Open Calls

CNBC And Statista Spotlight The World’s Top Fintech Companies

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

February 25, 2026

Expanding The Fintech Horizon

CNBC, in strategic partnership with market research powerhouse Statista, has opened applications for the fourth edition of its renowned World’s Top Fintech Companies list. Now in its mature phase, this annual compendium identifies leading global fintech entities, spanning startups and established corporations alike, across sectors that include payments, wealth technology, insurance, and the newly introduced regulation tech segment.

Charting A Transformative Era

Fintech has moved from a fast-growing niche into a core part of the global financial system. Digital adoption accelerated during the Covid-19 period, while advances in artificial intelligence continue to reshape financial services. According to KPMG, global fintech investment reached approximately $44.7 billion across more than 2,200 deals in the first half of 2025, reflecting sustained investor interest despite a more selective funding environment.

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Building On A Legacy Of Excellence

Last year’s ranking included global players such as Mastercard, Stripe, and Visa, alongside fast-growing companies including Bilt, TerraPay, and Entsia. The expanded 2026 framework reflects industry shifts, particularly the growing role of regulation technology companies that help financial institutions meet evolving compliance and risk management requirements.

A Call For Fintech Leaders

Applications are open to companies developing technology-driven financial services with measurable market impact. Applicants are expected to demonstrate clear product focus, innovation, and business scalability. The submission process, managed by Statista, requests information related to business models, revenue performance, and workforce growth.

Application Details And Key Dates

To apply, interested companies can submit their information online. The application deadline is April 24, 2026. For further clarification on the application process or additional support with the form, inquiries can be directed to Statista via email at topfintechs@statista.com.

The Future Forbes Realty Global Properties

Bending Spoons Unveils €1.5 Million Tech Scholarship Program For Top European Students

by News Editor

February 18, 2026

In a significant move towards fostering future tech leaders, Bending Spoons has launched the Bending Spoons Fellowship, offering up to €1.5 million in scholarships. This initiative aims to empower outstanding university students in computer science and related fields across Europe and the UK.

Details of the Fellowship Program

The fellowship program will provide ten scholarships worth €50,000 each annually, renewable for up to three years, to high-achieving students. This initiative is designed to provide not just financial support but also mentorship and optional paid internships, either virtually or at their headquarters in Milan.

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Costanza Mazzei, the talent manager at Bending Spoons, emphasizes, “We believe exceptional talent deserves exceptional opportunities. Our fellowship aims to offer Europe’s most driven students the liberty, resources, and support necessary to reach the pinnacle of excellence.”

Applications for the Bending Spoons Fellowship open on February 10, 2026, with successful candidates notified by June 2026. Additionally, this fellowship aligns with Bending Spoons’ broader efforts to expand opportunities for underrepresented groups.

Supporting Emerging Cyber Talent

The Bending Spoons Fellowship demonstrates the company’s commitment to encouraging tech brilliance and addressing the shortage of skilled tech professionals. Furthermore, this initiative comes as the EU demographic shifts show an increase in foreign-born residents, as highlighted by recent EU demographics data.