Clicks and Bricks: Why Your Financial Future Needs More Than Just an App
Banking has become more convenient than ever. Today’s consumers can open accounts, make payments, transfer money and track expenses with just a few taps on a smartphone. Digital-first experiences have changed expectations around speed and simplicity, especially among younger consumers. According to Coinlaw, U.S. fintech adoption reached 74% in early 2025, with high adoption levels among millennials and Gen Z, who use apps for everyday payments, budgeting and investing.
As fintech firms and “neobanks” become more popular, traditional full-service banks have responded accordingly with innovative digital offerings. Most of these banks, known for having local physical branch locations, now offer robust mobile apps, digital lending and payment options and real-time notifications.
The result is not a choice between “digital” and “traditional,” but between different models. Understanding the distinctions between them matters, especially as financial needs evolve.
The Key Differences
Traditional banks have been around for centuries — the oldest continuously operating bank in the U.S. was founded in 1784. They are directly regulated, examined and insured. Today, that stability is backed by an omnichannel approach that blends digital tools with physical branches, relationship-based services and a broad range of products designed to support customers throughout their life journey.
Fintech is a broad term that describes technology-driven financial services. These companies, which became mainstream less than 20 years ago, often focus on streamlined digital tools to manage specific financial needs, such as payments, budgeting, investing or lending.
Neobanks, a type of fintech, usually offer app-based checking or savings accounts and focus on low fees and quick onboarding. Most neobanks are not chartered banks; instead, they partner with regulated financial institutions to hold deposits and provide FDIC insurance.
Appeal and Limitations
Fintechs and neobank platforms are built from the ground up on modern software, providing a simpler user experience. By concentrating on a small set of services like checking balances and sending or receiving payments, they can perform those functions effectively. For people getting their first paycheck, handling basic expenses, or wanting a fully mobile experience, these platforms are easy to use. They also play a key role in increasing access and encouraging the entire industry to improve digital design.
However, the simplicity that makes fintechs and neobanks appealing can also be a limitation. This is where the omnichannel approach of a full-service bank provides a distinct advantage. Unlike digital-only apps that offer a narrower range of products, an omnichannel model delivers a seamless banking experience across every touchpoint as your financial needs grow, whether you’re buying a home, financing a business or planning for retirement.
For those working in the service industry or who own a small business, depositing cash can be a hurdle with an online-only provider, but seamless at a local bank branch or through an Interactive Teller Machine, such as Arvest’s ATM with Live Teller. Live Teller machines allow customers to complete many financial transactions outside of normal banking hours from their vehicle while speaking with an Arvest teller via video.
Designed to Grow
Traditional full-service banks are built to grow with their customers through various stages of life. In addition to checking, savings and CD/IRA accounts, they offer mortgages, auto loans, personal loans and credit cards, business banking, wealth management, retirement planning and trust services, all managed within one institution. Many provide free financial education classes. At Arvest, we offer free online financial education courses through our EmpowerED platform, covering topics such as lowering debt and starting a business.
Local physical branches still have a purpose when customers need face-to-face expertise, help with complex paperwork or reassurance during major financial decisions. Knowing you can walk into a branch and talk to a person about a problem or concern can be comforting to many customers. Relationship bankers know local markets and customer histories, allowing them to connect short-term needs with long-term goals.
Many bank checking accounts, such as Arvest’s checking products, also offer additional benefits, including identity theft coverage with dark web monitoring, credit score tracking, roadside assistance and bundled discounts on various products. These features show a long-term dedication to stability and customer relationships, not just transactions. As customers grow wealth over time, they’re able to gain access to more perks through higher-tier products and additional services.
For simple needs, fintech solutions can be a convenient starting point. However, as financial circumstances grow more complex, a local full-service bank provides the flexibility, guidance and continuity needed to support customers from their first paycheck to retirement. In a digital age, the most effective banking model isn’t an either-or choice but one that combines innovation with long-term partnerships.
Barbara White is an executive vice president and sales manager for Arvest Bank - Greater Kansas City.
With more than $27 billion in assets, Arvest is a full-service bank that delivers financial solutions to individuals and businesses of all sizes. Since entering the Kansas City market in 2009, Arvest has grown to become one of the top 20 banks and the sixth-largest mortgage lender in the region. The bank has 20 locations in the metro area. Arvest is an Equal Housing Lender and Member FDIC.
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