Blog

In today’s fast-paced world motivated by instant gratification, long-term benefits are often overlooked in pursuit of short-term rewards. Marketing departments are under constant pressure to generate leads and immediately convert them into buyers, while PR teams are saddled with staying atop the latest market fads in hopes of creating the next trend to “go viral.”

Welcome to 2026, the year where artificial intelligence has become the unofficial ghostwriter of the internet. A study conducted by Ahrefs in April 2025 found that nearly 75% of new web content is at least partially generated by AI.   

Every time I log into Instagram or Facebook lately, I’m faced with a hit of nostalgia as most of my friends and associates are participating in the “2016 vs. 2026" trend. For those unaware, this meme involves people sharing photos of their key moments from a decade ago. We’re soaking in the nostalgia for grainy filters, the birth of the "Harambe" meme, and the summer millions spent obsessively chasing virtual monsters in Pokémon Go. But as fun as those memories are, they serve as a stark reminder for brands that virality is fleeting.

In our annual predictions blog, WMA associates share their perspectives on fintech PR and marketing trends they expect will shape 2026, from emerging technologies to shifting media dynamics and changing audience expectations.

In today’s competitive fintech landscape, having cutting-edge technology is only part of the equation. Without strong visibility, even the most innovative companies can struggle to gain traction. That’s where a strategic public relations program becomes essential, not just for awareness, but for driving real business outcomes.

Just a few weeks ago, on September 17, the Federal Reserve cut interest rates by a quarter-point, constituting the first rate cut of the year. In its wake, a deluge of commentary and punditry overtook print, broadcast and social media, as subject matter experts across a wide range of industries got their takes in about the Fed. This is far from new or surprising, of course. Nearly all Fed decisions are accompanied by a bevy of coverage and commentary, even when the Fed decides to do nothing. When the Fed does something like cutting rates, the aftermath is fertile ground for public relations professionals to get their clients’ opinions published. 

As we move toward the end of the year, there is some reason for optimism in the fintech space as global fintech funding reached $11 billion in Q2 2025. This represents a 22 percent increase over Q1 2025 as well as a 22 percent YOY increase. This is notable as it signals the strongest quarterly performance and first time the industry has seen funding cross the $10 billion mark in almost three years.

The biggest lesson I’ve learned in more than three years of training in the gym is this: progress comes from sustained, consistent effort. Muscle builds a few sets at a time. Day after day after day. Results show up slowly, but they do come.  

Before working in fintech communications, I was a relationship banker at one of the largest banks in the U.S. I spent my days perfecting how to talk with clients about their financial goals, answer tough questions, and earn their trust. 

Summer might be slow, but your PR shouldn’t be. While competitors are sitting on the beach and ghosting their inboxes, your brand has a golden opportunity to stand out.