Banking and Technology: Financial Servic

This course offers students a strategic and applied framework for understanding the transformative impact of financial technology (FinTech) on the global banking and financial services industry. Through case studies, industry analysis, and collaborative projects, students will explore how traditional banks, fintech unicorns, big tech firms, and non-bank financial players are reshaping the competitive landscape.

The course traces the evolution of fintech across core sectors, including payments, lending, and capital markets, while examining the rise of disruptive technologies such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, blockchain, open banking, and digital currencies, including CBDCs, cryptocurrencies, and decentralized finance. Students will also analyze the regulatory and governance challenges emerging from rapid innovation in financial services.

Emphasizing strategic thinking, leadership, and applied analysis over technical specialization, the course culminates in an individual research paper and a team-based final project. It is designed for students aspiring to leadership roles in the evolving global digital financial ecosystem.

Delivered in person over seven weeks, this 1.5-elective course is open to graduate students across the School of Professional Studies and other Columbia University programs. There are no specific competencies, prerequisite knowledge, or prior coursework in the discipline required to enroll.