Germany’s FinTech sector has recently been showing signs of significant growth and maturity, with an increasing number of international FinTech companies establishing branches within the country.
Back in 2014, Germany was described as ‘lagging behind’ the rest of Europe when it came to FinTech. However, shifts started to emerge in the late 2000s, and the country now boasts the second-largest FinTech market in Europe after the UK.
This dynamism is driven by the innovative use of future key technologies, making the German FinTech market one of the most vibrant in the world. And this means significant implications for hiring.
As the fourth largest FinTech market globally, here’s our overview of the latest market trends for FinTech in Germany and their impact on talent acquisition.
Banking as a Service is a Driver
Banking as a Service (BaaS) is one of the key trends currently driving the FinTech market in Germany. With BaaS, fintech firms are offering comprehensive banking solutions to their customers. This trend is being driven by the demand for more personalised banking experiences and the desire for seamless integration of financial services into everyday life. The implications for hiring and talent are:
Digital Banking Skills are Key
As BaaS continues to expand, companies will need to hire individuals who can develop and manage these services, creating a surge in demand for tech-savvy professionals, particularly those with experience in digital banking platforms and APIs.
Digital Investment Grows
The digital investment market in Germany is projected to grow significantly. Fintech companies are leveraging digital technologies to offer innovative investment solutions to consumers. From robo-advisors/chatbots to investment apps, FinTechs are making it easier than ever for individuals in Germany to invest and manage their portfolios. The implications for hiring and talent are:
Fierce Talent Competition
Because of the projected sector growth, there’ll be increased hiring in this area. Competition will be fierce and employers will need to focus on the EVP, culture, and compensation packages…
Investing Tool Talent Needed
The amount of digital investment will mean companies will need technical talent well-versed in digital investing tools like robo-advisors and investment apps. There’ll also be a surge in the need for professionals who can navigate the regulatory landscape of digital investments, emphasising an additional need for compliance experts.
Mergers and Acquisitions are on the rise
M&A activity is another trend shaping the FinTech landscape in Germany. As the market matures, larger players are acquiring smaller start-ups to expand their product offerings and gain access to innovative technologies. This consolidation is expected to continue as the market grows. The implications for hiring and talent are:
Team Integration
With each merger or acquisition, companies will need to integrate teams and systems, requiring specialists in change management and system integration.
Finance and Legal Expertise
Additionally, due diligence during M&A involves financial and legal experts, increasing the demand for such professionals in the FinTech space.
Focus on Retention
Mergers and acquisitions can cause feelings of unrest among employees. Businesses should place a focus on employee satisfaction and retention initiatives.
FinTech innovation shows no signs of slowing
Innovation is at the heart of Germany’s fintech sector. The use of advanced technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), and Blockchain is becoming more prevalent. These technologies are being used to enhance customer experiences, improve operational efficiency, and create new business models. The implications for hiring and talent are:
Innovative Skills are Key
As AI, ML and Blockchain all advance, FinTech necessitates hiring professionals skilled in these advanced technologies. Companies will also benefit from hiring innovative, creative thinkers who can apply these technologies to develop new products and services.
Upskilling and Reskilling
To remain competitive within the FinTech market, and to encourage innovation, employers should consider training and other developmental opportunities that will keep them ahead of the curve.
International Expansion Continues
The German market is becoming increasingly attractive to international Fintech companies. These companies are establishing branches in Germany to access the large and growing customer base. This trend is expected to continue, further enhancing the dynamism and competitiveness of the German FinTech market. The implications for hiring and talent are:
International Interest
More international interest means more hiring. As foreign companies set up branches in Germany, they’ll need to hire local teams, creating a demand for professionals with a deep understanding of the German market and regulatory environment. Bilingual talent who can bridge the gap between headquarters and the local branch will be valuable.
The Fintech market in Germany is on a growth trajectory creating exciting opportunities for professionals and hirers in this space. As the sector continues to evolve, the demand for skilled talent will only increase. To learn more about the current hiring trends in Germany, download our full Europe 2024 salary report.
