BaFin licensed FinTechs with B2B business models in Germany - an empirical study on the impact of financial licenses on the business model of FinTechs and their psoitioning in the financial services industry
- The FinTech industry is very dynamic and the multitude of innovative business models created by these new entrants has increased over the past years. FinTechs display a competitive advantage in the field of technology, agility and customer-centricity that traditional banks cannot compete with. However, the regulatory requirements often pose a challenge for FinTechs to grow and expand their business models. Nevertheless, in recent years the phenomenon of BaFin licensed FinTechs such as N26 or Solaris Bank became apparent in Germany.
Since this topic is of high actuality no studies can be found on the topic of licensed FinTechs yet. Hence, this research paper will examine how the business models of these BaFin licensed FinTechs is constructed and what impact financial licenses by the BaFin can have on these business models and their positioning in the financial services industry. The focus thereby lies on FinTechs with a BaFin license active in the B2B-sector only. Based on an interview series conducted with relevant experts from different licensed FinTechs the findings show that the financial license allows these firms to become an independent entity, expand their product offering and strengthen their market position in the financial services industry.