Over 60% of respondents say they would be interested in using their handsets to access credit card details, balances and transactions, while 64% would use their phone as a "shopping assistant" for price comparisons.

Over three-quarters of respondents say their mobile phone allows them to stay on top of things, and 41% use productivity applications on their handsets at least once a week.

Meanwhile, 85% say they like to be on top of their finances daily, and three-quarters wish there was an alternative to carrying around a wallet stuffed with cards, money, offers and coupons.

Mobile banking appears to be a possible answer, with 96% of respondents who use the technology positive about it. Furthermore, nearly two-thirds of all respondents say that they are likely to download and use a free account management application that would allow them to organise and track their financial and shopping account information.

Dave Vigil, SVP, Firethorn, says: "The current economic climate has finances top-of-mind with most consumers, giving financial institutions a prime opportunity to actively engage consumers via mobile banking channels. As this study clearly shows, the access and consumer appetite is there - now is the time to act."