Here are 49 of the most promising fintech startups transforming how we bank, invest, work, and pay, according to 27 top investors

   They say pressure makes diamonds. VCs are probably hoping the same is true for startups launching and operating in this tough economy.Fintech funding, measured across average deal size and deal volume, fell from 2023 levels, according to CB Insights' second-quarter State of Fintech report.Still, VCs are finding bright spots in the sector. Business Insider asked 27 top investors — including Index Ventures, QED Investors, and Bain Capital Ventures — to name some of those diamonds in the rough. In total, they named 49 red-hot startups that haven't raised beyond a Series C, including companies within their portfolios and those with which they have no financial ties.AI fintechs dominated the series this year, using the tech to do everything from helping dealmakers negotiate debt agreements to automating compliance for fintechs and banks, and helping consumers strategize around their debts. Fintechs disrupting the insurance and healthcare industries were also popular. And some VCs are excited about startups using crypto's behind-the-scenes tech, like stablecoins and blockchain, to streamline money movement.