The COVID-19 pandemic has instigated global lockdowns, profoundly altering daily life and resulting in widespread closures, except for essential services like healthcare and grocery stores. This scenario has notably intensified mental health challenges, particularly among children and adolescents. Influenced by a myriad of factors including developmental stages, educational backgrounds, existing psychiatric disorders, and socioeconomic status, the pandemic’s impact extends beyond the immediate health crisis. This paper critically examines the multifaceted effects of the pandemic on mental and physical health across various age groups. It highlights the increased incidence of stress, anxiety, and depression, underscoring the pandemic’s deep psychological footprint. Additionally, the paper explores the societal implications, from altered family dynamics and educational disruptions due to the shift to online learning, to workplace transformations. These changes have led to a mix of adaptive responses and adverse effects, including heightened domestic tensions and mental health issues. The paper also delves into the ethical challenges faced by medical professionals during this crisis, balancing urgent patient care with ongoing medical research and mental health considerations. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the COVID-19 pandemic’s extensive impact on health and society, emphasizing the importance of addressing mental health as a crucial component of the response strategy.

Fintech as a three-dimensional phenomenon reflects the rapidly changing technological, financial and business environment. The bibliometric analysis of scientific articles allowed us to identify the main themes and create a map of the field of fintech influences. Systematization of scientific articles revealed the influence of economic development and socio-demographic inequality on fintech development. Government regulatory policies can accelerate the digitisation of financial services and financial inclusion and help the fintech sector face geopolitical challenges. Fintech’s impact was divided into three areas: financial stability and sustainable development, the business ecosystem and human behaviour. The research we summarised allowed us to identify the mechanisms through which fintech influences various fields. A complex approach to the influence of fintech enables us to understand the phenomenon and make better decisions.