The number of global fintech patent filings has increased by 49% in the past five years; in 2016 there were 9,545 fintech patents filed globally; the US was the global leader in fintech patent filings with 4,523; China ranked second with approximately half of the number of filings as the US; data on the filings was compiled by commercial law firm EMW who reported that the increase was a result of more filings from both startups and traditional financial services firms. Source