Bernard Marr, a well known futurist and bestselling author with over twenty books, recently published his take on the seven biggest banking and fintech trends shaping 2026. His work is widely followed in the industry, and his predictions usually land close to reality. The list sets a clear direction for where financial services are heading next year.

1. AI Agents in Banking and Finance

Marr highlights AI agents as the biggest force shaping 2026. These systems perform multi step tasks with minimal human involvement, taking over everything from reconciliation to fraud detection. They also handle customer facing work, acting as personal finance helpers that compare products and optimize portfolios on demand.

2. The Customer Experience Revolution

Customer experience is now the main battleground for loyalty. Marr notes that switching providers is easier than ever, so banks are personalizing every interaction using AI and predictive analytics. The goal is to remove friction and solve issues before customers notice them.

3. Bridging the Fintech Skills Gap

Marr stresses that the talent shortage is slowing progress. Financial institutions cannot scale AI or blockchain without enough skilled people. Data science, cybersecurity and engineering roles remain difficult to fill, so many organizations will invest heavily in training and upskilling.

4. Tokenized Assets

Tokenization continues to accelerate. Real estate, commodities, art and other assets are increasingly traded as blockchain based tokens. Marr points out that tokenized markets grew rapidly in recent years, and 2026 will see more investors using these instruments for diversification and faster settlement.

5. Quantum Finance Moves Forward

Quantum computing is moving from experiments into real financial workflows. Marr describes how major banks already use quantum systems for tasks like risk modeling and optimization. The next phase is hybrid setups where classic computing handles routine work while quantum engines tackle the most complex calculations.

6. Stablecoins Enter the Mainstream

Stablecoins, which are tied to fiat currencies, gained significant momentum after new regulation in the United States. Marr highlights that large institutions, including Bank of America and Citibank, have begun exploring stablecoin projects. The trend points toward smoother cross border payments and more institutional adoption.

7. Building Resilience in Uncertain Times

The final trend focuses on resilience. Marr explains that global uncertainty and regulatory shifts will push banks to strengthen systems and simplify processes. Cross border payment innovation and risk management improvements will be central themes as institutions prepare for fast changing market conditions.

The seven trends outline a financial sector shaped by automation, stronger infrastructure and new digital asset classes. Marr’s message is clear. The winners in 2026 will be the institutions that stay agile, invest in technology and keep the customer at the center of their strategy.

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