Is Traditional Banking Culture Holding Innovation Back?
"Banking isn’t just about numbers it’s about access. And the women who embrace AI today won’t just catch up they’ll build financial systems that leave no one behind."
In regions where many women still don’t have a bank account like Africa, India and parts of Latin America AI isn’t just enhancing banking, it’s leapfrogging it. These markets are embracing mobile-first solutions, decentralised finance and community-driven fintech to reach millions. Meanwhile, legacy institutions across the West remain mired in outdated infrastructure, regulatory gridlock and a culture of incrementalism that stifles progress.
While the Western banking system struggles with trust, bureaucracy and slowness, emerging markets are innovating out of necessity. For women in developed markets particularly women over 40 in leadership this creates a sharp pivot point. Do we maintain tradition or do we reimagine access, equity and value creation?