to benchmark strategies against the UK’s most forward-thinking institutions. Key themes and discussions at the exchange will include: Make Smarter CX ROI; Capitalizing on AI for operational and CX gains; Fraud prevention and customer trust; and Accessible finance and consumer duty. The CX BFSI Exchange 2026 is expected to host over 80 attendees, more than 25 speakers, 15 sponsors, and 150 pre-scheduled one-to-one meetings. The forum also offers sponsorship and exhibition opportunities for companies seeking to engage senior BFSI decision-makers with actionable CX solutions. FTT Lending 2026 March 18, 2026 etc.venues by Convene, County Hall, London, United Kingdom FTT Lending 2026 will take place on March 18, 2026 at etc.venues by Convene, County Hall, London. The event is designed for the next generation of lenders, fintech companies, technology innovators, and non-financial brands shaping the future of lending. FTT Lending 2026 will bring together senior executives to explore key trends, challenges, and opportunities across consumer and business lending, alternative finance, embedded lending, and the transformative impact of emerging technologies such as AI. It will examine how lenders can address the financing gap for SMEs, and ways lenders can create tailored financing solutions. Consumer-driven lending will also be a key theme, highlighting strategies to design products and experiences that respond to real customer needs, fostering trust and engagement. The forum will address green and sustainable finance, exploring how lenders can increase access to sustainable funding while managing associated risks. In addition, the conference will cover emerging ending models and technologies, including digital mortgages, buy now, pay later (BNPL) solutions, AI-driven credit scoring, and ethical collections to highlight innovation within the sector. FTT Lending 2026 will feature multiple stages designed to deliver practical insights: The FTT Lending Plenary Stage will include keynote presentations and discussions on the next frontier in lending, the explainability of AI in lending decisions, and balancing risk, regulation, and resilience; The Lending Lab Stage will cover strategies for engaging modern borrowers, the future of BNPL following regulatory changes, the digital mortgage revolution, advanced credit scoring, ethical collections, regulatory compliance, and initiatives to improve financial literacy; and The Funding Lab Stage will focus on leveraging data and AI for small business lending, exploring crypto and stablecoin applications in SME finance, supporting underrepresented founders, navigating trade finance in complex markets, and implementing sustainable lending practices. FTT Lending 2026 is expected to attract over 600 attendees, including 300 lenders and more than 120 speakers, with approximately 60% of participants identified as technology buyers. Insurtech Insights Europe 2026 March 18-19, 2026 InterContinental London, The O2, London, United Kingdom Insurtech Insights Europe 2026 will take place on March 18 and 19 2026, at the InterContinental London, The O2, in London, bringing together over 6,000 executives, entrepreneurs, investors, and industry professionals from across the insurance and technology sectors. The event aims to offer a platform for learning, networking, and discovering emerging technologies that are shaping the future of insurance. Insurtech Insights Europe 2026 will provide attendees with insights into strategic and operational challenges facing the industry, helping them stay ahead of emerging trends and seize new opportunities. With six dedicated stages, sessions will address topics including regulatory compliance, technology implementation, operational efficiency, customer experience, and real-world applications of insurtech solutions. Networking will also be a central feature of the event. Attendees will get to connect with over 6,000 insurance and insurtech professionals from around the world using the conference’s networking app, which enables the pre-booking of one-to-one meetings to maximize engagement and ensure a personalized experience. They will get to meet solution providers and insurance companies to explore collaborations and commercial deals. Insurtech Insights Europe 2026 will also provide early exposure to emerging technologies. Startups and technology providers will demonstrate their solutions on stage, offering insurers the opportunity to explore cutting-edge innovations that enhance efficiency, improve operations, and accelerate adoption of new tools. CX in Financial Services Forum 2026 March 25, 2026 One America Square, 1 America Square, 17 Crosswall, London The CX in Financial Services Forum 2026, taking place on March 25, 2026, promises a premier gathering of financial services professionals focused on transforming customer experience. This forum will bring together hundreds of CX leaders, innovators, and industry experts for a full day of panel discussions, presentations, product demonstrations, and networking opportunities. Attendees will explore the latest breakthroughs in customer experience, digital engagement, and AI-powered personalization, meeting the leaders who are redefining how financial services connect with their customers. They will gain insights into the trends and innovations transforming customer experience, engage in high-level discussions, and discover new ways to strengthen customer loyalty and deliver long-term value. The 2026 agenda will include sessions on the future of CX, strategies for delivering seamless, personalized experiences in a digital-first world, balancing personalization with privacy and compliance, the use of AI and automation to enhance service while maintaining the human touch, and building unified, real-time customer insights to enable smarter decision-making. Confirmed speakers include: Ross Liston, Chief Executive Officer, M&G Wealth; Libby Denchfield, Chief Platform & Function Officer, Standard Chartered; Lindsay Thompson, Head of EMEA & APAC Client Success, BNY; Mary Burnett, Head of Customer and Analytics, Bank of Ireland; Adam Tarpey, Head of SME Lending, Starling Bank; Elena Konovalova, Head of Data Analytics, Paysend; Siddesh Samarth, Head of Data Integration Platforms, Data and Analytics, Nationwide Building Society; Ella Hugh, Director of Proposition and SX, Rathbones; and Tasneem Bhamji, Digital Engagement Director, Customer Engagement, Lloyds Banking Group. PAY360 2026 March 25-26, 2026 Hall S6, ExCeL London, London, United Kingdom PAY360 2026, scheduled on March 25 and 26, 2026, promises one of the largest and most comprehensive payments events in Europe, bringing together the entire payments ecosystem under one roof. Taking place over two days at ExCeL London, the event will welcome more than 6,000 attendees, over 200 global speakers, and 150 exhibitors from across the payments landscape. Participants will include policymakers, regulators, banks, merchants, fintech startups, big technology firms, card networks, acquirers, and processors, creating a truly end-to-end view of the industry. As an industry association-led event, PAY360 will be designed to inform, connect, and shape the future of payments. The conference will be entirely dedicated to payments, reflecting the sector’s rapid growth and the need for collaboration, innovation, and shared standards. The 2026 PAY360 conference program will feature speakers from across the global payments ecosystem, all sharing insights on one main stage. Sessions will focus on practical challenges and emerging opportunities, where ideas are translated into real-world action. Networking will be supported through AI-powered tools that will allow attendees to identify relevant contacts and arrange meetings before the event begins. The program will also include Fintechs’ Pitch Live, where emerging fintech companies will compete on stage to showcase solutions that aim to transform payments. UK Fintech Week 2026 April 20-24, 2026 United Kingdom UK Fintech Week 2026 will take place from April 20 to 24, 2026 and will bring together the full breadth of the UK and global fintech ecosystem for a week of discussion, insight, and connection. Throughout the week, fintech founders, entrepreneurs, investors, banking executives, regulators, policymakers, academics, and members of the media from around the world will convene to exchange ideas, debate key issues, and build relationships. The program will open on April 21, 2026, at the Guildhall in London with the International Fintech Global Summit (IFGS). As the flagship event of UK Fintech Week, IFGS is expected to welcome more than 1,500 attendees from over 70 countries, attracting senior leaders and innovators from across the global fintech community to examine the most pressing challenges and opportunities facing the industry. Attendees will gain insight into emerging trends, evolving policies and regulation, and perspectives from fintech unicorns on the future of financial services, alongside extensive opportunities to network. On April 22, 2026, the flagship pitching competition Pitch360 in London will feature ten fintech companies presenting innovative ideas with the potential to shape the future of finance. Each company will have three minutes to pitch, after which the winner will be selected by a combination of audience participation and an expert judging panel. On April 23, 2026, the UK Fintech Academic Network Annual Conference will provide a forum for the discussion of leading academic research in fintech, bringing together researchers, finance practitioners, policymakers, and regulators to explore how academic insight can inform real-world practice and policy. Finally, UK Fintech Week 2026 will conclude on April 23, 2026, with the official closing party in London from 6:00. The event will offer attendees an opportunity to unwind, enjoy refreshments, and continue networking with participants from IFGS and across UK Fintech Week as the program draws to a close. Tech.eu Summit London 2026 April 21-22, 2026 Queen Elizabeth II Centre, London, United Kingdom The Tech.eu Summit London 2026 will take place April 21 and 22, 2026, at the Queen Elizabeth II Centre, bringing together leaders from the global startup and investment ecosystem. Over two days, the event will host in-depth discussions, high-level networking opportunities and collaborative sessions, placing London once again at the centre of Europe’s technology landscape. Founders, investors, senior executives, and policymakers from across Europe and international markets will participate in a program of keynote sessions, panel discussions, and curated networking. Topics will include AI, fintech, software-as-a-service (SaaS), sustainability, and emerging technologies, with an emphasis on practical insight and investment perspectives. The summit will also provide opportunities for fund managers to connect with potential limited partners, identify co-investment partners, and engage with a curated group of promising startups. A sponsorship program is available for funds and organizations seeking to raise visibility and attract new investment. Confirmed speakers for 2026 include: Agata Nowicka, Managing Partner, AI Visionaries; Ali Morrow, Partner, Clay Capital; Cecilia Ma, Investment Manager, Norrsken VC; Deepka Rana, Principal, Northzone; Hussein Kanji, Partner, Hoxton Ventures; Iwona Biernat, Policy Advocate & Legal Strategist, EU-Inc Petition; Jessica Lennard, Chief Strategy & External Affairs Officer, Competition and Markets Authority; Joel Udden, Principal, Ventech; Laura Modiano, Head of Startups EMEA, OpenAI; Laura Waldenstrom, Principal, Earlybird; Malin Posern, Partner, Project A Ventures; Maren Bannon, Co-Founder and Managing Partner, January Ventures; and Max Ohrstrand, Partner, SoftBank Investment Advisers. Digital Money Summit 2026 May 19-20, 2026 116 Pall Mall, St James’s, London, United Kingdom The Digital Money Summit 2026 will take place on May 19 and 20, 2026 at 116 Pall Mall in St James’s, London. This in-person international forum will bring together senior stakeholders from government, central banks, financial institutions and technology firms to address the rapid evolution of digital money. This summit will focus on translating innovation into practical, secure and well-regulated outcomes for the global financial system. The agenda will examine the rise of new forms of money, including stablecoins and tokenized deposits, and their implications for financial stability, monetary policy and market infrastructure. Discussions will explore how banks and non-banks are issuing tokenized liabilities, whether new infrastructures are required to allow tokenized money to move seamlessly across institutions, and how initiatives such as regulated liability networks may shape future payments ecosystems. A significant part of the program will be dedicated to Europe’s strategic autonomy in digital finance, with a particular focus on the digital euro. Sessions will analyze whether a digital euro can counterbalance the growing influence of large global technology firms in payments, how interoperable European solutions can be developed with offline functionality to ensure inclusion and resilience, and how governance, legal and technical standards can ensure that central bank money and tokenized deposits coexist while preserving monetary sovereignty. The summit will also address cross-border payments, reviewing progress against the G20 vision of faster, cheaper and more inclusive international transfers, as well as the development of resilient domestic instant payments systems. Topics will include the use of advanced analytics and AI in fraud prevention, the linking of instant payment systems across borders, the influence of digital assets on payments and foreign exchange, and the changing role of digital wallets in consumer behavior. The program will conclude with an examination of blockchain’s role in financial services, covering regulatory and operational challenges, responsibilities in decentralized systems, and principles for technology-agnostic regulation. London Insurance Week 2026 June 01-05, 2026 London, United Kingdom London Insurance Week 2026 will be held from June 01 to 05, 2026 in London and is expected to attract more than 2,500 attendees and over 100 speakers from across the global insurance ecosystem. The event will combine a large-scale conference with immersive formats designed to encourage interaction and deal-making. These include dedicated innovation zones showcasing cutting-edge products, high-impact stages led by industry leaders, executive deal rooms for curated discussions, interactive living labs for real-time product demonstrations, and structured dialogues with regulators and standards bodies. Meanwhile, networking lounges and cross-pollination hubs will foster collaboration between insurers, reinsurers, brokers, technology providers and policymakers. This year’s conference theme, “Forge the Future: Innovation, Regulation & Beyond,” will put an emphasis on shaping the next phase of insurance through technology, policy and collaboration. The agenda will be structured around several core focus pillars that reflect the most pressing challenges facing the industry. These include: The climate crisis and the need to develop new models for resilient coverage in the face of increasing climate volatility; AI and cyber threats, as insurers confront rapidly evolving digital risks; Economic volatility, with a focus on protecting policyholders amid inflation and global uncertainty; Talent shortages driven by demographic change and shifting workforce expectations; and Regulatory complexity arising from fast-changing and multi-jurisdictional compliance requirements. London Tech Week 2026 June 08-12, 2026 London, United Kingdom London Tech Week 2026 will take place from June 08 to 12, 2026, across London and will convene the innovators, investors, enterprises, and policymakers shaping the future of technology and business. The event aims to serve as a platform for connecting the entire tech ecosystem, from early-stage startups to global enterprises, and for exploring how technology and AI are transforming industries and society. This year’s program will be designed to support collaboration between startups, enterprise leaders, and investors. Founders and startup teams will have the opportunity to connect with investors, meet future partners, and learn from peers who are scaling businesses across the UK and Europe. Enterprise leaders will gain insight into how emerging technologies are being adopted to improve productivity, efficiency, and competitiveness. Meanwhile, investors, including VC firms, corporate venture funds, and angel investors, will be able to identify new opportunities and use enhanced networking tools to connect with relevant stakeholders. Speakers confirmed for London Tech Week 2026 include: Mati Staniszewski, Co-Founder & CEO, ElevenLabs; Anton Osika, Co-Founder & CEO, Lovable; Alan Chang, Co-Founder & CEO, Fuse Energy; Jeannette zu Fürstenberg, Managing Director & Head of Europe, General Catalyst; Miki Kuusi, CEO, Deliveroo; Alex Kendall, Founder & CEO, Wayve; Toyin Ajayi, Co-Founder, Cityblock Health; Ling Ge, Chief Investment & Strategy Officer, EMEA, Tencent; Max Jaderberg, Co-Founder & President, Isomorphic Labs; and Lucy Liu, Co-Founder & President, Airwallex. PayTech Awards 2026 June 25, 2026 Honourable Artillery Company, London The PayTech Awards 2026 will take place on June 25, 2026 at the Honourable Artillery Company in London. The awards ceremony will celebrate innovation and excellence across the payments, paytech, and fintech sectors, recognizing outstanding achievements by organizations, teams, and individuals from around the world. Building on the scale of the previous year, the 2026 awards edition is expected to bring together more than 200 senior leaders from banking and paytech, representing over 50 banks, paytech firms, and technology providers. Winners will be recognized across a wide range of categories, reflecting innovation, impact, and excellence in projects, products, services, and leadership. The evening will combine the awards ceremony with networking, dining, and entertainment in one of London’s most distinctive venues. The PayTech Awards are open to banks, financial institutions, payment institutions, fintech and paytech companies, technology and service providers, as well as individual professionals and teams. Nominations are assessed by an independent panel of expert judges with extensive experience in banking and payment technology. Submissions are evaluated on the basis of innovation, impact, effectiveness, and evidence-based results.   Featured image: Edited by Fintech News Switzerland, based on image by alicephoto via Freepik The post Top 14 Fintech Events to Attend in London in H1 2026 appeared first on Fintech Schweiz Digital Finance News - FintechNewsCH.

Tinaba with Banca Profilo has announced the launch of digital payments in the Chinese mainland. This move extends its strategic partnership with Ant International’s Alipay+. The new service enables Tinaba users to pay at over 80 million merchants across China. Customers can complete these transactions by simply scanning a QR code directly within the app. Through the Pay Worldwide with Alipay+ feature, travellers can conduct transactions in Euros with transparent exchange rates. This eliminates the need to install local applications or open a Chinese bank account. Such a feature proves vital in the Chinese mainland, where digital payments dominate, and cash usage continues to fade. Matteo Arpe, President of Tinaba with Banca Profilo, described the entry into the Chinese market as a strategic step for the company’s global positioning. Matteo Arpe “Being able to offer our customers simple, secure and fully integrated access to this ecosystem means strengthening Tinaba’s international positioning as an open, innovative financial platform truly focused on global mobility,” Arpe said. The initiative supports the growing travel corridor between Italy and China, currently boosted by visa-free entry for Italian visitors. Pietro Candela, General Manager of EMEA at Alipay+, noted that the collaboration allows Italian travellers to “shop and dine like a local”. He emphasised that this benefit is delivered while maintaining a familiar user experience. The launch follows strong growth in cross-border digital wallet usage. Notably, Tinaba recorded a 133% increase in transaction volume through Alipay+ in 2025. In the coming months, the app plans to integrate Alipay+ Voyager, an AI-powered travel companion. Users can rely on the tool to assist with itinerary planning and bookings. This article first appeared on Fintech News Hong Kong. Featured image by Tinaba via LinkedIn. The post Tinaba Extends Alipay+ Pact, Enabling Payments in China appeared first on Fintech Schweiz Digital Finance News - FintechNewsCH.

Crypto custody firm BitGo priced its US$ initial public offering above its expected range on 21 January, raising US$212.8 million and marking the first stock market debut by a digital asset company in 2026. The Palo Alto, California-based firm sold 11.8 million shares at US$18 each, above the marketed range of US$15 to US$17, giving BitGo a valuation of US$2.08 billion, according to Reuters. The IPO comes amid uncertainty in the US crypto industry, as lawmakers advance a market structure bill that could redefine securities and commodities oversight, while major players such as Coinbase have warned it may constrain core business activities. A sharp sell-off in cryptocurrencies in October has hit the sector, complicating efforts to attract investor backing. Other crypto-focused firms, including asset manager Grayscale and reportedly cryptocurrency exchange Kraken, are reportedly planning IPOs this year, with BitGo’s listing seen as a test of market appetite. Founded in 2013, BitGo is among the largest crypto custody providers in the US, offering secure storage of digital assets at a time when institutional interest in cryptocurrencies is increasing.     Featured image credit: Edited by Fintech News Switzerland, based on image by thanyakij-12 via Freepik The post BitGo Raises $212.8M in IPO, First Crypto Listing of 2026 appeared first on Fintech Schweiz Digital Finance News - FintechNewsCH.

Deutsche Börse Group and Allfunds have entered a binding agreement for the recommended acquisition of Allfunds by Deutsche Börse Group. Allfunds shareholders will receive €8.80 per share. This includes €6.00 in cash, 0.0122 Deutsche Börse shares per Allfunds share (valued at €2.60), and a permitted 2025 cash dividend of up to €0.20 per share. Additional permitted dividends may be paid in future periods. The deal values Allfunds at approximately €5.3 billion. This represents a 32.5% premium to the 26 November 2025 closing price and 40.3% above the three-month average. Allfunds shareholders must approve the acquisition through a Court-sanctioned scheme of arrangement under the UK Companies Act 2006. Approval requires a majority by number and at least 75% by value of votes. The Allfunds Board unanimously supports the acquisition. Deutsche Börse has received irrevocable undertakings covering 48.9% of issued shares, including commitments from the two largest shareholders and Allfunds Directors. Annabel Spring, CEO of Allfunds, said: Annabel Spring “With Deutsche Börse Group, our complementary footprints and capabilities create a world-class player with global reach and local relationships, which will better support distributors and fund partners.” Stephan Leithner, CEO of Deutsche Börse Group, said: Stephan Leithner “This acquisition represents the next step in the development of Deutsche Börse Group as a European champion in providing critical infrastructure to the financial markets.” Deutsche Börse expects annual pre-tax cost synergies of €60 million and capital expenditure savings of €30 million, with about half realized by year-end 2028. Deutsche Börse expects the acquisition to increase cash EPS in the first full year after completion, which it anticipates in the first half of 2027, subject to regulatory approval. The company has fully committed funding for the cash consideration.   Featured image credit: Edited by Fintech News Switzerland, based on image by thanyakij-12 via Freepik The post Deutsche Börse to Acquire Allfunds for €5.3 Billion appeared first on Fintech Schweiz Digital Finance News - FintechNewsCH.

As the first major milestone of the global financial calendar, the 19th Asian Financial Forum AFF returns to Hong Kong on 26 and 27 January 2026, bringing together policymakers, investors, and business leaders at a moment of global economic recalibration. Co-organised by the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), this year’s forum boasts a fresh yet apt tagline: “Finance Empowering Business.” The event is set to be a pragmatic response to a world in flux, centred on the theme “Co-creating New Horizons Amid an Evolving Landscape.” Across two days, the forum will host a broad programme of panel discussions, keynote addresses, thematic luncheons, and breakfast sessions. Key agenda highlights include the Global Economic Outlook, CIO Insights, Asset and Wealth Management, Trade Finance and Supply Chain Management, and the Gold Exchange. These sessions will examine major economic developments, forward-looking economic forecasts, and some of the most pressing issues influencing finance and the industry as a whole. Global Business Summit Brings Finance and Industry Into Focus The Global Business Summit will make its debut on the second day of the forum, and is co-organised by the Financial Services and the Treasury Bureau of the Hong Kong SAR Government, HKTDC, and the Office for Attracting Strategic Enterprises. Discussions will span some consequential themes faced by businesses today, including AI and technology adoption, shifting consumer behaviour, biomedicine and healthcare, as well as green energy. Speakers will provide grounded perspectives on how capital is being applied to real-world growth. Featured speakers from the Middle East include Mohammed Mahfoodh Alardhi, Executive Chairman of Investcorp Holdings BSC (c); H.E. Waleed Saeed Abdul Salam Al Awadhi, Chief Executive Officer of the Securities and Commodities Authority; and H.E. Younis Al Khoori, Undersecretary at the Ministry of Finance of the United Arab Emirates. The programme will also focus on cross-border expansion, exploring how mainland enterprises can scale internationally and how global companies can establish or deepen their presence in the Chinese Mainland. Several senior corporate executives will assess how Hong Kong’s international connectivity, regulatory depth, and capital markets continue to support investment, collaboration, and innovation across borders. For context, speakers from Hong Kong include Paul Chan, the Financial Secretary for the government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region and Raymond Chan, the Executive Director (Enforcement and AML) of the Hong Kong Monetary Authority. A strong turnout of leading business figures and corporate representatives is expected in person. AFF Deal-making Connects 8000 Companies In Partnerships As Asia’s flagship annual financial and business event, the Asian Financial Forum has continuously refined its platform to support deeper connectivity and practical cooperation. In response to growing demand for more outcome-oriented engagement, the forum introduced AFF Deal-making, a global investment matching initiative designed to enable efficient and meaningful partnerships. The platform is co-organised with the Hong Kong Venture Capital and Private Equity Association and connects project owners, private equity firms, investors, high net worth individuals, intermediaries, and professional service providers. Since its launch, AFF Deal-making has engaged 8,000 companies and facilitated over 10,000 business meetings. In 2026, AFF Deal-making will adopt a hybrid format. In-person matching sessions will take place during the forum on 26 and 27 January 2026, followed by two additional days of online meetings until 29 January 2026. This curated approach allows participants to extend discussions beyond the forum dates and advance partnerships across global markets. Exploring New Frontiers in Green Finance and Development This year’s forum will feature four dedicated exhibition zones: the FintechHK Startup Salon, the newly launched FutureGreen Showcase, the Global Investment Zone, and the InnoVenture Salon. Together, these zones will host more than 140 exhibitors, including Bank of China (Hong Kong), China International Capital Corporation (CICC), Ernst & Young, HSBC, Huatai International, Standard Chartered Bank, and Knowledge Partner Ernst & Young. Exhibitors will present advanced business models, green finance solutions, and technology applications, creating a platform for meaningful cross-sector exchange. The showcase aims to catalyse collaboration, accelerate innovation, and open new pathways for global business growth. Secure your place among global financial leaders and decision makers by registering for the 19th Asian Financial Forum now.     This article first appeared on fintechnews.ae Featured image edited by Fintech News Middle East, based on image by lifeforstock on Freepik The post Why the 2026 Asian Financial Forum is the Next Big Stop for Swiss Finance Leaders appeared first on Fintech Schweiz Digital Finance News - FintechNewsCH.

Tenity has invested in AAZZUR  oversubscribed £2 million funding round, alongside Haatch Ventures, Alert Venture Foundry, Alumni Ventures, Great Stuff Ventures, and Tyr Ventures. AAZZUR is a UK-based orchestration platform that enables businesses to embed financial products, across banking, cards, lending, and wealth, without building in-house solutions. Maxim Leer, Principal at Tenity, led the investment and said: Maxim Leer “Most companies and brands won’t become fintechs themselves but will increasingly collaborate with fintech partners. That’s where real value is created: new revenue streams, stronger customer loyalty and, ultimately, competitive edge.” AAZZUR will use the funding to expand its use cases across financial verticals, accelerate go-to-market activities, and strengthen its position as a platform for embedded finance integration. The company has reported strong year-on-year revenue growth and a triple-digit growth trajectory. Philipp Buschmann, CEO of AAZZUR, noted: Philipp Buschmann “In 2020 we pivoted into what became ‘Embedded Finance’. We were one of the first in Europe to do Orchestration, and the Tenity team (then F10) helped us with our first positioning and essential market/user feedback.” For Tenity, the investment reflects a focus on infrastructure that supports collaborative embedded finance solutions.     Featured image credit: Edited by Fintech News Switzerland, based on image by thanyakij-12 via Freepik The post Tenity Invests in AAZZUR to Expand Embedded Finance Solutions appeared first on Fintech Schweiz Digital Finance News - FintechNewsCH.

A new study by global technology analysts Juniper Research has found that the number of cards issued via modern card issuing platforms is set to rise from 756 million in 2025 to almost 1.6 billion worldwide by 2030. This represents a 108% increase. The research identified reducing operational costs as the primary motivation for banks adopting modern card issuing platforms. This marks a shift away from a focus on user experience. By moving from complex, largely manual batch processing to a fully API-driven approach, banks can significantly lower operational costs. This can improve margins in an environment of rising financial pressure. Jawad Jahan “Modern card issuing platforms appeal to every type of issuer, not just digital challengers. While competing on user experience matters, cost has become the real battleground, with issuers prioritising platforms that deliver measurable direct and indirect savings,” said Jawad Jahan, Research Analyst at Juniper Research. The study found that by 2030 almost 45% of all credit cards will be issued via modern card issuing platforms. This is the highest proportion for any card type. Debit card issuing is expected to lag, with only 32% of cards projected to be issued through modern platforms by 2030. This creates a notable gap in user experience. Jahan added: “Credit card issuers are a far more diverse group than debit issuers, but they are often simpler to modernise. The real challenge lies with complex issuers. Modern card issuing platforms must integrate seamlessly into existing tech stacks, cutting cost and complexity rather than adding to it.”     Featured image credit: Edited by Fintech News Switzerland, based on image by maxx-studio via Freepik The post Global Card Issuance via Modern Platforms to Double by 2030 appeared first on Fintech Schweiz Digital Finance News - FintechNewsCH.

Education, openness, and innovation have enabled Switzerland to develop one of the world’s most competitive financial centers and become a leading fintech hub. The country is home to top-ranked universities such as the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Zurich (ETH Zurich) and the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne (EPFL), both consistently ranked among the top 20 worldwide. Zurich, the largest city in Switzerland and its main financial and cultural hub, hosts major tech companies, including Google, Microsoft, and IBM. And according to data from the government, over 3% of GDP is spent on research and development (R&D) annually, reflecting strong commitment to innovation and technological advancement. Today, Switzerland’s financial sector contributes 9.1% of GDP and employs around 200,000 people, while its fintech industry houses over 500 firms and more than 1,200 blockchain companies. Zurich and Geneva, in particular, are standing among the world’s the top four fintech hubs. Switzerland’s long-standing position as a global financial center, combined with its culture of innovation and dynamic fintech ecosystem, has made it a premier destination for fintech events, attracting industry leaders from around the world to explore opportunities and address emerging challenges. Among the many conferences scheduled in the coming months, the following 12 stand out as the most significant gatherings in 2026. These events are expected to bring together top decision-makers, regulators, and innovators to shape the future of the sector and foster collaboration. FINANZ’26 February 25-26, 2026 Kongresshaus Zurich, Claridenstrasse 5, Zurich, Switzerland FINANZ’26 will take place on February 25-26, 2026, at the Kongresshaus Zurich. The event is designed as an exclusive business-to-business (B2B) meeting platform for professional investors and financial experts. FINANZ’26 will bring together forward-looking speakers and relevant industry topics, offering insights into key trends, challenges, and innovations shaping the future of finance. Through expert discussions, in-depth presentations, and interactive training formats, participants will gain practical knowledge and new perspectives from leading professionals. Sponsors and partners, meanwhile, will benefit from new, integrated presentation opportunities within the conference program. These include participation in curated expert panels, dedicated presentations, and breakout sessions. FINANZ’26 will also offer a platform to network with leading figures in the industry. Attendees will get to engage in direct conversations with industry leaders, sponsors, and partners throughout the event, supporting the development and maintenance of valuable professional relationships. 24th NextGen Payments and RegTech Forum March 05, 2026 Marriott Hotel, Zurich, Switzerland The 24th NextGen Payments and RegTech Forum will take place on March 05, 2026, at the Marriott Hotel in Zurich. The event will bring together senior professionals from banks, fintech startups, payment service providers, technology firms, and regulatory bodies to examine how innovation and regulation are reshaping the payments and compliance landscape. The 24th NextGen Payments and RegTech Forum will focus on how market participants are optimizing operations and enabling sustainable growth through technological and regulatory advancements. The forum will offer a curated environment for global decision-makers, strategists, and industry influencers to exchange insights and benchmark strategies. Participants will get to engage in practical discussions on market shifts, regulatory change, and large-scale execution, with the aim of leaving the event with actionable next steps that can be implemented immediately. Discussions will cover instant payments and open finance, the application of artificial intelligence (AI) in compliance and fraud prevention, developments in stablecoins and central bank digital currencies (CBDCs), data privacy considerations, and practical approaches to turning innovation into measurable business value. In addition to the conference content, the event will place a strong emphasis on networking and professional exchange. Structured networking breaks, one-to-one meetings, a networking lunch, and an evening reception will provide opportunities for participants to build new relationships and strengthen existing ones in an informal setting. The 24th NextGen Payments and RegTech Forum is expected to feature more than 50 keynote speakers, over 1,000 minutes of senior-level content, and participation from more than 400 industry leaders representing over 100 organizations. IFZ Fintech Symposium 2026 March 11, 2026, 12:00-18:00 CET The Institute of Financial Services Zug (IFZ), Zug-Rotkreuz, Zug, Switzerland The IFZ Fintech Symposium 2026 will take place on March 11, 2026, at the Institute of Financial Services Zug (IFZ) at the Zug-Rotkreuz campus in Zug. The event will focus on the role of fintech in addressing current challenges within the banking and financial services industry. The event will examine recent trends and developments in the Swiss Fintech ecosystem, as well as the practical and structural challenges associated with digital transformation. Particular attention will be given to the impact of fintech on the broader economy, everyday professional practice, and the opportunities innovation creates for Switzerland as a financial centre. The program will be structured around two parallel tracks. The Business Session will concentrate on practical applications of fintech within organizations, featuring case studies, implementation strategies, and real-world experiences. The Academia Session will be dedicated to academic research and theoretical perspectives on fintech, digital finance, and innovation. In addition, the symposium will include a presentation of the latest IFZ Fintech Study, providing up-to-date statistical insights into the Swiss fintech market. The IFZ Fintech Symposium 2026 will be held in a hybrid format, allowing participants and presenters to attend either on site or online. Presentations in the Business Session will be held in either English or German, while all presentations in the Academia Session will be conducted in English only. Digital Finance 2030 March 12, 2026 Zurich, Switzerland Digital Finance 2030 will take place on March 12, 2026, in Zurich. The event will focus on the future of digital finance and examines how human-centric design, technology, and ecosystems are shaping banking and financial services toward the year 2030. Digital Finance 2030 will offer insights into current trends and innovations in banking, with contributions from industry experts, practitioners, and partners. The agenda will combine workshops, keynote presentations, expert talks, and panel discussions, providing a structured view of strategic, technological, and customer-focused developments in digital finance. Networking opportunities will be integrated throughout the afternoon, including a coffee break and an apéro at the end of the event, allowing participants to exchange ideas and connect with peers in an informal setting. START Summit 2026 March 19-20, 2026 SGKB Hall, St. Gallen, Switzerland START Summit 2026 will take place on March 19 and 20, 2026, at the SGKB Hall in St. Gallen. The event promises one of Europe’s leading conferences for entrepreneurship and innovation and brings together early-stage startups, venture capital (VC) firms, corporate leaders, policymakers, and operators from across Europe and beyond. Organized by START Global, a student-led initiative of the University of St. Gallen, the summit has developed into a flagship platform for the startup ecosystem. Each year, several thousand participants gather in St. Gallen to exchange ideas, establish professional relationships, and engage with emerging technologies and business models. The 2026 edition, which is expected to welcome more than 7,000 participants and facilitate over 12,000 meetings, will be structured as a multi-format platform rather than a traditional conference. The program will combine keynote speeches, panel discussions, workshops, startup pitches, a startup fair, and structured networking sessions. The summit will address topics including AI, deeptech, sustainability, fintech, and digital infrastructure, and reflect the most pressing challenges and opportunities facing today’s startup ecosystem. Confirmed speakers for START Summit 2026 include: Felix Ohswald, Co-Founder & CEO of GoStudent GmbH; Verena Pausder, Board Member, Startup-Verband; Thomas Clozel, Co-Founder & CEO of OWKIN; Daniel W. Dippold, Founder & CEO of EWOR; Helmut Schoenenberger, Co-Founder & CEO of UnternehmerTUM; Melanie Gabriel, Co-Founder of Yokoy & Follow the Gradient; Dirk Hoerig, Founder of commercetools; Simon Michel, CEO of Ypsomed AG & National Councillor; Philipp Schröder, Founder & CEO of 1KOMMA5°; and Péter Fankhauser, Co-Founder & CEO of ANYbotics. SGF Conference 2026 March 27, 2026 SIX ConventionPoint, Pfingstweidstrasse 110, 8005 Zurich, Switzerland The SGF Conference 2026 will take place on March 27, 2026, at the SIX ConventionPoint in Zurich. The event will mark the 28th Annual Meeting of the Swiss Society for Financial Market Research and is organized by the Department of Finance of the University of Zurich. Bringing together researchers from across the field, this annual event aims to promote collaboration and facilitate the exchange of recent research findings and methodological advances in financial market research. The 2026 conference program will include a dedicated poster session featuring eight accepted posters. This session will is designed to give doctoral students and early-career researchers the opportunity to present their work and engage directly with conference participants. The academic content of the conference will be structured across several research tracks, including asset pricing, corporate finance and governance, financial intermediation and institutions, behavioral and household finance, and general topics in financial markets. Each track will be overseen by internationally recognized scholars from leading universities. The SGF Conference 2026 will be accompanied by a pre-conference dinner held by invitation only at the Zunfthaus zur Waag in Zurich’s city centre. In addition, a formal conference dinner will also take place at the Zunfthaus zur Waag and will include a special performance by Pat Perry, a world champion magician. 2026 Crypto Valley Conference May 28-29, 2026 Rotkreuz, Switzerland The 2026 Crypto Valley Conference will take place on May 28 and 29, 2026, in Rotkreuz. Now in its seventh edition, the conference focuses on the current state and future development of blockchain technology under the theme of setting the foundation for the next phase of the blockchain ecosystem. The 2026 Crypto Valley Conference will bring together participants from startups, established corporates, academia, and government institutions for two days of in-depth discussion and knowledge exchange. It’s expected to welcome approximately 1,500 attendees representing more than 200 companies, alongside over 25 exhibitors. The conference will feature more than 40 presentations and seven master classes delivered by over 125 speakers from around the world. Content will be distributed across multiple stages and cover a broad range of topics spanning technology, economics and finance, and legal and regulatory considerations. Key thematic areas will include institutional approaches to yield generation in digital assets, global regulatory frameworks, geopolitical and macroeconomic trends affecting digital assets, institutional-grade infrastructure, real-world asset tokenization, stablecoins and CBDCs, on-chain asset management, blockchain-focused VC strategies, interoperability and protocol development, and the role of AI in blockchain scaling. In addition to the conference sessions, the event will include an exhibition, and networking opportunities designed to encourage informal exchange, including a closing boat cruise on Lake Zug. DigiAssets Connect 2026 June 16-17, 2026 The Kameha Grand, Dufaux-Strasse 1, 8152, Zurich, Switzerland DigiAssets Connect 2026 will take place on June 16 and 17, 2026, at the Kameha Grand in Zurich. The event is an invitation-only forum designed for institutional buy-side participants, including private banks, asset managers, and hedge funds, who are actively shaping the future of digital assets. DigiAssets Connect 2026 will focus on scaling digital assets for institutional adoption and provide a closed setting for senior decision-makers to exchange practical insights and strategic perspectives. The program will be built around real-world use cases and peer-level discussion. Participants will engage in off-the-record sessions that examine how digital assets are being integrated into institutional portfolios, how tokenization is moving from pilot initiatives to scalable products, and how regulatory, operational, and infrastructure challenges are being addressed. Topics will include tokenized assets and cash, market and custody infrastructure, decentralized finance (DeFi), AI in asset management, interoperability, and emerging digital investment products. DigiAssets Connect 2026 will feature keynote contributions, leadership panels, and closed working groups exclusively for buy-side participants. These sessions will be complemented by interactive formats including live solution demonstrations and moderated roundtable discussions, allowing attendees to assess practical implementations alongside strategic considerations. The agenda will also include focused discussions on private wealth, examining how high-net-worth client demand and risk considerations are being managed by leading private banks, as well as dedicated collaboration sessions, networking opportunities, and an invitation-only VIP dinner. Confirmed speakers for DigiAssets Connect 2026 include: Sven Wuerttemberger, CEO, and Head of Client Coverage Switzerland, DWS CH AG; Uraitz de Julian Garate, Head of Digital Investments, Coutts; Laurence Arnold, Global Head of Innovation, Client Operations, Performance & Reporting, AXA Investment Managers; Diana-Cezara Toader, Head of Digital Assets, Director of Alternatives Product Structuring, UBS Asset Management; Kim Hochfeld, Senior Managing Director, Global Head of Cash, Digital & Securities Lending, State Street Global Advisors; Giuseppe Tedone, Head of Innovation and Data Insights, Barings; Charles-Henry Monchau, Chief Investment Officer, Syz Group; and Philippe Meyer, Head of Digital & Blockchain Solutions, BBVA Switzerland. Swiss Fintech Week 2026 June 19-25, 2026 Zurich, Switzerland Swiss Fintech Week 2026, a joint initiative of the Swiss fintech ecosystem, will take place from June 19 to 25, 2026, in Zurich. The week-long event aims to serve as a launchpad for innovation, collaboration, and strategic partnerships within the Swiss Fintech ecosystem. Over the course of seven days, Swiss Fintech Week 2026 will unite leading Swiss fintech experiences and independent events to promote entrepreneurial thinking, support young businesses, and foster connections within the ecosystem. The event, which is expected to host over 1,500 participants across eight integrated events, will bring together startups, investors, corporate leaders, policymakers, and other industry influencers to exchange ideas, showcase innovations, and shape the future of finance. A key highlight of the week is SwissHacks 2026, running from June 19 to 21. This 48-hour, government-backed hackathon will bring together students, professionals, and industry experts to collaborate on real-world challenges in areas such as fintech, regtech, and sustainability. Participants will develop innovative solutions under the guidance of mentors, culminating in project presentations to a jury and opportunities to win prizes. The Point Zero Forum 2026, held from June 23 to 25, will focus on dialogue and collaboration around pressing issues in finance, policy, and technology. Over three days, participants will explore actionable pathways to advance sustainability, inclusivity, innovation, and efficiency across the global financial system. IFC Conference August 20-21, 2026 Bank for International Settlements, Basel, Switzerland   The IFC Conference will take place on August 20 and 21, 2026, at the Bank for International Settlements in Basel. The event is designed to be a premier gathering for finance professionals, regulators, and policymakers to discuss the evolving global financial landscape. The IFC Conference will gather thought leaders and experts from around the globe to discuss the latest trends and challenges in the international financial landscape. Attendees can expect a series of insightful presentations, engaging panel discussions, and ample networking opportunities, all aimed at fostering collaboration and innovation in finance. CV Summit 2026 September 29-30, 2026 Kongresshaus Zurich, Switzerland CV Summit 2026 will take place on September 29 and 30, 2026, at the Kongresshaus Zurich. Recognized as Switzerland’s largest conference on blockchain, AI, and digital assets, this year’s summit will bring together over 3,000 participants, including executives, innovators, investors, institutions, and policymakers from around the world. The two-day event will feature more than 250 speakers presenting across four stages and workshops, supported by over 1,000 square meters of exhibition space. It will provide a platform for knowledge exchange, networking, and collaboration for anyone interested in the future of Web3, blockchain, AI, and digital assets, from newcomers to seasoned professionals. The program will be organized into several thematic tracks: The Blockchain track will highlight the newest trends in decentralized tech and crypto innovation, and connect participants with visionary founders and industry leaders; The Investments and Wealth track will offer insights from leading investors and experts on digital wealth management and strategies for the evolving financial landscape; The AI track explores cutting-edge AI advancements that are transforming industries and shaping the digital future; and The Institutions and Digital Assets track will focus on how banks, financial institutions, and other organizations are pioneering the adoption of digital assets. Digital Finance Day 2026 November 03, 2026 Zurich, Switzerland Digital Finance Day 2026, scheduled on November 03, 2026, will bring together leading voices from finance, technology, and regulation to explore and debate the future of financial innovation in Switzerland This event, organized by the Swiss Bankers Association, will be held in English and will cover the topics of digital finance and cybersecurity.   Featured image: Edited by Fintech News Switzerland, based on image by zashanali1111 via Freepik The post Top Fintech Events to Attend in Switzerland in 2026 appeared first on Fintech Schweiz Digital Finance News - FintechNewsCH.

Consumers are increasingly utilizing AI-powered chatbots to address everyday inquiries and facilitate decision-making processes. This trend requires banks and financial institutions to enhance their visibility on prominent AI chatbots, including ChatGPT and Gemini. A recent research study conducted by experts at the Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts (HSLU) examines the complexities of large language model optimization (LLMO) and AI visibility. The study employs the case of Bernerland Bank to illustrate how regional banks, smaller institutions, or even fintech startups can adapt to this evolving landscape. AI chatbots are gaining prominence and experiencing increased adoption for search-related tasks. A 2025 Claneo study on search engine optimization (SEO) surveyed 2,000 individuals in Germany and the US and found that while traditional search engines still dominate search with a 67% market share, AI chatbots follow behind at 20%. The study also reveals that for simple information, Google leads at 50.5% while for complex topics, AI chatbots, at 38.6%, are almost on par with Google at 40.3%. This highlights that AI chatbots are highly relevant for complex information needs and are emerging as a strong alternative to traditional search engines. This trend underscores the growing significance of LLMs for banks, with LLMO emerging as a critical component of modern digital marketing strategies. Bernerland Bank’s AI search strategy For smaller institutions like Bernerland Bank, blog posts present a unique opportunity to deliver high-quality, well-structured, and optimized content on a bank’s websites, thereby achieving high engagement and delivering value. In particular, posts that simplify complex topics, address practical questions, or maintain a clear regional or thematic focus tend to perform well on AI systems. Bernerland Bank is a regional bank with locations in Emmental, Oberaargau, and Seeland, providing services encompassing payments, savings, investments, financing, and retirement planning. Recognizing its strong local presence, Bernerland Bank is strategically enhancing its visibility on AI chatbots and AI search extensions, focusing specifically on its core regions rather than a wider audience. A pertinent example of this strategy is its blog post titled “Erbschafts- und Schenkungssteuer in Bern und Solothurn – ein Wegweise.” This comprehensive guide explains the intricacies of inheritance and gift taxes within the Swiss cantons of Bern and Solothurn, regions where Bernerland Bank operates. In the post, the bank demonstrates its regional expertise in the Bernese Oberland area and positions itself as a competent partner for local financial matters. Concurrently, it addresses prevalent customer inquiries and concerns, simplifying a complex tax topic in an easily comprehensible manner. This establishes trust, expertise, and most importantly, a starting point for future consultations on topics such as wealth planning, estate planning, and inheritance investment. The post has garnered significant attention, and has been directly cited as a source in key AI systems, with its content frequently quoted when questions are asked about gift tax in the Canton Bern. Results from Peec AI, an AI search analytics platform for marketing teams and brands, confirm this visibility. When prompted with “gift tax Canton of Bern”, Bernerland Bank’s website is recognized as a source and cited by AI systems to answer relevant questions. The post performs well on traditional search engines as well. In the last year, the article appeared over 120,000 times in Google search results and was clicked approximately 4,500. It was found particularly frequently in searches such as “gift tax Canton of Bern,” “inheritance tax Solothurn,” or “calculate inheritance tax Canton of Bern”, demonstrating that it is reaching the bank’s targeted audience. Best practices Bernerland Bank and its Bern-based inbound marketing agency Nordfabrik have developed a set of best practices for LLMO. This strategy involves: Identifying topic potential and areas where the bank currently lacks visibility on Google and in AI systems; Defining a content strategy and determining the necessary content to build visibility, such as blog posts, FAQ pages, product pages, and explanatory guides; Integrating SEO and LLMO into the overall marketing strategy, training employees to create AI-friendly content, and actively sharing it on platforms like LinkedIn; External reinforcement with targeted public relation activities, through, for example, articles in regional media; and Measuring success with key performance indicators (KPIs) such as changes in visibility, mentions in AI responses, or the development of reach. The HSLU academics notes that while new AI search systems may present challenges, especially for smaller providers, they also offer new opportunities to offer deliver clear, credible, and relevant content. This allows these players to position themselves as leaders and experts in specific niches and domains. For large institutions, LLMO marks a shift in thinking, moving away from broad messaging and towards clear profiles and recognizable strengths. This approach helps establish them as the “best bank” across various topics, including retirement planning, mortgages, and investments. The future of search Consumers are embracing LLMs at a fast pace, a shift that is causing a decline in clicks and website traffic from search engines. Intuit Mailchimp, an email software platform, has seen a steady drop in web traffic since AI-assisted search started allowing people to gather information about the company and its products without visiting its sites, according to Ellen Mamedov, global director of SEO at Intuit Mailchimp. For Back Market, a marketplace for refurbished electronics, LLM searches only account for 0.2% of traffic. However, this traffic was 470 times higher in mid-2025 than it was a year prior, Joy Howard, CMO at Back Market, told the Wall Street Journal last year. Back Market is now changing its SEO practices accordingly. It is focusing more intently on updating individual product pages, using a more conversational tone which LLMs like ChatGPT prefer. In addition to content, technical search elements, such as page loading speed and snippets of code used to track user activity, are more crucial for bots of AI-driven systems than for traditional search engines, according to Mailchimp’s research. These bots are designed to assimilate and process information as swiftly as possible, which is why they favor websites that load faster and which are optimized for machines rather than human readers. The shift to AI chatbots is expected to continue moving forward, with Gartner predicting a 25% decline in search engine volume by 2026 due to AI chatbots and other virtual agents. This comes amid the rise of so-called “zero-click search”. A survey conducted by Bain and Dynata polled 1,000 people in December 2024 and found that 80% of consumers now resolve 40% of their online search queries without clicking any links. This underscores a structural shift in how information is consumed online, reflecting how AI-powered interfaces are reshaping search.   Featured image by MH Stock on Freepik The post AI Chatbot Redefines Search, Forcing Banks to Rethink their Digital Marketing Strategies appeared first on Fintech Schweiz Digital Finance News - FintechNewsCH.

Revolut has announced plans to enter Peru. The company has applied for a full banking license and appointed Julien Labrot as CEO of Revolut Peru to oversee local operations. The move aims to support Peru’s growing digital economy, where smartphone penetration is near 100% but a significant portion of adults remain underbanked. Carlos Urrutia “Revolut’s entry into Peru is built on our belief that digital financial services should be empowering, accessible, and secure for everyone,” said Carlos Urrutia, Head of Expansion at Revolut. “By pursuing a full banking license we are not just entering a new market, we are committing to becoming a trusted and integral part of Peru’s financial ecosystem.” Julien Labrot, a regional finance veteran, will lead the local strategy and build a team of local staff. A full license would allow Revolut to offer a range of localised products and services to consumers. The company plans to increase hiring in Peru and leverage a remote-first approach to access talent across the region. Revolut’s expansion into Peru is part of its wider goal to serve 100 million customers in 100 countries. In 2024, the Group reported US$4 billion in revenue, US$1 billion in profit, and US$33 billion in total assets, with a valuation of US$75 billion. Peru is the fifth Latin American market announced, following Brazil, Mexico, Colombia and Argentina.     Featured image credit: Edited by Fintech News Switzerland, based on image by freepik The post Revolut Plans to Enter Peru with Banking License Application appeared first on Fintech Schweiz Digital Finance News - FintechNewsCH.

The New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) has announced the development of a platform for trading and on-chain settlement of tokenised securities, for which it will seek regulatory approval. The platform will support tokenised trading, including 24/7 operations, instant settlement, orders in dollar amounts, and stablecoin-based funding. It will integrate the NYSE’s Pillar matching engine with blockchain-based post-trade systems, capable of supporting multiple chains for settlement and custody. Subject to regulatory approval, the platform will operate a new NYSE venue allowing trading of tokenised shares fungible with traditional securities, as well as tokens issued directly as digital securities. Tokenised shareholders will retain dividend and governance rights. The venue is designed to follow established market structure principles, providing non-discriminatory access to qualified broker-dealers. The platform forms part of ICE’s broader digital strategy, which includes adapting its clearing infrastructure to support 24/7 trading and potential integration of tokenised collateral. ICE is collaborating with banks, including BNY and Citi, to enable tokenised deposits across its clearinghouses, assisting clearing members with transfers, margin obligations, and cross-jurisdiction funding outside traditional banking hours. Lynn Martin “For more than two centuries, the NYSE has transformed the way markets operate,” said Lynn Martin, President, NYSE Group. “We are leading the industry toward fully on-chain solutions, grounded in the unmatched protections and high regulatory standards that position us to marry trust with state-of-the-art technology.” ICE, which operates six clearing houses globally, including the world’s largest for energy and for credit default swaps, has been developing market infrastructure innovations for over 25 years.     Featured image credit: Edited by Fintech News Switzerland, based on image by halalstock via Freepik The post NYSE Develops Platform for Tokenised Securities Trading appeared first on Fintech Schweiz Digital Finance News - FintechNewsCH.