FinTech Scotland announced on Friday the launch of its new consumer panel to support fintech business development. According to FinTech Scotland, the panel will connect consumer and citizen advocate groups into the fintech ecosystem with the emphasis on citizen financial inclusion, problem-solving, and innovation.
“The panel will provide ease of access to a citizen and consumer voice for fintech innovators, and build an inclusive network across consumer groups, innovation and technology. The objective is for open, practical and diverse engagement, to bring citizens and consumers directly into fintech product design.”
FinTech Scotland also noted that the founding members come from a range of Consumer Advocate organizations, Third and Public sector, as well as Academia. Those participating include Money Advice Scotland, Scottish Government, University of Strathclyde and University of Edinburgh, The Big Issue, The Money and Pensions Service, Step Change, Age Scotland, Fresh Start Edinburgh, Passion4Fusion and Mental Health and Money Advice.
Speaking about the panel, Stephen Ingledew FinTech Scotland’s CEO, stated:
“This is an important aspect to the work of FinTech Scotland. Fintech provides a major opportunity to improve the way people can engage with their money and finances. The consumer panel aims to bring people directly into the conversation and increase inclusion within fintech and the financial services industry more broadly. It will give greater access to customer insights enhancing the focus for good customer outcomes which is our definition of what the fintech movement is.”
Kate Forbes MSP added:
“The FinTech consumer panel will help drive inclusion across our society and economy as we make new technological and digital developments. This is a hugely positive and practical step that will ensure that our people are fully involved in the digitalisation of our technology and financial services.”