Analysts at Javelin Strategy and Research have identified payments, banking, mobile and security as some transformational trends for 2013. The trends point to a constantly evolving financial services arena where mobile and social media are both an asset and a challenge, according to the Javelin study, "10 Trends for Financial Services in 2013: Forging a New Frontier for Banking, Payments, Mobile and Security."
The study found that one of the biggest trends for FIs, and one that brings with it a host of issues, is the evolution of "omni-channel" banking, which allows customers to access their accounts through whichever tool they prefer at any time they choose.
"To correct current shortcomings, FIs will need to change their perception of omni-channel banking as necessary rather than novel," said Mary Monahan, executive vice president and research director of mobile at Javelin.
"Moreover, for FIs to increase or even maintain their competitive positions, they need to invest in developing an integrated architecture wherein data and platforms can seamlessly converge while enhancing the quality of the brand experience."
The growth of multi-channel banking, especially mobile banking and payments has a downside, though. Thanks in large part to consumers carrying unsecured phones, malware will go mobile, Javelin said. This will give rise to a new vector for attacks on banks' infrastructure.
"FIs and other organizations with a vested interest in the security of the mobile channel will be best served through a partnership with security vendors with the goal of increased adoption of mobile security software," said Al Pascual, industry analyst of security, risk and fraud at Javelin. "Deputizing consumers through education on mobile security threats and encouraging use of anti-malware, firewall protection and other security solutions will have far-reaching benefits."
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