Over the past decade, Europe’s financial services sector has experienced one of the most dynamic periods of change. The widespread adoption of digital banking, rapid technological innovation and a significant shift in consumer behaviour, has redefined how financial institutions operate and how individuals manage their money.

In this first report from CRIF’s two-part research series, we explore the key developments of the last 10 years  through a dual lens: that of consumers across five major European markets, and of senior financial professionals serving those same regions. This combination of perspectives provides unique insight on an industry that has undergone massive change.

For example, advancements in areas like AI and mobile banking, and the rise of digital-first services have reshaped how consumers are managing their money.

Key Forces Shaping the Financial Services Sector

This report explores the critical issues affecting the industry, offering a fuller picture of the evolving factors, as well as the challenges and opportunities going forward.

One in five Europeans have been turned down for credit at some point in their lives. To address these challenges, financial institutions have increasingly turned to innovations like open banking and enriched, integrated credit data.

As Europe looks to the future, rebuilding the financial resilience of consumers will depend not just on economic policy, but also on smarter, more inclusive financial services that meet the specific needs of individuals.

What are the biggest financial changes for consumers and industry professionals?

One of the most significant and obvious financial shifts in Europe has been the move toward digital banking.

Other significant changes in the landscape include provider choice. Around 57% of Europeans say they now benefit from a broader selection of providers, with specific innovations like open banking, which allows third-party providers to access customer financial data (with consent), playing a major role in increasing competition. More than half of consumers recognise the benefits open banking has brought, while a quarter (23%) of professionals cite it as having a major impact on the UK finance sector.

Another important development in the last five years has been the growing consumer demand for ethical and environmentally conscious products and services. Half (49%) of Europeans believe they have benefited from access to financial products that are more ethical and environmentally friendly.

Sustainability and ethics at a crossroads: The rise of ESG considerations

Nearly all (97%) financial professionals say that their organisations are engaged in at least one ESG-related activity, such as encouraging customers to go paperless (36%) or embedding diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) principles into the company’s mission (35%).

This viewpoint is reinforced by European consumers, who remain highly conscious of ethical and sustainable practices. 47% say they are more likely to use a bank or insurer that promotes DEI, with this trend especially strong among younger consumers (59% of 18-34-year-olds).

Digital transformation has defined the last decade. However, as this report has made clear, this transformation must be balanced with a focus on accessibility and, most importantly, strong customer service.

How can the financial services industry in Europe continue to embrace innovation, but also maintain a strong ethical foundation?

Unlock Industry Insights Now

Article Cover Cracking Down On Insurance Fraud (2)

Download the article

This report explores the critical issues affecting the financial services sector, offering a fuller picture of the factors that have shaped its evolution, as well as the challenges and opportunities going forward.

We hope you enjoy reading it! 

Read now

Banking on Banks Reports 2024

Banking On Banks 2024 Draft Covers

Credit and Debt

A generational challenge for banks and insurers

Read more
Banking On Banks 2024 Draft Covers

ESG

Meeting shifting customer values

Read more
Banking On Banks 2024 Draft Covers

The Customer Experience

Making digital financial services more personal

Read more
Banking On Banks 2024 Draft Covers

Data and Trust

Moving forward responsibly

Read more