Why Graduates Should Consider a Career in Fintech
The fintech industry is growing rapidly and has been recognised as a key driver of the UK’s economic growth. With strong investment and continued innovation, now is a great time for graduates to explore career opportunities in this sector.
The Growth of Fintech in the UK
The UK is a leading fintech hub, home to around 2,500 firms and employing over 76,500 people. By 2030, employment in the sector is expected to reach 105,500. Despite a global dip in fintech investment in 2024, the UK still attracted over £3 billion, demonstrating the industry’s resilience.
UK Chancellor Rachel Reeves has highlighted fintech as a major contributor to the economy. The government’s focus on this sector means more opportunities for innovation, investment, and job creation.
The Skills Gap in Fintech
Although fintech is expanding, it faces a significant skills shortage. To remain competitive globally, the industry needs to attract more skilled professionals. However, a recent survey by fintech company Quotezone.co.uk found that 76% of students have never considered a career in fintech. The main reasons include:
- Lack of knowledge about the sector (36%)
- Pressure to follow a traditional career path (26%)
- Limited access to relevant work experience (9%)
Encouraging New Talent
To bridge this gap, initiatives like the Fintech Scholarship from Quotezone.co.uk aim to raise awareness and encourage students to learn about fintech. This scholarship invites students to share their thoughts on improving recruitment in the sector, with the winner receiving a £1,000 bursary and industry work experience.
Why Graduates Should Consider Fintech
A career in fintech offers competitive salaries, strong career development, and the chance to work in an innovative environment. Fintech professionals play a role in shaping the future of banking, payments, investment, and insurance through technology.
Fintech is an attractive option for graduates looking to enter a dynamic and rewarding industry thanks to growing government support and increasing job opportunities.
Scotcoin makes its debut on the MEXC cryptocurrency exchange
Scottish fintech Scotcoin made its debut on the MEXC cryptocurrency exchange. With a combined token valuation of $250 million (£200 million) and a trading paired with Tether (USDT), the world’s most liquid stablecoin, this listing represents a major development for the ethically driven digital currency.
Scotcoin isn’t just another token on the blockchain. It’s a mission-driven movement, with a firm commitment to social good, sustainability, and financial inclusivity. Scotcoin is setting itself apart by proving that digital assets can be a force for positive change.
What This Means for Scotcoin and Its Community
Being listed on MEXC, a top 20 global exchange with an average daily trading volume of $3 billion, will provide greater accessibility, liquidity, and credibility for Scotcoin. This move paves the way for mass adoption, allowing thousands more individuals, businesses, and charities to integrate Scotcoin into everyday transactions.
The listing is also a catalyst for expansion. Funds raised will be channelled into recruiting a dedicated full-time management team for The Scotcoin Project Community Interest Company (CIC). This will supercharge efforts to expand the Scotcoin ecosystem, developing partnerships with organisations that accept Scotcoin as a form of payment for goods and services.
A Crypto With a Cause
Unlike many cryptocurrencies that focus purely on speculation, Scotcoin’s vision is linked to community impact. Since its inception, it has backed initiatives providing food, clothing, and shelter to those in need. This next chapter will see Scotcoin directly distributed, via approved agencies, to third sector groups and vulnerable communities, ensuring that blockchain technology serves real-world humanitarian needs.
With over 6,000 holders globally and a growing number of charitable partnerships, Scotcoin is proving that crypto can be about more than just profits, it can be about people.
Commenting on this milestone, Temple Melville, CEO of The Scotcoin Project, said:
“This listing is a huge step forward in our journey. It not only increases accessibility for individuals, businesses, and charities, but also allows us to build a stronger, purpose-driven ecosystem. With a dedicated team, we can now focus on expanding partnerships and—most importantly—providing greater support to those in need.”
What Existing Scotcoin Holders Need to Know
To ensure a smooth transition, existing Scotcoin holders must exchange their old tokens for new ones before trading. Full details on how to do this securely are available on the official Scotcoin website: scotcoinproject.com
Preparing for PSD3 and Beyond
Season 5, episode 3
Listen to the full episode here.
The payments landscape is going through major transformation. PSD2 has been disruptive and with the anticipated arrival of PSD3 a lot of questions are still to be answered. What does PSD3 mean for fintech businesses, banks, merchants, and consumers?
In this episode, we explore the upcoming regulatory shifts, the opportunities and challenges they present, and what the future of payments might look like beyond PSD3. Will this be an evolution or a revolution?
How will Open Banking, embedded finance, and digital walletsbe impacted? And is regulation moving too fast, or not fast enough?
With Ann Zheng, Associate at Pinsent Masons
Bridging the AI Skills Gap: How Businesses Can Overcome the AI Talent Crisis
The rapid integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into UK organisations presents both significant opportunities and challenges. A recent report by Gigged.AI, informed by research with 300 senior UK tech leaders looks at the current landscape of AI adoption and the growing need for a skills.
The AI Skills Gap: An Avoidable Crisis
By 2025, it’s anticipated that nearly half (48%) of the workforce will be utilising generative AI, potentially saving employees an average of four hours per week. However, to fully capitalise on this technology, businesses must find the right balance between hiring new talent and upskilling or reskilling existing employees.
Transitioning to skills-based hiring involves moving beyond traditional qualifications to prioritise specific competencies. Despite its growing popularity, only 37% of organisations have fully integrated this approach into their people strategy, indicating a gap between intent and implementation.
Leveraging Internal Mobility to Address Skills Shortages
Many businesses are turning inward to maximise existing resources. Over the past year, one-third (33%) of open positions were filled by internal candidates, and 39% of organisations frequently utilise employee skills to bridge gaps. This strategy not only addresses immediate needs but also enhances employee retention and satisfaction.
The demand for specialist contractors in AI, cybersecurity, and data science is on the rise. Notably, 57% of senior tech leaders report that contingent talent has been instrumental in upskilling internal teams. However, challenges such as increased national insurance contributions and IR35 regulations may hinder the recruitment of such talent.
Building a Skills-Powered Future
Two-thirds (69%) of businesses are expressing concern about the tech talent shortage in 2025. Organisations that encourage internal mobility and maintain access to contingent talent will be better positioned to navigate the evolving AI landscape.
For a comprehensive analysis and actionable insights, download the full report from Gigged.AI.
Sustainable Fintech Firm ESG360° Expands in Glasgow
ESG360°, a sustainability-focused fintech company, announces plans to expand its operations in the Glasgow. The London-based firm has secured a £1 million grant from Scottish Enterprise to support its growth, with ambitions to create over 30 high-value jobs in the next three years.
Founded to help businesses navigate the complexities of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) compliance, ESG360° set up its Glasgow office last year. With this investment, it aims to scale its operations, reinforcing Scotland’s position as a hub for fintech innovation.
Why Glasgow?
For ESG360°, Glasgow offers the ideal mix of talent, innovation, and collaboration. The city has a strong fintech ecosystem, bolstered by institutions like the Universities of Glasgow and Strathclyde and organisations such as FinTech Scotland.
Anj Chadha, Founder and CEO of ESG360°, sees the expansion as a step towards delivering greater impact: “Glasgow is the ideal location for our next phase of growth. This grant from Scottish Enterprise is a vote of confidence in our vision and our ability to deliver measurable impact for businesses worldwide.”
ESG360°’’s expansion is also backed by Invest Glasgow, which provided a property grant, and FinTech Scotland, which recognised the company as one of the winners of its ‘Shaping the Future of ESG in Financial Services’ innovation call, awarding it some more funding to develop their solution. These partnerships are helping ESG360° build strong links with Scotland’s financial and academic institutions, enhancing its capabilities in ESG compliance and fintech innovation.
The Growing Role of ESG in Fintech
Recent research from Bain & Company suggests that nearly 90% of business leaders across Europe, the US, and Asia recognise the need for advanced technologies to achieve sustainability goals. ESG360° believes its AI-powered ESG platform is well-positioned to meet this demand.
Fintech and sustainability are increasingly intertwined, with businesses needing smarter tools to track their ESG commitments. ESG360°’’s platform leverages AI and data analytics to provide businesses with clear, actionable ESG insights, helping them comply with evolving regulations and investor expectations.
Scotland’s Fintech Momentum
The fintech sector in Scotland has been on a steady rise, growing tenfold since 2018 and now supporting over 11,000 jobs. Business Minister Richard Lochhead highlighted the importance of ESG360°’’s expansion:
“The fintech sector has grown 10-fold in Scotland since 2018 and supports more than 11,000 jobs. This welcome expansion by ESG360° shows the pace is not slowing and demonstrates Scotland’s position as the natural home for businesses operating at the cutting edge of data, technology and sustainability.”
Nicola Anderson, CEO of FinTech Scotland, highlighted the significance of ESG in fintech’s future:
“At FinTech Scotland we believe that harnessing technology and collaboration can accelerate sustainable finance solutions. ESG360°’’s approach reinforces the role of fintech in shaping a more sustainable and resilient future, strengthening Scotland’s position as a leading fintech cluster.”
Scottish Enterprise’s support for ESG360° aligns with its broader economic strategy. One of its long-term goals is to double the number of scale-up businesses in Scotland over the next decade by focusing on high-growth industries, including fintech.
Reuben Aitken, Managing Director of International Operations at Scottish Enterprise, echoed this sentiment:
“We’re genuinely delighted that ESG360° has chosen Glasgow as the location to scale its business. It joins a growing number of internationally headquartered fintech companies who’ve set up operations in the city due to its reputation as a centre of talent, innovation and collaboration.”
The Future of Financial Advice: Consumer Expectations for 2025 and Beyond
The Financial Advice Consumer Survey 2025, conducted by Scottish fintech Aveni in collaboration with YouGov, highlights key trends shaping the future of financial advice in the UK.
With rising concerns about financial security, regulatory demands for enhanced consumer protection, and the increasing role of artificial intelligence (AI) in financial services, this report highlights the areas where financial firms must innovate to stay ahead.
There full survey can be found here.
Key Findings from the Survey
Consumers Demand More Personalised and Accessible Advice
A growing number of consumers expect financial advice to be tailored to their specific needs rather than generic recommendations. According to the survey, many individuals feel underserved by traditional financial advisory models and are looking for more dynamic, AI-driven solutions that provide real-time insights.
Trust in Financial Advice is at a Crossroads
Trust remains a critical issue in financial services. While robo-advisors and digital platforms are gaining traction, many consumers still prefer human interaction for major financial decisions. (42% of respondents expressed concerns about receiving financial advice solely from AI-powered tools).
AI and Automation are Reshaping Financial Advice
AI is playing a larger role in financial planning, from analysing spending habits to recommending investment strategies. However, consumers have mixed feelings about relying solely on AI-driven solutions.
Regulation and Consumer Protection are Driving Change
As regulatory bodies push for greater consumer protection, financial firms must adapt to new compliance standards. The Consumer Duty Act, for example, is set to reshape how firms engage with customers, ensuring fairer outcomes and more transparent advice. (72% of respondents stated they want clearer explanations of financial products and risks).
Rising Financial Anxiety and the Need for Proactive Guidance
Economic uncertainty, inflation, and concerns about long-term financial stability are leading consumers to seek proactivefinancial guidance rather than reactive advice.
What Does This Mean for Financial Firms?
The findings highlight several key takeaways for financial firms and advisors:
- Embrace AI-powered financial tools while maintaining a human-centric approach.
- Increase transparency around fees, data usage, and product recommendations.
- Develop digital-first advisory models that cater to on-demand financial guidance.
- Improve consumer education to enhance engagement and financial confidence.
- Stay ahead of regulation by prioritising customer outcomes and compliance.
Read the full report here.
New Centre of Excellence for digital trust launched by Scottish industry leaders and academic experts
Leading experts in technology and finance have joined together to launch a new Scottish Centre of Excellence for digital trust – which will aim to make the digital world safer and more resilient.
Edinburgh Napier University (ENU) will host the Scottish Centre of Excellence in Digital Trust and Distributed Ledger Technology, in collaboration with the University of Edinburgh, University of Glasgow and Fintech Scotland, and thanks to initial funding from Scottish Enterprise.
The Centre is part of a wider aim to position Scotland as a global leader in digital trust innovation, supporting a range of industries from financial services to healthcare and beyond.
As more infrastructure, data and transactions move online, digital trust technology has an increasingly important role to play in in building resilience and security, while guarding against threats like cybercrime.
By being industry-led, the Centre will look to solve real-world challenges in digital trust and distributed ledger technologies, delivering immediate benefits to the financial services sector and beyond. The team behind the project hope it will go on to support new start-up and spin-out companies, while working alongside established firms.
Based at ENU, the Centre will bring together two other leading digital trust technologies research labs at the Universities of Glasow and Edinburgh.
Developed alongside FinTech Scotland, the Centre’s plan has an initial two-year focus on delivering, innovation, actionable research and skills training to support industry led research calls around areas such as digital payments, digital assets and digital identity.
Professor Bill Buchanan from ENU’s School of Computing, Engineering & the Built Environment, and Director of the Centre, said:
“Scotland has the opportunity to lead the way when it comes to digital trust technology.
“We have digitised a great deal of our work, but many aspects of privacy, security and resilience still need to be fully understood.
“Advances in computing technology will see many of our existing methods of establishing digital trust facing a range of risks, making the work of this Centre all the more significant.”
Nanik Ramchandani, CEO of the Centre, said:
“This is a significant step forward in Scotland, and will help build a solid foundation towards enhancing digital trust.
“In a world where the dark side of AI is making it impossible to distinguish between the real and not, continued innovation to strengthen trust using privacy preserving technologies is essential”.
Nicola Anderson, CEO of FinTech Scotland, said:
“The new Centre for Excellence in Digital Trust is another important tool that helps us showcase Scotland’s leadership in fintech and digital innovation.
“This initiative complements the FinTech Research and Innovation Roadmap, developing new technologies that will shape the future of finance and the wider economy.”
Derek Shaw, Director, Scaling Innovation at Scottish Enterprise, said:
“Scotland has global competitive advantages in several industries, including fintech.
“Establishing a Centre of Excellence in Digital Trust Technologies builds on the country’s strength in this area by developing an environment that encourages collaboration between industry and academia with the aim of creating new disruptive technologies and, ultimately, investment opportunities, scalable businesses and jobs.”
Professor Aggelos Kiayias, Chair in Cyber Security and Privacy at the University of Edinburgh, said:
“At the blockchain technology laboratory of the University of Edinburgh, we are excited to contribute to the establishment of the Digital Trust Centre of Excellence.
“It represents an important step in advancing secure and trustworthy technologies in Scotland and addresses pressing societal and industry challenges that are of worldwide relevance and importance.”
Professor Muhammad Imran, Head of School at the University of Glasgow’s James Watt School of Engineering,said: “
This initiative comes at a crucial moment, as digital trust becomes the cornerstone of our digital future. It will support our commitment to ensuring the resilience, security, and widespread adoption of transformative technologies.
“At the University of Glasgow, we will contribute our expertise to this crucial initiative, driving innovation that will shape industries and improve lives globally.”
Initially running for a two-year period, the Centre of Excellence will bring together the expertise of ENU’s Blockpass ID Lab, the Blockchain Technology Lab from the University of Edinburgh, and the University of Glasgow’s Trustworthy Connected Systems Lab.
During that time, it will aim to create a world-leading capability for knowledge exchange, innovation and skills development that translates into increased jobs, talent, company creation and economic development in Scotland.
While the Centre is based at ENU, its scope and ambition extend across the UK and beyond. It is a hub for innovation that will support sectors as diverse as finance, energy, healthcare, and public services.
The Centre’s aims align closely with the 2022 FinTech Research and Innovation Roadmap published by FinTech Scotland, which highlighted the importance of advancing technologies in digital payments, digital identity and secure digital assets, as well as the UK Digital Identity and Attributes Trust Framework.
The Centre also responds to ambitions within the Scottish Blockchain Roadmap, which was published by the Digital Trust Taskforce in 2023 in response to a report highlighting a £4.3bn opportunity for Scotland through the adoption of blockchain technologies. The roadmap is focussed on generating demand-led innovation to drive adoption across Scotland’s future industries, including financial services, energy, manufacturing and health. It will see organisations work with the Centre to unlock innovation from trust technologies across Scotland.
Navigating Regulatory Risk Trends in 2025: Key Insights from Pinsent Masons
As we step into 2025, the financial services landscape faces a year of transformation, with regulators aiming to balance economic growth with robust consumer protection. In the latest edition of Pinsent Masons’ Financial Services Regulatory Risk Trends update, our strategic partner focusses on critical regulatory developments shaping the industry.
The Financial Conduct Authority’s (FCA) recently released a five-year strategy with a clear focus on resilience—both for consumers and financial institutions. This edition of Financial Services Regulatory Risk Trends explores the key regulatory shifts that firms should be aware of, particularly in relation to consumer and operational resilience.
Consumer Resilience: A Stronger Framework for Protection
The UK Government’s recent Call for Input on closer collaboration between the FCA and the Financial Ombudsman Service (FOS) marks a significant development in consumer protection. This initiative comes at a time when mass redress events—such as undisclosed motor finance commissions—are drawing considerable attention from both regulators and courts.
Additionally, firms must navigate the FCA’s evolving stance on the advice/guidance boundary and targeted consumer support, especially in light of rising customer complaints and the continued embedding of the Consumer Duty framework.
Operational Resilience: Strengthening Financial Infrastructure
Beyond consumer-focused regulation, 2025 will also see increased scrutiny of ‘critical third parties’—a move that introduces further regulatory requirements for firms reliant on outsourced services. These new measures will likely reshape the contractual landscape between financial institutions and their key service providers, reinforcing the need for robust operational resilience strategies.
Sector-Specific Interventions: Motor Insurance and Capital Markets in Focus
The motor insurance market is set for a period of regulatory intervention, with the launch of a competition market study and the establishment of a motor insurance taskforce. These initiatives aim to address concerns surrounding fair pricing and market competition.
Meanwhile, capital markets also face transformation with the arrival of PISCES, a new trading platform set to modernise the sector and enhance market efficiency. With regulators seeking to foster competitiveness while upholding market integrity, firms should anticipate further updates in this space.
Read the full report here.
Consumer Duty and Beyond
Season 5, episode 2
Listen to the full episode here.
In this episode, we explore the complex challenges and opportunities that organisations face in delivering greater transparency, fairness, and accountability.
As the industry evolves, both fintechs and established financial institutions must navigate these demands to not only meet regulatory requirements but also to exceed them through innovation, ethical practices, and customer-centric strategies.
With Sajedah Karim – Partner at PwC. Sajedah
Joseph Twigg – CEO at Scottish fintech Aveni
John Finch – Professor of Marketing (B2B) at the University of Glasgow’s Adam Smith Business School, and Associate Dean (East Asia) at the University of Glasgow’s College of Social Sciences.
Tackling Messaging Fraud
Season 5, episode 1
Listen to the full episode here.
Join us for the second episode of the FinTech Scotland Podcast’s special series on financial crime, produced in collaboration with our strategic partner BT. This episode looks into the growing and sophisticated threat of messaging fraud, a pressing issue in the financial sector.
Charlotte Moir from BT is joined by Kevin Britt, Product Manager for Messaging at BT, and Paul Maskall, Strategic Fraud Prevention and Behavioural Lead Principal at UK Finance. Together, they unpack why messaging fraud is surging, explore why individuals and businesses continue to fall victim despite increased awareness, and reveal innovative measures being developed to stay ahead of the fraudsters.
We also speak about the exciting work happening in FinTech Scotland’s Financial Regulation Innovation Lab in Glasgow. With major financial institutions like Morgan Stanley, HSBC, and Virgin Money setting challenges, fintechs and tech innovators from around the globe are stepping up to collaborate and tackle financial crime.