BEX 2025: Banking reimagined – Sopra Financial Technology at the heart of innovation

“All in” – this was the motto under which the financial world gathered at the Banking Exchange (BEX 2025) in Frankfurt's Massif Central. Neobanks in search of growth models, artificial intelligence in practical use, crypto assets, embedded finance, open finance, stablecoins – the agenda made it clear that the banking of tomorrow is taking shape today.

Level up: When AI takes its place in the financial cockpit

A highlight: Stephan A. Paxmann from LBBW showed how artificial intelligence can become the control center of banking. His example: an avatar that analyzes business data in real time and interacts with customers—controlled by voice.

The discussion made it clear that AI can reduce costs and improve service quality. But one crucial factor remains unchanged: trust. Only when customers feel that they are being taken seriously can AI unfold its full potential.

Embedded finance: From banking to business platform

“Banking by doing business” – that's how you could describe the direction things are heading. Companies no longer want to treat financial processes as a separate task, but rather integrate them seamlessly into their business models.

The panels showed that embedded finance makes this possible – with lean processes, clear interfaces, and strong partnerships.

Sopra Financial Technology provides the right technology for this: we connect banks and fintechs to create ecosystems that prioritize customer focus, scalability, and speed.

Neobanks vs. traditional banks: The battle for Schlossallee

The interest rate turnaround is creating new momentum: While neobanks are reaching break-even point, traditional banks continue to build on trust and long-standing customer relationships.

The panel agreed on key strategic decisions:

Interest and deposit business remains the foundation for stability.
Digital assets are significantly expanding the playing field.

With our expertise in digital assets and solutions for crypto-based lending, Sopra is already helping banks to embark on their next stage of development.

Open Finance & FIDA: New rules for everyone

FIDA is creating a new regulatory framework that forces banks to open up their data. This marks a turning point for open finance: cooperation with fintechs is becoming indispensable.

Those who now focus on the right platform strategy will be able to bring innovative products to market quickly and securely. Sopra Financial Technology develops solutions that combine interfaces, security, and scalability—the foundation for sustainable success in an open market.

Crypto, stablecoins & private debt: banking beyond the comfort zone

The financial world is venturing beyond familiar boundaries:

Digital assets are increasingly being used as collateral for loans.
Stablecoins are opening up new avenues in international payments.
Private debt is gaining importance as an alternative to traditional lending.

BEX 2025 made it clear: banks must face these developments – or risk losing relevance. Sopra Financial Technology offers the right solutions for this, from crypto integration to risk management platforms.

Conclusion: Tomorrow's banking is being created today

What will remain after BEX 2025? Banking that is no longer a dream of the future, but a reality of the present. AI in customer dialogue, embedded finance in business models, crypto as an asset class: the future is happening now. Sopra Financial Technology provides the platforms that banks are already using today to shape the banking of tomorrow – in partnership, innovatively, and resiliently.