Top fintech trends for H1’26

Looking ahead to 2026, we’re feeling optimistic for the fintech market globally. Investment in AI is surging in the broader investment market — with investors increasingly taking aim at industry-focused solutions. Regulations are strengthening and helping to define what the future will look like, particularly in the digital assets space. Emerging markets are seeing increasing interest, with new fintech hubs emerging. Exit activity is on the rise — and IPO markets are reopening. It’s a time of change for the fintech market — and while we can’t discount any of the risks — we’re hopeful that 2026 is going to be a good year for fintech investment.

Here are the top predictions for fintech in H1’2026

Digital assets gain traction as scrutiny tightens

Stablecoins and other digital assets continue to attract strong investor interest, driven by improving regulatory clarity — particularly in the US — and expanding use cases from incumbents and startups alike. While momentum is building, underlying risks remain, placing renewed emphasis on governance, controls, and risk management over the next 6–12 months.
Capital markets poised for long-overdue disruption

Capital markets are entering a pivotal period of change in 2026, with innovation spreading beyond equities into debt, project and export finance, and the accelerating shift toward private credit. Historically resistant to disruption, these segments are now drawing sustained startup activity — setting the stage for meaningful structural change.
Asset management transformation accelerates — led by ASPAC

The asset management sector continues to evolve, with ASPAC emerging as a standout region. Established players are modernizing front-, middle-, and back-office operations through cloud migration, advanced data platforms, AI agents, and fund tokenization — positioning the sector for increased investment and competitive differentiation.
UAE makes a decisive push to lead real‑world asset tokenization

Building on its growing fintech ecosystem, the UAE is moving aggressively to establish itself as a global hub for real‑world asset tokenization. With sustained investment in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, the focus over the coming months will be on attracting top-tier talent, startups, and capital at scale.
AI dominates investment narratives — but fintech challengers still have room to win

AI remains the most powerful global investment theme, largely fueled by corporate demand for efficiency and cost reduction through partnerships with big tech leaders. For fintech-focused AI startups, differentiation will hinge on proprietary IP and clearly demonstrated, transformative value — either through novel financial products or business‑model innovation.