There are over 30,000 fintech apps in the world today. Yet there is so much room for innovation. The reason is simple: the fintech industry is transforming financial services, making them more accessible, efficient, and user-centric. As fintech app development continues to grow, competition becomes fiercer. Whether it’s a banking, investment, insurance, or budgeting app, standing out requires more than just functionality—it requires providing an exceptional user experience and security.
Below are the 15 key features every successful fintech app should focus on building. It is detailed with examples and actionable insights for app developers and marketers who want to build a successful fintech app.
1. Secure user authentication
It is estimated that cybercrime will cost the global economy almost $10.5 trillion in 2025. No wonder security measures are non-negotiable in fintech app development. Your app must employ robust security features like two-factor authentication (2FA), biometric authentication (fingerprint or facial recognition), and encrypted data transmission.
Strong security fosters trust and encourages continued user engagement. Compliance with global security protocols also reassures users that their financial information is safe.
Many fintech apps integrate multi-layered authentication processes to strengthen security. For example, apps like Cash App and PayPal require a combination of PIN codes, biometrics, and SMS verification to prevent unauthorized access.
2. Intuitive UI/UX design
Around 90% of people stop using an app due to poor UX/UI. A seamless, intuitive user interface is the backbone of user satisfaction. Fintech app design should focus on straightforward navigation, minimal friction, and quick access to essential features.
Flawless UI/UX design reduces abandonment rates and keeps users loyal. App developers should invest in usability testing and responsive design that adapts across devices to enhance user satisfaction.
A well-thought-out UI/UX improves user retention. Consider how budgeting apps like Mint and PocketGuard use a minimalist design, clear typography, and color-coded spending categories to enhance user experience.
3. Real-time notifications and alerts
Did you know that push notifications can boost your app engagement by up to 88%? Push notifications and real-time alerts help users stay informed about transactions, payments, investment updates, and financial goals.
This feature significantly improves user interaction and ensures they never miss critical information. Smart notifications based on user behavior and preferences drive engagement and app sessions.
For example, investment apps like Robinhood send alerts about market fluctuations, helping users make timely financial decisions. The right balance in notifications, without overwhelming users, is key to keeping engagement high.
4. Comprehensive dashboard
Finance apps have demonstrated high user interaction rates, with fintech apps averaging a 28% interaction rate. This indicates that users engage significantly with features like comprehensive dashboards that provide a consolidated view of their financial information.
A well-designed dashboard allows users to access all financial information in one place. Whether they’re monitoring investments, budgets, or spending habits, a dashboard that’s both informative and visually appealing enhances the overall user experience. It also simplifies financial planning, becoming essential in any successful fintech app.
For example, banking apps like Revolut and N26 provide users with interactive dashboards that visualize spending patterns, categorize expenses, and offer real-time insights into financial health.
5. Multi-currency and localization support
The global nature of digital payments is quite evident these days, with the market projected to reach $193.7 billion by 2028. This underscores the importance of offering multi-currency and localized services to cater to a diverse user base.
Since fintech applications often serve users from different regions, supporting multiple currencies and local languages is essential. This feature not only improves accessibility but also positions your fintech app for global success. It makes the app more inclusive and appeals to users with varying financial goals and backgrounds.
Apps like Wise (formerly TransferWise) offer seamless multi-currency transactions, helping users send and receive money globally with minimal exchange fees.
6. AI-powered insights and recommendations
83% of businesses believe that using AI in their business strategy is one of their top priority. Artificial intelligence and machine learning can power features that analyze spending habits, suggest savings plans, or recommend investment strategies.
These AI features turn a financial app into a trusted advisor, improving retention and boosting engagement. Incorporating generative AI can also enhance predictive analysis and help users achieve long-term financial goals.
Apps like Cleo use AI-powered chatbots to analyze user spending behavior and provide budgeting advice in an engaging, conversational manner.
7. Budgeting and expense tracking
95% of millennials are saving a very small amount compared to what is recommended. App developers should therefore incorporate budgeting and expense-tracking features to assist users in doing this task.
App users who want to track spending and meet financial goals highly value budgeting app features. Fintech companies incorporating easy-to-use budgeting tools will see higher user satisfaction and increased app sessions. Detailed visualizations and custom budget categories elevate the user experience and drive daily interaction.
For example, You Need a Budget (YNAB) offers a proactive approach to budgeting by helping users allocate funds before they spend.
8. Integration with bank accounts and financial institutions
84% of users express satisfaction with platforms that offer seamless bank account integrations, particularly valuing the speed and ease of use. This highlights the critical role of such integrations in enhancing user experience.
Allow users to link their accounts from different banks and financial institutions seamlessly. This feature gives them a consolidated view of their financial status, making the app indispensable for daily use. A secure and smooth integration builds trust and encourages users to rely on your fintech application for all financial services.
Open banking APIs have made this integration more seamless. Apps like Plaid allow fintech applications to connect securely with thousands of banks worldwide.
9. Smooth payment gateway integration
A fintech app is incomplete without secure and efficient payment gateway integration. And almost 85% of customers nowadays expect companies to provide various payment methods when they reach the checkout. A reliable payment system enhances app trustworthiness for bill payments, peer-to-peer transfers, or online purchases.
App developers must ensure the payment process is fast, secure, and supports popular payment methods to enhance user satisfaction. Google Pay and Stripe offer fintech applications robust payment gateway solutions with advanced encryption.
10. Investment and portfolio management tools
Fintech apps, including those offering investment and portfolio management tools, have notable retention rates: 73% after 30 days, 65% after 90 days, and 48% after a year. This suggests that comprehensive investment tools contribute to sustained user engagement.
Portfolio management tools are essential for fintech companies catering to investment app users. Features like asset allocation tracking, risk assessment, and ROI analysis help users make informed financial decisions. Educational content and investment calculators can enhance user engagement and position the app as a go-to financial advisor.
Investment apps like Wealthfront and Betterment provide AI-driven portfolio management services that help users optimize their investments.
11. Customer support chatbots and assistance
By the end of 2025, AI is expected to power almost 95% of customer interactions. Quick, reliable support within the app can make all the difference. AI-powered chatbots and live support channels allow users to resolve issues or queries in real time, improving user retention. Multilingual support and 24/7 availability add immense value for global users.
For example, banking apps like Chime use AI chatbots to answer common queries, reducing the load on human support teams.
12. In-app document management
Efficient document management is vital, as 80% of businesses encounter challenges with app integrations, which can impede digital transformation efforts. Streamlined in-app document management can alleviate such issues, enhancing operational efficiency.
Features allowing users to upload and manage important documents such as tax forms, insurance policies, or investment documents add practical value and streamline the user experience. Users appreciate having access to their essential documents within the same platform, contributing to greater trust and engagement.
Apps like Expensify allow users to scan receipts and track business expenses effortlessly.
13. Personalized user experience
73% of customers are expecting better personalization as technology keeps improving. Personalization plays a crucial role in fintech app development. Dynamic home screens, tailored financial advice, and content based on user behavior make the app feel customized and relevant. Smart recommendations based on previous activity keep the user engaged and improve retention.
For instance, budgeting apps like Honeydue personalize recommendations based on a couple’s spending habits.
14. Transaction history and detailed reporting
Users should have access to a detailed history of transactions with advanced filtering options. This transparency fosters trust and enhances financial planning. Visual charts, spending summaries, and monthly reports elevate the user experience and encourage proactive financial management.
Neobank apps like Monzo provide categorized spending reports that help users track their expenses effectively.
15. Regulatory compliance and legal transparency
Navigating compliance is a significant challenge for fintech companies, with 93% finding it difficult to meet requirements. Moreover, over 60% have incurred at least $250,000 in compliance fines in the past year, emphasizing the necessity for stringent regulatory adherence.
Fintech applications must adhere to regional and global regulations. Compliance with financial institution standards and transparent data policies protects both the company and its users. Regular audits and visible compliance badges improve brand reputation and user confidence.
For example, GDPR and PSD2 compliance are crucial for European fintech applications.
16. Gamification
Gamified learning experiences can boost retention rates by almost 90%. Gamification elements like rewards for financial milestones or challenges encourage user engagement and make financial management fun. Apps can integrate badges or loyalty programs that enhance user interaction and satisfaction.
17. Social media integration
Allow users to share milestones or financial achievements on social media. This will build community and serve as organic marketing for the app.
Conclusion
Incorporating these 17 key features in your fintech app is not optional—it’s essential for survival and growth in the competitive fintech industry. Every feature adds value for users, from security features and AI-driven insights to intuitive design and personalized experiences. The key takeaway is clear: fintech app development requires foresight, user empathy, and robust technology. If you’re an app developer looking to build the next successful fintech solution, ensure these core features are part of your app marketing strategy and development roadmap.
Looking to supercharge your fintech mobile app’s growth? Explore Mobile OEM advertising to scale your user base with alternative app stores and reach active users globally. Contact us at AVOW to get started!
The Mobile OEM advertising playbook helps fintech apps reach users directly on their devices through pre-installed apps and native placements. It’s a powerful way to drive trusted, high-quality installs and scale user acquisition efficiently. Download Now!