When it comes to explaining complex financial concepts, few tools are as effective as animated explainer videos. Whether you’re trying to teach people how investing works, break down the basics of budgeting, or introduce a new fintech product, animation makes it easier to engage your audience and get your message across clearly.
Finance isn’t always the easiest thing to talk about—most people find it either boring, intimidating, or both. That’s where animated explainer videos shine. They take something traditionally dry and turn it into something visual, engaging, and even enjoyable to learn about. In this article, we’ll look at why animated explainer videos are so valuable in the finance space, how they’re used, and what makes a good one. We’ll also tackle some common questions people have before investing in this type of content.
Why Finance Needs Animated Explainer Videos
Let’s face it—finance can be complicated. Whether you’re a bank, credit union, investment firm, or fintech startup, your audience needs to understand what you offer before they trust you with their money. That’s a big ask, and one that can be made a whole lot easier with the right kind of content.
Here’s how animated explainer videos help:
- Simplify complex ideas
Financial products and services often come with a lot of fine print. An explainer video helps distill that down to the essentials in a way people actually understand. - Increase engagement
People are more likely to watch a one-minute animated video than read a two-page product brochure. Animation grabs attention—and keeps it. - Build trust
When people feel like they understand your message, they’re more likely to trust your brand. Explainer videos give you a chance to build that connection quickly. - Offer consistency
Unlike a live presenter or a lengthy blog post, an animated video delivers the same message every time. This makes it easier to control your brand voice and messaging. - Work across platforms
You can use these videos on your website, in email campaigns, on social media, and even in presentations. It’s one piece of content that works just about everywhere.
In a nutshell, if you’re dealing with financial concepts, animated explainer videos can be the bridge between confusion and clarity.
How Financial Companies Use Explainer Videos
Financial institutions and fintech companies are using animated explainer videos in a variety of smart, creative ways. Here’s how they’re putting these videos to work:
- Product introductions
If you’re launching a new app, investment tool, or service, an explainer video can give potential users a quick overview without overwhelming them. - Customer onboarding
Many companies use short animations to walk new customers through setting up an account, understanding statements, or learning how to use digital tools. - Internal training
It’s not just for customers—animated videos can help employees understand new systems, regulations, or processes in a more engaging way than a training manual. - Investor relations
When you’re trying to attract investors, you need to present your financials and future projections clearly. An animated explainer can make your pitch more accessible and appealing. - Marketing campaigns
Whether it’s on social media or in a digital ad, a good explainer video draws people in and sparks curiosity.
The possibilities are broad, and the flexibility of animation makes it easy to tailor the message to the audience.
What Makes a Great Finance Explainer Video
Not all explainer videos are created equal. Especially in the finance world, there are some key things that make a video stand out—and ensure it actually helps your audience.
Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Keep it short and focused
Most people tune out after the first minute or two, so it’s important to get to the point quickly. Focus on one core message per video. - Use plain language
Avoid jargon whenever possible. Instead of saying “diversify your portfolio to mitigate risk,” try “spread out your investments so you’re not putting all your eggs in one basket.” - Choose the right visual style
The tone should match your brand. A financial planner might go for a clean, minimal style, while a fintech startup might lean into fun, colorful animation. - Add a strong call to action
What do you want viewers to do after watching? Sign up? Schedule a call? Make sure that’s clear at the end of the video. - Back it up with good audio
The voiceover and music should be professional and easy to listen to. Poor audio quality can make even a great video fall flat. - Make it relatable
Whenever possible, use examples that reflect real-life situations. Showing someone checking their bank balance or trying to stick to a budget helps the message hit home.
Let’s take a look at a simple comparison table to highlight what works—and what doesn’t:
| Element | Effective Approach | What to Avoid |
| Length | 60–90 seconds | Over 3 minutes |
| Language | Simple, conversational | Technical jargon |
| Visual Style | Clean, consistent with brand | Cluttered or overly complex visuals |
| Audio Quality | Professional voiceover and background music | DIY voiceovers with poor sound quality |
| Message Focus | One core idea per video | Trying to explain everything at once |
| Call to Action | Clear and specific (e.g., “Try our calculator today”) | Vague or missing CTAs |
FAQs About Animated Explainer Videos in Finance
What types of financial topics work best for explainer videos?
Almost any financial topic can work as long as it’s focused. Budgeting, investing, credit scores, loans, retirement planning, and insurance basics are all great candidates.
How much do animated explainer videos cost?
Prices can vary depending on the length and quality, but most professionally made videos fall somewhere between a few thousand to tens of thousands of dollars.
How long does it take to make one?
A high-quality explainer video typically takes 4–8 weeks from start to finish. This includes scripting, storyboarding, voiceover, animation, and revisions.
Do I need to hire a full video production company?
Not necessarily. Some freelancers or small studios specialize in animated explainer videos and can deliver great work. That said, a company with finance experience might be better equipped to handle industry-specific language.
Can I use the same video in multiple places?
Yes, and you should. A good explainer video can be used on your website, YouTube channel, social media accounts, email marketing, and even at in-person events.
Are live-action videos better than animation for finance?
Not always. While live-action can feel more personal, animation often does a better job simplifying abstract or complex topics. It depends on the message and the audience.
Conclusion
Animated explainer videos are more than just marketing tools—they’re powerful communication assets, especially in the financial world. When used effectively, they break down barriers between your brand and your audience. They simplify complex ideas, build trust, and keep people engaged with your message.
Whether you’re launching a new fintech product, educating clients about investment strategies, or simply trying to make your onboarding process smoother, animated explainer videos can make a big impact. The key is to keep the content focused, clear, and visually aligned with your brand.
If finance is your business and clarity is your goal, animation just might be your best investment yet.