Exploring FinTech Ventures and Regulatory Landscapes in Central and Eastern Europe: A Comparative Analysis

Purpose: This chapter examines the impact of regulatory frameworks on FinTech enterprises in Central and Eastern European (CEE) countries, focusing on identifying legislative barriers and facilitating factors for the advancement of financial technology. Need for the Study: Despite the increase in FinTech, more knowledge is needed about how varying regulatory environments across CEE nations impact the sector's growth and innovation. This study aims to fill this void by delving into these regions' supportive and obstructive legislative factors. Methodology: This research utilizes a comparative approach to analyze legislation related to FinTech, digital platforms, and data security. Data sources include central banks, financial regulators, and institutions across the Western Balkans, as well as the World Bank's Global Fintech-Enabling Regulations Database and BBVA Research's DiGiX index. Findings: The analysis reveals that countries like Slovenia, Poland, and the Czech Republic have high digital readiness levels. Poland, Estonia, and Lithuania are leading in FinTech startup activities, with Serbia and Bulgaria notable for their regulatory sandboxes. Estonia, Lithuania, and Slovakia possess effective regulatory frameworks conducive to FinTech growth. In contrast, Albania, Kosovo, Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina lag in developing their FinTech infrastructure. Progress varies across North Macedonia and Montenegro. Practical Significance: The study underscores the pivotal role of regulatory frameworks in ensuring financial stability and safeguarding consumer interests. It emphasizes the necessity for tailored legislative reforms in countries with underdeveloped FinTech ecosystems, thereby fostering a more robust environment for FinTech, and ultimately, enhancing economic growth and technological innovation in the region.