Top Banking Executives Unpack Innovation, Disruption, and Strategic Growth at Dubai FinTech Summit 2025
Dubai, UAE – In a high-impact panel discussion at the Dubai FinTech Summit 2025, three of the most forward-thinking voices in global banking convened to address a critical question: What lies ahead in the next financial frontier? Moderated by Jane Witherspoon of Euronews, the session featured insights from:
- Ashok Vaswani, CEO, Kotak Mahindra Bank
- Alex Manson, Head, SC Ventures
- Dr. Bernd van Linder, CEO, Commercial Bank of Dubai (CBD)
Together, the panelists explored how technology, strategy, and culture are converging to reshape the future of finance—and how institutions can evolve to stay ahead.
Digital Disruption: The New Normal
The panel began with a frank acknowledgment: the digital disruption of financial services is no longer coming—it’s here. Banks that fail to adapt risk irrelevance in a rapidly evolving landscape defined by real-time transactions, mobile-first users, and AI-driven experiences.
“Technology is fundamentally reshaping the role of banks. We must go from being gatekeepers of money to enablers of value,” said Ashok Vaswani, emphasizing the need for agility and rethinking traditional banking models.
Beyond Banking: The Rise of Embedded Finance and Ecosystems
Alex Manson from SC Ventures expanded the conversation by emphasizing the emergence of banking-as-a-service (BaaS) and embedded finance, where financial products are seamlessly integrated into non-financial platforms.
“We’re not just transforming financial products—we’re embedding them into everyday life,” Manson noted. “That’s where the real revolution lies.”
He pointed to SC Ventures’ startup-building model as a prime example of incubating innovation within traditional banking frameworks, fostering partnerships with fintechs, and creating entirely new digital-native services.
Local Innovation, Global Strategy
Dr. Bernd van Linder of Commercial Bank of Dubai brought a regional lens to the conversation, highlighting how Middle Eastern banks are strategically embracing innovation to remain competitive, attract younger users, and meet rising expectations for digital-first experiences.
“In the UAE, we’re not just keeping up with fintech—we’re partnering with it,” van Linder stated. “We see fintech as a force multiplier, not a threat.”
CBD’s initiatives in AI-based customer service, blockchain integration, and SME digital banking were spotlighted as part of a broader strategy to balance customer-centric innovation with financial stability.
The Human Factor: Culture, Talent, and Leadership
While the conversation revolved around technology, the panelists all agreed on one thing: culture and people are central to successful transformation.
“It’s not just about adopting new tools—it’s about creating a mindset of innovation,” Vaswani said.
Attracting digital talent, upskilling existing employees, and fostering a risk-tolerant culture were emphasized as foundational steps for banks preparing for the next financial frontier.
Conclusion: A Future Built on Agility, Innovation, and Collaboration
The panel concluded with a unified message: the future of finance lies at the intersection of trust, technology, and transformation. Institutions must continue to evolve—not by chasing trends, but by embedding customer value, adaptability, and ecosystem thinking into their core strategies.
Key Takeaways from the DFS 2025 Financial Frontier Panel
- ⚙️ Digital Disruption: Banking models are being redefined by mobile, AI, and real-time demands.
- 🔌 Embedded Finance: Seamless integration of financial services into daily digital life is the next big leap.
- 🌍 Global Strategy, Local Relevance: Banks must innovate with both scalability and regional adaptability.
- 🧠 Culture is Crucial: Leadership, talent development, and organizational mindset will shape long-term success.
- 🤝 FinTech Collaboration: Legacy institutions must partner with—and learn from—startups and tech innovators.
