Speed and convenience have become the consumer norm. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, when people worldwide were introduced to instant access to goods and services via apps and digital platforms, the supply and demand considerably grew and splintered. The 'I need it now' culture shows no signs of slowing down, ye...

As people try to stay on top of their finances in uncertain times, BNPL services have grown in popularity. The fact that more than 17 million British shoppers have used them for an online purchase highlights opportunities to support people with budgeting and planning ahead financially.

BNPL brands are taking steps to build all-in-one shopping apps to expand their reach among digital shoppers. From direct purchasing through to easy returns, new features could lure more shoppers seeking convenience and flexibility and help BNPL brands to shape the future of shopping.

Young people want to save and budget in a way that isn’t boring. Cleo provides a smart AI bot that delivers financial services in a fresh and disruptive way. With $44 million in funding, Cleo is one of the fastest-growing fintech brands catering to a younger audience: Gen Zers.

What kinds of financial safeguards are people seeking across sectors? How can innovative tools help young people manage their money? What does empathetic support look like during a cost of living crisis? And how are fintech firms democratising access to financial know-how?