Are You Ready for Real-Time Disruption? Insights from the Kyndryl 2025 Readiness Report
Disruption is no longer a distant scenario for the banking sector, it’s a reality.
The Kyndryl 2025 Readiness Report, based on insights from 3,700 business leaders across 21 countries and exclusive data from Kyndryl Bridge, reveals that organizations are no longer preparing for change, they are reacting to it in real time. For Finnish and Nordic banks and financial institutions, the findings are both a wake-up call and an opportunity.
By the Numbers: Banking’s Readiness in 2025
- 88% of banking leaders globally agree that AI will completely transform roles and responsibilities in the next 12 months.
- Only 33% feel their organization is completely ready to manage future risks.
- 58% say their innovation efforts are often delayed by foundational issues in their technology stack.
- 79% are increasingly concerned about geopolitical risks in cloud environments.
- 95% would change something about their cloud implementation, most often citing a need for more focus on security and compliance.
- 32% say their innovation efforts often stall after the proof-of-concept phase.
- 34% cite the complexity of technology environments as a key barrier to scaling investments.
Five Challenges That Define Progress
The report identifies five key challenges that will determine which organizations move forward and which risk falling behind:
1. Solid Tech Foundations
Many organizations are still held back by legacy systems. With 58% of banking leaders reporting that innovation is delayed by foundational tech issues, the need for incremental, secure modernization is clear.
“Modernization is not about replacing everything at once. It’s about making steady, secure progress while ensuring continuity for our customers,” says Sara Ramakers, CEO of Samlink.
2. Agile Cloud and Data Strategies
79% of banking organizations are increasingly concerned about geopolitical risks in cloud environments, and 95% would change something about their cloud implementation, most often citing a need for more focus on security and compliance.
“A clear, compliant cloud and data strategy is essential for resilience and trust. At Samlink, we help our customers build these foundations with confidence,” Sara continues.
3. Workforce Readiness and Upskilling
While 88% expect AI to transform roles, only 38% are confident their teams have the right technology skills, and 42% are concerned about core/human skills needed to make the most of AI opportunities.
“Technology alone isn’t enough. People and skills are at the heart of every successful transformation. We invest in continuous learning, both for our own teams and for our customers,” Sara emphasizes.
4. Scaling AI from Pilots to Production
While over half of organizations see positive returns from AI, most haven’t moved beyond pilots. 32% of organizations say their innovation efforts often stall after the proof-of-concept phase, and 34% cite the complexity of technology environments as a key barrier to scaling investments.
“Turning AI ambition into real business value requires more than technology. With Samlink AI Services, we combine secure, compliant solutions with clear processes, risk management, and a focus on measurable outcomes,” Sara notes.
5. Leadership, Culture, and Vision
The organizations pulling ahead are those prioritizing leadership alignment and a culture of innovation.
“Change is driven by people and culture, not just technology. At Samlink, we believe in co-creation and partnership, working side by side with our customers to build lasting progress,” Sara concludes.
What Does This Mean for Banking?
The Kyndryl 2025 Readiness Report makes it clear: readiness is not just about strategy, but about execution across technology, talent, and leadership. For banks, this means:
- Modernizing core systems without disrupting daily operations
- Building secure, compliant cloud environments
- Upskilling teams for the AI era
- Moving from pilots to production in digital initiatives
- Fostering a culture of innovation and shared vision
At Samlink, we see these challenges as opportunities to support our customers in building resilience and readiness for the future. Our approach is grounded in partnership, practical progress, and a deep understanding of the banking sector’s unique needs.
“We are here to help banks move from pilots to production, to modernize securely, and to empower people for the next wave of digital transformation. Readiness is not a destination, it’s a journey we take together,” concludes Sara.