Unfolding the Fintech Revolution: A Decade of Innovation, Financial Inclusion and Regulatory Challenges

Abstract

Financial Technology or fintech marks a paradigm shift in financial services by integrating artificial intelligence, blockchain, cloud computing and big data analytics to revolutionize traditional banking, lending, payments, insurance, and investments. This narrative review traces fintech&s;s evolution from 2015–2025, addressing core questions on its drivers and innovations like AI-robo-advisors and decentralized finance propelling market growth to USD 320.81 billion at a 15.27% CAGR. Its enhancement of accessibility and inclusion for over 1.7 billion underbanked via digital wallets and peer-to-peer lending (e.g:-80% digital payment adoption in India) and frameworks to counter regulatory gaps cybersecurity risks and data breaches. Key findings reveal fintech&s;s double-edged impact, proposing balanced regulatory sandboxes and AI ethics to ensure sustainable growth and quantum-secure finance dominance by 2030.This paper explores the evolution, applications, challenges and regulatory implications of fintech emphasizing its role in reshaping the global financial landscape and its potential to drive inclusive and sustainable economic growth.