Your Weekly Fintech Sales Intelligence Newsletter | Volume 21

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TODAY’S PICK 🎯

AI is Changing How Sales Teams Actually Use Their CRM

CRMs were built to store data. But storing isn’t selling. The best sales teams are now pairing their CRMs with AI, not to add more dashboards, but to actually do something with the data they already have. Think instant deal prioritisation, sharper forecasting, and coaching that’s actually relevant.

But how do you use AI effectively? This guide breaks it down into easy steps.

LEADING VOICES📣

EDITOR’S INSIGHT 💭

🌍 How Fintech Leaders Can Stay Ahead in Uncertain Times

Recent U.S. tariff hikes have added fresh layers of uncertainty to an already volatile global market. While many sectors scramble to adjust, fintech companies are uniquely positioned to respond with speed and smarts. With the right mix of market intelligence and agile sales enablement, these firms can not only weather disruption—but use it to their advantage.

The key lies in staying proactive. Fintech leaders must tap into real-time data and expert insights to anticipate how trade policy shifts might ripple across customer needs and deal cycles. In an environment where traditional playbooks fall short, flexible sales teams trained to pivot quickly can make all the difference. That might mean adjusting messaging, targeting new segments, or exploring untapped markets to reduce dependency on any one region.

Technology is central to this response. AI and analytics tools can reveal hidden patterns in market behavior, helping teams make faster, smarter decisions. And as the regulatory landscape evolves, engaging in policy discussions ensures the fintech voice is heard and future-proofed.

Uncertainty isn’t new—but today’s challenges demand a sharper response. Fintech firms that double down on adaptability, intelligence, and customer focus will be best placed to turn turbulence into growth.

INDUSTRY INSIGHTS 🌐

No, Stripe is Not Becoming a Bank

Stripe, a leading name in the fintech industry, has recently taken a notable step by applying for a U.S. banking license, dispelling any speculation that the company is transitioning into a conventional bank. The intended license is narrowly focused; it would permit Stripe to process its own payments, enhancing resilience and minimizing reliance on external partners, rather than engaging in traditional banking services like deposit-taking.

Such a move aligns seamlessly with Stripe's strategic trajectory, allowing for a diversified and robust payment processing infrastructure, particularly in light of challenges like Wells Fargo's exit from BIN sponsorship roles. If granted by the third quarter of 2025, this license could fortify Stripe's position, enabling it to maintain stability and enhance its service scope across different geographical locations. Overall, this initiative exemplifies Stripe's commitment to innovation and adaptability in the dynamic landscape of financial technology.

Paysend Partners With Tink for Faster Global Payment Solutions

Paysend's partnership with Tink, a Visa-owned open banking platform, marks a significant step forward in the global payment landscape. This collaboration is designed to offer Paysend customers a faster, more secure, and seamless payment experience by integrating Tink's advanced Open Banking infrastructure. The integration allows customers to authenticate and fund transfers directly from their bank accounts, reducing fraud risks and accelerating transactions. This partnership aligns with Paysend's mission to simplify cross-border payments, making it more affordable and efficient.

Tink's robust bank connectivity and secure APIs enable financial institutions and FinTechs to access financial data and streamline payment processes. This integration enhances Paysend’s reach and functionality, providing broader banking coverage and quicker transaction times. As open banking transforms money management, Paysend users benefit from these advanced capabilities, reinforcing Paysend's commitment to innovation in financial services. This reflects an evolving financial ecosystem where secure, data-driven services are becoming increasingly essential for both consumers and businesses.

Fintech Firms Face Challenges Amidst US Tariff-Induced Market Volatility

The recent imposition of sweeping tariffs by the US has induced significant market volatility, particularly impacting fintech companies such as Robinhood and Affirm. These firms are struggling as weakening consumer finances and potential global recession fears loom. The tariffs, introduced by President Trump, are expected to increase prices and dampen demand, challenging the ability of consumers to repay loans and affecting fintech revenue models dependent on consumer spending.

Despite this, some analysts hold a cautiously optimistic view, suggesting that if tariffs drive down Treasury yields, borrowing costs for companies might decrease, potentially creating opportunities for fintech lenders. However, the current economic climate highlights the vulnerability of fintech firms relative to traditional banks, which have more diversified client bases. The situation underscores the importance of adaptability within the fintech sector as it navigates these economic hurdles, with an eye on potential policy negotiations that could alleviate some of the current market pressures.

Bitcoin Commons Spurs Innovation as Tech Leaders Join Decentralized Finance Movement

Austin's Bitcoin Commons has become a haven for tech innovators leaving Silicon Valley, driven by the prospect of building revolutionary blockchain solutions. This shift is partly fueled by regulatory optimism following pro-bitcoin moves, including Trump's establishment of a Strategic Bitcoin Reserve. Startups like Open Secret are redefining data security by encrypting user data, showcasing a commitment to privacy and decentralization.

Supported by a surge in venture funding for bitcoin-native startups and infrastructure, these engineers and developers are persevering through challenges, inspired by the potential to transform financial systems. The Commons serves as a dynamic hub, fostering education, innovation, and community among bitcoin adherents striving to create a more equitable financial future.

Embedded Finance Transforms Consumer Interactions With Seamless Financial Services Integration

Embedded finance is transforming how consumers and businesses engage with financial services, driven by ease and seamless integration of financial products into everyday platforms, and is supported by advanced API technologies and real-time data analytics. Key factors include customer demand for frictionless experiences and pre-approved offers, with industry giants like Shopify and Amazon Pay setting the precedent for embedding financial services, thus encouraging a broader market adoption.

The rise of embedded finance presents a strategic opportunity for businesses to generate new revenue streams and enhance customer loyalty through integrated solutions like BNPL, which thrives amid high living costs. Experts emphasize the importance of responsible data usage, security, and the seamless customer journey, urging credit agencies, banks, and fintechs to collaborate effectively. As embedded finance matures, it promises a financially inclusive future with widespread benefits for both consumers and brands.

Over $1.2bn Raised in Robust Week for Global FinTech Investments

The recent surge in funding within the FinTech sector is a testament to investors' confidence in innovation-driven financial solutions. Over $1.2 billion was raised across 12 deals, with significant investments in diverse sectors such as WealthTech, AI, HealthTech, and cybersecurity. Notable transactions included FNZ securing $500 million to enhance its wealth management platforms and SandboxAQ's $450 million funding round to advance AI development in quantitative models. Meanwhile, companies like Turbine, Pennylane, and Rain exemplified significant strides in financial and health technology, demonstrating an industry-wide commitment to growth and enhanced service delivery.

Leadership from institutional and high-profile investors underscores the potential these technologies hold in reshaping financial landscapes. Turbine's financial strategies, Hawk's AI solutions, and emerging firms such as Thatch and Meanwhile highlight a strategic focus on innovation and future market readiness. This dynamic environment presents opportunities for continued investment in infrastructure and technology, paving the way for more resilient and customer-centric financial ecosystems.