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Digital payments: technologies and trends for a cashless future

Leave a Comment / Banks and Fintechs / Rafaela

Recently, digital payments have undergone a radical transformation, driven by technological advances and changes in consumer preferences. This rapid digitalization has redefined how we interact with money, and as we move into a future where physical cash becomes increasingly obsolete, the transition to a fully cashless economy seems inevitable. Fintechs have played a leading role in this transformation, introducing fast, secure, and convenient solutions that are fast becoming the new global standard – especially in regions such as Europe and Asia, where digital wallets and proximity payments are already advancing. Emerging Trends and Global Adaptation The COVID-19 pandemic has been a significant accelerator for adopting digital payments. With social distancing and the need to minimize physical contact, many people began to avoid using cash, accelerating the popularization of digital alternatives. Countries like Norway and Sweden are already very close to becoming completely cashless societies, with only 1-2% of transactions being made in cash. In China, the success of digital currency experiments also highlights the potential for a rapid and efficient transition to a cashless future. However, this change is not homogeneous throughout the world. In countries like Morocco and Romania, the use of cash still predominates, mainly due to high rates of unbanked population and a lack of adequate digital infrastructure. This reveals a crucial challenge: ensuring the transition to a digital payment system that is inclusive and equitable, avoiding the exclusion of the most vulnerable segments of the population, such as the elderly and those living in rural areas. The role of fintech in the future of digital payments Fintechs have led the transformation of digital payments, developing technologies that facilitate faster, safer, and more effective transactions. It is estimated that by 2030 the global market for digital payment solutions will expand at an annual growth rate (CAGR) of 15.20%, representing an increase in market value of US$24 trillion. Currently, digital commerce is the largest segment in the digital payments market, with an estimated value of US$6 trillion. Convenience is one of the main drivers for its popularization, with many consumers opting for methods that eliminate the need to carry cash or even physical cards. All these changes have led fintechs to explore new technologies to offer even safer and more efficient forms of payment. Trends shaping the future of digital payments Here are some of the main emerging trends in the digital payment market: 1. Instant and Real-Time Payments Instant payments are fast becoming the norm, already adopted by more than 60 countries. Unlike traditional methods, which can take days to process a transaction, instant payments ensure that money is transferred from one account to another in a matter of seconds. In Brazil, for example, the Pix instant payment system, launched in November 2020, has already become the main form of payment in the country. In one year, more than 37.4 billion transactions have been made. 2. Digital Currencies and Cryptocurrencies Another phenomenon that is shaping the future of digital payments is the growth of digital currencies, especially cryptocurrencies and central bank digital currencies (CBDCs). Cryptocurrencies, such as Bitcoin and Ethereum, are no longer just seen as stores of value but are increasingly being used for everyday payments. Companies such as PayPal and Square (via the Cash App) already allow their users to buy, sell, and spend cryptocurrencies directly from their platforms. In addition, large retailers such as Tesla have even accepted Bitcoin payments, albeit temporarily, demonstrating the growing acceptance of cryptocurrencies as a form of payment. 3. Integrating Payments into Superapps Superapps, platforms that offer a wide range of services within a single app, are another emerging trend that is reshaping digital payments. Originating in Asia, these apps offer services ranging from online payments and shopping to medical appointments and travel bookings. The success of these super apps is based on the convenience they offer users, allowing them to carry out a variety of tasks without leaving the platform. This trend is now spreading to other parts of the world. 4. Invisible payments Invisible payments are another emerging trend that aims to make transactions so automatic and integrated into everyday life that the user doesn’t even notice when the payment takes place. Instead of having to swipe a card or enter a password, transactions are processed in the background, providing an extremely fluid and frictionless shopping experience. This innovation is already being used in technologies such as Uber’s automatic payment system. It is expected that these invisible payments will become even more common in the future, taking advantage of technologies such as IoT and Artificial Intelligence to allow people to pay for products and services almost imperceptibly. 5. Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) “Buy Now, Pay Later” (BNPL) is becoming increasingly popular, especially among generations Z and Y, who prefer this payment model because it gives them greater control over their finances. There are currently more than 200 providers offering this option to their consumers, including fintechs, big techs, banks, and card networks. However, despite its growing popularity, BNPL is still unregulated. Challenges for digital means of payment Despite the advances, the transition to a cashless society brings some challenges, such as the risk of exclusion of social groups that depend on cash, either due to lack of access to technology or personal preferences. In addition, cyber security has become a growing concern as digital transactions proliferate, requiring robust measures to protect against fraud and hacker attacks. In the future, digital payments will not just be an alternative, but the global standard. The trends that are shaping this market open up new opportunities for companies and entrepreneurs around the world. Talk with Luby and find out how our solutions can put you ahead in an increasingly diverse, accessible, and innovative future!

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The power of Generative AI to create personalized financial products

Generative Artificial Intelligence (Generative AI) is redefining the financial sector, offering an innovative approach to understanding and meeting customer needs. In a scenario where personalization is becoming increasingly essential, GenAI is redefining the role of financial institutions, enabling them to create financial products and services that are highly tailored to individual needs. As technology continues to shape the future of business and the global economy, Generative AI stands out as one of the most promising innovations. The technology makes it possible to create precisely tailored financial solutions and promises to accelerate significant changes in the sector. According to Gartner, 80% of CFOs plan to increase their investments in AI over the next two years, reflecting growing confidence in the potential of this technology. What is Generative AI? Generative AI goes beyond traditional artificial intelligence, using advanced machine learning techniques to create entirely new solutions from raw data. This includes everything from investment portfolios to personalized insurance, all tailored to the unique needs of each client. In the financial sector, this means that AI can generate financial products ranging from personalized investment portfolios to tailor-made insurance and retirement plans. In the financial world, Generative AI is being used to understand the best profile for each client, customizing products and services according to individual needs. For example, a bank can use Generative AI to analyze customers’ spending patterns and predict their future financial behavior. This allows bank managers to offer personalized financial advice and suggest products that align with each customer’s goals and preferences. Traditional AI vs Generative AI Traditional AI, or prescriptive AI, has been widely used to assess financial risks, automate processes, and analyze large volumes of data in search of patterns and trends. However, this form of AI is limited to performing a single specific task, requiring considerable time and resources for training. Although effective in its functions, prescriptive AI does not have the flexibility or adaptability needed to cope with the complexities and rapidly evolving demands of the financial market. The real revolution comes with Generative AI and big language models, which are transforming sectors where the use of data, language, and images is central, as noted by Harvard Business Review in the so-called WINS Work sectors. GenAI enables deeper and more dynamic integration in financial operations, from the front office, increasing liquidity, to the automation of tasks in the back office. With its ability to analyze and understand data in real-time, Generative AI offers mass customization, precisely tailoring financial products to individual customer needs, while making processes more efficient and scalable. Benefits of AI in Financial Product Development Generative AI is not just transforming operations; it’s redefining the entire customer experience. Imagine a future where every financial product is custom-tailored to fit your life goals seamlessly—this is the new reality that AI brings. By leveraging vast amounts of data and advanced predictive algorithms, AI enables financial institutions to craft products and services perfectly aligned with each customer’s unique needs. Among the key benefits of using Generative AI in the development of financial products are: Efficiency and Scalability Generative AI empowers financial institutions to deliver highly personalized solutions at scale, which would be impossible with traditional methods. It can analyze a customer’s transaction history, spending patterns, and financial goals to suggest the most appropriate products, such as recommending a migration to a better-suited bank account plan or proposing a personalized investment portfolio. By streamlining these processes, AI reduces operational costs and accelerates product development, boosting overall efficiency. Data-Driven Decision-Making AI excels at analyzing vast volumes of data in real time with speed and precision, allowing institutions to make more informed and timely decisions. For example, by combining data from various customer touchpoints, AI can predict when a customer might benefit from an updated credit card plan or a tailored loan offer. This capability is precious in volatile economic environments, where being agile and accurate in decision-making is critical. Risk Reduction By identifying patterns and predicting customer behavior, AI plays a crucial role in mitigating financial risks. It can automatically adjust products and strategies based on evolving market conditions or changes in a customer’s financial profile. For instance, if AI detects an increase in a customer’s financial risk, it could proactively suggest a shift to more conservative investment options or recommend insurance products that better match their current needs. Fraud Detection and Security AI systems enhance security by monitoring transactions in real time, identifying suspicious activities, and preventing fraud before it impacts customers or institutions. This continuous monitoring not only protects against financial losses but also strengthens customer trust by ensuring their assets and data are secure. Enhanced Customer Experience By providing products that are meticulously tailored to individual needs and ensuring faster, more efficient service, AI significantly enhances the customer experience. This personalized approach increases customer satisfaction and loyalty, as clients receive financial advice and products that are not only relevant but also aligned with their financial journey. Challenges of using Generative AI Generative AI, with all its potential, requires financial institutions not only to adapt but also to lead the way in innovation and data security. One of the main obstacles is the effective management of huge volumes of sensitive information. Securely integrating this data into AI systems requires a robust infrastructure and strict governance practices. In addition, it is crucial to guarantee the quality and accuracy of the data used to avoid bias and ensure that the financial products generated are reliable and effective. Another significant challenge is regulatory compliance and cyber security. The financial sector operates under strict regulations such as GDPR, LGPD, and CCPA, which require extreme care in protecting customer data. The introduction of more complex AI systems amplifies cybersecurity risks, requiring substantial investments in protection and monitoring. Overcoming these challenges is not only a necessity but an opportunity for financial institutions to position themselves at the forefront of innovation, setting new standards of excellence and trust in the market. The Future of Generative AI in the Financial Sector The future of

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Banking cybersecurity: 5 strategies for safeguarding sensitive data

Leave a Comment / Banks and Fintechs / Rafaela

As technology evolves at a rapid pace, the tactics employed by cybercriminals grow exponentially with it. For financial institutions, protecting sensitive financial and personal data has escalated to the highest priority. To counteract emerging threats, banks must implement advanced internal controls to effectively identify and mitigate cyber risks. The demand for transparency in risk management is intensifying, with investors, regulators, and customers increasingly seeking clarity on the bank measures to secure data. The State of Banking Survey reveals that 43% of banks may lack the necessary preparation to safeguard customer data, privacy, and assets against cyberattacks. Challenges in banking cybersecurity The banking sector is grappling with a dynamic cyber threat landscape. Recent incidents—ranging from digital fraud and ransomware attacks to cyber espionage—underscore the severity of these threats. Regulatory agencies such as the Federal Financial Institutions Examination Council (FFIEC) and the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) have introduced stringent guidelines to ensure banks implement robust cybersecurity measures. Additionally, regulations like the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) and the European Union’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) set increasingly high standards for privacy and security on a global scale. Concerns also extend to third-party providers. According to Forbes, recent breaches have often been traced back to vulnerabilities in third-party services, including those responsible for network monitoring and system maintenance. For instance, in 2023, a breach exposing customer data from Bank of America and Fidelity Investments Life Insurance was linked to a service provider’s security lapse. Similarly, the SolarWinds incident, which affected over 18,000 companies including the U.S. Treasury and major financial institutions, was a result of a compromised network monitoring tool. Strategies for protecting sensitive data Multi-factor authentication (MFA) Multi-factor authentication stands as a pivotal defense mechanism against unauthorized access. By requiring multiple forms of verification—such as a password and a temporary code sent to a mobile device—banks can effectively frustrate fraudulent login attempts. Data encryption Encryption is critical for safeguarding sensitive data. Implementing strong encryption protocols, like 256-bit Advanced Encryption Standard (AES), ensures that data remains secure during transmission or while at rest. Incident detection and response (SIEM and SOAR) Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) systems deliver real-time analysis of security alerts generated by applications and network hardware, enabling the early detection of potential threats. Security Orchestration, Automation, and Response (SOAR) platforms take it a step further by automating the response process, and swiftly executing predefined actions to contain and mitigate risks. Together, these technologies ensure rapid detection and response, significantly reducing the potential impact of cyberattacks on sensitive financial data. Cybersecurity education and training Employees are frequent targets of social engineering attacks, such as phishing. Comprehensive cybersecurity training programs are essential for enhancing awareness of best practices and fostering a security-conscious culture within financial institutions. Vulnerability assessments and penetration testing Routine vulnerability assessments and penetration testing must identify and address security weaknesses before they can be exploited. These practices ensure alignment with security best practices and regulatory requirements. Investment in new technologies As digital banking services expand, so does exposure to cyber threats. Investing in cutting-edge technological solutions is crucial for mitigating risks and bolstering security. Innovations such as Open Banking — granting customers greater control and security over their financial data — are gaining traction. In the U.S., the CFPB is exploring new regulations to enhance customer data rights. Biometric solutions and behavioral analysis (e.g., browsing habits and typing patterns) are emerging as effective fraud prevention tools. Additionally, the rise of digital wallets and advanced authentication technologies, including generative AI, revolutionizes risk management, compliance, and banking operations. Transform your digital future Cybersecurity is a critical area for banks, especially in the U.S., where the complexity of the financial system and the sophistication of cyber threats require a comprehensive approach. Integrating advanced technologies, continuous training, and adherence to regulatory standards are essential for protecting sensitive data. Partner with Luby to modernize your banking system and deliver top-tier security solutions to your customers. Leverage our expertise from over 20 years in the global financial market to improve your cybersecurity posture. Connect with one of our experts and secure your future with cutting-edge solutions.

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Green Fintech and the Future of Sustainable Finance

Leave a Comment / Banks and Fintechs / Rafaela

Sustainability has become more relevant in business, and the financial sector is no exception. Recently, the fintech sector has made substantial investments in sustainable practices, leading to the emergence of what is now known as green fintech. Those startups are revolutionizing the sector by leveraging sustainable technological innovations and helping companies and consumers make economic decisions that minimize environmental impact. This movement has been gaining momentum in the US, reflecting the growing awareness of climate change and the need for a more sustainable future. What is Green Fintech? Green fintech are companies and startups using financial technology to promote environmental sustainability. Through the adoption of data, AI, blockchain, or other technology, they develop financial solutions and products that support actions and investments with good environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices. In addition, they create digital payment solutions that encourage practices such as carbon offsetting. Green fintech also plays a key role in promoting sustainability, educating and raising awareness among their users about the importance of environmental issues, and showing them how to integrate sustainable financial practices into their daily lives. The Growth of Green Fintech in the United States The green fintech market in the United States has grown quickly in recent years. Already one of the world’s leading hubs for innovation, the country is witnessing an increase in the number of startups dedicated to sustainability. According to Global Market Estimates, the global green fintech market is expected to grow significantly between 2024 and 2029, and the United States will play a crucial role in this development, due to its innovation-friendly environment and strong demand for sustainable financial products. Additionally, the global financial sector has significantly stepped up its response to climate change. Each year, the volume of resources directed toward technologies that facilitate the transition to a more sustainable environment increases. In 2015 those investments totaled US$660 billion, while in 2024 they will surpass the US$1 trillion mark. Sustainable Solutions Green fintech has introduced a range of products and services that not only facilitate financial transactions but also promote sustainability, such as: Green Loans: Loan services that offer benefits, such as reduced interest rates, for investments in energy-efficient technologies and sustainable practices. Digital Payments and Signatures: The adoption of digital payments and signatures significantly reduces the need for traditional banking practices, such as checks and paper statements. Mobile Payment Solutions: Payment solutions that make it possible to offset carbon emissions and contribute to renewable energy projects and reforestation initiatives. Digital Wallets: Reduce the need for physical credit and debit cards, reducing plastic waste. Main Challenges for Green Fintech Although the growth of green fintech is promising, there are still some challenges to be overcome. Regulation, for example, is a critical area, especially in the United States, where the regulatory environment for fintech is constantly evolving. In the case of fintech working with ESG, there is the additional difficulty of ensuring that their sustainability criteria are rigorous and verifiable, avoiding so-called “greenwashing” – when companies exaggerate or falsify their environmental credentials. On the other hand, the demand for sustainable financial products continues to grow, driven by more conscious consumers and institutional investors who recognize the financial risks associated with climate change. The future is green, and we can help Green fintech represents the convergence of technology, finance, and sustainability. In the United States, this sector is rapidly growing, driven by the demand for more responsible financial practices and technological innovation. Luby has been leading the digital transformation of financial services, delivering cutting-edge technology to financial institutions and fintech around the world. With over 1,200 projects successfully delivered, we are ready to help you transform your business with customized solutions that will propel you into the future.Speak to one of our experts and learn how to make your business greener!

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Author name: Rafaela

Digital payments: technologies and trends for a cashless future

The power of Generative AI to create personalized financial products

Banking cybersecurity: 5 strategies for safeguarding sensitive data

Green Fintech and the Future of Sustainable Finance

4 financial UX mistakes to avoid in the customer journey

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