Dan Perlin, a fintech analyst, discusses the sector's evolution and diversification post-pandemic. He highlights a surprising optimism at RBC’s fintech conference, suggesting that a potential consumer dip could benefit the industry. The conversation also delves into the impact of generative AI on financial services and how companies are strategically shifting from cost-cutting to growth-driven mergers and acquisitions. Perlin emphasizes the importance of adapting to new market dynamics to thrive in this transformative landscape.