On 3 November, the European Digital Finance Association hosted a special edition of the Fintech Café, welcoming Mattias Levin, Head of the Digital Finance Unit at DG FISMA, European Commission. The session marked a unique opportunity for direct dialogue between the European fintech community and the Commission, at a moment when the regulatory agenda is rapidly evolving.

A Timely Backdrop: The 2026 Legislative Agenda

Just days earlier, on 21 October, the European Commission unveiled its legislative priorities for 2026. The roadmap includes several ambitious proposals that will shape the future of digital finance: the 28th Regime to simplify cross-border operations, the Cloud and AI Development Act to strengthen Europe’s digital infrastructure, the Quantum Act to prepare for next-generation technologies, the Omnibus on Taxation to harmonise fiscal frameworks, and the Digital Fairness Act to ensure transparency and equity in digital markets.

Fintechs as Drivers of Competitiveness

Levin’s intervention sparked a rich and timely debate on the role of fintechs in enhancing the competitiveness of Europe’s financial system. In a sector that remains heavily regulated—with complex rules and compliance obligations—fintechs are not only adapting but actively reshaping the landscape. Their ability to embed regulation into agile, scalable business models is challenging traditional players and redefining the boundaries of financial innovation.

Regulation in Focus: MiCAR, DORA, FiDA

The conversation touched on key regulatory frameworks such as MiCAR, DORA, and FiDA, each playing a critical role in shaping the future of crypto-assets, operational resilience, and financial data access. We reflected on the regulatory gaps that persist, including the need for greater interoperability between national and EU-level rules and the importance of proportionality for smaller actors navigating complex compliance environments.

A Shared Vision for the Future

Throughout the session, the emphasis remained on strategic alignment: how fintechs, regulators, and associations can work together to build a more competitive, inclusive, and resilient financial ecosystem. Levin’s insights underscored the importance of maintaining open channels of dialogue, especially as Europe seeks to balance innovation with stability and consumer protection.

📅 Register once to join all sessions via Zoom:
https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/HUPayZ_YSuCBzeo0LbqiKQ#/registration