Equity Group Holdings has announced plans to establish a standalone fintech company by the second half of 2026, marking a significant step in the regional lender’s transition from traditional banking to a technology-driven financial services model.The new entity will consolidate the group’s digital platforms including payments, mobile banking, and virtual services under a single structure. The move is intended to streamline operations, reduce costs, and enhance customer experience across its markets in East and Central Africa. According to company officials, the fintech unit will emerge from the restructuring of existing operations currently housed under its technology subsidiary, Finserve. Products such as digital payment systems and mobile-based banking solutions are expected to be integrated into the new firm, creating a more cohesive digital ecosystem. The standalone company will be led by technology executive Sarah Kabira, supported by a team with experience from global firms including Google, Visa, and Andela. The leadership structure reflects Equity’s ambition to compete more aggressively in the rapidly evolving fintech space. Group CEO Dr. James Mwangi said the initiative is part of Equity’s broader 2030 strategy, which aims to scale its customer base to 100 million and expand operations to 15 countries. He emphasized that investment in artificial intelligence and next-generation digital systems will be central to achieving these goals. Industry analysts view the planned spin-off as a strategic effort to unlock value from Equity’s growing digital business while positioning the group to respond to increasing competition from fintech startups and mobile money providers across Africa.The development comes amid a broader push by the bank to deepen its digital footprint. Recent initiatives include launching advanced online banking platforms for businesses and strengthening in-country data infrastructure to improve speed, security, and innovation. If successfully executed, the new fintech firm could reshape Equity’s role in Africa’s financial sector shifting it from a conventional banking institution to a technology-led platform focused on financial inclusion and digital transformation.The post Banking on Technology: Equity Group to Launch Standalone Fintech Firm in Strategic Digital Shift appeared first on The Insider.