The financial technology sector in London is outperforming Berlin’s, demonstrating remarkable resilience and growth despite Brexit uncertainties. The rapid expansion of the FinTech industry in London positions it as a leading European hub, surpassing expectations.
London’s FinTech Job Market Boom
In a dramatic surge, London’s FinTech job market has outpaced Berlin’s by a significant margin, growing over three times faster. From April 2016 to April 2017, London saw an impressive seven per cent average monthly growth in financial tech job advertisements. This starkly contrasts with Berlin’s two per cent growth, underscoring London’s dominance in the sector.
Joblift’s research highlights London’s unwavering position as a European FinTech leader, with 3,370 jobs posted over the examined period. By comparison, Berlin had just 1,458 postings. This disparity illustrates London’s robust job market, especially amidst the evolving challenges posed by Brexit, which many thought would level the playing field in Berlin’s favour.
Brexit’s Effect on FinTech Growth
The implications of Brexit had initially cast doubts on London’s ability to maintain its FinTech edge. Yet, contrary to these apprehensions, the city has continued to attract substantial talent and investment, bolstered by an expanding ecosystem of startups and financial institutions.
Despite a 33.7 per cent drop in UK FinTech investment in 2016, global investment rose by 11 per cent, showcasing a disparity that London is poised to bridge. London’s strategic focus on innovation and talent acquisition helps sustain its competitive edge, even as other European cities vie for prominence.
Regional Variations in UK FinTech Growth
Across the UK, FinTech job growth varies significantly, with Belfast experiencing an exceptional 18 per cent average monthly growth. This boom is largely attributed to Software Development company Unosquare, which announced the creation of 100 new jobs.
Manchester follows London in job numbers but only managed 166 postings, evidencing the concentration of financial tech prowess in the capital. The overall UK FinTech job growth averaged five per cent, still outpacing the broader job market’s one per cent rise.
Investment Trends and Implications
Investment in the UK’s FinTech sector saw a noteworthy dip of 33.7 per cent in 2016. However, this decline is juxtaposed against a global investment increase of 11 per cent, indicating a temporary localised downturn rather than a global trend.
In contrast to global figures, London secures a plethora of high-profile deals and partnerships, nurturing a dynamic environment for FinTech innovation. This paradoxical situation emphasises the need for strategic redirection to recapture investment momentum in the UK’s FinTech landscape.
Comparative Analysis with Berlin
Berlin, often considered London’s main competitor, has struggled to match London’s job market growth. While its start-up scene is burgeoning, it has not translated into a proportional rise in FinTech job postings.
The German capital’s two per cent growth rate pales in contrast to London’s thriving job creation, reinforcing London’s lead in the sector. The growing disparity challenges Berlin to rethink its strategies in order to become a formidable FinTech hub.
The Future of FinTech in Europe
Looking ahead, London’s FinTech sector is expected to continue its upward trajectory, leveraging its established ecosystem and infrastructure. The city’s ability to adapt to post-Brexit realities will be crucial in sustaining its leadership position.
Berlin and other European cities must innovate and collaborate to compete effectively, creating a diversified and resilient FinTech landscape across the continent.
Conclusion
London’s unexpected and robust growth in the FinTech sector reaffirms its role as a major European hub, regardless of Brexit-induced uncertainties. By maintaining its focus on innovation and talent development, London continues to lead, setting the pace for other cities aspiring to rise in the FinTech hierarchy.
London’s FinTech growth outpaces Berlin, reinforcing its status as a leading European hub. Through innovation and resilience, London continues to thrive post-Brexit, setting a benchmark for others.
