Future of Global Fintech Second Edition 2025

The survey asked fintechs about their plans to expand operations internationally over the next year. Overall, responses highlighted a strong inclination for cross-border expansion, with 55% of firms planning to enter new markets. When including those with future expansion ambitions, 22% of fintechs reported plans for international growth. In total, 23% indicated they had no current plans or that the question did not apply. Appetite for international expansion varied by region, with 67% of fintechs in MENA, 64% in Europe, 57% in LAC and 60% in the US and Canada showing strong ambitions. Meanwhile, 22% in APAC, 21% in LAC and 20% in SSA focused more on local operations. Fintechs in SSA appeared to face greater barriers to international expansion, with 42% reporting that their expansion plans were on hold. More broadly, AEs saw a higher share of fintechs (60%) planning international expansion in the next 12 months compared to EMDEs (49%) (Figure 13). In terms of verticals, digital banking and savings (73%) and wealthtech (65%) led in cross-border expansion plans, followed by digital payments (58%) and digital capital raising (55%). In contrast, digital lending remained more localized, with 34% not focusing on international expansion at the time of the survey. Plan to expand operations internationally in the next 12 months FIGURE 13 37% AEs EMDEsGlobal average Yes, we are planning to expand into new markets We are considering expansion but final decision is on hold No, we do not have plans for cross-border expansion currently We are not focused on international expansion5% 5% 5%55% 60% 49%22% 19% 25%18% 16% 21% Fintech expansion The Future of Global Fintech: From Rapid Expansion to Sustainable Growth 20