Tech and Tacheles talk live from Banking Transformation Day: provocative thesis, clear positions
News, 30/07/2025
At Banking Transformation Day, people spoke plainly—in Sopra Financial Technology's podcast format “Tech und Tacheles” (Tech and Straight Talk). Amidst a high-caliber audience, industry experts discussed the future of banking – controversially, pointedly, and with a wink. The format: each thesis is evaluated with a cup – from “Strongly Agree” to “Strongly Disagree.” The guests? Opinionated and straight from the trenches.
Emotionalization as a game changer?
Michael Hülsiggensen from SurePay sees emotions as the key to customer loyalty – especially in times of social media and generational change. Christof Rossbroich from Sopra Financial Technology, on the other hand, remains skeptical: functionality beats emotion – the barrier to switching between banks is minimal today.
Recommendations beat advertising – but for whom?
The discussion shows that recommendations work, but not for everyone. While young customers are guided by influencers, the heir generation values facts and personal advice. A differentiated approach is required.
Trust in AI: Leadership or cultural change?
Jessica Thomas (Sopra Financial Technology) and Markus Neumann (Space and Lemon Innovation) agree: AI requires leadership—and a profound cultural shift. Those who fail to invest now risk being left behind.
Transformation: Project or permanent state?
Transformation is not a sprint, but a marathon. Both guests emphasize that companies must innovate continuously—those who stand still will miss opportunities.
Will AI replace bank advisors?
Thorsten Hahn (Bankingclub) surprises us with a change of perspective: AI is becoming a dominant force – not as a replacement, but as an intelligent sparring partner. Savas Cetin (Sopra Steria) sees AI as an assistance system that complements human advice, but does not replace it.
Legacy systems or legacy thinking?
The technology is there – what is missing is the courage to change. The discussion shows that banks are not failing because of their systems, but because of a mindset that prevents innovation.
Does the next generation still need branches?
Thomas Heinz (Sopra Financial Technology) says clearly: No – at least not in the traditional sense. Sven Herrmann (Deutsche Bank) disagrees: Young customers in particular are looking for personal contact – but in new formats, not in old branch structures.
About Tech & Tacheles
Tech & Tacheles – The podcast from Sopra Financial Technology that speaks plainly.
Tech & Tacheles is the podcast for the financial services industry – honest, opinionated, and always on the cutting edge. Moderated by Birgit Hass, external and internal experts discuss provocative theories from the world of IT, technology, and banking.
In each episode, guests draw cards with pointed statements from the “black box” and visibly position themselves on a spectrum of opinions. This is followed by a discussion – open, controversial, and with the opportunity to rethink one's own position.
Showing new perspectives, sharing in-depth expertise, and creating space for real debate – without any empty phrases.
About Sopra Financial Technology:
Sopra Financial Technology GmbH offers regulatory-compliant operation of modular, scalable, and customizable applications in the financial services industry. The company combines traditional legacy systems with innovative products and services, incorporating modern cloud solutions in a high-performance operation and secure environment. With around 500 employees and headquarters in Nuremberg, the company is distinguished by its expertise in banking, regulatory affairs, solution orientation, and project management. Founded in 1983 as Sparda-Datenverarbeitung eG, Sopra Financial Technology GmbH has been part of the Sopra Steria Group since 2019, with more than 56,000 employees in around 30 countries.
Contact:
Sopra Financial Technology GmbH
Birgit Hass
Frankenstraße 146,
90461 Nürnberg
Phone: +49 911 9291-0
E-Mail: communications.sft@soprasteria.com