| Abstract [eng] |
The main purpose of this master thesis is to determine how the integration of Agile practices influences the adaptability and effectiveness of AML/CFT programs in FinTech firms, and how these practices support compliance functions in responding to regulatory change. The work consists of four main parts: the analysis of literature, research methodology, analysis of empirical results, and conclusions with recommendations. The literature analysis reviews the development and regulatory context of the FinTech sector, presents the main concepts of AML/CFT compliance, discusses the impact of regulatory change on FinTech firms, and introduces Agile methodology as a potential approach for improving flexibility, coordination, and responsiveness in compliance-related change. The theoretical part also examines institutional pressures affecting regulated FinTech companies and explains how regulatory expectations and governance requirements shape compliance practices. Following the literature analysis, the author conducted an empirical qualitative study based on semi-structured interviews with professionals working in the fields of AML/CFT compliance, Agile, and FinTech. The main purpose of the interviews was to understand the role of Agile practices in strengthening the adaptability and effectiveness of AML/CFT compliance programs in FinTech firms, with particular attention to how these practices support compliance functions in responding to regulatory change. The collected empirical data was analysed using Gioia methodology to systematize informant responses into first-order concepts, second-order themes, and aggregate dimensions. The performed research revealed that Agile is perceived as a coordination logic and execution mechanism within AML/CFT compliance. The findings show that Agile practices can strengthen cross-functional collaboration, improve transparency of compliance work, support incremental implementation of regulatory change, and enable faster feedback and adjustment cycles. However, the research also revealed that Agile does not operate independently from its institutional and organizational context. Its effectiveness is shaped by regulatory expectations, formal governance controls, senior management support, risk appetite, compliance maturity, team structure, and technological capability. The thesis concludes that, due to the institutional and organizational characteristics of FinTech, Agile can contribute to improved AML/CFT compliance adaptability to regulatory change when implemented in a balanced way that preserves necessary governance, documentation, accountability, and regulatory quality. The author believes that the results of this study may provide useful guidance for fast-growing FinTech firms seeking to improve their compliance change management practices, as well as for compliance leaders aiming to integrate Agile principles into compliance functions without weakening supervisory expectations or internal control requirements. |
