Fintech Forward Newsletter - Issue 20
19 June 2025
With Money 20/20 Europe now in the rearview mirror, we thought we would use this week’s newsletter to unpack what we took away from one of the year’s key fintech conferences.
We look at the key news announcements that were made during the conference, from Visa and Klarna joining forces to pilot a new debit card that delivers more flexible payment options, to Revolut bringing Wero, the European Payments Initiative’s digital payment’s wallet into its app for customers in France, Belgium and Germany.
We also dive deeper into the core themes of discussion across the conference by looking at the key payments and commerce trends, according to Celent. Following on from the event, our key technology news story this week looks at whether the UK can hold onto its status as a fintech leader as the next generation of AI-based fintechs arrive.
Lastly, check out our blog on the event, which includes a breakdown of key sessions and topics discussed with delegates, including agentic AI, fraud, and key learnings for fintech marketers.
News roundup at Money 20/20 Europe
At Money20/20, several major partnerships were announced that signal exciting shifts in global finance. Deutsche Bank and Mastercard deepened their collaboration to advance open banking payments across Europe, aiming to streamline account-based transactions for consumers and businesses alike. Meanwhile, BVNK and LianLian Global unveiled a new alliance to enable real-time stablecoin payments in over 100 countries.
Celent: Payments & commerce trends from Money 20/20
Banks relying on legacy payments infrastructure face increasing challenges adapting to rapid change, prompting many to explore modernization options, while grappling with slow and complex fintech partner onboarding, making streamlined integration a growing priority despite ongoing compliance demands.
In the age of AI, can the UK hold on to its fintech crown?
With the UK having a long history as a global fintech leader, investors are assessing the potential of the UK ecosystem as the next generation of AI-based financial startups emerge. With new players often coming in the form of pure-play AI providers, and entrants seeking lower tax jurisdictions, could the UK’s position be under threat? Global Corporate Venturing asks investors their thoughts and assesses the opportunities and drawbacks of the UK’s approach.
Top Tip
Money20/20 wrap-up: key trends shaping finance
Money20/20 concluded in Amsterdam with major announcements, bold discussions, and a focus on stablecoins, AI, and open banking. Highlights included 450 global speakers, new industry partnerships, and the debut of the Policy Exchange for regulatory collaboration. The event reinforced Europe’s leading role in shaping the future of finance.
Event
Next Money 20/20 USA 2025 is in LA
The event has consistently spotlighted transformative trends—from embedded finance and real-time payments to AI, decentralized finance (DeFi), and the rise of digital identity. Keynotes from leaders across industries, including CEOs of major financial institutions and disruptive tech founders, provide insight into the evolving financial ecosystem.
Blog
Money 20/20: From agentic commerce to lessons for fintech marketers
Agentic AI was a hot topic at this year’s Money 20/20. One of the most well-attended sessions of the conference was a talk titled, ‘Is the financial services world ready for agentic AI?’. The discussion drew such an audience that a significant number of delegates crowded round beyond the packed seating area to learn about the foreseeable applications of the technology, as well as its implications regarding payments infrastructure, security and other risks.
Report
Metia Insight Studies
Use data driven insight to inform and improve your customer experiences, engagement and relationship strategies. Our insight studies give you actionable insights and practical recommendations, all built using advanced data science techniques and expert analysis.