THE FINTECH EVOLUTION: A SHIFT IN PROJECT MANAGEMENT PARADIGMS TOWARDS SUSTAINABILITY

Gabriel Adrian Suster

Abstract


This paper explores Financial Technology (FinTech) transformative impact on project management paradigms, focusing on sustainability integration. Research investigates the shift from traditional methodologies to agile, hybrid, and AI-enhanced approaches suited to FinTech innovation dynamics. Through literature review and comparative case study of six leading FinTech companies (PayPal, Stripe, Square, Klarna, Adyen, Revolut), this study demonstrates Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria incorporation into project management frameworks. Findings indicate successful FinTech projects require holistic approaches balancing technological innovation, financial viability, and sustainable impact. FinTech-sustainability convergence drives fundamental paradigm shifts, with AI, Machine Learning, and blockchain as key enablers. Comparative analysis reveals diverse but effective sustainable project management approaches, achieving significant ESG improvements while maintaining financial performance.

Keywords


FinTech; project management; sustainability; ESG; digital transformation; innovation

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References


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LUCRĂRI ȘTIINȚIFICE MANAGEMENT AGRICOL

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ISSN online 2069-2307
(former ISSN 1453-1410, E-ISSN 2069-2307)

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