Banking apps are set to have the biggest impact on commercial banking within the next five years according to more than two thirds (68%) of commercial bankers, a study by Fintech provider Fraedom has revealed.

Banking apps are also predicted to become one of the most disruptive technologies during the same time period. Only cryptocurrencies (56%) and virtual assistants (48%) are expected to be greater disrupters, according to a study that polled 1000 decision-makers in commercial banks including senior managers, middle managers and shareholders.

The research also found that just under half (45%) of respondents listed digital wallets to have a substantial impact on the industry while nearly one third (32%) noted machine learning as having a future influence.

Kyle Ferguson, CEO, Fraedom, said: “The research highlights that the commercial banking world is beginning to shift towards a more consumer focused approach. Business executives are increasingly wanting a real-time view for their payments, just like they can in their personal lives. This trend is also mirrored by commercial banks who are planning to invest in the key technology areas to make consumerisation possible.”

The study revealed that data analytics (55%) and enhanced mobility (41%) are two of the most likely areas of a commercial bank to receive investment within the next five years. Unsurprisingly updating security systems was most likely area to receive an investment boost, as cited by 65% of respondents.

The research also uncovered that almost half (45%) of financial services organisations believe that increased regulation will drive the adoption of new technologies, with 32% predicting it will lead to better customer engagement.  In addition to this, nearly two thirds (60%) of commercial bankers believe that a more ‘consumer focused’ approach to engagement is the most important factor when strengthening relationships with SME customers.

“Regulations have transformed the commercial banking sector over the past few years, and while this appears to be restrictive approach, this research proves that banks are seeing regulation as an opportunity to adopt new technologies and improve customer engagement,” said Ferguson.