B2B fintech shifts toward automation and embedded finance

The landscape of B2B fintech is shifting from isolated payment tools toward comprehensive automation. A study by KPMG and ACCA among medium and large Polish companies reveals that while CFOs see high potential in automating accounting, invoicing, and payments, only 17% believe the entire order-to-pay process can be automated. Many organizations still perform 30–50% of month-end tasks manually.

This trend is driving the rise of embedded finance, where financial services are integrated directly into ERP systems. Research by Oliver Wyman across France, Germany, and the Netherlands shows that 46% of SMEs already use embedded finance, with 53% preferring to access these services through their accounting or ERP software.

Simultaneously, corporate financing patterns in Poland are changing. Despite banks easing credit conditions by lowering margins and extending loan terms, only 12.4% of enterprises sought bank financing in Q2. Instead of credit costs, the primary barrier to investment is demand uncertainty, cited by 46% of businesses in a National Bank of Poland survey. Many companies are opting for leasing or using their own funds rather than increasing debt.