What does the 100% rise in search interest signal for investors?

A 100% jump in search interest often marks the start of renewed attention and faster capital rotation. In the near term, liquid payments and BNPL names usually react first. We would use this signal to refresh watchlists, lean into firms with clean unit economics, and confirm trends with upcoming earnings updates.

Which KPMG H1’26 themes matter most in Australia?

The most relevant areas are payments modernization, BNPL recalibration, and banking technology that improves risk, fraud, and compliance. These themes point budgets toward platforms with measurable outcomes. In Australia, we think adoption of PayTo, identity standards, and data-driven tools will be key for revenue mix and margins this half.

How should I assess BNPL stocks in H1 2026?

Focus on credit losses by cohort, funding costs and tenor, net transaction margin, and customer retention. Watch revenue per active user and unit economics through the cycle. A stable loss trend, secured funding, and improving margins can support a re-rate. Avoid chasing revenue growth if credit metrics weaken.

What KPIs best indicate durable growth for payments and banking-tech?

For payments, track total payment volume growth, take rate, churn, and fraud loss ratios. For banking-tech, focus on backlog, renewal rates, net revenue retention, and time-to-implementation. Consistent KPI delivery, plus cash flow visibility, often leads to multiple support and stronger shareholder returns over the medium term.

Global Market Insights

February 20: Fintech Innovation Jumps in AU as KPMG Flags H1’26 Trends

ByHuzaifa Zahoor February 20, 2026February 20, 2026

Fintech innovation is back in focus for Australia as Google searches jump 100% and KPMG releases its H1 2026 outlook. This pairing can shift sentiment across payments, BNPL, and banking tech in the near term. We outline what this means for positioning, which catalysts to track, and how to size risks. With February updates and first-half reporting underway, investors have a timely read on where capital and product roadmaps could move next in the Australia fintech sector.