Argentina fintech and banking sectors focus on credit access and digital growth

At the Argentina Fintech Forum 2026, industry leaders discussed the necessity of formal credit access and regulatory frameworks to support innovation. Paula Arregui, president of the Argentine Fintech Chamber and senior vice president of Mercado Pago, stated that the primary challenge in Argentina is not a lack of credit, but rather access to formal credit. She emphasized that clear rules and infrastructure are required to drive investment and competition.

Buenos Aires Mayor Jorge Macri expressed his goal to establish the city as a regional technological hub with a focus on artificial intelligence and private sector development. The forum also featured panels on digital payments and the infrastructure required for merchant acceptance.

Separately, Banco Galicia has completed its integration of HSBC operations. CEO Diego Rivas noted that the bank is shifting its focus from merger logistics to business growth and digital transformation using AI. Rivas highlighted a significant opportunity for credit expansion in Argentina, noting that the current credit-to-GDP ratio is approximately 12 percent, significantly lower than the regional average of 50 percent.