Is Open Banking Finally Going Mainstream? - Open Banking Expo

FF News | Fintech Finance
FF News | Fintech FinanceMay 6, 2026

Why It Matters

Understanding the adoption gap helps banks tailor strategies, ensuring open banking’s promised efficiencies reach a broader customer base and drive new revenue streams.

Key Takeaways

  • Open banking adoption remains low among older generations worldwide.
  • Nordic markets show higher consumer familiarity than the United States.
  • Many seniors lack smartphones, limiting open banking usage.
  • Perceived convenience clashes with actual awareness gaps among users.
  • Financial institutions must educate users to drive mainstream adoption.

Summary

The video from Open Banking Expo uses a light‑hearted dialogue to illustrate whether open banking has become mainstream. Participants debate if grandparents and older relatives actually use the technology, exposing a common perception that the service is universally adopted.

The exchange reveals stark regional contrasts – Nordic consumers are described as “quite prevalent” users, while an American speaker admits the capability “has not yet come to America.” It also underscores a generational divide: many seniors lack smartphones or even basic digital banking experience, limiting open‑banking uptake.

Memorable lines such as “My grandma does not have a phone” and “In the Nordics it’s quite easy” highlight the gap between hype and reality. The conversation also shows that even when older adults start mobile banking, they remain unfamiliar with open‑banking features.

For banks and fintechs, the takeaway is clear: without targeted education and user‑friendly interfaces, open banking will struggle to reach the mass market. Policymakers may need to incentivize broader digital inclusion to unlock the sector’s growth potential.

Original Description

Has Open Banking finally reached the mainstream?
At Open Banking Expo in London, attendees shared whether their parents and grandparents are actually using Open Banking in everyday life.
This quick snapshot explores digital banking adoption, pay-by-bank growth, and whether Open Banking is moving beyond fintech enthusiasts into the wider public.
Watch more from Open Banking Expo on FF News:
@openbankingexpo6139

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