Trends and strategic success factors

In 2025, the financial industry was undergoing a period of sustained transformation, characterised by structural change, technological development and changing client needs.

Trends

Client needs continued to evolve, while regulatory requirements, particularly in an international context, continued to increase. Technological progress also accelerated during this period, while geopolitical uncertainties and the interest rate environment further influenced the operating environment for banks. In this context, adaptability, efficiency and resilience emerged as key success factors for financial institutions.

Client needs – increasing individualisation and cross-border services

Client expectations are constantly evolving. Today, clients demand rapid access to information and offers tailored to their individual needs, which are accessible at any time and via various channels. Digital services are becoming the norm. At the same time, personalised advice is becoming more important, particularly for complex issues and cross-border asset structures.

An increasing number of high net worth clients are operating internationally and maintaining banking relationships in several countries. Consequently, the demand for cross-border wealth management services is growing, fuelled by the need for diversification, stability and security.

Against this backdrop, a hybrid business model combining digital solutions with expert personal advice is proving to be a key factor in achieving success.

Technology – new opportunities through digitisation

Technological developments such as open finance, artificial intelligence and blockchain and, in the future, quantum computing are opening up new opportunities to increase efficiency, transparency and innovation. At the same time, they are facilitating the development of new business models and client-centered solutions. In this context, the key success factors for banks include having a powerful and scalable IT architecture, a high level of data expertise, and the ability to implement technological innovations quickly and in compliance with regulations.

As digitisation increases, the importance of data and cyber security also increases, since threats become more complex. Investing in modern technologies and relevant expertise is therefore crucial to securing systems and data in the long term, and to strengthening client trust.

Industry – cooperation as a competitive factor

The importance of cooperations with fintech and wealthtech companies continues to grow. Open interfaces and API-based solutions enable banks to expand their offerings in a targeted manner and implement innovations more quickly. A flexible, decentralised IT architecture is essential for scalable, secure banking-as-a-service models.

The ability to work in partnership, an open and modular system landscape, and clearly defined governance and integration processes are among the key success factors for banks.

Regulation – increasing international complexity

The regulatory framework remains challenging, particularly given the differing national and international requirements. Ensuring that advice and services comply with these regulations requires ever-greater specialisation and efficient processes.

It is crucial for banks to have strong regulatory expertise and close integration of front-office and compliance functions. These factors are key to limiting risk while maintaining competitiveness in an international environment.

Strategic success factors

The VP Bank addresses these trends with the following success factors: