Fintech: how and is it being taught in academia?
Abstract
Merriam Webster defines Fintech as “products and companies that employ newly developed digital and online technologies in the banking and financial services industries” (Merriam-Webster). Fintech, short for financial technology, is not new; however, it has become a hot topic as of recently. During the pandemic, Fintech and the many apps and programs that make up financial technology began to surge. Applications that made applying for loans and moving money easily between friends and businesses were of utmost importance during this time. Instant financial results and access are only continuing in demand. The days of going into a brick-and-mortar building and sitting with a person for a lengthy period to discuss your finances are starting to become outdated. However, even with the demand for Fintech and its abilities to streamline monetary transactions, the trust in the security of these applications is still low. Cumulatively, there has been over $7 billion stolen in the crypto space, so it is also clear that the cybersecurity of crypto and public trust in adoption is also an important topic (Thapa, 2022). Our data collection comprises of a survey that is sent out to the faculty at various schools to gather data about the current state of how Fintech is being taught at universities. In addition, we examine a plethora of academic journals to gather information about what is being taught, what should be taught and how the current state of Fintech in academia can be improved. Keywords: Fintech, Financial Technology, Universities, E-commerce, Blockchain, Smart Contracts