The financial industry is rapidly evolving with the increasing adoption of cloud computing and artificial intelligence (AI), fundamentally transforming operations and customer interactions. Cloud computing offers flexibility, efficiency, and cost savings, while AI democratizes data access, making technology more intuitive and improving decision-making. Smaller banks, with their agility, can swiftly implement these innovations, gaining a competitive edge over larger institutions. Mike Stawchansky of Finastra discussed how they exemplify a balanced approach to regulatory compliance and technological agility, leveraging open finance and cloud-first strategies. Embracing these advancements is crucial for financial institutions to enhance operations, improve customer experiences, and stay competitive in the evolving landscape.