I’ve been researching development partners for a fintech product recently, and one thing I’ve realized is that choosing a software company for fintech is quite different from choosing a general development agency. A company can be excellent at building mobile apps or web platforms, but that doesn’t necessarily mean they understand the challenges that come with financial products.

For fintech, I think the technical side is only part of the equation. You’re dealing with sensitive financial information, integrations with banking or payment systems, security requirements, scalability, and often regulatory considerations as well. On top of that, the team needs to understand the actual product and the users rather than simply taking a set of requirements and turning them into an app.

I’ve also been looking at companies like GeekyAnts and how their experience across fintech and emerging technologies fits into this space. I’m especially curious about newer technologies such as AI. There are plenty of companies now describing themselves as “AI-powered,” but I’m more interested in whether they can actually use AI where it makes sense, without adding it just because it sounds impressive.

For anyone who has hired an external development company for a fintech or banking product, what did you look at before making the decision? Did previous fintech projects matter more to you than technical expertise, pricing, or the size of the team? And after working with them, was there anything you wish you had evaluated before hiring them?

I've bought all kinds of soaps over the years because the scent or packaging caught my attention, but I always seem to end up going back to one favorite. Sometimes it's because it feels better on my skin, sometimes it's just the smell that reminds me of home.

I'm curious what everyone else's "always buy again" soap is. Is it something inexpensive from the grocery store, a handmade bar from a local maker, or a brand you've used for years?

I'd love to hear what keeps you loyal to that one soap.