This month a who’s who of the European fintech world descended on London for Finovate Europe, the annual two-day talkfest where financial technology start-ups from around the world showcase their services.

A quick glance at the packed auditorium at Old Billingsgate Market made it clear that this is a sector where interest is at an all-time high. The 1,250 attendees - a record figure - ranged from prominent venture capitalists to the heads of technology and strategy at some of the world's largest banks and asset managers.