The global fintech industry is revolutionizing how we manage our finances, invest, borrow, and make payments. With the increasing demand for seamless digital experiences, fintech apps have evolved from simple payment tools to all-encompassing financial platforms. From mobile banking apps to cryptocurrency apps, budgeting tools to investment apps, the rise of mobile fintech solutions is redefining modern finance. According to a report, the global fintech market is expected to reach over $492 billion by 2028, driven by innovations in artificial intelligence, open banking, and user-centric mobile app development.
For fintech startups and financial institutions alike, building a successful mobile app requires more than sleek design and fast transactions. It calls for strategic planning, robust fintech application development, and a relentless focus on user experience. Whether you’re a fintech company launching a digital wallet or a traditional banking service exploring mobile transformation, this playbook will help you master the building blocks of a winning fintech app.
This article will explore the key strategies for developing, marketing, and scaling fintech apps, including essential features, AI integration, mobile OEM advertising, and user retention tactics. Each segment will help you navigate the complex world of financial technology. Let’s explore how to create a fintech app that meets industry standards and delivers unmatched value to users.
The rise of fintech apps
Fintech apps are not just disrupting traditional banking—they’re rewriting the rules of personal finance, investing, and lending. Over the last decade, digital banking and mobile app development have enabled fintech startups to offer faster, more affordable, and more personalized financial services. The fintech industry has rapidly expanded from neobanks to peer-to-peer lending platforms, driven by shifting consumer expectations and innovative technology stacks.
Understanding the fintech revolution
More than 64% of global consumers now use one or more fintech services. Key developments in mobile banking, cryptocurrency apps, and personal finance tools power this shift. As financial institutions embrace fintech application development, they are replacing legacy systems with agile, scalable, and user-focused platforms. Banking apps now feature AI-powered chatbots, automated budgeting tools, and seamless Know Your Customer (KYC) processes, enhancing compliance and convenience.
Factors driving fintech apps
According to experts’ predictions, the global payments market is expected to reach $20 trillion by 2026. One standout in this revolution is the Cash App model, which unifies peer-to-peer transactions, direct deposits, and investment services in a single interface. It’s a fintech solution that embodies simplicity and speed, attracting millions of users in under a decade. Meanwhile, open banking and API integrations enable FinTech apps to connect to multiple bank accounts, providing users with a consolidated view of their finances.
The future is bright
The fintech market is growing, and so is the competition. A fintech company must prioritize user experience, security, and scalability to stand out. This new digital era isn’t about replacing traditional banking but improving it through intuitive apps and powerful features.
Learn more about “The Rise of Fintech Apps: Transforming the Financial Landscape.“
Top features of a fintech app
One key principle drives fintech application development: functionality fuels adoption. Today’s users expect a seamless, secure, and smart experience when interacting with financial services. A great fintech app should balance utility and elegance, combining cutting-edge features with exceptional usability.
Essential features of a fintech app
The cost of cybercrime is expected to reach $10.5 trillion by the end of 2025. To tackle this and other related issues, some key features include robust authentication tools, such as biometrics or two-factor verification, which are no longer optional but have become the new standard. With rising threats in digital wallets and mobile banking apps, strong encryption and user authentication build trust.
Push notifications
Push notifications boost app engagement by 88%. Therefore, another must-have feature for a fintech app is real-time alerts—notifications about spending, deposits, transfers, or suspicious activity ensure transparency and engagement.
Data analytics and AI
Artificial intelligence and analytics are essential features that complement each other. They provide personalized insights, including spending patterns, savings goals, and investment tips. A fintech app that integrates machine learning to suggest budgeting improvements or investment strategies increases long-term retention. For instance, modern budgeting apps offer round-up features and smart savings recommendations powered by artificial intelligence.
Payment integrations
Payment integrations are also critical. Your app should support digital wallets, peer-to-peer transfers, and payment processing apps with low latency and reliability. Open banking APIs enhance the user experience by connecting bank accounts across multiple providers in a single dashboard. Features like bill reminders, investment tracking, and insurance suggestions add holistic value.
Voice assistance
Incorporating intuitive dashboards, dark mode, multi-currency support, and voice assistant capabilities can further elevate a fintech mobile app. The goal is to create a powerful yet user-friendly environment where managing money becomes empowering and straightforward.
Learn more about “17 Key Features Every Successful Fintech App Should Have.“
Why does mobile OEM advertising drive app growth?
Marketing is crucial in the competitive fintech market. One emerging growth strategy is mobile OEM (original equipment manufacturer) advertising—a powerful way to acquire high-quality users directly from mobile device ecosystems. Instead of relying solely on saturated ad networks, fintech companies can pre-install or recommend their apps through partnerships with smartphone brands.
This channel is particularly valuable for fintech mobile apps because it delivers contextual visibility. It introduces the fintech app to the customer in trusted environments, such as app stores, settings menus, or during device setup.
Reduce user acquisition costs
In the financial technology sector, businesses incur the highest customer acquisition costs, averaging approximately $1,450 per new customer. This significant investment underscores the competitive nature of the fintech landscape, where attracting and retaining clients is crucial for long-term success.
The costs encompass various marketing strategies, including digital advertising, promotional offers, and customer engagement initiatives, all designed to differentiate the brand in a crowded market. You can significantly reduce customer acquisition costs by embracing OEM campaigns while improving user lifetime value.
Precise targeting
Fintech startups can target specific geographies, user demographics, or device tiers, ensuring better alignment between the app and potential users. Whether launching a digital banking app, investment platform, or cash management tool, OEM advertising offers a clean, brand-safe channel for expansion.
OEM placements also support deferred installations, where users choose to download the app at a relevant moment, such as when setting up a bank account or exploring financial services on a new device. This results in higher install-to-registration rates than conventional programmatic ads.
With mobile banking and fintech solutions becoming mainstream, OEM advertising is not just a growth hack—it’s a strategic pillar for sustained app adoption.
Learn more about “7 Powerful Ways Mobile OEM Advertising Drives Fintech App Growth.“
How to Use AI and Machine Learning in Fintech App Development
Artificial intelligence is revolutionizing the financial technology (fintech) industry. AI enhances every aspect of fintech app development, from fraud detection and credit scoring to robo-advisors and customer service. Fintech companies that utilize AI and machine learning outperform their competitors by delivering highly personalized, scalable, and secure solutions.
Detecting and preventing fraud
In fraud prevention, AI models analyze user behavior and transaction patterns to flag real-time anomalies. This proactive approach is essential in banking apps, payment processing apps, and digital wallets, where security breaches can be financially devastating.
Provide support 24/7
AI-powered chatbots also provide instant support, handling up to 80% of user queries without human intervention.
Enhancing personalized experiences
Another advantage is personalized experiences. Machine learning enables fintech apps to curate content, recommend investment portfolios, and provide automated financial advice tailored to user profiles.
A significant 71% of consumers look forward to personalized experiences with businesses, while 76% express frustration when these expectations are not met. In the fintech sector, users demand highly tailored interactions, and AI is well-equipped to provide precisely that.
Simplifying the underwriting and approval process
In insurance and lending apps, AI accelerates underwriting and approval processes, enabling faster service delivery.
Predictive analytics and ensuring compliance
AI is also transforming the back end of fintech application development—predictive analytics aid financial institutions in product development, risk management, and operational efficiency. As regulatory frameworks evolve, AI tools are helping ensure compliance by automating document verification and audit trails.
Fintech startups and legacy players can future-proof their platforms by embedding AI into their tech stack. Whether building a personal finance app, cryptocurrency app, or mobile banking service, AI is now a non-negotiable asset.
Learn more about “10 Impactful ways AI and machine learning are revolutionizing fintech app development.“
User retention strategies to reduce churn
Building a fintech app is only half the challenge—retaining users is the real test. With numerous fintech apps available, users tend to quickly abandon platforms that lack engagement, relevance, or trust. To reduce churn, fintech companies must implement effective retention strategies rooted in user behavior and emotional triggers.
Seamless onboarding experience
According to AppsFlyer, 23% of users abandon an app after their first use, primarily because of difficulties encountered during onboarding. Start with onboarding. A straightforward and intuitive onboarding process enhances first impressions and fosters early engagement. Including guided tours, in-app tips, and welcome messages establishes trust and highlights key features from day one.
Prioritize personalization
Personalization is the next layer. Behavioral data helps customize dashboards, offer relevant product suggestions, and deliver timely alerts. A budgeting app that reminds users of upcoming bills or spending limits at the right time increases utility and user satisfaction.
Embrace gamification
Applications that incorporate gamification into their user experiences fetch a 48% increase in user engagement. Gamification is highly effective. Reward systems, streaks, referral bonuses, and milestone badges can transform routine app use into a motivating experience. For example, users of investment apps may receive digital badges for completing educational modules or achieving portfolio goals.
Wise utilization of push notifications
Push notifications also play a vital role, but they must add value. Instead of sending generic alerts, tailor messages to individual financial habits, such as “You’re on track to meet your savings goal!” or “Markets are down—consider reviewing your investment mix.” Personalizing these notifications can enhance user engagement and provide meaningful insights that resonate with individual financial situations, ultimately leading to more informed decisions.
For example, reminders about upcoming bill payments can help users avoid late fees, while budgeting tips can empower them to manage their expenses more effectively. Well-crafted notifications can foster a more proactive approach to personal finance, encouraging users to make informed decisions and stay on top of their financial goals.
Learn more about “10 Proven User Retention Strategies for Fintech Apps to Reduce Churn.“
Fintech trends to look out for in 2025
As the fintech industry matures, new trends are redefining the future of app development. In 2025, expect to see fintech apps embrace hyper-personalization, real-time engagement, and tighter regulatory compliance—all powered by innovation.
Embedded finance
The embedded finance sector is expected to hit $588 billion by 2032, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 16.4%. One major trend is embedded finance. Banking services will increasingly be offered inside non-financial apps, such as e-commerce platforms and ride-hailing services. This frictionless integration of financial tools increases user convenience and broadens fintech’s reach.
Allowing consumers to complete financial transactions seamlessly within the apps they already use reduces the barriers to accessing banking services.
This trend not only enhances user experience but also opens up new revenue streams for businesses, allowing them to offer tailored financial solutions that meet the specific needs of their customers.
As a result, we can expect more companies to adopt embedded finance strategies, driving further innovation and competition in the financial services landscape.
Growth of super apps
Super apps are transforming fintech by combining multiple services—such as banking, payments, and investing—into a single, unified platform. Initially popularized in Asia, they are now gaining traction globally, with the market projected to reach $918 billion by 2033.
Leading examples include Kumu, WeChat, Revolut, and Grab, which offer a range of services from financial tools to messaging and ride-hailing. These platforms appeal to users seeking convenience and reduced app clutter, while AI enhances personalization and customization.
To compete, fintech firms must embrace modular app development, allowing them to adapt quickly by adding or removing features based on user behavior and evolving market demands.
Fintech app developers must continually innovate to remain competitive in 2025 and beyond. Embracing these emerging trends ensures your app meets evolving expectations and secures a strong foothold in the future of finance.
Learn more about “7 Emerging Fintech Trends in App Development for 2025.“
Conclusion
The fintech revolution is well underway, and apps are its most powerful tools. Whether you’re building a budgeting app, cryptocurrency platform, or digital wallet, success hinges on strategic planning, cutting-edge features, and user-centered design. From the rise of artificial intelligence to the power of mobile OEM advertising, fintech application development requires a careful blend of innovation, regulation, and responsiveness.
In this guide, we explored the essential components of fintech mobile app success: market trends, retention strategies, AI integration, OEM growth channels, and must-have features. Each section reveals insights not just for developers, but for marketers, product managers, and founders navigating the financial technology space.
To thrive in today’s fintech market, you must prioritize performance, personalization, and trust. Offer banking services that go beyond transactions and deliver experiences. Invest in features that simplify complex financial tasks. Create apps that empower users to take control of their financial future.
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