Female spending power is growing, but companies in traditionally 'masculine' categories still struggle to realise the 'female opportunity'. Jane Cunningham explains how brands can broaden their appeal from just men to both women and men.

2014 has seen China's distrust of corporations, banks and the government grow more than ever before. By positioning itself as a cheaper and more trustworthy alternative to intermediary agents, can finance service Rong360 attract customers that don't understand online banking?

American Express is synonymous with privilege and luxury – so its latest venture may seem surprising. Its Bluebird Bank helps Americans let down by traditional banking, who may not even have a bank account. What's driving the makers of the Black Card to bank the unbanked?

In Turkey, popular bank Garanti is causing a stir with its revolutionary banking-on-the-go app iGaranti. As more services go mobile, the future of seamless, social money management seems likely to come in the form of smartphone integration and a consumer driven-approach.

As part of its Uncarrier repositioning, T-Mobile is launching into the banking business with a pre-paid debit card and banking app. But if people aren't willing to trust banks with their cash, why should they trust a telecoms provider?

Around 5.1 million Brits aged over 65 have never been online. Catering to these untapped customers, Barclays has created over 3,500 'Digital Eagles' - specially-trained staff to help them get online and up to speed. But do people want a bank teaching them about the internet?

Digitisation has exposed kids to far more purchase opportunities and products, so teaching them the value of money is increasingly important. Online family wallet Virtual Piggy places responsibility in kids' hands, while parents maintain control.

With the growth of digital, a new solution to retail banking woes is emerging. Hello bank! is the world's first stand-alone digital mobile bank that's accessible any time, any place – and, crucially, maintains a clear focus on customer experience.