How the financial industry uses audio branding and sound design

Like many other industries, the finance sector is experiencing a rapid digitisation, relying more and more on mobile banking, artificial intelligence and machine learning. Furthermore, the increasing presence of blockchain technology and cryptocurrency, continues to alter the landscape of finance, making the sector increasingly reliant on contemporary technologies.

We help financial brands to stand out in the digital and physical world, to express their beliefs and visions, and to assert a role in the future of finance, through everything from expressive brand music, to functional app sound design.

In 2010, the Finance and Insurance sector took over the lead role as the most prevalent industry in sonic branding, and audio identities within the financial sector traditionally rely on a serious, elegant and sophisticated sound, in order to convey a sense of tradition, stability and security.

The future of sound in the financials sector

The financial sector is increasingly recognizing the power of sound and its potential to differentiate them from their competitors and create memorable experiences for customers. Sound can be used in various ways, from helping customers identify a brand to informing customers of product offerings. As technology advances and customer expectations continue to rise, audio branding and sound design will become even more important in the financial sector.

Banks, insurance companies, and investment firms are all looking to create unique sonic identities that reflect their brand values and mission. Audio branding and sound design can be used to create memorable experiences for customers and set brands apart from their competitors. Audio branding helps customers identify with a particular brand and establish emotional connections. With sound design, companies can create audio environments that evoke certain feelings and experiences. For example, a bank could use music that invokes a sense of security, or an investment firm could use sounds that suggest financial success.

Sound can also be used to provide valuable information to customers in an engaging way. Financial companies are already experimenting with sound design for customer service applications such as automated phone systems and chatbots. Sound design can be used to give customers a sense of control over their experience, such as providing helpful audio prompts and cues when they need assistance.

As the financial sector continues to embrace sound, we can expect to see more creative uses of audio branding and sound design to create unique experiences for customers.

Sonic branding will play a crucial role in helping financial companies stand out from the competition and build lasting relationships with their customers.

Case studies of Sonic branding in the financial industry

The financial sector is increasingly recognizing the importance of audio branding and sound design to help create a memorable, recognizable brand identity. By leveraging audio branding, financial companies can stand out from competitors and effectively communicate their values and mission.

One example of a successful sonic branding case study in the financial sector is  . This South African investment bank created a custom sonic logo and signature music to help build their brand identity. They chose to use a combination of bright electronic sounds and smooth, melodic tones to capture their contemporary yet personal approach to banking. The result was a modern, recognizable sound that captures the essence of their brand and resonates with their customers.

Another example of a successful sonic branding case study in the financial sector is American Express. Amex launched an ‘Earcon’ sound signature which is a unique musical sound signature that is played at the end of their commercials and on their website. The signature includes a four-note melody which symbolizes the power of the brand. This iconic sound has become closely associated with the brand and has become part of the Amex brand identity.

These two examples demonstrate how sonic branding can be used to create memorable, recognizable brands in the financial sector. By leveraging audio branding, financial companies can differentiate themselves from competitors and effectively communicate their values and mission.