Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly reshaping the financial technology (fintech) sector, driving innovations that enhance efficiency, security, and customer experiences. From automated banking solutions to sophisticated fraud detection systems, AI is playing a pivotal role in transforming how financial services are delivered and consumed. This article explores the significant impact of AI on fintech, highlighting key applications and future trends.
1. AI Superior
At AI Superior, we deliver comprehensive artificial intelligence consulting services, helping businesses integrate AI solutions to enhance operations and drive growth. Founded in 2019 by Dr. Ivan Tankoyeu and Dr. Sergey Sukhanov, our firm is built on deep AI expertise and a commitment to advancing the capabilities of AI technology.
Our AI consulting approach transforms concepts into scalable, practical solutions. We achieve this through robust project life cycle management, aligning AI implementations with business objectives, ensuring transparency, and effectively communicating risks and opportunities. Our meticulous planning and seamless execution have resulted in a high success rate for our projects.
The strength of our team lies in its diversity and specialization. Our PhD-level data scientists and engineers bring extensive expertise across various technologies and domains. This multidisciplinary knowledge allows us to address complex business challenges with pragmatic, data-driven solutions.
Recognizing the critical role of project management in AI deployment, we structure our teams to optimize outcomes from the start. Our project teams—comprising data scientists, ML engineers, and developers—work collaboratively to ensure the success of each AI initiative, guided by a customer-centric philosophy.
Our commitment extends beyond project completion; we empower clients with the knowledge and tools necessary to sustain and expand AI functionalities within their operations. This dedication to client empowerment and long-term value creation is at the heart of every project we undertake.
Key Highlights:
- Founded in 2019 by experts Dr. Ivan Tankoyeu and Dr. Sergey Sukhanov.
- Specializes in transforming AI concepts into scalable solutions.
- High success rate in Proof of Concept (PoC) projects.
- Effective risk management in AI project life cycles.
- Team comprised of PhD-level data scientists and engineers.
Services:
- AI and Data Strategy Development.
- Process Optimization with AI.
- AI Use Case Discovery & Identification.
- AI Training and Workshops.
- Generative AI Development.
Contact Information:
- Website: aisuperior.com
- Contact Email: info@aisuperior.com
- Phone Number: +49 6151 3943489
- Location: Robert-Bosch-Str.7, 64293 Darmstadt, Germany
- LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/ai-superior
- Twitter: twitter.com/aisuperior
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/aisuperior
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/ai_superior
- Youtube: www.youtube.com/channel/UCNq7KZXztu6jODLpgVWpfFg
2. DECTA
DECTA is a provider of digital payment solutions, catering to merchants, banks, and payment service providers. The company offers a range of services, including payment acquiring, BIN sponsorship, white label card issuing, and a robust digital banking platform. DECTA’s offerings are designed to support the full spectrum of payment needs, from seamless transaction processing to advanced fraud management. The company emphasizes flexibility and customization, allowing clients to tailor solutions to their specific business requirements.
DECTA supports a wide array of functionalities, including automated customer service, online and mobile banking interfaces, and extensive reporting and analytics tools. The platform’s cloud-based infrastructure ensures scalability and efficiency, making it a valuable asset for financial institutions looking to modernize their operations.
Another key aspect of DECTA’s service is its white label payment gateway, which supports major payment networks and digital wallets. This gateway provides an easy-to-integrate solution for businesses across various industries, including eCommerce, fintech, and travel. With prebuilt modules for popular eCommerce platforms and support for multiple currencies, DECTA’s payment gateway simplifies the process of accepting and managing payments online.
Key Highlights:
- Over 2000 companies across 32 countries use DECTA’s solutions.
- Comprehensive digital banking platform with cloud-based infrastructure.
- White label payment gateway supporting major payment networks and digital wallets.
Services:
- Payment acquiring services
- BIN sponsorship and white label card issuing
- White label payment gateway
- Issuer and acquirer processing
- Digital banking platform
Contact Information:
- Website: www.decta.com
- Phone: +44 20 3750 2195
- Email: info@decta.com
- LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/decta
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/DECTA
3. Finscale
Finscale offers a specialized platform designed to support the operational and strategic needs of financial institutions. The company focuses on providing insights and tools that enable banks and fintech companies to optimize their operations and make informed decisions. Finscale’s platform includes a range of functionalities such as data analytics, regulatory compliance support, and risk management tools, all aimed at enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of financial operations.
Additionally, Finscale provides robust support for regulatory compliance, ensuring that institutions can navigate the complex landscape of financial regulations with ease.
Another key feature of Finscale’s offering is its focus on risk management. The platform includes tools that help institutions identify, assess, and mitigate risks, thereby enhancing their overall stability and security. By providing a holistic suite of tools and services, Finscale helps financial institutions to operate more efficiently and effectively in a competitive market.
Key Highlights:
- Specializes in operational and strategic support for financial institutions.
- Comprehensive data analytics capabilities.
- Strong focus on regulatory compliance and risk management.
Services:
- Data analytics
- Regulatory compliance support
- Risk management tools
Contact Information:
- Website: finscale.org
- Email: info@finscale.org
- LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/finscale
4. Planfocus
Planfocus offers advanced solutions tailored for cash management and logistics. The company’s primary focus is on optimizing cash handling processes and providing strategic insights to enhance the efficiency of cash operations. Planfocus’ solutions are used by financial institutions, retailers, and service providers to streamline their cash management workflows, reduce costs, and improve service quality.
Planfocus’ platform includes a variety of tools designed to support different aspects of cash management, from cash forecasting and replenishment to transport logistics and security. These tools leverage advanced algorithms and data analytics to provide accurate predictions and optimize resource allocation. In addition to its core cash management solutions, Planfocus also offers industry-specific services tailored to the unique needs of sectors such as retail, banking, and transportation. These services are designed to address the specific challenges faced by these industries, providing targeted solutions that improve efficiency and reduce risks.
Key Highlights:
- Focuses on optimizing cash handling processes and logistics.
- Advanced tools for cash forecasting, replenishment, and transport logistics.
- Industry-specific services for retail, banking, and transportation sectors.
Services:
- Cash forecasting and replenishment
- Transport logistics and security
- Industry-specific cash management solutions
Contact Information:
- Website: planfocus.sesami.io
- Phone Number: +49 (0)89 4521 374-00
- Email: info@planfocus.com
- Address: Konrad-Zuse-Platz 10, 81829 München Germany
- LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/planfocus
5. Affirm
Affirm is a financial technology company that provides “buy now, pay later” solutions for consumers. The company partners with various merchants, allowing customers to make purchases and pay over time without hidden fees or penalties. Affirm offers flexible payment plans that can be tailored to individual financial situations, providing a transparent and user-friendly alternative to traditional credit options.
Affirm’s platform emphasizes clarity and simplicity in the borrowing process. Customers can see exactly how much they will owe from the beginning to the end of their payment plan, ensuring no surprises. The service also integrates with a wide array of retailers, including major brands, enhancing its accessibility and utility for a broad range of consumers. In addition to its core payment services, Affirm offers the Affirm Card, which functions both as a standard debit card and a tool for financing larger purchases. This card works seamlessly with the Affirm app, enabling users to manage their payment plans and make purchases directly from their bank accounts.
Key Highlights:
- Provides transparent “buy now, pay later” solutions with no hidden fees.
- Partners with major retailers to offer flexible payment plans.
- Offers the Affirm Card for easy financing of purchases.
Services:
- “Buy now, pay later” financing
- Affirm Card
- Flexible payment plans
- Merchant partnerships
Contact Information:
- Website: www.affirm.com
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/Affirm
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/affirm
- LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/affirm-com
- Twitter: twitter.com/affirm
6. HighRadius
HighRadius is a provider of autonomous finance solutions for the Order to Cash, Treasury, and Record to Report processes. The company’s platform leverages artificial intelligence to automate and optimize financial operations, improving efficiency and accuracy. HighRadius serves a diverse range of industries, including consumer packaged goods, industrial manufacturing, and wholesale distribution.
HighRadius’s solutions are designed to address the complexities of accounts receivable management, cash flow optimization, and credit risk assessment. The platform offers tools for automating invoice processing, cash application, and collections, helping businesses reduce manual errors and improve financial performance. Additionally, HighRadius provides treasury management services, including cash forecasting, risk management, and investment advisory.
Key Highlights:
- Offers AI-driven solutions for financial automation.
- Serves multiple industries, including manufacturing and distribution.
- Provides comprehensive treasury management services.
Services:
- Accounts receivable automation
- Cash application and collections management
- Treasury management
- Risk management
- Investment advisory
Contact Information:
- Website: www.highradius.com
- Phone: (281) 968-4473
- Address: HighRadius Corporation 2107 CityWest Blvd,Suite 1100
- LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/highradius
- Twitter: twitter.com/HighRadius
- YouTube: www.youtube.com/user/HighRadius
7. World Data Science Initiative
The World Data Science Initiative (WDSI) aims to promote and support data science education and research globally. The organization provides resources and funding to institutions and individuals pursuing advancements in data science. WDSI focuses on building partnerships with academic institutions, industry leaders, and governments to foster a collaborative environment for data science innovation.
One of WDSI’s key initiatives is to offer subsidies and grants to support data science projects and research. These financial aids are designed to help bridge the gap between theoretical research and practical application, enabling data scientists to develop solutions that can address real-world challenges. Through its partnerships and funding programs, WDSI seeks to accelerate the development of data science capabilities worldwide. The organization aims to create a robust ecosystem that encourages the exchange of knowledge and resources, ultimately contributing to the growth and impact of data science.
Key Highlights:
- Promotes global data science education and research.
- Provides subsidies and grants for data science projects.
- Fosters partnerships with academic and industry leaders.
Services:
- Data science education support
- Research funding
- Industry partnerships
- Educational resources
Contact Information:
- Website: www.worlddatascience.org
- Email: join@worlddatascience.org
- Address: 815 Brazos St, Austin, TX 78701
- LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/world-data-science-initiative
- Twitter: Twitter.com/worlddatasci
8. Northgate
Northgate Capital is a venture capital and private equity firm that manages approximately $4.8 billion in assets. The company focuses on supporting the growth of innovative and disruptive companies through strategic investments and partnerships. Northgate’s approach combines a robust global network with deep local insights, enabling it to identify and support ventures poised to become category leaders.
Northgate’s investment programs include direct venture capital, fund-of-funds, and private equity. The firm’s direct venture capital investments target early-stage companies with high growth potential. Northgate collaborates closely with entrepreneurs, providing not only capital but also strategic guidance and operational support to help them scale their businesses effectively. The firm emphasizes a collaborative approach, working alongside entrepreneurs to build momentum and achieve global reach. Northgate’s international network and sector-specific investments ensure that portfolio companies have the resources and expertise needed to succeed in a competitive landscape.
Key Highlights:
- Manages approximately $4.8 billion in venture capital and private equity.
- Focuses on early-stage companies with high growth potential.
- Emphasizes a collaborative and strategic partnership approach.
Services:
- Venture capital (direct investments and fund-of-funds)
- Private equity
- Strategic guidance and operational support
Contact Information:
- Website: northgate.com
- Phone Number: +1 925 820 9970
- Address: 649 San Ramon Valley Boulevard Danville, California, 94526, USA
- LinkedIn: northgate.com
9. SparkCognition
SparkCognition is an artificial intelligence company that specializes in AI-driven solutions for various industries, including defense, oil and gas, manufacturing, and finance. The company’s technology leverages machine learning and AI to provide predictive analytics, asset protection, and operational optimization.
In the defense sector, SparkCognition offers advanced AI solutions that enhance situational awareness, decision-making, and operational efficiency. Their AI-driven platforms are designed to integrate seamlessly with existing defense systems, providing real-time insights and predictive capabilities that support mission-critical operations. SparkCognition also focuses on generative AI technology, which enables the creation of new content, designs, and solutions based on existing data. This innovative approach helps businesses accelerate product development, optimize processes, and unlock new opportunities for growth.
Key Highlights:
- Specializes in AI-driven solutions across multiple industries.
- Provides advanced AI technologies for the defense sector.
- Focuses on generative AI for innovative content and process optimization.
Services:
- Predictive analytics
- Asset protection
- Operational optimization
- Generative AI technology
Contact Information:
- Website: www.sparkcognition.com
- Email: info@sparkcognition.com
- Address: 12708 Riata Vista Ci Suite B-100 Austin, TX 78727
- Phone Number: 844-205-7173
- LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/sparkcognition
- Twitter: twitter.com/SparkCognition
10. Afiniti
Afiniti is a provider of AI-based enterprise solutions designed to improve customer experience and business efficiency. The company’s Experience AI Suite uses patented algorithms to optimize interactions between customers and company representatives, enhancing customer satisfaction and operational performance.
The company is committed to continuous innovation and research, leveraging data analytics and machine learning to refine its solutions. Afiniti’s AI suite is used by major enterprises globally, helping them achieve better business outcomes through intelligent customer engagement.
Key Highlights:
- Provides AI-based enterprise solutions for customer experience optimization.
- Uses patented algorithms to pair customers with suitable agents.
- Committed to continuous innovation and research.
Services:
- AI-driven customer experience optimization
- Behavioral pairing algorithms
- Data analytics and machine learning
Contact Information:
- Website: www.afiniti.com
- LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/afiniti
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/afinitiai
- Twitter: twitter.com/Afiniti
11. Qraftec
Qraftec specializes in providing AI solutions tailored to specific business needs across various industries. The company focuses on developing intelligent systems that enhance operational efficiency, drive innovation, and support data-driven decision-making. Qraftec’s AI solutions include predictive analytics, automated processes, and customized AI tools designed to meet unique business challenges.
Qraftec’s team comprises experts in AI, machine learning, and data science, who collaborate with clients to design and implement AI strategies that align with their business goals. The company’s solutions help businesses leverage the power of AI to gain competitive advantages, improve productivity, and innovate processes. In addition to AI solutions, Qraftec emphasizes a customer-centric approach, ensuring that each solution is tailored to the client’s specific requirements. This bespoke service model helps businesses maximize the benefits of AI technology and achieve sustainable growth.
Key Highlights:
- Provides tailored AI solutions for various industries.
- Focuses on predictive analytics and automated processes.
- Emphasizes a customer-centric approach to AI implementation.
Services:
- Predictive analytics
- Automated processes
- Customized AI tools
- AI strategy design and implementation
Contact Information:
- Website: qraftec.com
- LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/qraftec
- Address: 135 E 57th St. New York, NY 10022
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/qraftec
- Twitter: twitter.com/qraftec
12. Upstart
Upstart is a financial technology company that leverages artificial intelligence to provide more accurate and inclusive credit scoring and lending solutions. The company’s platform uses AI algorithms to assess creditworthiness based on a wider range of factors than traditional credit scores, making lending more accessible and fair for borrowers.
Upstart’s lending model considers various data points, including education, employment history, and financial behavior, to predict loan repayment likelihood more accurately. This approach reduces default rates and allows more people to qualify for loans, promoting financial inclusion. The company’s innovative platform has been adopted by numerous banks and credit unions, enabling them to offer AI-driven personal loans and other credit products. Upstart continues to refine its technology, aiming to transform the lending industry through smarter and more inclusive credit assessments.
Key Highlights:
- Uses AI to provide inclusive and accurate credit scoring.
- Considers diverse data points for better loan repayment predictions.
- Partners with banks and credit unions to offer AI-driven lending solutions.
Services:
- AI-driven credit scoring
- Personal loans
- Financial behavior analysis
- Lending platform for banks and credit unions
Contact Information:
- Website: www.upstart.com
- Phone Number: 1-855-438-8778
- Address: Upstart Operations Dept. P.O. Box 1503, San Carlos, CA 94070
- Email: support@upstart.com.
- LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/upstart
- Twitter: twitter.com/Upstart
13. Cleo
Cleo is an AI-powered financial assistant designed to help users manage their money with ease and humor. The platform offers a range of services including budgeting, saving, and credit building, all through an engaging chat interface. Users can interact with Cleo for various financial insights, from tracking spending habits to setting savings goals. The app features modes like “Roast” and “Hype” to provide personalized feedback in a fun and motivating manner.
Founded in 2016, Cleo leverages AI to turn complex financial data into simple, actionable advice. The platform emphasizes security, using 256-bit encryption to protect user data, and operates in read-only mode, ensuring that Cleo can view but not move funds. Cleo has expanded its offerings to include cash advances and tools for building credit, aiming to help users avoid overdraft fees and improve their financial health.
Key Highlights:
- AI-powered financial assistant with engaging chat features.
- Emphasizes user data security with 256-bit encryption.
- Offers budgeting, saving, credit building, and cash advances.
Services:
- Budgeting and spending analysis
- Saving tools (Set & Forget, Round Up, Smart Save)
- Credit building
- Cash advances
- Overdraft alerts
- Personalized financial advice (Roast and Hype modes)
Contact Information:
- Website: www.meetcleo.com
- Email: team@meetcleo.com
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/cleo
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/meetcleo
- Twitter: twitter.com/meetc_leo
- LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/cleo-ai
14. Vise
Vise is an advanced investment management platform that leverages AI to empower financial advisors. The platform provides tools for portfolio management, client engagement, and investment strategy development, allowing advisors to deliver personalized financial services with greater efficiency. Vise’s AI-driven approach helps advisors optimize portfolios based on individual client goals and market conditions, enhancing both performance and client satisfaction.
Vise’s team comprises experts in finance, technology, and AI, working together to create a seamless and intuitive platform for advisors. The platform offers comprehensive features including automated portfolio management, detailed analytics, and customizable investment strategies. By handling the complexities of investment management, Vise enables advisors to focus more on client relationships and strategic growth.
Key Highlights:
- AI-driven investment management platform for financial advisors.
- Provides tools for automated portfolio management and client engagement.
- Focuses on democratizing access to advanced investment strategies.
Services:
- Automated portfolio management
- Client engagement tools
- Customizable investment strategies
- Detailed analytics and reporting
- Financial planning support
Contact Information:
- Website: www.vise.com
- Phone Number: +1 (929) 273-0476
- Email: clientservice@vise.com
- Address: 521 Broadway 3rd Floor New York, NY 10012, United States
- LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/viseai
- Twitter: twitter.com/ViseAI
15. MindBridge
MindBridge is a company in the field of financial risk assessment and auditing, utilizing AI to enhance the accuracy and efficiency of these processes. The MindBridge platform combines machine learning, data analytics, and expert knowledge to detect anomalies and patterns that could indicate financial irregularities. This technology supports auditors and financial professionals in making more informed decisions and identifying potential risks early.
The MindBridge platform is built on advanced AI technology, including anomaly detection algorithms and natural language processing. These tools allow users to analyze large volumes of financial data quickly and accurately, uncovering insights that might be missed with traditional methods. The company’s commitment to innovation extends to its University Alliance Program, which fosters collaboration with academic institutions to advance AI research and education in auditing and financial analysis.
Key Highlights:
- Uses AI to improve financial risk assessment and auditing.
- Combines machine learning, data analytics, and expert knowledge.
- Engages in academic collaboration through the University Alliance Program.
Services:
- Anomaly detection
- Financial data analytics
- Audit support
- Risk assessment
- University Alliance Program for research and education
Contact Information:
- Website: www.mindbridge.ai
- Phone Number: +1 (613) 667-1236
- Address: 80 Aberdeen Street Suite 400 Ottawa ON K1S 5R5 Canada
- LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/mindbridge-ai
- Twitter: witter.com/mindbridge_ai
16. Bud
Bud is an open banking platform that enables financial institutions to offer personalized and innovative services to their customers. By integrating various financial data sources, Bud provides a comprehensive view of customers’ financial lives, allowing banks and fintech companies to deliver tailored products and services. The platform leverages AI to analyze financial behavior and identify opportunities for personalized financial advice and product recommendations.
The platform supports a wide range of use cases, including budget management, financial planning, and product matching. By harnessing the power of open banking, Bud helps institutions better understand their customers and meet their financial needs more effectively. The company is committed to driving innovation in the financial industry through its advanced data analytics and AI capabilities. Bud’s platform is designed to be flexible and scalable, making it suitable for institutions of all sizes looking to enhance their digital offerings and improve customer relationships.
Key Highlights:
- Open banking platform that integrates various financial data sources.
- Provides personalized financial services through AI-driven insights.
- Enhances customer engagement and satisfaction for financial institutions.
Services:
- Open banking integration
- Financial behavior analysis
- Personalized financial advice
- Product recommendation
- Budget management
Contact Information:
- Website: www.joinbudapp.com
- Email: contact@budcreate.xyz
- LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/bud-financial
- Twitter: twitter.com/budfinancial
- YouTube: www.youtube.com/channel/UCduoqhtJnI7agwwWwvR5gDQ
17. Eigen Technologies
Eigen Technologies is a company focused on intelligent document processing and automation for the financial sector. Their platform leverages advanced machine learning and natural language processing to extract, classify, and analyze data from unstructured documents. This enables organizations to gain deeper insights and make data-driven decisions more efficiently.
Eigen’s platform is designed to handle complex documents such as contracts, financial statements, and regulatory filings. By automating these processes, Eigen helps firms reduce the time and cost associated with manual data extraction and analysis. In addition to their core document processing capabilities, Eigen provides solutions for risk management, compliance, and customer onboarding. By integrating with existing systems, Eigen’s platform enhances operational efficiency and supports the digital transformation of financial services.
Key Highlights:
- Specializes in intelligent document processing for finance.
- Uses machine learning and NLP to extract and analyze data.
- Supports risk management, compliance, and customer onboarding.
Services:
- Intelligent document processing
- Data extraction and classification
- Risk management solutions
- Compliance automation
- Customer onboarding
Contact Information:
- Website: eigentech.com
- Phone Number: +1 929-999-5908
- Address: 115 West 30th Street, New York, NY, USA
- Email: contact@eigentech.com
- LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/eigen-technologies
- Twitter: twitter.com/eigen_tech
18. Sentieo
Sentieo is an AI-powered financial research platform designed to streamline the research process for financial analysts, portfolio managers, and investor relations professionals. The platform integrates advanced search capabilities, document management, and analytical tools to help users gather and analyze financial data more efficiently.
Sentieo offers a comprehensive suite of tools, including natural language processing for document search, financial modeling, and collaboration features. This enables users to quickly find relevant information, create detailed reports, and share insights with their teams. The platform is designed to handle large volumes of data, making it easier to track market trends, monitor companies, and make informed investment decisions By combining data from various sources such as earnings calls, financial filings, and news articles, Sentieo provides a holistic view of the market. Its user-friendly interface and powerful analytics make it a valuable tool for financial professionals looking to enhance their research capabilities.
Key Highlights:
- AI-powered financial research platform.
- Integrates advanced search, document management, and analytical tools.
- Designed for financial analysts, portfolio managers, and investor relations professionals.
Services:
- Document search and management
- Financial modeling
- Data analytics
- Collaboration tools
- Market trend analysis
Contact Information:
- Website: sentieo.com
- Address: 24 Union Square East, 5th Floor New York, NY 10003
- Phone Number: (646) 783-1995
- LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/sentieo
- Twitter: witter.com/Sentieo
Conclusion
Artificial Intelligence is revolutionizing the fintech industry by enhancing efficiency, security, and customer experience. From personalized financial advice and intelligent document processing to advanced data analytics and conversational AI, the applications of AI in fintech are vast and transformative. These technologies enable financial institutions to streamline operations, reduce costs, and deliver superior services to their customers.
AI-driven solutions are also helping to democratize financial services, making them more accessible and tailored to individual needs. By automating routine tasks, improving accuracy in data handling, and providing insightful analytics, AI empowers financial professionals to focus on strategic decision-making and customer engagement. This not only improves operational efficiency but also drives innovation and growth within the industry.
As AI continues to evolve, its impact on fintech will only grow stronger. Financial institutions that embrace these technologies will be better positioned to navigate the complexities of the modern financial landscape, meet the rising expectations of their customers, and maintain a competitive edge. The future of fintech is undeniably intertwined with the advancements in AI, promising a more intelligent, efficient, and inclusive financial ecosystem.