# Why COBOL Still Runs Global Finance in 2026

Page: https://stenobird.com/podcast/the-programming-languages-podcast-with-fexingo-python-rust-javascript-and-modern-coding-7872026/why-cobol-still-runs-global-finance-in-2026
Text version: https://stenobird.com/podcast/the-programming-languages-podcast-with-fexingo-python-rust-javascript-and-modern-coding-7872026/why-cobol-still-runs-global-finance-in-2026.md
Podcast: [The Programming Languages Podcast with Fexingo: Python, Rust, JavaScript, and Modern Coding](https://stenobird.com/podcast/the-programming-languages-podcast-with-fexingo-python-rust-javascript-and-modern-coding-7872026)
Published: 2026-07-18T09:38:46+00:00
Episode link: https://audio.fexingo.com/business/the-programming-languages-podcast/episode-0118.mp3
Audio file: https://audio.fexingo.com/business/the-programming-languages-podcast/episode-0118.mp3
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Duration seconds: 478

## Resource

Episode 118 explores the surprising staying power of COBOL, the 1960s programming language that still processes trillions of dollars in daily transactions. Lucas and Luna dive into the SSA's COBOL-based benefits system, the shortage of skilled developers, and why modern languages like Java haven't replaced it. They also discuss IBM's latest COBOL compiler update and how the language is quietly evolving. Plus, a candid moment about keeping the show ad-free. If you want a concrete example of legacy tech that refuses to die, this one's for you. #COBOL #LegacySystems #Mainframe #IBM #SocialSecurity #SSA #BankingTech #FinancialSystems #ProgrammingLanguages #TechHistory #SoftwareEngineering #GovernmentTech #Modernization #Java #Linux #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #Technology Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

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## Transcript

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