Financial services continue to evolve at an unprecedented pace with technology reshaping the industry. Fintech Explained provides a rigorous, accessible roadmap to this ongoing transformation, examining the new technologies, the latest academic research, and the strategies of new entrants and incumbents alike.By examining innovative digital business models, the book shows how financial technology (fintech) firms are leveraging technology to solve customer pain points and provide financial products and services that are cheaper, faster, easier to use, personalized, and more convenient. The book profiles the successes and failures of more than thirty innovative fintechs worldwide, drawing on insights from founders, early-stage investors, financial incumbents, and other participants in this fast-changing sector. As fintech continues to evolve rapidly, the second edition includes substantial updates on artificial intelligence, programmable blockchains (Web3), decentralized finance (DeFi), financial inclusion, payments, and insurtech. It features refreshed case studies, updated data and visuals, and insights from the swiftly growing academic research on fintech.Combining clear descriptions and case studies with the latest findings from academic research, the second edition of Fintech Explained is the seminal guide for students, executives, and professionals seeking to dive into the fascinating world of fintech.