Why 2026 may be a turning point for wealth and investing

By Przemysław Barankiewicz, Head of Finax Poland, a robo-advisor specializing in passive investing

Instead of yet another wave of technological breakthroughs, the coming change in the financial industry will be defined by the maturation of existing solutions. Fintech companies that only a few years ago competed primarily through new apps or “revolutionary UX” are increasingly building their advantage on trust, transparency, and financial education. Technology itself is becoming a backdrop rather than the main protagonist. Wealthtech, as a mature segment of fintech focused on long-term outcomes, will place even greater emphasis on users’ financial well-being.

By 2026, fintechs will no longer be perceived as an “alternative” to banks but rather as their natural partners

API integrations, joint investment platforms, and services based on open banking will increasingly blur the line between traditional financial institutions and modern digital applications. The greatest challenge will be preserving the human dimension of finance – empathy and credibility – in a world increasingly dominated by algorithms.

In the investment field, I expect the continued expansion of passive investing – not only through ETFs, but also through automated decision-making and personalized strategies based on behavioral data. Investing will become even more “invisible” integrated into everyday financial management and focused on long-term goals. This may sound somewhat aspirational, as speculation still outweighs investing among many Polish investors, and more people continue to hold money in non-interest-bearing accounts instead of investing it effectively. Nevertheless, there are signs of improvement, and I hope this trend will continue.

A positive trend is also becoming increasingly visible in Poland: growing retirement awareness

Younger generations already understand that relying solely on the state pension system will not ensure a comfortable standard of living, which is why they are more willing to invest independently with their future in mind.

In Poland, the popularity of third-pillar pension products such as OIPE, IKE, IKZE, and PPK is expected to grow – especially as fintech solutions simplify access to these products and automate regular contributions. In 2026, our market is also expected to see the introduction of the Individual Investment Account (OKI), a tool that could become an effective solution for beginner investors, helping them build long-term capital and steering them away from speculative instruments such as cryptocurrencies or CFD contracts.

Artificial intelligence will become a standard component of financial advisory services

Algorithms will be able to analyze user behavior, recognize emotions accompanying investment decisions, and adjust recommendations in real time. However, even the most advanced technology will not replace trust and empathy. Success will belong to those players who combine automation with human sensitivity, using AI not to replace advisors but to strengthen relationships with investors.

Fintech in 2026 does not have to be merely fast and inexpensive. Above all, it should be ethical and responsible. It is precisely this combination of technology and an authentic, human-centered approach that will determine whom we entrust with our money –  and with responsibility for our financial future.