The Power of Embedded Finance: Enhancing Programme Managers’ Competitive Edge
In a rapidly evolving financial landscape, embedded finance has emerged as a pivotal tool for programme managers to enhance their competitive stance against fintech disruptors, writes Louis Thompsett for The FinTech Magazine. Paynetics Executive Chairman and Co-founder, Ivo Gueorguiev, emphasized the significance of this trend, stating, «Consumers want more control over their finances and how they pay. They want the businesses they are dealing with to have their back.»
As technology reshapes the financial services sector, programme managers are compelled to adapt and thrive in the face of fierce competition from fintech companies. FinTech Magazine recently engaged in a conversation with Ivo Gueorguiev to delve into the ways embedded finance is enabling programme managers to effectively contend with the fintech wave.
The financial services realm has undergone a remarkable transformation, propelled by technological innovation that has exceeded even the most imaginative visions. From AI-driven payment disruptors to user-friendly digital wallets, the way financial services are consumed has radically shifted. Consumer expectations have risen, valuing seamless experiences over traditional banking relationships. The intensified competition from well-funded fintechs has placed programme managers’ territory at risk, necessitating a recalibration of strategies to regain their competitive edge.
Today’s consumers demand superior, accessible user experiences, reshaping the financial market. Fintech startups have introduced novel use cases, encroaching upon the domain of established programme managers. Consequently, the rules of engagement have transformed. Consumers seek control over their finances and payments, desiring businesses that provide support, especially in uncertain economic times where trust is fragile. Mere provision of preferred payment methods is no longer sufficient; enabling intelligent payment decisions and streamlining purchasing journeys have become imperative.
The swift transition to digital platforms raises questions about the future of legacy payment systems. Fintechs have brought substantial value to consumers, emphasizing user appreciation through services like cashback, discounts, and reward points. Programme managers must reinvent themselves to stay relevant, offering value-added services to compete effectively. Beyond essential payments, options like Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) and installment payments accommodate diverse consumer needs. Upgrading technology infrastructure with advanced analytics and AI ensures high-quality, consumer-friendly features.
Embedded finance introduces fresh revenue streams for programme managers, accommodating different business models such as partnerships, Banking-as-a-Service, and open finance. This transformation enables non-financial businesses to offer financial products seamlessly. For example, retailers can integrate financing options into their apps, while taxi services can provide a unified platform for search, hail, and payment. Embedded finance aligns with the demand for convenience, allowing programme managers to tap into in-app data to optimize the payment process through AI-powered insights.
As embedded finance enhances non-financial customer journeys, regulatory compliance remains crucial. Maintaining reputational integrity necessitates a comprehensive compliance approach, including automated Anti-Money Laundering (AML) procedures and streamlined risk management. By adhering to European standards, programme managers can make informed decisions about technology and partnerships, ensuring regulatory compliance and trustworthiness.
In this era of technological upheaval, empowered consumers have reshaped the financial services landscape. Programme managers face heightened competition and must modernize their approaches to meet evolving demands for control, convenience, and simplicity in payment experiences. Offering supplementary services like payment plans and rewards enhances customer retention. Embedded finance presents an opportunity to streamline payment experiences and drive conversion rates. Striking a balance between innovation and regulation is key, allowing programme managers to seize the spotlight with confidence.