Dave and Dharm DeMystify: Recent Episodes
Dave and Dharm DeMystify
In this week's episode, Dharm is joined by Briana Marbury, CEO of the Interledger Foundation, to explore one of the biggest challenges in global finance today: creating truly interoperable payments that work seamlessly across banks, payment networks, and borders.Drawing on her background in finance and her work leading the Interledger Foundation, Briana explains why moving money across different payment systems remains far more complicated than most people realise, and how open payment protocols could transform financial inclusion, cross-border payments, and the future of digital commerce.The conversation begins with an introduction to the Interledger Foundation and the Interledger Protocol, an open, currency-agnostic payments network designed to connect financial ledgers in much the same way the internet connects information. Rather than replacing existing payment systems, Interledger enables banks, wallets and payment providers to transfer value more efficiently across different payment rails.A major theme throughout the episode is interoperability. Briana explains why many banks and payment providers still operate in isolated ecosystems, making it difficult to move money quickly and affordably between institutions. The discussion explores how open payment protocols could remove many of these barriers while allowing financial institutions to maintain the flexibility to choose their own infrastructure.The episode also examines why smaller community banks often struggle to access modern payment capabilities. Briana discusses how the Interledger Foundation is working with financial institutions, regulators and technology partners to help modernise infrastructure, improve financial inclusion, and expand access to digital financial services for underserved communities around the world.Another key focus is the future of cross-border payments. The speakers explore why international transfers remain expensive, particularly for migrant workers sending remittances home, and how interoperable payment networks could significantly reduce costs while increasing speed and accessibility. The conversation also highlights projects underway in countries including Mexico, Colombia and South Africa to improve connectivity between banks and payment systems.The discussion also explores how open-source technology is driving innovation across the payments industry. Briana explains how developers, universities and financial institutions are collaborating to build new payment capabilities on top of the Interledger Protocol, creating an ecosystem that encourages innovation while remaining accessible to organisations of all sizes.The episode also looks at the rise of streaming payments and programmable money, exploring how continuous, real-time payments could enable entirely new business models, from paying for digital content by the second to more flexible payroll systems and online services.Finally, Briana shares her vision for a more connected financial system where interoperability becomes the foundation for faster, more inclusive and more accessible global payments.For anyone interested in payments, financial inclusion, open banking and the future of digital finance, this episode offers a fascinating look at how interoperable payment networks could reshape the way money moves around the world.
In this week's episode, Dharm is joined by Leonardo Collado, Global General Manager of Pismo at Visa, to explore how modern core banking infrastructure is becoming the foundation for the next generation of financial services.Drawing on more than 30 years of experience in payments, Leonardo explains why legacy banking systems are holding financial institutions back and how real-time, cloud-native platforms are enabling banks to innovate faster, personalise customer experiences, and prepare for emerging technologies such as AI, tokenised assets, and agentic commerce.The conversation begins with an introduction to Pismo and its role within Visa. Leonardo explains how Pismo was built as a real-time, API-native banking and payments platform, allowing financial institutions to modernise incrementally rather than replacing entire legacy systems. Combined with Visa's global reach and infrastructure, the platform helps banks evolve without disrupting existing operations.A major theme throughout the episode is the shift towards real-time banking. Leonardo explains why customers increasingly expect instant, personalised experiences and how real-time data allows banks to understand customer behaviour as it happens, delivering contextual offers, AI-driven loyalty programmes, and more relevant customer experiences.The discussion also explores why many banks continue to struggle with fragmented technology estates. Leonardo explains how consolidating core banking, payments and card processing onto a single platform gives financial institutions a unified customer view, reduces operational complexity, and enables faster innovation across every product and payment channel.Another key focus is balancing global consistency with local flexibility. As banks expand internationally, they must navigate different regulations and payment schemes. Leonardo explains how Pismo maintains a single global platform while supporting local compliance requirements, enabling banks to scale more efficiently across multiple markets.The episode also examines how modern banking platforms are preparing institutions for the next wave of innovation. Topics including tokenised assets, stablecoins, programmable money and real-time settlement highlight why core banking and payments infrastructure are becoming increasingly interconnected, with the potential to transform cross-border payments and enable entirely new financial products.Another fascinating discussion centres on agentic AI and autonomous commerce. As AI agents begin researching, booking and paying for goods and services on behalf of consumers, banks will need modern infrastructure capable of supporting new authentication methods, enhanced security, and AI-driven payment experiences.Looking ahead, Leonardo shares his vision for how AI, tokenisation, quantum computing and modern payment orchestration could reshape banking over the coming decade. He argues that institutions treating modernisation as a strategic business priority, rather than simply a technology project, will be best positioned to adapt to changing customer expectations and an increasingly digital financial landscape.For anyone interested in core banking, payment innovation, AI and the future of financial services, this episode offers an insightful look at why modernisation has become one of banking's most important strategic priorities.
In this week's episode, Dave and Dharm are joined by Arjeh van Oijen, Product Strategy Lead at Icon Solutions, to explore one of the most talked-about topics in financial services today: tokenisation and the future of digital payments.Drawing on more than 35 years of experience in payments and over a decade working with blockchain and distributed ledger technology, Arjeh explains why tokenisation is generating so much interest across banking, and how digital currencies could fundamentally reshape the way money moves around the world.The conversation begins with an introduction to Icon Solutions and its approach to modernising payment infrastructure. Arjeh explains how many banks still rely on multiple disconnected payment systems, creating unnecessary complexity, cost, and operational challenges. Rather than forcing banks into rigid vendor-controlled platforms, Icon enables financial institutions to customise and evolve their payment infrastructure themselves, allowing them to innovate faster and better serve customers.A major theme throughout the episode is understanding the different forms of digital assets. Arjeh breaks down the distinctions between cryptocurrencies, stablecoins, central bank digital currencies (CBDCs), tokenised deposits, and tokenised real-world assets, explaining how each serves a different purpose within the evolving financial ecosystem.The discussion also explores how tokenised deposits could transform domestic payments. Rather than replacing traditional money, tokenised deposits represent existing commercial bank money on distributed ledger networks, enabling faster settlement, greater flexibility, and the potential to operate independently of today's centralised payment infrastructure. The episode examines how this could support 24/7 settlement, reduce friction, and create entirely new payment models.Another key focus is the future of cross-border payments. The speakers discuss why international transfers remain slow, expensive, and reliant on complex correspondent banking networks, despite advances in financial technology. Arjeh explains how tokenisation, new payment rails, and blockchain-based settlement could dramatically simplify international payments by removing intermediaries, reducing costs, and enabling transactions to settle in seconds rather than days.The conversation also examines how these technological changes could reshape the wider payments industry. As new account-to-account payment networks emerge around the world, traditional card schemes and correspondent banking models may face increasing competition. The discussion explores how banks, payment providers, and financial institutions will need to adapt as new infrastructure becomes more efficient, flexible, and globally connected.Another fascinating theme is the growing intersection between payments and geopolitics. The episode considers why governments and central banks are paying close attention to payment infrastructure, digital currencies, and financial sovereignty. Topics such as the Digital Euro, stablecoins, reserve currencies, and Europe's desire to reduce dependence on global payment networks all highlight how technology and international politics are becoming increasingly intertwined.Finally, the discussion looks ahead to the long-term future of money. While tokenisation promises faster payments, lower costs, and greater financial innovation, it also raises important questions about the future role of central banks, commercial banks, national currencies, and the global financial system itself.
In this episode, Dharm sits down with Eric Bierry, CEO of SBS, to explore two often-overlooked areas of financial services: asset finance and the future of building societies. Drawing on decades of experience in banking technology, Eric shares his insights into how these sectors are adapting to artificial intelligence, tokenisation, and changing customer expectations. The conversation begins with Eric’s journey in financial software and the growth of SBS into a global provider of technology solutions for banks, lenders, and financial institutions. He explains how the company has evolved and why innovation remains critical in an increasingly competitive market. A major focus of the discussion is asset finance and the role it plays behind the scenes of industries such as automotive, agriculture, aviation, and heavy equipment. Eric explains how asset finance differs from traditional lending because the value of the underlying asset remains central to the financing decision. He also provides an overview of wholesale finance, where dealerships and distributors secure funding to finance inventory before assets reach consumers. Technology’s growing impact on asset finance is another key theme. Eric highlights how automation, AI, machine learning, and digital auditing are helping lenders make faster decisions, improve risk management, reduce fraud, and create more efficient financing processes. The pair also discuss tokenisation and how digital representations of assets could simplify cross-border financing and fleet management in the future. The conversation then turns to building societies and the challenges they face in keeping pace with large banks and fintechs. Eric argues that while smaller institutions may struggle to fund major technology investments alone, collaboration and shared infrastructure could help them remain competitive. He believes their long-term strength lies in combining modern digital capabilities with deep local knowledge and trusted customer relationships. Artificial intelligence features heavily throughout the discussion, with Eric explaining why generative AI is likely to deliver more immediate value than agentic AI for building societies. Rather than replacing people, he sees AI as a tool to enhance decision-making, improve customer service, and help institutions focus on their core mission of supporting members and helping people access property ownership. The episode also explores tokenised money, digital payments, and the future of financial infrastructure. While Eric believes tokenisation will eventually transform the movement of value and reduce friction in financial services, he expects adoption to be led by large-scale providers, with smaller institutions benefiting through participation in the wider ecosystem. Looking ahead, the discussion finishes with the future of core banking. Having worked through multiple generations of banking technology, Eric argues that regardless of whether systems are cloud-native or AI-powered, banks will always require trusted platforms capable of delivering accurate, explainable, and deterministic outcomes. For anyone interested in banking technology, asset finance, artificial intelligence, tokenisation, or the future of financial services, this episode offers a practical and insightful look at how traditional institutions are preparing for the next wave of innovation.
In this episode, Dharm sits down with Michael Boel, Head of Clearing Technology at Banking Circle, to explore why moving money around the world remains slower, more expensive, and more complex than many people realise.Drawing on more than 15 years of experience across banking, capital markets, and payments, Michael shares his journey through the industry and reflects on how payment infrastructure has evolved to meet the demands of an increasingly digital economy. He also discusses Banking Circle's growth from a startup into a global financial infrastructure provider serving banks, fintechs, and payment service providers worldwide.A central theme of the conversation is the inefficiency of traditional cross-border payments. While customers often expect transactions to happen instantly, international payments can involve multiple intermediary banks, foreign exchange conversions, compliance checks, and legacy systems. Michael explains how these layers create delays, increase costs, and add complexity for both businesses and consumers.Dharm and Michael explore the role of correspondent banking and why many international payments still rely on infrastructure that was designed decades ago. They discuss how intermediary institutions, bilateral agreements, and currency conversion processes contribute to both the cost and uncertainty often associated with moving money across borders.The conversation also examines how Banking Circle is tackling these challenges by connecting directly to local clearing systems and central bank infrastructures. By reducing reliance on intermediaries, the company aims to make global payments feel local, improving speed, transparency, and cost efficiency.Another key topic is tokenisation and its potential to reshape payments. As stablecoins and digital assets continue to gain attention across the financial sector, Michael shares his views on the opportunities they create, including faster settlement, greater transparency, and programmable payments. However, he also highlights the need for industry collaboration, investment, and regulatory certainty before these technologies can achieve widespread adoption.Regulation and financial crime prevention are another major focus. Michael explains the significant operational and technological investment required to meet anti-money laundering, sanctions screening, and compliance obligations, while balancing the need to deliver seamless customer experiences.Looking ahead, Michael predicts a future with greater interoperability between payment systems, increased adoption of tokenised assets, and reduced friction in global commerce. He also discusses the growing role of artificial intelligence in accelerating innovation and helping financial institutions manage increasingly complex payment ecosystems.For anyone interested in payments, banking infrastructure, fintech innovation, or the future of digital finance, this episode offers valuable insights into the forces shaping the next generation of global payments.
In this week’s episode, Dave is joined by Bartosz Skwarczek, Founder and Chairman of G2A, for a fascinating conversation about trust, artificial intelligence, and how digital marketplaces are preparing for the next era of online commerce.Bartosz shares the story behind G2A’s growth from a small gaming business in Poland to one of the world’s largest digital entertainment marketplaces, serving more than 35 million users across 180 countries. What began as a traditional online store evolved into a global marketplace, creating an ecosystem where buyers and sellers can connect at scale while maintaining security and trust.A key theme throughout the episode is the changing nature of trust in the age of AI. Historically, trust in e-commerce centred on the relationship between buyers, sellers, and marketplaces. However, as AI agents become increasingly capable of making decisions on behalf of users, businesses are now facing a new challenge: how do consumers learn to trust autonomous systems?The discussion explores research conducted by G2A and Juniper Research, which found that around 30% of consumers would already be willing to allow an AI agent to complete an entire purchasing journey on their behalf, including selecting products and making payments. While adoption is still in its early stages, the findings suggest that consumer attitudes towards AI are evolving rapidly.Another important theme is the rise of agentic commerce. As AI agents become more sophisticated, future transactions may increasingly take place between autonomous systems acting on behalf of both buyers and sellers. This creates new challenges around governance, accountability, and verification, raising important questions about how trust can be established in an AI-driven marketplace.The conversation also highlights G2A’s long-standing investment in artificial intelligence. Long before the recent AI boom, the company was using machine learning to power anti-fraud systems and improve security. Today, AI supports a wide range of functions across the organisation, from fraud prevention and operational efficiency to customer experience and decision-making.Fraud prevention is another major focus of the discussion. As AI tools become more accessible, both businesses and bad actors are becoming more sophisticated. Bartosz explains how G2A combines seller verification, payment security, real-time anomaly detection, and continuous data analysis to create a secure environment while maintaining a seamless customer experience.Finally, the conversation turns to the future of AI adoption. Rather than viewing AI as simply another productivity tool, Bartosz argues that organisations must embed it into their culture, processes, and ways of working. As AI agents become increasingly capable, the companies that succeed will be those that can balance innovation with trust, transparency, and security.For anyone interested in artificial intelligence, digital commerce, fintech, and the future of trust online, this episode offers valuable insights into how marketplaces are adapting to a world where humans and AI increasingly work side by side.
In this week’s episode, Dave and Dharm are joined by Ben Sheedy, co-founder of SynthWise, for a fascinating conversation about one of the biggest challenges facing businesses today: not whether to adopt AI, but how to do it successfully.Ben shares the story behind SynthWise and how his own experiences experimenting with early language models revealed that AI adoption is far more than a technology rollout. Instead, he argues that businesses must rethink workflows, behaviours, and even company culture if they want to unlock meaningful value from AI.A key theme throughout the episode is the gap between individual AI usage and organisation-wide transformation. While some employees are already becoming dramatically more productive through tools such as ChatGPT, Claude, and Gemini, many businesses are struggling to convert those individual gains into measurable outcomes across teams or departments. The conversation explores why this disconnect exists and why simply giving every employee access to a single AI tool is rarely enough.The discussion also highlights what Ben describes as the “three silo challenge” surrounding AI adoption. The first is the vendor silo, where organisations rely too heavily on a single AI provider despite different models having different strengths. The second is the collaboration silo, where individuals are becoming more productive but are unable to effectively share or scale those improvements across the wider business. The third is the data silo, where companies are hesitant to connect proprietary or sensitive information to AI systems due to concerns around privacy, compliance, and security.Another important theme is the tension between innovation and risk. Many organisations remain cautious about AI adoption because of concerns around data leakage and governance, particularly in highly regulated industries such as financial services. However, the episode argues that banning AI entirely may actually increase risk by driving employees towards unmonitored “shadow AI” usage outside official systems.The conversation also explores the growing importance of AI literacy and critical thinking. Ben argues that AI should not be treated as a replacement for human judgement, but as a collaborative tool that enhances thinking, creativity, and productivity. Throughout the discussion, the speakers stress the importance of teaching people how to use AI effectively, responsibly, and critically, not just within businesses, but also within schools and education systems.Another compelling angle is the cultural challenge surrounding AI transformation. While many organisations currently focus on AI as a cost-cutting tool, the episode suggests that this mindset may undermine adoption by creating fear and resistance among employees. Instead, Ben advocates for a more positive approach centred on augmentation rather than replacement, using AI to remove repetitive tasks and create more time for higher-value, human-focused work.The discussion also examines how AI transformation compares with previous waves of digital transformation. Rather than simply adding AI onto existing workflows, businesses may need to fundamentally rethink how work is structured and how employees interact with technology. This raises important questions around leadership, organisational design, and the role of experimentation within modern businesses.Finally, the conversation turns to the future of AI-native organisations. Ben argues that the companies most likely to succeed will be those that combine top-down leadership with bottom-up experimentation, creating environments where employees feel empowered to explore, test, and develop new AI-driven ways of working.For anyone interested in AI adoption, organisational change, and the future of work, this episode offers a practical and thought-provoking perspective on how businesses can move beyond hype and begin integrating AI in meaningful ways.
In this week’s episode, Dave is joined by Vyacheslav Kim, CEO of the Freedom Super App and Managing Director at Freedom Bank, for a fascinating conversation about how super apps are reshaping banking by integrating financial services with everyday lifestyle experiences.Vyacheslav shares the story behind building the Freedom Super App, which started with the acquisition of a small bank with just 40,000 customers and evolved into a platform designed to serve millions of users across Kazakhstan. Rather than creating a traditional banking app, the team set out to build a unified ecosystem that combines banking with services such as travel, food delivery, media, and health, all within a single application.A key theme throughout the episode is the shift from standalone banking products to integrated, everyday services. In a market where customers often use multiple banking apps, the Freedom team recognised the need to create a platform that delivers daily value, encouraging higher engagement and retention. Today, the app offers dozens of services across three core layers: everyday banking, lifestyle services, and value-added features such as loyalty programmes and rewards.The conversation also explores the concept of hyper-personalisation. By building a comprehensive data ecosystem, including a “360-degree customer profile,” the platform is able to understand user behaviour in detail, from purchasing habits to travel patterns, and deliver highly targeted, contextual offers. Rather than generic promotions, users receive personalised recommendations based on their preferences, timing, and past activity, significantly improving engagement.Another important innovation discussed is the introduction of a proprietary rewards system, where customers receive cashback in the form of real stock-linked value rather than traditional currency. This not only incentivises usage but also introduces customers to investing, helping to shift behaviour from consumption towards saving and wealth creation.The discussion also highlights the growing role of AI within the platform. From fraud detection and compliance to personalised recommendations and automated processes, AI is already embedded across multiple layers of the ecosystem. Looking ahead, the team is developing an AI-powered assistant designed to act as a single interface for the entire super app, enabling users to complete tasks such as payments, bookings, and customer support through a conversational experience.Another compelling aspect of the episode is the expansion of the super app into non-financial services, particularly health. By integrating telemedicine, digital medical records, insurance, and pharmacy services, the platform aims to simplify access to healthcare and provide a more holistic digital experience. This reflects a broader ambition to support users across all aspects of their daily lives, not just financial transactions.The conversation also touches on the operational complexity of building such an ecosystem. With multiple companies, partners, and services integrated into a single platform, maintaining consistency while allowing individual teams the freedom to innovate presents an ongoing challenge. However, this model also enables rapid scaling, with new services reaching hundreds of thousands of users in a matter of months.Finally, the episode explores the broader implications of super apps for the future of financial services. As digital platforms become more integrated and personalised, the role of banks may shift from standalone service providers to central hubs within larger ecosystems, delivering value far beyond traditional banking.For anyone interested in the future of fintech, super apps, and the role of AI in creating seamless digital experiences, this episode offers a compelling look at how banking is evolving in fast-growing markets.
In this week’s episode, Dave and Dharm are joined by James Tweed from Coracle for a fascinating conversation that sits at the intersection of education, technology, and financial services, and challenges how we think about inclusion in a digital world.Coracle is an EdTech company delivering secure, offline digital education to prisons across the UK, giving learners access to a wide range of content from basic literacy to vocational training. But what makes their work particularly compelling is how they are using AI and behavioural insights to personalise learning experiences for individuals who have often been excluded from traditional education systems.A key theme throughout the episode is neurodiversity, and the reality that many individuals, particularly within prison populations, have had negative or disrupted experiences with education. James explains how Coracle is rethinking learning by moving away from rigid, one-size-fits-all approaches and instead adapting content in real time based on how individuals engage, respond, and learn. This includes adjusting reading levels, formats, and delivery methods to suit each user better.The conversation also explores the power of digital environments to remove stigma and enable private, self-paced learning. In contrast to traditional classroom settings, learners can make mistakes, build confidence, and develop skills without fear of judgment, with profound implications not just for education but for any sector delivering complex information.This leads into a broader discussion on what the financial services industry can learn from these approaches. From inaccessible terms and conditions to a lack of personalised communication, the episode highlights how many financial products are still designed for a “default” user that doesn’t reflect the diversity of real customers. The potential for AI-driven personalisation, not just in products, but in how information is presented, is a major opportunity for banks and fintechs alike.Another important theme is financial inclusion and digital poverty. The discussion highlights how access to digital services is increasingly essential, yet still out of reach for some individuals. The episode explores how organisations, including banks, could play a more active role in supporting not just access, but understanding and engagement.Finally, the conversation touches on a broader strategic shift, moving away from designing for mass markets and instead solving problems for highly specific, underserved groups first, before scaling those solutions more widely. As James explains, solving for the most complex environments, such as prisons, can create models that are far more adaptable and impactful in mainstream contexts.For anyone interested in AI, education, financial inclusion, and the future of personalised digital experiences, this episode offers a fresh, thought-provoking perspective on how technology can be used to better serve individuals, not just systems.
Hosts Dave and Dharmesh explore how AI-powered “vibe coding,” autonomous agents, and real-time software creation are reshaping the future of development with Sergio Gago, CTO of Cloudera.Sergio, a former leader at Moody’s and now CTO at Cloudera, is at the forefront of AI-driven data platforms. He introduces the concept of vibe coding, a new paradigm where developers (and increasingly non-developers) can create full applications simply by describing what they want. Rather than writing code line-by-line, users can now prompt AI systems to generate complete solutions, from architecture to deployment, in minutes.A central theme of the episode is the democratisation of software creation. What once required teams of engineers, significant funding, and months of development can now be achieved by individuals, even those with no formal coding experience. Sergio shares real-world examples, from rapid prototyping to fully functioning applications built in under an hour, highlighting how dramatically the barriers to entry have fallen.The conversation also explores how this shift is transforming engineering teams themselves. Rather than replacing developers entirely, AI is enabling a new model where engineers orchestrate fleets of intelligent agents, systems that can write, review, test, and refine code autonomously. This is leading to exponential gains in productivity, with teams becoming significantly more efficient while maintaining control over architecture, security, and governance.Dave and Dharmesh also tackle the risks. From “shadow AI” and security vulnerabilities to the challenges of maintaining enterprise-grade systems, the episode examines why governance, oversight, and structured workflows remain critical, particularly for banks and regulated industries.Looking ahead, the discussion moves beyond coding into the rise of autonomous agents, systems that don’t just build software, but actively monitor, adapt, and optimise business processes in real time. From marketing automation to financial decision-making, these agents could fundamentally change how organisations operate.The episode closes with a broader reflection on the role of humans in this new world. As software creation becomes commoditised, the value shifts from writing code to curating ideas, defining problems, and deciding what should be built in the first place.For anyone interested in AI, software development, fintech innovation, and the future of work, this is a conversation that offers a glimpse into what may be one of the most significant technological shifts of our time.
In this week’s episode, Dave is joined by Marie Diron, Global Head of Sovereign Ratings at Moody’s Ratings, for a fascinating conversation about how artificial intelligence could transform economies at a national level, far beyond its impact on companies and individuals.Marie shares insights from Moody’s Ratings latest research examining how AI may affect three critical pillars of sovereign analysis: productivity, social stability, and public finances. While AI promises meaningful economic gains, with potential productivity increases of around 1.5% globally, the conversation highlights that these benefits will not be evenly distributed.A key theme throughout the episode is the concept of AI diffusion, the speed and breadth with which AI technologies spread across industries, professions, and countries. Unlike previous technological revolutions that impacted specific sectors, AI has the potential to reshape roles across the entire workforce, from clerical and administrative roles to professional services such as law, healthcare, and economics.The discussion also explores the social implications of this shift. While AI can augment human work and increase productivity, it can also automate certain tasks, particularly those involving repeatable administrative work. This raises important questions about workforce transitions, retraining, and how governments can support people whose jobs may evolve or disappear.Marie also highlights how different countries will experience AI very differently. Advanced economies may see larger productivity gains due to stronger infrastructure, education systems, and access to digital technologies, while emerging markets could face slower adoption but potentially larger long-term opportunities if they invest strategically in skills and connectivity.Another compelling angle is the policy challenge facing governments. From education reform and workforce retraining to tax policy and public sector efficiency, AI is set to influence how governments manage economies and public finances. The episode also explores how AI could help governments themselves, improving tax collection, policy analysis, and public service delivery.Finally, the conversation turns to the long-term perspective. Could AI become one of the defining economic transformations of our era, comparable to the industrial revolution? While the ultimate impact remains uncertain, Marie argues that governments that successfully balance short-term disruption with long-term opportunity will be best positioned to benefit.For anyone interested in the intersection of AI, economics, government policy, and the future of work, this episode offers a rare look at how technological change is being analysed not just at a company level, but at the level of entire nations.
Hosts Dave and Dharmesh explore how artificial intelligence, later-life lending, and turnkey core platforms are reshaping the future of UK financial services with Gareth Richardson, Finova's CEO.In this week’s episode of the Demystify Podcast, Dave and Dharmesh are joined by Gareth Richardson, CEO of Finova, for a wide-ranging and candid conversation about the forces quietly transforming UK core banking, and why AI may have a far bigger impact inside financial institutions than customers realise.Gareth, a former senior leader at Thought Machine and now head of one of the UK’s most embedded lending and mortgage technology providers, explains why community banking and building societies face a very different challenge from Tier 1 banks. While global institutions chase configurability and scale, smaller lenders need turnkey infrastructure, effectively a fully outsourced technology engine that allows them to compete without massive internal teams.A central theme of the episode is equity release and later-life lending, a market poised to grow rapidly as demographics shift and homeowners hold significant untapped property wealth. Gareth unpacks why this space has evolved beyond its historical reputation and how smarter underwriting, better data, and modern infrastructure are making it more sophisticated and accessible.The conversation then turns to AI, cutting through the hype. Rather than focusing purely on flashy chatbots, Gareth outlines where AI is already delivering real value: broker research automation, document verification, underwriting acceleration, and operational efficiency. In many cases, AI is removing friction and reducing cost long before it becomes customer-facing.The episode also tackles the bigger question: how far, and how fast, will regulation allow AI to reshape financial decision-making? While generative models are advancing rapidly, explainability, governance, and trust remain critical guardrails in regulated environments.For anyone interested in mortgages, community banking, AI-driven transformation, and what’s really changing behind the scenes in UK financial services, this is a conversation not to be missed.
In this week’s episode of the Demystify Podcast, Dave and Dharmesh sit down with Vilius Oškeliūnas, wealth manager and co-founder of Commody, for a fascinating discussion about the intersection of traditional finance, blockchain infrastructure, and petrolhead passion.Vilius shares how Commody was born from a simple but powerful idea: connecting serious car collectors with enthusiasts who dream of owning iconic vehicles but cannot justify the full purchase price. By fractionalising collectable cars into affordable units, starting from just €25, Commody enables individuals to build their “dream garage” piece by piece.The conversation explores how the platform legally structures ownership using special purpose vehicles (SPVs), separating legal and economic rights while ensuring regulatory clarity. Each fractional unit is linked to an NFT on the Solana blockchain, providing transparent and efficient ownership tracking, not as a speculative crypto asset, but as a modern accounting and depository mechanism.A key theme of the episode is the emotional dimension of collecting. While investment potential plays a role, Vilius explains that for most collectors, the primary driver is passion, nostalgia, and community. Commody leans into that community aspect, creating a shared space for enthusiasts rather than simply replicating a closed-end fund model.The discussion also dives into the challenges of operating at the boundary between traditional finance and Web3. From navigating European regulation to addressing liquidity in secondary markets, Vilius outlines how Commody is building a marketplace model that differs from existing fractional platforms by allowing dynamic ownership transfers rather than fixed holding periods.Looking ahead, the group considers the broader implications of tokenisation, including whether real-world assets like cars could eventually sit alongside traditional investments in wealth portfolios. As tokenisation matures, the line between passion assets and financial instruments may become increasingly blurred.For anyone curious about real-world asset tokenisation, fractional ownership, and how blockchain can support tangible collectables beyond speculation, this episode offers a fresh and practical perspective.
Hosts Dave and Dharmesh are joined by Roger Rouhana, co-founder and CEO of Alpheya, to explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping wealth and trading infrastructure.In this week’s episode of the Demystify Podcast, Dave and Dharmesh sit down with Roger Rouhana, co-founder and CEO of Alpheya, for a wide-ranging and thoughtful conversation about the transformation underway in wealth management as AI-driven technology accelerates.Roger shares how Alpheya was built to provide end-to-end wealth and trading infrastructure for financial institutions, supporting everything from client onboarding and portfolio construction to execution, reporting, and advisory workflows. Backed by major institutional investors, Alpheya operates at significant scale, touching millions of end clients through its partner banks and institutions.The discussion explores why traditional wealth platforms are struggling to keep pace with changing client expectations. As wealth management “retailises”, clients increasingly demand always-on digital experiences, real-time insights, and personalised guidance, expectations shaped by consumer technology rather than legacy financial systems.A central theme of the episode is the role of AI in closing the gap between growing demand for advice and the limited scalability of human relationship managers. Roger unpacks recent research showing a surprising willingness among investors to trust AI with advice, and even portfolio management, and explains why this shift is both inevitable and transformative.For anyone interested in the future of wealth management, the intersection of AI and financial advice, and how institutions can responsibly scale personalised investing, this is a conversation not to be missed.
This week Dave sits down with Slavo Vojacek and Ricky Marcon, co-founders of OpenCoreOS, for a frank conversation about what “core banking” needs to become in an AI-native world. Slavo (a distributed-systems engineer turned core-banking specialist) and Ricky (a product and business-builder with deep delivery experience) argue that the industry is at a new inflexion point: real-time payments, growing transaction volumes, and cloud fragility are exposing the limits of both legacy platforms and the so-called next-generation cores. They unpack why OpenCoreOS is deliberately opinionated about what a “core” should be. For them, it is primarily the ledgering and transactional engine (interest, postings, and reconciliation at scale), while other components, like customer master data and product tooling, increasingly sit outside the core. The discussion then moves into the hard engineering: what it means to build a platform designed to run across multiple clouds, aiming for zero downtime and zero data loss, and why retrofitting that kind of resilience into an existing architecture is far harder than it sounds. Finally, the episode connects the dots to “agentic banking” and why AI cannot simply be “sprinkled on top” of yesterday’s platforms. OpenCore OS is designed so that product and operational configuration can be expressed in natural language, abstracting complexity while staying deterministic where it matters. Dharmesh also shares why he joined the company’s board, and why this approach feels fundamentally different from bolt-on AI features. If you care about the future of banking infrastructure, resilience, and what AI-native actually means (beyond the marketing), this one is for you.
In this episode, Dave and Dharm are joined by Alice Violet, founder of Alice Violet Creative and host of the Cyber Made Human podcast, for a wide-ranging and refreshingly human conversation about the current state of cybersecurity.Based in the heart of the UK’s cybersecurity ecosystem in Cheltenham, Alice brings a unique perspective shaped by her journey from luxury travel marketing to senior roles at Sophos and, ultimately, to building a specialist agency focused on cyber and complex technology. Her core belief is simple but powerful: cybersecurity is no longer a niche technical concern. It is a leadership issue, a commercial issue, and fundamentally a human one.The discussion explores why cybersecurity has remained opaque for so long, and how fear-based messaging and jargon have actively held the industry back. Alice argues that recent high-profile outages and breaches have forced cybersecurity into the mainstream, making it unacceptable for senior leaders to plead ignorance. Yet she is equally critical of scaremongering, advocating instead for education, clarity, and a reframing of cyber as both protection and opportunity.Dave and Dharm probe how CEOs should think about cybersecurity without becoming technologists themselves, why CISOs must learn to communicate in business language, and why even the most sophisticated technical defences can be undone by human behaviour. From ransomware-as-a-service to AI-powered impersonation scams, the conversation makes clear that many of today’s biggest risks sit outside the data centre.The episode also tackles quantum computing, Q-Day, and the growing anxiety around encryption, separating genuine long-term risk from headline-driven panic. Alice offers a pragmatic, optimistic view: technology will evolve, but so will the countermeasures, provided organisations stay informed rather than paralysed.AI features prominently, both as an accelerator for attackers and as a productivity tool for defenders, marketers, and content creators. Across marketing, cybersecurity, and leadership, the group converge on a shared view: AI works best as a co-pilot, not a replacement for experience, judgement, or human connection.Throughout the episode, one theme consistently surfaces. Cybersecurity only becomes effective when it is made understandable, relatable, and embedded into culture. Or, as Alice puts it, humans may be the weakest link in cyber, but they are also the strongest defence.This is an essential listen for fintech leaders, CEOs, CISOs, marketers, and anyone navigating a world where digital trust is central to business survival.
In this episode, Dave and Dharm welcome back Ziad Nassar, Deputy CEO of Huspy, one year after his first appearance on the show. And what a difference a year makes.Ziad shares how Huspy has evolved from a UAE-based mortgage innovator into one of the fastest-scaling proptechs in EMEA, now active across the UAE and Spain with expansion under way in Saudi Arabia. Backed by a US $59 million Series B round led by Balderton Capital, Huspy is pursuing an ambitious mission: empowering the people who serve homebuyers and sellers.The conversation explores:Why Huspy focuses on enabling agents and mortgage brokers—the professionals closest to homebuyers and sellers—through technology, training, and fairer rewards.The logic behind expanding to Spain, and the company’s disciplined playbook for entering new markets.How AI is transforming property discovery and agent productivity—from natural-language search (“find me a Georgian-style home near London with a vet nearby”) to smart tools that augment rather than replace human expertise.The importance of focus and discipline in scaling a startup, and the lessons Huspy has learned from trial, error, and relentless iteration.Why PropTech remains one of the least-disrupted global industries, and how human experience, data, and automation can finally start to change that.Ziad’s candour and passion make this a compelling listen—an honest look at what it takes to modernise real estate, balance technology with trust, and build for the people who make the housing market work.
In this episode, Dave and Dharm sit down with Ben Goldin, CEO and Founder of Plumery, to explore how digital banking needs to evolve beyond its legacy foundations.With more than two decades in banking technology — including senior roles at Mambu and Backbase — Ben shares his deep insights into what’s broken in today’s digital banking architectures and how Plumery is reimagining them for a composable, experience-led future.The conversation covers:Why banks must decouple from monolithic core systems to deliver genuine digital experiences.How real-time, purpose-built data models are transforming customer personalisation.The cultural and organisational shifts required for banks to think like digital product companies, not siloed institutions.The limits, and the promise, of AI in financial services, including why understanding its stochastic nature is essential.A candid discussion on regulation, with Ben calling for regulators to move from policing to proactive collaboration, accelerating innovation safely.Ben also explains why the next wave of banking will blend lifestyle, financial, and ecosystem services, and why success will belong to those who can bridge technology, experience, and trust.A must-listen for anyone interested in the future of banking architecture, digital transformation, and the human side of innovation.
In this special 30th-anniversary episode, Dave is joined by Abdeslam Alaoui, co-founder and CEO of HPS, to reflect on three decades of transformation in payments and digital finance. He shares how HPS has evolved from a regional firm into a global powerhouse, quietly powering everyday transactions around the world—from mobile payments to digital loans—without most users even knowing.The conversation explores HPS’s commitment to innovation, its ethos of invisibility, and the company’s rigorous cycle of reinvention every ten years. Abdeslam offers insight into the strategic thinking that led HPS to adopt English as its operational language from day one and the importance of maintaining technological freshness through continuous redevelopment.Looking forward, Abdeslam discusses the shift from products to experiences in financial services, the growing integration of AI, and HPS’s acquisition of CR2, enabling a seamless “glass-to-ledger” customer experience. He highlights the power of orchestration, hyper-personalisation, and dynamic digital engagement as key trends shaping the future.The episode concludes with reflections on Africa’s role in leapfrogging legacy financial infrastructure, the opportunity AI presents to transform education and financial inclusion, and a provocative suggestion: that payments may well eat banking as revenue models shift from account-based income to transaction-driven services.
In this episode, Dave and Dharm sit down with Cristina Pieretti, Head of Digital Content and Innovation at Moody’s, to explore how one of the world’s most data-driven organisations is reimagining itself through Generative AI.Cristina reveals how Moody’s moved rapidly from early experiments to launching its first commercial GenAI product, the Moody’s Research Assistant, which became the company’s fastest-adopted tool in history. She shares how GenAI now powers everything from developer co-pilots to agentic sales and strategy tools, reshaping how thousands of employees work and think.The conversation dives deep into:How Moody’s is embedding GenAI across teams while managing risk, trust, and data integrity.The cultural shift needed to make AI adoption part of everyone’s job — not just the developers’.Why agentic systems represent the next big leap for productivity and innovation.How banks and financial institutions are following suit, with parallels drawn to the early days of cloud adoption.Cristina’s candid thoughts on the so-called “AI bubble” and why she believes specialisation and high-quality data will separate lasting innovation from hype.This is a masterclass in how established financial institutions can turn disruption into opportunity, with human creativity and trusted data at the core.
In this episode of the Dave and Dharm Demystify show, Dave Wallace sits down with Neal Mann, co-founder of Noan, a platform pioneering the creation of a “facts layer” for AI-native businesses. Neal draws on years of experience working with the C-suite at global corporations to reveal the hidden chaos behind most companies’ knowledge structures. He explains why AI often fails in business contexts and how Noan is solving that problem by giving companies a single source of truth to build from.From enabling entrepreneurs to finally take control of their business data, to unlocking transformative opportunities in fintech, lending, and investment, Neal makes the case for why facts, not memory, are the future of AI. This episode explores everything from the practical impact of having a conversational interface to your business, to the powerful implications for financial services, business growth, and personalised support.Whether you're building a startup, navigating enterprise transformation, or just curious about how AI can work better for business, this conversation will change the way you think about knowledge, control and the future of work.
In this episode of Dave and Dharm Demystify, the 2 D's sit down with Helena Wardle, a Chartered Financial Planner and founder of the fintech Money Means, to explore how technology is transforming financial advice.Helena explains her motivation for building AIDA, an AI-powered digital advisor designed to make quality financial guidance accessible to people who traditionally couldn’t afford it. She discusses the challenges of creating technology that isn’t just functional but genuinely supportive, conversational, and capable of replicating the empathy and understanding that clients expect from a human advisor.The discussion covers some of the hottest topics in financial services today:Why expert-trained AI models can handle not just processes and compliance, but also the relational side of advice.How regulation, liability, and accreditation will need to evolve as AI steps into roles once reserved for humans.The emotional side of money and why understanding client behaviour is as important as the numbers.The potential for AI to support collaboration across professions, from solicitors to accountants, creating a joined-up “team of digital advisors” around the customer.Helena also shares her belief that service industries, just like retail before them, are on the cusp of massive disruption, and why the firms that embrace AI will be best placed to thrive. With AIDA launching soon, this conversation offers a first look at how AI could democratise access to financial planning and reshape the advisor–client relationship forever.Chapters: 00:00 Meet Helena Wardle: Chartered Financial Planner01:32 The Birth of Money Means: A FinTech Solution02:36 Creating AIDA: The AI Digital Advisor04:01 AI in Financial Advice: Challenges and Opportunities06:40 Expert Trained Models: The Future of AI08:23 The Disruption of Service Industries by AI13:57 Training AI for Financial Exams16:29 Regulation and Liability in AI Financial Advice19:45 The Ethical Considerations of AI21:13 Emotional Banking: Understanding Money's Emotional Impact22:25 Incorporating Emotional Intelligence in Financial Planning25:25 Personalising Financial Advice with AI30:20 The Future of Financial Advice: AI vs Human Advisors34:27 The Role of AI in Comprehensive Financial Planning37:08 Launching AIDA: The AI Digital Advisor39:02 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Dave and Dharmesh are joined by Stephanie Emile, General Manager of Binance FZE based out of the UAE, to demystify the evolving world of crypto, regulation, and adoption. Stephanie shares her journey of building Binance’s regulated home in Dubai, where the Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA) has emerged as a pioneering, crypto-native regulator.The conversation explores how the UAE’s forward-thinking stance positioned it ahead of global peers, taking bold steps even in the aftermath of events like the FTX collapse. Stephanie highlights the UAE’s pragmatic “try, learn, adapt” culture, contrasting it with slower traditional regulators such as the FCA.Key themes include:Regulation as an enabler: Why licensing and collaboration with regulators matter for building trust with users, banks, and institutions.User experience and adoption: The crypto space must become simpler, safer, and more intuitive for mass adoption – from wallets to payments to everyday transactions.The role of advisors: Just as financial advisors guide traditional investments, Stephanie argues that they will need to integrate digital assets into portfolios, supported by education initiatives like Binance Academy.Global outlook: From the UAE’s stablecoin projects to Trump’s stance against CBDCs, the discussion touches on how regulation in the US and elsewhere may shape the future of digital assets.Africa’s potential: With high adoption and demand for financial freedom, Africa emerges as a vital region for Binance’s long-term vision.Stephanie leaves listeners with a view of crypto not as a speculative playground, but as a tool for financial freedom, lower-cost remittances, and real-world use cases. Regulation, education, and innovation, she argues, will bring digital assets into the mainstream — not kill them.
In this episode, the hosts welcome back David Jarvis, co-founder and CEO of Griffin, for his second appearance on the show. The discussion centres on the emerging concept of agentic banking and Griffin’s development of the MCP server. David explains how the MCP server enables AI models to interact with banking APIs using a configuration file, significantly enhancing automation and functionality.The conversation explores how this technology could transform areas such as corporate treasury, wealth management, and broader financial services. David outlines how AI agents might one day handle complex tasks traditionally managed by intermediaries like mortgage brokers and treasurers, streamlining operations and reducing costs. While still in the early stages, this innovation is already gaining interest from banks and fintech firms.The episode also looks ahead to the future of AI in banking, examining both the potential and the practical challenges of integrating agentic systems into existing infrastructure. Listeners can find out more via Griffin’s website (https://griffin.com/) and blog.
In this powerful episode of Dave and Dharm Demystify, technologist and financial services veteran Ciara Conway joins Dave and Dharmesh for a frank and wide-ranging conversation about demystifying the forces shaping our future. The trio take on some of the biggest questions of our time: What happens when innovation is driven by profit above all else? How will AI and automation reshape our world of work, and at what cost to human dignity? And can we build a new social contract that ensures technology serves society, rather than erodes it?Drawing on real-world examples – from the privatisation of water to the rising costs of life-saving medicines, Ciara challenges the idea that progress is always good, urging us to question who benefits and at what price. They discuss the urgent need for ethics in boardrooms, government frameworks to protect the public good, and grassroots activism to hold power to account.Despite the heavy themes, this is a conversation rooted in optimism. Ciara, Dave, and Dharmesh explore how small, determined groups of people can spark meaningful change, why open debate matters more than ever, and how we might still shape a future worth getting out of bed for.
In this episode, Dave and Dharmesh are joined by Thea Loch, Head of Digital Payments at Lloyds Banking Group, for an insightful discussion on the evolving landscape of digital payments and innovation within one of the UK’s largest banks. Thea offers a deep dive into Lloyds’ efforts to modernise its infrastructure, streamline legacy systems, and enhance customer experience while maintaining resilience at scale.She sheds light on the bank’s shift from transactional to contextual services, driven by advancements in AI and a platform-based operating model that integrates design, technology, and business teams. Thea also highlights the importance of strong leadership, particularly under CEO Charlie Nunn, in steering Lloyds towards a future of responsible AI experimentation, agile development, and customer-centric innovation.With examples like the rollout of ‘Request to Pay’ and improvements in faster payments, Thea outlines Lloyds' ambitions to stay competitive amid fintech disruption. The conversation explores everything from the challenges of system integration to the cultural shifts needed for digital and AI transformation, underscoring the bank’s goal to become the UK’s biggest fintech - Without losing the human touch!
In this episode, recorded in Limassol, Cyprus at the Reflect Festival, Breno Oliveira, Head of Product at Payabl, shares insights from his presentation on the evolution of the checkout experience. He discusses how Payabl is helping merchants across Europe streamline and unify their payment solutions to meet rising consumer expectations.Breno delves into the findings of a recent research study conducted with 1,400 consumers across Europe, aimed at understanding evolving payment behaviours and preferences. Notable insights include that 43% of consumers abandon e-commerce sites following a poor checkout experience, and that Gen Z expects to complete transactions in under 10 seconds. The research also highlights the critical role of regional payment preferences and the growing demand for fast, secure and seamless checkouts.He stresses the importance of creating frictionless and localised payment journeys that inspire consumer trust and satisfaction. Breno also discusses Payabl’s latest initiatives, including an AI-powered fraud prevention programme and the upcoming launch of the Payabl card.The conversation reinforces the value of consumer research in shaping product strategy and enhancing user experience in an increasingly competitive payments landscape.
In this episode, the conversation centres on embedded finance and digital transformation with Christie Kristensen, Partnership Manager at Danske Bank. Christie shares her experience working across fintech and banking, and how Danske is evolving to meet the needs of corporate clients by embedding financial services directly into enterprise systems such as ERPs and treasury platforms.The discussion explores how Danske is moving beyond regulatory open banking APIs to offer premium APIs that support real-time, data-driven decision-making. These APIs are designed to automate traditionally manual workflows like financial reporting and cash management, reducing reliance on outdated file-based systems. Christie emphasises a strong co-creation model, where product development is informed directly by customer and partner feedback, ensuring relevance and tangible impact.She also describes how Danske’s strategy, known as the 428 plan, aims to position the bank as a vital infrastructure player in the ecosystem—focusing on powering finance rather than owning the user interface. The integration of AI and real-time data is also touched upon, with a view towards future-proofing financial operations and enabling predictive insights for finance professionals.With a culture that mirrors fintech agility, cross-functional collaboration between tech and business, and a firm commitment to customer-centric innovation, Danske Bank is setting a benchmark for how traditional institutions can reinvent themselves in the embedded finance era.
In his episode of the Dave and Dharm Demystify Show, host Dharm is joined by Rob Dunlap, Head of Product Innovation at Zafin, to discuss the evolving landscape of agentic AI and its applications in banking. Rob had previously lead AI initiatives at IBM before joining Zafin making him a great subject matter expert for demystifying agentic banking.The conversation delves into the definition and implications of agentic AI, emphasizing its transformative potential and role in automating complex financial tasks. Rob shares insights on how third-party apps are pioneering the adoption of AI in personal finance, while banks must catch up to maintain customer trust and offer personalized services. The discussion touches on the challenges banks face, such as overcoming internal silos and ensuring regulatory compliance, and highlights the importance of human and AI partnerships. Rob also talks about the rapid pace of AI innovation and the importance of designing AI solutions for user adoption
In this episode of the Dave and Dharm Show, Jim Rowan, Head of AI at Deloitte US, provides a deep dive demystification into the evolving impact of AI across the enterprise landscape. Jim shares insights from his role leading AI innovation and internal transformation at Deloitte, highlighting how organisations can leverage AI not only for operational efficiency but also for long-term strategic reinvention. The conversation explores the emergence of agentic AI, where we are on the adoption curve, and the foundational steps enterprises must take to realise its potential. Jim also tackles the critical themes of trust and regulation, and underlines the importance of equipping both employees and leadership with AI fluency. With real-world examples and thought-provoking commentary on the future of work and customer relationships, this episode offers a compelling perspective on navigating an AI-accelerated future.
In this episode, we delve into the complex and ongoing journey of digital transformation in banking with two leading voices in the field: Don Free, formerly a lead analyst at Gartner, and Jost Hoppermann, formerly a lead analyst at Forrester. Now operating as independent experts at Angry Rabbit, Don and Jost bring candid insights into how digital transformation is unfolding across banking tiers and global regions.They explore why transformation cannot be treated as a one-off initiative but must instead become a core part of a bank’s operating model. A central theme is composability; both its potential and its pitfalls. Jost explains why composable architecture often fails to live up to expectations, citing architectural complexity and poor integration as common stumbling blocks.Together they highlight recurring mistakes made by banks on the digital journey, from ‘honeymoon trust’ in vendors, to superficial ‘core cloning’, to inadequate data governance. They argue for a more adaptive, evolutionary approach that blends strategic planning with flexible, modular architecture.The conversation is a timely reminder that digital transformation is not a destination. It is an ongoing, adaptive process essential for keeping pace with technological shifts and regulatory change.
Join hosts Dave and Dharmesh as they dive into an illuminating conversation with serial fintech entrepreneur David Sosna. David, known for founding groundbreaking fintech companies like Actimize and Personetics, shares his journey from pioneering data-driven solutions for fraud detection to enhancing customer financial management with insightful digital tools.In this episode, David unveils his latest venture, Sympera.ai, a transformative platform harnessing the power of generative AI to revolutionise business banking. He discusses how Sympera.ai empowers bankers, particularly in the underserved small and medium-sized business sector, by seamlessly combining digital efficiency with essential human expertise. David also shares insights into securing a \$10 million seed funding round, his vision for leveraging AI to provide tailored financial guidance, and why the future of banking hinges on blending technological innovation with personal human connections.Tune in to explore the cutting-edge intersection of finance, technology, and customer experience, and hear firsthand how David Sosna is once again reshaping the fintech landscape.
This week, we are delighted to host Carl Slabicki, Executive Platform Owner for Treasury Services at BNY. Carl dives deep into the evolving world of treasury services, highlighting BNY's immense scale; moving over $3 trillion daily, and the vital role they play globally, supporting banks, corporates, fintechs, and government entities.In this insightful discussion, Carl reveals how treasury services have transitioned from traditional back-office operations to become real-time, 24/7 competitive advantages for businesses. He shares fascinating insights into BNY's pioneering adoption of AI, including their innovative Eliza platform, and discusses critical applications like payment processing, fraud detection, and cash flow analytics. Carl also addresses the pressing challenges of cyber security, operational resiliency, and industry-wide collaboration to combat fraud.Tune in for an expert perspective on the technology-driven transformation reshaping the treasury landscape.
In this episode, Dharmesh sits down with Greta Ranonytė, Head of FinTech Hub LT, to explore what is driving Lithuania’s rise as a leading FinTech destination. Greta outlines the country’s key advantages, from seamless access to the EU market post-Brexit and progressive, FinTech friendly regulation, to a deep talent pool, especially in compliance and anti-money laundering. They delve into the evolving role of AI in FinTech, recognising its value in streamlining operations, though noting it remains a supporting tool rather than a central focus for most firms. Greta also compares Lithuania’s competitive edge to other European FinTech hubs such as the Netherlands and Estonia. The conversation underscores Lithuania’s strategic approach to attracting FinTechs through regulatory innovation and robust infrastructure, even as EU wide regulatory pressures mount. The episode closes with Greta’s compelling pitch to international start-ups, particularly from the US and Asia, on why Lithuania offers a smart, scalable base for European expansion.
In this episode, Dharmesh speaks with Agnė Klimavičienė, who leads the FinTech stream at Invest Lithuania—a governmental agency under the Ministry of Economy and Innovation focused on attracting foreign investment. Agnė outlines the strategic measures Lithuania has implemented to nurture its FinTech sector, including supportive regulation, targeted talent development, and financial incentives such as zero capital gains tax for founders and research and development grants. The conversation highlights Lithuania’s competitive edge as an agile, technology-driven economy, particularly in comparison with other European markets. They also explore the country’s future ambitions, including the integration of artificial intelligence across financial services. Despite a relatively modest reliance on venture capital funding, the Lithuanian FinTech sector continues to deliver strong growth in revenue, employment, and international reach. Agnė concludes by reinforcing Lithuania’s growing prominence on the global FinTech stage.
Welcome to another insightful episode of the Dave and Dharm Demystify podcast. In this week, Dave and Dharm take an in depth look into the rapidly evolving world of Artificial Intelligence with expert guest, Dr. Charleyne Biondi from Moody’s, who specialises in blockchain and AI developments. Dr Biondi shares invaluable insights from Moody’s recent 2025 AI Outlook report, highlighting how AI is no longer just about enhancing productivity—it's now a critical strategic measure shaping the future competitiveness of companies and governments worldwide. From discussing global regulatory fragmentation and the astonishing pace of AI innovation, to the geopolitical implications of China's advancements, this episode underscores why understanding and harnessing AI technology is essential for staying ahead in the digital age. Whether you're a business leader, policymaker, or simply curious about the transformative impact of AI, this conversation offers an essential perspective on the strategic importance of artificial intelligence today.
Dave and Dharm dive deep into the fascinating world of quantum technology with special guest Steve Takhar, Quside's Chief Revenue Officer.Steve brings a wealth of experience from traditional IT infrastructure, and in this episode, he shares his journey into the quantum realm. He demystifys Quside’s mission—a company that has been pioneering quantum photonic chipsets since 2018. These cutting-edge technologies generate quantum entropy and quantum random numbers (QRNGs), boosting cybersecurity and compute acceleration without the need for a full system overhaul.But that’s just the beginning. Steve breaks down how Quside is shaping the future of quantum computing, the company’s approach to emerging security standards from NIST and BSI, and the real-world applications of quantum technology—especially in cybersecurity. We also touch on the role of AI in advancing quantum solutions and why major financial institutions are starting to take notice.And to wrap it all up, they explore the fascinating potential of deep quantum sensing and what’s next for the industry.
Welcome to another deep dive into the world of quantum computing! In this episode, Dave sits down with Yuval Boger, Chief Commercial Officer of QuEra Computing, to explore quantum technology's fundamentals, breakthroughs, and real-world applications.Yuval demystifies the core principles of quantum computers—how qubits exist in multiple states simultaneously, unlocking computational advantages that classical computers simply can’t match. He explains the different approaches to quantum computing, with a focus on Quera’s cutting-edge use of neutral atoms and laser tweezers to manipulate rubidium atoms for advanced computations.The conversation delves into how quantum computing is set to revolutionise industries, tackling complex optimisation problems, simulations, and machine learning tasks that were previously impossible to solve. Yuval also shares insights into practical applications in financial services, energy optimisation, and beyond—where quantum’s power is already making an impact.And it doesn’t stop there. We explore scalability, energy efficiency, and the future potential of quantum systems. Plus, Yuval discusses Quera’s cloud-based access, collaboration projects, and how organisations can integrate quantum computing into their own infrastructure.Finally, we reflect on the evolution of quantum computing—from a theoretical concept to a game-changing strategic technology.So, if you’re curious about where quantum is headed and what it means for the future of computing, this is an episode you won’t want to miss!
In this episode we are joined by the brilliant and always insightful Leda Glyptis. Leda is celebrating the launch of her latest book, Beyond Resilience, and we’re diving deep into the ideas behind it. From the staggering failure rates of digital ventures to the patterns of success that go beyond sheer resilience, Leda shares her journey of researching and interviewing industry leaders to uncover what truly makes businesses thrive. We explore the importance of intentionality, the hidden costs of success, and why taking time to think—despite the relentless pace of fintech and digital transformation—is more critical than ever. Whether you're an entrepreneur, a corporate leader, or just fascinated by the mechanics of success, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.
In this episode, we demystify one of the biggest embedded finance deals in the UK! We sit down with Andy Ellis, CEO of NatWest Boxed, to explore its groundbreaking partnership with the AA, one of the country's most trusted brands.This strategic collaboration is set to revolutionise how financial services are embedded within everyday journeys, making banking and insurance seamless for millions of AA members. Andy shares insider insights on what makes this partnership unique, the challenges of embedding financial products, and how this signals a significant shift in the industry.We also discuss:> How embedded finance is redefining customer experiences> Why partnerships like this are shaping the future of fintech> The evolution of financial services beyond traditional bankingIf you're interested in the future of finance, embedded, and digital transformation, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in now and discover how embedded finance is driving (ho ho) innovation like never before!
In this episode, Dave and Dharm sit down with Tom Eyre, Co-CEO and Co-Founder of Loqbox, a company on a mission to improve financial wellbeing through credit building and education.Since launching in 2017, Loqbox has helped over 1,000,000 individuals build credit histories and financial resilience. Tom takes us behind the scenes, sharing the inspiration behind Loqbox—born from personal experiences with credit challenges—and its evolution from Credit Improver to a financial lifeline for thousands.Tom demystifies the complexities of credit scoring, the impact of modern financial trends like Buy Now Pay Later, and how Loqbox is bridging the gap between perceived and actual financial capability. Plus, Tom shares insights into the role of AI in financial autonomy, the importance of understanding your financial personality, and how Loqbox’s products and the recently launched Nooli app are reshaping financial education.Tune is and hear about Loqbox’s marketing strategies, their long-term vision, and what’s next for the future of financial wellbeing.
In this episode, we welcome Khaled Talhouni, Managing Partner, Nuwa Capital, who shares insights into his 17-year journey as a venture capitalist focusing on emerging markets, particularly in the Middle East. Khalid discusses the establishment of Nuwa Capital in 2021, its $100 million early-stage fund, and its significant investment in FinTech, which accounts for 30% of their portfolio. Khaled explains the unbanked nature of the region and the opportunities for parallel financial systems and showcases successful investments like the BNPL company Tabby. He demystifies Nuwa Capital's themes, including solving big problems like invoice ageing and consumer credit access. Khalid also touches upon the regulatory challenges of expanding FinTech across the GCC, the potential impact of technologies like AI and crypto, and the evolving socio-economic landscape in the Middle East. The conversation concludes with a discussion on how regional developments could foster future economic growth.
Welcome to the latest episode of the Dave and Dharm Demystified Podcast, where we dive deep into the world of innovation and emerging technologies.Today, we’re thrilled to be joined by Steve Suarez, CEO of Horizon X and former Head of Innovation at HSBC, who is helping shape the future of quantum computing in financial services. Steve brings unparalleled insight into the transformative power of quantum, sharing his work on cutting-edge initiatives like The Quantum Innovation Index, which ranks industries and institutions on their quantum readiness, and his collaboration with MIT on accessible quantum courses for business leaders.In this episode, we’ll explore:> Why 2025 is a pivotal year for quantum preparation. >The urgency of post-quantum cryptography (PQC) and how to safeguard against Q-Day.> How the newly launched Quantum Innovation Index can help industries benchmark their progress in adopting this game-changing technology.>The practical steps financial institutions can take today to stay ahead in the quantum race, such as getting educated about the subject!Steve’s passion for quantum isn’t just about the technology—it’s about building a bridge between quantum’s potential and real-world applications. Whether you’re a fintech innovator or a banking executive, this episode will leave you with actionable insights on preparing for the quantum revolution.So, sit back and join us as we demystify quantum computing with one of the leading voices in the field. Let’s dive in!Quantum Innovation Index: https://thequantumindex.com/MIT XPro: https://learn-xpro.mit.edu/horizonx
In this episode, Hans Tesselaar, Executive Director of Banking Industry Architecture Network (BIAN) and Saket Sinha, Sr. Partner & Global Vice President - Financial Services IBM, explain the role and impact of BIAN in the financial industry. They introduce the organisation as a not-for-profit standards body to make the financial industry more agile and standardised. They discuss IBM's collaboration with BIAN to convert legacy banking systems into modern architectures using common standards. Hans and Saket elaborate on how ΒIΑΝ's framework, which includes a "periodic table" of financial components and common APIs, helps banks and fintechs seamlessly integrate and innovate. Highlights include the analogy of BIAN's components to a periodic table and real-life AI use cases that showcase the practical applications of BIAN standards. Both guests emphasise the importance of adopting common standards for efficient financial integration and future advancements such as embedded finance and Gen AI.
In this episode, we demystify the Digital Operational Resilience Act (DORA) and explore why it matters for financial institutions. Joining us are cybersecurity and cloud experts Simon Phillips (CTO, SecureAck) and Alex Tasioulis (Cloudified.io), who shed light on the regulation’s core requirements and practical implications.Key insights from our discussion include:> What DORA really entails for banks and fintechs ahead of the January 2025 deadline> Why references to “reasonable” controls can create ambiguity—and the challenges this poses> How the regulation impacts far more than just banks, extending throughout the entire digital supply chain> Real-world examples of why digital resilience is crucial, from major outages to cybersecurity breaches> Practical tips for achieving compliance without imposing overly restrictive processes.Whether you’re leading a fintech firm, working in financial services, or simply eager to strengthen digital resilience, this episode offers valuable guidance on preparing for DORA compliance.
In this episode, we revisit Monument Bank's journey and uncover a significant transformation. Joined by Steve Britain, CEO of Monument Technology, we explore the split between Monument Bank and its new tech-focused sibling, Monument Technology. Steve shares insights into how Monument Bank's cutting-edge, cloud-native platform, a system designed specifically for the cloud, powers the bank and attracts interest from global institutions seeking to modernise their operations.We discuss:> The bank's rapid growth and its innovative focus on the mass-affluent market.> The creation of Monument Technology as a standalone company and its first client, Ecology Building Society.> Why flexibility, modularity, and cloud-native design are the future of banking platforms.> How Monument is poised to scale beyond the UK, targeting credit unions, building societies, and community banks worldwide.This episode is packed with insights on tech evolution in financial services, the challenges of digital transformation, and the promising role of platforms in not just changing, but shaping the future of banking—a must-listen for anyone interested in fintech, innovation, and the intersection of banking and technology.🎧 Tune in to learn how Monument is setting a new benchmark for modern banking solutions.
In this episode, Dave and Dharm sit down with Steve Flinter, Distinguished Engineer at Mastercard, to demystify the company's innovative work and perspectives on quantum computing.Mastercard has been at the forefront of quantum exploration, investigating how this groundbreaking technology can tackle complex challenges more efficiently than classical computing. From optimising machine learning models to enhancing fraud detection and loyalty programs, the company is partnering with leaders like D-Wave to unlock quantum's potential.The discussion delves into the profound implications of quantum computing on security and cryptography, focusing on the looming 'Q Day'—the point when quantum computers could disrupt current encryption standards. Steve introduces the concept of 'crypto agility', a proactive approach to updating cryptographic systems to withstand quantum threats. While today's quantum computers aren’t yet powerful enough to compromise encryption, efforts like NIST’s development of post-quantum cryptography standards highlight the importance of staying ahead.The conversation also touches on the future of quantum accessibility, suggesting cloud-based delivery as the most practical path forward, given the complexity and costs of quantum hardware.The episode wraps up with an optimistic look at the commercial potential of quantum computing, acknowledging the challenges while celebrating the opportunities it presents for transformative solutions in the years to come.
In this episode, Dave and Dharm interview Edward Maslaveckas, CEO and one of the founders of the fintech company Bud. Ed discusses his background, the inception of Bud in 2015, and their initial failures and lessons learned while trying to build a financial product distribution platform akin to a 'money supermarket for millennials.' He explains their challenges before open banking regulations, particularly with technology and data aggregation. Fast forward to today, Bud enhances fintechs and banks by enriching customer transactional data through advanced data science and machine learning models, ensuring higher accuracy in understanding customer behaviours. Ed also touches on Bud's expansion into the U.S. and the complexities of entering the market, emphasising their focus on providing services to mid-market banks and fintechs over big banks. Additionally, Ed elaborates on the company's venture into AI-driven financial management tools and agentic models designed to oversee and automate customers' personal finances. By summarising their journey, key innovations, and future plans, Ed offers insights into how Bud remains a leader in fintech data solutions.
In this episode, we welcome back Ed Maslaveckas from Bud to demystify the intriguing topic of 'agentification.' They delve into Bud's development and use of agentic models in the financial services sector, emphasising how these models differ from traditional AI agents. Ed explains that while standard agents can perform specific tasks within their own ecosystem, agentic models can interact with multiple external systems to fulfil broader objectives, such as autonomously optimising a user's finances. He provides insights into how Bud is leveraging AI to perform complex financial tasks and the potential impact on banking operations and customer experiences. The conversation touches on regulatory challenges, the evolution of personalised financial services, and the future role of traditional banks versus neobanks in an agentic world. The discussion also explores the implications of agentification for the financial industry, including competitive dynamics, data access, and the long-term vision of optimisation and abundance.
In this episode, we focus on one of the most significant challenges in technology for enterprises today: legacy modernisation. Joining us is Irene Sandler, Chief Marketing Officer of Mechanical Orchard. Irene demystifies Mechanical Orchard's approach to addressing the complexities of legacy systems using innovative approaches, including AI and socio-technical design. We also discuss how legacy systems are deeply connected to organisational culture and explore new methods for modernisation.
In this episode of Demystify, recorded in the heart of Dubai, Vinit Shah, a senior advisor to the Virtual Asset Regulatory Authority (VARA), takes us behind the scenes of Dubai's ambitious approach to virtual asset regulation. Shah, who has been shaping Dubai’s financial landscape since 2003, shares his journey in establishing VARA in early 2022, with the goal of creating a secure, progressive space for Web3 and blockchain investments. Backed by the UAE’s forward-thinking stance and partnerships with the central bank on Central Bank Digital Currencies, VARA is pivotal to Dubai’s tech-driven D33 economic strategy.Listeners are guided through VARA’s rapid growth, fuelled by robust government support and close collaboration with the private sector. Vinit offers a glimpse into his own deep dive into blockchain, enriched by the expertise of top-tier collaborators. He also sheds light on VARA’s commitment to transparency and consumer protection with clear marketing guidelines, loss disclaimers, and AI-driven compliance efforts.The episode delves into Dubai's coordinated approach with law enforcement and tax authorities, ensuring robust compliance measures that adapt in real-time—lessons from FTX’s collapse are shaping Dubai’s ever-evolving regulatory landscape. Global collaboration and benchmarking, especially with Singapore and the UK, reinforce VARA’s high standards, enabling the authority to stay agile and responsive in a fast-paced market.With VARA standing as one of the few regulators focused solely on virtual assets, Shah highlights the organisation’s unique ability to keep Dubai at the forefront of virtual finance. Whether you're a seasoned professional or curious about the future of blockchain, this conversation reveals the groundbreaking strategies propelling Dubai’s place in the digital economy.
In this episode of Demystify, hosts Dave and Dharmesh explore the future of finance with special guest Ronit Ghose, who leads Citi's Future of Finance think tank. Broadcasting from Dubai's vibrant tech hub, Ronit shares his perspectives on the city’s meteoric rise as a global financial and tech powerhouse and reflects on how it contrasts with traditional hubs like London and New York. Ronit discusses the transformative impact of government support in Dubai’s entrepreneurial ecosystem and the rise of Web3, digital assets, and tokenization. He brings in insights from his book, The Future of Money, which explores stories of fintech founders reshaping finance, from Brazil's digital banking to India's cash revolution. The episode culminates with Ronit’s thoughts on evolving global financial centres, AI’s potential, and why the U.S. dollar may remain dominant despite technological shifts. Tune in for a journey across continents, cultures, and currencies as the team unpacks what lies ahead for the world of finance.
In this episode, Nadine Mezher, co-founder of Sarwa, opens up about her mission to transform investing in the Middle East, making it within reach for everyone. From humble beginnings in Dubai to a thriving community of more than 180,000 registered users across the region, Nadine shares Sarwa’s journey of growth, resilience, and relentless innovation. We explore the heart of Sarwa’s offerings—robo-advisory with Sarwa Invest, self-directed trading with Sarwa Trade, and high-yield estimates returns with Sarwa Save —and discover how Nadine and her team are harnessing AI, smart algorithms and crypto to shape the future of investing.This conversation goes beyond growth numbers; it’s a look into Sarwa’s shift from Dubai to Abu Dhabi to align with regulatory challenges, its vision for building trust in emerging tech, and its focus on customer experience. Supported by powerhouse investors like ADQ and Mubadala, Sarwa is carefully charting a path for expansion while staying true to its mission of democratising finance. Sarwa is regulated by the FSRA in the ADGM. Join us for an inspiring, future-focused discussion that unveils the dynamic forces driving Sarwa’s success and what’s next in accessible investing.
In this episode, the 2 D's delve into the transformative work of the Dubai Future Labs with its Executive Director, Mr Khalifa Al Qama. DFL is a place where cutting-edge AI, autonomous systems, and urban solutions are being crafted to shape tomorrow’s cities. We uncover the story behind breakthrough projects, like a ventilator developed during COVID-19, which exemplifies how the centre turns advanced tech into life-saving applications. Dubai’s approach is bold, collaborating with the private sector to accelerate product launches and openly share intellectual property for global impact.The episode highlights Dubai’s vision for reimagined urban mobility, with futuristic transport modes—from flying vehicles to underground systems—that redefine city living. At the heart of this is a regulatory sandbox inspired by the UK’s financial sector, providing a controlled space for boundary-pushing innovation. With plans to introduce flying cars by 2027 and predictions for autonomous vehicles and household robots within the next 20 years, Dubai is setting the pace for cities around the globe.As we explore ambitious initiatives like ‘50 Possibilities,’ designed to ignite public imagination, with Mr Khalifia. You’ll get a sense of the relentless energy that defines Dubai’s approach to future tech. The city’s proactive vision contrasts sharply with the often slower-moving landscape elsewhere, particularly in the UK. Join us to experience the pulse of a city unafraid to lead and relentlessly focused on the future.
In this episode, we dive deep into the world of customer-centric design with two influential leaders from Lloyds Banking Group. Joining Dave and Dharm are Gemma Daley, Consumer Experience Design Director, and Suresh Balaji, Chief Marketing Officer. Together, they explore Lloyds’ journey towards becoming an experience-led brand, sharing insights on the recent overhaul of their mobile app and brand expression.In this conversation, they reveal the strategic shift towards a platform structure, designed to drive efficiency, speed up projects, and cultivate a culture of innovation and customer focus. Gemma and Suresh emphasise how digital thinking was embedded from the very start of the app’s redesign and how customer insights played a pivotal role in shaping the final experience.You'll also hear about the power of collaboration—both within the organisation and with external partners—and how technology is being leveraged to enhance experiences not only for customers but for employees as well. Finally, they look ahead to what’s next for Lloyds, from new technologies to personalised digital experiences, setting the stage for an exciting future.
In this episode, the 2 D's are joined by 2 special guests to discuss the evolution of open banking, specifically the role of data sharing in financial services. Charlotte Crosswell, chair of the Centre for Finance, Innovation and Technology (CFIT), and Henk Van Hulle, CEO of Open Banking Limited, explain how open banking enables access to data from multiple banks, creating richer profiles for consumers and small businesses (SMEs). They highlight the potential benefits of this data sharing, including improved loan applications, better cash flow management, and greater financial inclusion. Charlotte and Henk also discuss the challenges of securing data and navigating the complexity of consent and permissions in a multi-sectoral environment. The episode ends with a forward-looking discussion on the future of open banking and the role of smart data in shaping the financial services landscape.The Taskforce Report mentioned by Charlotte can be downloaded here: https://cfit.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/CFIT-SME-Finance-Taskforce-Smart-Data-Unlock-SME-Lending-Aug-2024.pdf
In this episode of the "Dave and Dharm Demystify Show," Dave and Dharm reconnect with Sergio Gago from Moody's to explore the fascinating world of quantum computing and its implications for the financial industry. Sergio, the MD of AI and Quantum Computing at Moody's, explains quantum computing's complexities and fundamental differences from classical computing. He delves into the concept of qubits and superposition, offering insights into how quantum computers can solve mathematical problems exponentially faster than traditional systems.The conversation also touches on the current state of quantum computing, including its practical applications in finance, such as portfolio optimisation, logistics, and stress testing for banks. Sergio discusses the potential impact of quantum computing on encryption and cybersecurity, highlighting the urgency for new standards to safeguard sensitive data in a post-quantum world.Sergio talks about Q Day and its implications for governments and enterprises worldwide. Listeners will learn about the intersection of quantum computing and AI and how these technologies are poised to revolutionise the financial industry. The episode wraps up with a look at Moody's proactive approach to integrating quantum computing into its operations and the steps being taken globally to prepare for the quantum era.Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of quantum computing's transformative potential and its future role in finance.
In this episode, Dave and Dharm sit down with Sergio Gago, MD of AI and Quantum Computing at Moody’s, to delve into AI's impact and inner workings in the financial industry. Sergio provides a fascinating look into how the company utilises extensive data for risk assessment and informed decision-making.Sergio discusses the evolution of data collection and the crucial role of curating and maintaining large datasets. He also sheds light on the latest advancements in AI, particularly in generative AI and knowledge graphs. The conversation explores the complexities and biases involved in training large language models (LLMs) and the ethical considerations of AI use.Highlighting the power of AI and machine learning, Sergio explains how these technologies can streamline tasks traditionally performed by researchers, significantly boosting productivity. He shares insights into Moody’s forward-thinking approach to AI, including its integration into daily operations and the development of AI-enhanced market products like the Research Assistant.The episode wraps up with a reflection on the transformative potential of AI in democratising information, offering a glimpse into the future of the financial industry.
In this episode of the Dave and Dharm Demystify show, the 2 D's are joined by Uday Akkaraju, founder and CEO of Bond.ai. Uday demystifies Bond.ai, an artificial intelligence firm dedicated to repairing the fractured relationship between consumers and financial institutions. He shares his unique background in human-centred design, cognitive psychology, and intelligent virtual agents, which eventually led him into the financial services industry after facing personal financial struggles in Silicon Valley.Uday emphasises the importance of understanding consumer behaviour beyond mere transactional data, advocating for a focus on context and long-term financial wellness. He candidly discusses the challenges he encountered in building consumer trust and engagement.Uday also reveals Bond.ai's strategic shift toward integrating health data with financial services, aiming to enhance overall quality of life and extend health span. By collaborating directly with employers, Bond.ai seeks to broaden its impact. The discussion delves into more comprehensive financial and health strategies, systemic issues, and Bond.ai’s future plans for global expansion, mainly through leveraging open banking.
In this episode, Saeed Murad, Senior Partner at Global Ventures, joins Dave and Dharm to demystify the dynamic fintech ecosystem in the Middle East and Africa. With a current population of over 1.5 billion, expected to grow to 3-4 billion, and a significant youth demographic, the region is ripe for innovation and expansion.Saeed discusses how the UAE and Saudi Arabia are rapidly becoming global fintech hubs through strategic investments, innovative policies, and strong infrastructure development. This proactive approach is creating a competitive yet collaborative environment, driving growth in sectors like fintech, digital health, and AI.He also sheds light on Africa's burgeoning tech scene, where countries like Egypt and Nigeria are leading the way in adopting mobile technology, digital payments, and fintech solutions. With a young, eager population, Africa is quickly becoming a major player in the global tech landscape.Drawing from his extensive experience, including roles at Jamalon and Groupon UAE, Saeed offers insights into Dubai's progressive growth strategy, the rise of fintech unicorns like Tabby, and the evolving regulatory landscape. This episode provides a comprehensive look at the opportunities and challenges in expanding into new markets and attracting top talent, highlighting the region's potential for continued evolution in the fintech sector. Whether you're a tech enthusiast, entrepreneur, or investor, this discussion is filled with valuable insights into the future of fintech in the Middle East and Africa.
In this episode, Dave interviews Ziad Nassar, the Chief of Staff of Huspy, a Dubai-based real estate everything app. Ziad shares his journey and Huspy's evolution from a digitised mortgage broker to a comprehensive platform for home buying in Europe and the Middle East.Huspy is looking to disrupt the home-buying process. The fact that 30% of all homes in Dubai touch the platform is a testament to their success! Key takeaways:HUSB's mission is to empower mortgage brokers and real estate agents through technology and higher commissions and to become the largest home-buying company in the region.Expansion strategy: Rapid market expansions, including their recent launch in Valencia, Spain.Comprehensive approach: Addressing all aspects of home buying, from mortgages to property management.Dubai's advantages: The benefits of operating in Dubai's business-friendly environment.Scalability and future growth: The potential for further European expansion, with data availability being a critical factor.
In this episode, hosts Dave and Dharm are joined by John Bryant from Options Technology and Eleni Coldrey from Equinix to discuss the evolution of trading technology and data centres over the past 16 years.John Bryant is the Field CTO at Options Technology, bringing 16 years of experience in improving IT solutions and trading platforms for financial services. Eleni Coldrey a business development specialist at Equinix, shares insights from her 12-year career working with financial services customers.The conversation explores how trading environments have transformed from noisy, voice-oriented systems to sophisticated, low-latency, and highly efficient data centres. They reflect on the adoption of regulatory frameworks like MIFID, which promote electronic trading and best execution principles. The discussion also highlights the advantages of co-location facilities in optimising performance and reducing costs.Additionally, they touch on the future impact of emerging technologies like AI and quantum computing on trading, emphasising the importance of deterministic performance and the crucial role modern data centres will play. Furthermore, they discuss the increasing use of hybrid cloud solutions and the sustainability challenges associated with operating data centres.The episode concludes by considering AI's role in enhancing operational efficiency without necessarily reducing employment.
In this episode of 'The Dave and Darm demystify show,' special guest Abhishek Tripathi, Head of Product at Careem Pay, discusses his role and Careem's evolution from a ride-sharing app to an 'everything app' offering over 15 services, including payments, food delivery, and more across 10 countries and 80 cities. Abhishek explains Careem's efforts in solving payment challenges and its approach to building FinTech products by collaborating closely with customers. Highlighting Careem Pay's rapid growth, especially in international remittances, he underscores the importance of customer trust and seamless digital experiences. Abhishek also touches on Careem's mission-driven structure, their proactive use of AI for enhancing user experience, and the significance of strategic partnerships in delivering diverse services. The conversation delves into the broader implications for traditional banks and the potential future trajectory of FinTech innovations.
In this episode, Eddie Harrison, CPO of Navro, discusses how Navro solves payment challenges for e-commerce platforms and online businesses. Navro focuses on helping businesses collect money in countries where they lack banking relationships and simplifying global money transfers. They offer solutions for payment acceptance, international banking infrastructure, and payouts to suppliers. We delve into Navro's regulatory journey, approach to quality in payments, expansion plans, and its recent rebranding.
This episode is recorded in a data centre in Slough with Bruce Owen, UK MD of Equinix.Bruce talks through his background and Equinix's role as a leading data centre provider. The discussion covers the essential function of data centres in housing critical IT infrastructure, their importance to national economies, and their connection to various digital services.The conversation also delves into the differentiation between data centres and cloud providers, including the types and services provided.The episode highlights sustainability issues, including Equinix's efforts to reduce emissions and increase energy efficiency, innovations like liquid cooling, and potential future uses of quantum computing.Bruce discusses the historical and logistical reasons for Slough's (famous mainly for the UK Office) becoming a significant data centre hub. They also discuss the potential for data centres to contribute to community heating projects and the importance of security and resilience in data centre operations.** Bruce with the Equinix Cycle Fundraiser team is cycling from Lands End to John O’Groats from 22nd - 30th of June, raising funds for the Alzheimer's Society and Cancer Research. Amazing causes. If you would like to donate, you can here -> https://www.justgiving.com/team/equinix-lejog2024?utm_medium=team&utm_content=team%2Fequinix-lejog2024&utm_source=copyLink&utm_campaign=pfp-share
In this podcast episode, hosts Dave and Dharmesh welcome authors Anette Brolos and Erin Taylor to discuss their new book "Customer-Centric Innovation in Finance". Erin, an anthropologist, and Anette, an economist, share their journey into studying financial behaviours and founding Finthropology, a company that combines finance and anthropology. In discussing their book, they emphasise the importance of qualitative research, such as interviews and observations, alongside quantitative data to understand customer behaviour deeply. They also highlight how traditional financial services often fail to meet customer needs, especially women, and why it's crucial to incorporate customer-centric design in financial products. The book captures their research over the past five years and explores how financial companies can benefit from qualitative insights.The book is available here: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Customer-Centric-Innovation-Finance-Leveraging-Insights/dp/13986138940:00 Welcome and Introductions01:07 Meet the Authors: Anette and Erin' s Journey03:54 Uncovering Financial Behaviors: The Finthropology Approach07:37 Unveiling 'Customer Centric Innovation in Finance'08:26 The Importance of Qualitative Research in Finance10:42 Digital Transformation and Customer-Centric Solutions15:31 The Future of Finance: Adapting to Rapid Changes20:02 The Role of Technology in Financial Observations23:55 Is the Finance Industry Ready for Change?30:42 Practical Steps for Implementing Anthropological Methods
Roger Rouhana, founder and CEO of Alpheya, talked to Dave and Dharm at the Dubai Fintech Summit. Roger discusses Alpheya, a B2B wealth tech platform delivering AI-first solutions to institutional clients. Roger explains the need for digitalisation in the wealth management sector and the unique features of Alfea's cloud-native and AI-first platform. Roger also discusses the challenges and opportunities in the wealth management market, the company's significant funding, its technology-focused approach, and the choice of ADGM in Abu Dhabi for operations. He highlights the optimism and growth opportunities in the Dubai market, along with insights on regulatory comparisons between the US and the UAE, emphasising the collaborative and business-friendly environment in the region. Overall, the conversation sheds light on Alpheya's innovative approach, strategic partnerships, and commitment to addressing complex challenges in the financial sector.
In the episode, Dave and Dharm speak with Mohamed Abdel Razek, Mashreq's Head of Technology, during the Dubai Fintech Summit. Mohamed shares his tech background, which spanned various industries like telco, oil and gas, and fast-moving consumer goods before joining the financial sector. He discusses bringing insights from other industries into banking technology, focusing on digital transformation at Mashreq. The bank emphasises client experience, utilising digital tools for seamless customer journeys. Mohamed highlights Mashreq's adoption of new technologies like AI, ML, and robotics, along with their resilience-focused approach and core banking transformation. He also discusses the bank's collaboration with fintechs, the regulatory environment in the UAE, and the country's digital growth trajectory. Mohamed elaborates on the Agile approach within Mashreq, emphasising the relationships between IT and business units. Additionally, he shares insights into AI initiatives, the bank's venture into Egypt and Pakistan, and their corporate stack transformation project, aiming for a seamless and innovative customer experience.
The episode features a conversation with Mohammad Alblooshi, CEO of DIFC Innovation Hub and Fintech Hive, discussing the rapid growth of Dubai's FinTech ecosystem over the past seven years. The focus is on creating a supportive environment for FinTech startups with initiatives like regulatory sandboxes, access to capital, co-working spaces, and talent development. The hub aims to be a global leader in financial innovation, attracting local and global companies. The episode underscores the pivotal role of collaboration in Dubai's FinTech market. Regulators, government, and industry work hand in hand to drive the market, ensuring both safety and growth. This collaborative approach is a key factor in the stability and growth potential of the ecosystem. The ambition is to establish DIFC as a top player in the FinTech landscape, producing unicorns and attracting big tech companies to leverage the ecosystem. The conversation highlights Dubai as an attractive location for FinTech investments and talent, inviting a broader audience to explore the opportunities in the region.
In this episode, Jayesh Patel, the founder and CEO of Wio Bank, shares insights on establishing a neobank in Dubai. He discusses the vision behind Wio Bank, focusing on serving tomorrow's businesses and customers through improved banking apps, embedded finance, and banking as a service. Wio's success lies in focusing on SMEs first, prioritising user experience over technology, and understanding the diverse needs of different business types. Patel highlights the importance of customer research, simplicity in financial products, and industry partnerships for addressing evolving revenue models. He emphasises Dubai's vibrant FinTech ecosystem, driven by government initiatives, access to capital, and a diverse talent pool, making it an ideal location for FinTech startups. Jayesh's strategic approach and customer-centric focus have quickly led Wio Bank to profitability, showcasing the potential for growth and innovation in the region's financial sector.
Arcady is a veteran, serial fintech entrepreneur! Over twenty-four years ago, he was part of the founding and management of a challenger digital bank that grew to over $37bn in assets. The same group then launched the 1st generation of BaaS solutions, and with that, they grew to over $60bn in assets under custody. Now, he is the founder and CEO of Agora, a third-generation banking platform at the intersection of BaaS and embedded Fintech. Agora has built its own modern composable cloud-core banking solution and is working with sponsor bank(s) for the compliance and bank charter aspects.Arcady demystifies the differences between the US and European Banking Markets and some of the challenges of addressing the US market, which is spread across over 9000 banks. He also provides some great insights on bank partnerships with FinTechs.Inevitably, we also discuss the challenges of legacy technology, not only for banks but also for incumbent core banking providers.
Riaz Syed is an experienced professional who has worked in the banking technology industry for over 30 years. He has witnessed the market evolve and change during this time, and his incredible experience has led him to establish Infinant. By sitting on top of existing cores, Infinant's powerful Banking Technology + platform Interlace empowers banks to embrace the digital revolution in a way that was previously not possible. Infinant's platform, Interlace, opens the door to new digital opportunities such as BaaS and embedded banking to community, regional, and super-regional banks in the US market. All without the downsides of having to replace an existing core.
Nelson Wootton, Founder and CEO, and Matthew Breadon, CCO of SaaScada, join us to discuss how frustrations with broken promises and the speed and agility of the Core Banking providers were the driving forces behind setting up a company with a new product that offered a modern alternative. The product is cloud-based, plug-and-play, multi-tenanted, and named after Pirates!
In this latest episode of the Demystify Podcast, Sam Everington, CEO of Engine by Starling and Carlton Hopper, UK Managing Director of GFT, discuss their partnership. Sam outlines their strategy to scale by having partnerships like GFT implement their platform so that his team at Engine can focus on being the best banking platform company. He highlights that this not only accelerates their geographic reach but also allows them to address different markets.Carlton explains that the partnership works on trust and a shared vision and that GFT's extensive experience in Financial Services means that they were adding value to implementations from day one.Please note that there were a few problems with the sound quality of the recording, most of which our excellent production team have ironed out, but please excuse the odd glitch or two. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Backgrounds02:50 Understanding the GFT and Starling Bank Partnership09:29 The Importance of Trust and Shared Vision in Partnerships19:17 The Role of Competition and Consumer Demand in Replatforming23:50 The Global Market Opportunity for Digital Banking27:53 The Genesis of Starling Bank's Engine
Charlie Platt is the Managing Director of Banking at SAP Fioneer. He talks about the history of the business and the advantages of it becoming a standalone business separate from SAP. He explains how the decision was made and the significant investment the company received. Charlie also discusses the continued strong partnership between SAP and Fioneer, with Fioneer utilising SAP's infrastructure and technology.He highlights the importance of developing a strong company culture and the challenges that come with it. Charlie helps demystify the strategy for bringing new products to market and focusing on modernisation rather than core replacement. TakeawaysFioneer is a standalone business separate from SAP, focusing on core banking and insurance solutions.The decision to separate was driven by the need for speed and agility in the rapidly changing financial services industry.Fioneer retains a strong relationship with SAP and utilises its infrastructure and technology.Chapters 00:42 Introducing Charlie Platt from Fioneer02:02 Understanding Fioneer and its connection with SAP04:09 The birth of SAP Fioneer and its unique business model07:13 The challenges and triumphs of separating from SAP11:37 The power of SAP's comprehensive technology stack15:05 The importance of customer-centric product development18:15 Exploring the future of banking innovation21:13 The role of Fioneer in the modernization of banking31:01 Conclusion: The journey towards a modern banking experience
In this enlightening episode, we talk with Lukky Ahmed, the visionary co-founder and CEO of Climate X, a trailblazing firm at the vanguard of highlighting climate risk through technological innovation.With a rich background in international banking and expertise in risk management, regulatory change, and consultancy, Lukky shares how his experiences perfectly positioned him to address the critical data gaps in climate risk analysis. Lukky demystifies Climate X's pioneering solution: a digital "twin" of Earth designed to map the probability and severity of extreme weather events decades in advance.
In this episode, we are very honoured to have Vaida Česnulevičiūtė Markevičienė, the Vice Minister for Finance for Lithuania, as our guest. The Vice Minister tells about why Lithuania embraced the fintech opportunity and how it put a plan in place to ensure success. She discusses the importance of Government and Enterprise collaboration and how they have created a centre of excellence for fintech in Europe.She moves on to talk about the green agenda and green fiance, how the country has a plan in place to achieve net zero by 2030, and what that means in securing energy independence with a focus on renewables such as solar and wind.
The guests on this week's fascinating show are Adam Moulson, COO of Griffin Bank and Garrett Foxon, CEO of LettsPay. Lettspay provides client accounts for Landlords, which are underpinned by Griffin's banking licence.While the Lettspay solution sounds relatively niche, it plays in a massive market with over 4.5 million landlords in the UK and over 15000 real estate agents. Garrett talks about how he built, evolved and grew Lettspay. He tells us how he used some basic research to identify the opportunity and how that insight translated into the Lettspay proposition. He also discusses why they partnered with Griffin Bank. Adam shares his view on the opportunity for Griffin and why they feel confident about growing despite the competition.This is a fascinating insight into why BaaS solutions can provide incredibly focused products and services for a particular niche and the opportunities they can unlock.
David Jarvis is the CEO and co-founder of Griffin. Griffin is the UK's only full-stack Banking-as-a-service bank. It is a very young organisation, receiving its license in March 2023. David talks to us about his background working in development infrastructure for companies such as Airbnb in California, how he moved into the fintech space, and then how he jumped to founding a bank in the UK. David provides incredible insight into what it takes to start a bank and the process Griffin had to go through to get a license. He does an incredible job of demystifying the Griffin proposition and how they believe it is fit for purpose to compete in the UK market place. In the next podcast, we will hear from one of Griffin's customers, so tune in for that.
In this episode, our guest is Naif AbuSaida, the CEO and founder of Hakbah, a Saudi Arabian fintech focused on group savings. Naif talks us through his fascinating background, from being a media personality to working in utilities before moving into banking. Naif tells us about how it was whilst undergoing chemotherapy for stage 3 colon cancer that he re-assessed his life and decided he wanted to have an impact on society, which led him to found Hakbah. He talks us through the Hakbah proposition before changing gears and telling us about the Saudi approach to Fintech and how the regulator is helping to drive innovation.
Dave and Dharm chat with Andy Ellis, CEO of NatWest Boxed, and Noah Sharp, CEO of Vodeno, about Banking As A Service.Boxed is a new BaaS provider from the banking heavyweight NatWest and European BaaS provider Vodeno. Rather than develop its core banking BaaS solution, NatWest partnered with Vodeno.In this episode, we learn why NatWest partnered rather than built or used its own platform. Andy and Noah help demystify what is holding BaaS back from broader adoption and what it takes to create a successful BaaS venture.It's clear the significant advantage Boxed has is its existing corporate banking clients, which include almost all the FTSE 250 companies.From this show, you will also get advice on being a successful BaaS provider and launching a successful solution that uses BaaS.
Herve Manceron is the founder and CEO of Skaleet, a French SaaS-based core banking provider.Herve started out in Telecoms, which many recognise as a vertical that is similar to banking. Herve clearly explains the similarities and what banking can still learn from an industry that has already gone through a technology transformation leveraging cloud technology.During his time in Telecoms, he was involved in payment solutions in Africa which naturally led to working on a project for a bank there. Herve shares his wealth of knowledge with; it is not often that you meet someone with such a natural progression to Banking-as-a-Service and developing scalable, flexible core banking solutions in the cloud.
Chris Tremont is Chief Digital Officer of Grasshopper Bank and Chris Dean is CEO of Treasury Prime, the embedded banking platform that Grasshopper uses.
Zor Gorelov is the founder and CEO of Kasisto the conversational AI company focused on Financial Services. Zor has a long history with conversational interfaces, having worked on them at Bell Labs over 30 years ago. He talks to us about his views on how and where to deploy these interfaces. We discuss the success of Kasisto and how it is now deployed in over 50 financial services companies of all sizes across 16 different countries. We then change gears and talk about the impact of Generative AI and KAI-GPT, Kasisto's new product, before moving on to Zor's views on the emergence of Artificial Financial Intelligence and why Kasisto is well-placed to be there at the front of the line when it happens. Zor's perspective on AFI against AGI is fascinating. We also talked a lot about wine!
U-Zyn Chua is the CTO and co-founder of Cake Group, a company focused on simplifying decentralised finance (DeFi) for retail users. He has been deeply involved in the cryptocurrency sector since 2009, starting with Bitcoin. His entry into the crypto world was motivated by his interest in cybersecurity and cryptography.In the early days, he actively participated in Bitcoin forums, earning some Bitcoin and contributing to crypto-focused businesses. Notable among his achievements are the establishment of the first crypto exchange in Asia and serving as the architect for the world's first Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) in the Bahamas.In this Podcast U-ZYN, helps demystify DeFi, why he is so bullish about the future and how BitCoin is becoming a utility, not just a store of value.
Prema is The President of Product and COO of Temenos. She has a long history with Temenos, having started in the business in 1999 as an engineer before working her way up to a leadership position. She has had a ringside seat on the changes that have happened in digital banking. In this exceptional podcast, Prema takes us straight to the heart of the matter and talks about that and how the core of core banking has changed over the last 25 years.
Max Faldin is the founder of Silverbird, a fintech that serves exporters and importers around the globe. Max talks to us about how his frustrations with "the archaic, broken system" of cross-border payments led him to found Silverbird, an SME-focused fintech. Max talks us through the incredible scale of the opportunity and how by using technology, he has managed to bring the costs to customers down by incredible orders of magnitude whilst maximising efficiencies. This is an incredible story of identifying a problem and setting out to solve it.
In this special episode of Dave and Dharm Demystify, Dave is joined by producer Lou Carlozo in a sauna at Money 20/20 to chat with Monika Liikamaa, co-founder of the payments company Enfuce. Monika talks through her history and tells us more about Enfuce and her general views on the payment industry. She is incredibly open, honest and very straight-talking.
Nick Drewett is the CCO of Engine by Starling, Starlings BAAS proposition which is cloud-native, modular and entirely API-based. Nick talks about why Starling has launched Engine, the opportunity they see, and how they believe they are differentiated from competitors.
Andrew Simms is co-founder and CEO of nDigital, an integrated banking-as-a-service, card processing and payments group based out f Bahrain. Andrew talks to us about why the global centre of gravity for FinTech seems to be moving towards the Middle East and what nDigital offers through its portfolio of businesses.
Kelvin Tan is Managing Director and Head at SCB Nexus, which is the bank's white-label plug-and-play banking solution. We talked to Kelvin about the history of BAAS in SCB and how Nexus is positioned in the marketplace. We also discussed how the bank is spinning out the IP to create a new entity called Audax Financial Technologies.
Paul was, until recently, Head of Embedded Banking at HSBC. We discuss with him his views on the embedded banking market and its role in helping brands build loyalty with customers.
Joseph Edwin is one of the OG’s of digital transformation. He has worked Client Side for Nordea and Commonwealth Bank of Australia and now is a partner at Bain & Co, focused on helping companies succeed as they transform. Joe does an incredible job of demystifying transformation and telling us about the recipe for success!
Our guests are Mathias Wikström, CEO Doconomy and Henrik Rosvall CEO of Dreams Technology. We chat about the recent acquisition of Dreams by Doconomy and why connecting Carbon Data with finance and behavioural science is critical to help achieve net zero goals. >> Please note that Mathias was in an airport when we recorded the podcast, so there are occasional sound quality issues<<
Founder, CEO and Author Matt Phelan chats to us about the Happiness Index, a neuroscience-based platform offering products, insights and tools to shine a light on the cultural health of an organisation.
In this week's episode, we chat with Andrew Barnes, a leading advocate and spokesperson for the 4-day week. Andrew talks about how a trial with his own company turned into a global movement before tackling the benefits and practicalities.
Norris Koppel founded Monese after he moved to the UK and found that opening a bank account was anything but simple. So he decided to fix the problem and launched in September 2015 as the UK's first mobile app alternative to the banks. Norris and Atul talk about Monese and what makes it so special and successful.
Paul Taylor, CEO and Founder of Thought Machine, talks about his background, why he founded the business, and the journey Thought Machine has been on.
Michael Zyber, CEO of Metro AG Financial Services, and Wojciech Sass, Co-founder of Vodeno, talk about how the Vodeno BAAS platform has enabled Metro AG to launch embedded banking products to support its customers and build loyalty.
FAB's Chief Sustainability Officer Shargiil Bashir talks about the critical role of banks in supporting an ESG agenda. As well as addressing the broader aspect of ESG, banking and the Middle East, he discusses why it is so important to FAB and the approach he is taking to ensure that it makes a difference across the bank.
An exclusive interview with Anthony Jenkins, founder and CEO of 10x banking. He talks about 10x, including its history from inception to the present day and his future vision for it.
Fabian Mohr, CEO of UnitPlus and Johan Hellman, CEO of ETFmatic talk about UnitPlus, a new product offering customers instant access through a debit card to their investments. It is true product innovation in the fintech space!
In this episode, it's back to the 2 D's alone. Dharm demystifies the topic of Composable Banking for Dave.
Hubert Danso is the CEO of the institutional infrastructure investment platform, Africa Investor. Hubert talks to us about the potential of Africa to drive a green industrial revolution, and the importance of investment to make that happen.
Our guest this week is Gail Bradbrook, one of the founders of Extinction Rebellion (XR). We talk to Gail about the Climate Emergency, the aims and approach of XR and why Gail believes that the entire financial system has to change.
This week we welcome Aiko Yamashita, leader of the Norwegian Bank DNBs ESG data task force. Aiko talks about what they are doing, why they are doing it and how it is being accomplished.
We welcome Peter Glyman from Jack Henry and Ben Soppitt from Unifimoney to chat about the work that they are doing together to bring an investment solution to the Community Finance Institutions. Through Jack Henry's Banno solution, Unifimoney enables Community Banks and Credit Unions to offer their customers investment solutions, including cryptocurrencies.
Araminta is the founder of Mint Studios, a content specialist company working with Fintechs to maximise the sales opportunities of focused and SEO-friendly content. She chats about how to use content to drive acquisitions.
In this episode, our guest is Theodora Lau, joint author of the book "Beyond Good". We chat with Theo about the book and some of the stories it spotlights. We also talk through some of the emergent trends in fintech, such as #BNPL, which are not always positive forces for change.
Simon talks to us about the payments side of open banking, and why this is an emergent opportunity that he identified with the launch of his latest venture PENG which provides an alternative to cards for point of sale purchases.
To find out more: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KFOAxDBE-TA And https://pengpay.io/
We discuss with Kareem Saleh of Fairplay how bias has found its way into the algorithms that financial institutions use for decision making, and what Fairplay is doing to address the issue.
In this special episode for Earth Day, we chat with Communique's Gihan Hyde, Ecolytic's David Lais, and the author and fintech expert Chris Skinner about how financial services can respond positively to the challenges of our impact on the planet!
We chat with Maria Harris from the Digital Cat Consultancy about the changes she is working on regarding how homes are bought and sold in the UK as Chair of technology for the Home Buying and Selling Group.
In this episode, we chat with Stina Söderqvist, Science Manager from Dreams, a Customer Engagement and Well-Being platform from Stockholm. Stina talks about how they are using behavioural science to create a product that is focused on making saving as easy as spending.
This week's guest is Guy Dickinson, the founder of Betacarbon, a fintech hailing out of Sydney, Australia. Guy talks to us about the problems with offsetting, and how Betacarbon is looking to help towards a net-zero future by tokenising carbon credits.
We chat with John Findlay, CEO and Co-Founder of Lemonade XP, a learning experience and digital adoption platform that is designed specifically for financial institutions.
In this special episode, Dharm and I chat to Lou Carlozo from the Bankadelic podcast about what we think is important!
In this episode, we chat with Dexter Penn, the founder of Kalgera, a company using AI to identify and protect the vulnerable from financial harm. Dexter trained as a doctor, and it was his experiences on the wards that led him to found the business.
In this episode, Dharm and I chat with the incredible Ken Okoroafor, co-founder (with his wife Mary) of the Humble Penny, a personal finance site with the mission of helping people Create Financial Independence and Money Joy. Ken talks to us about his aims with the Humble Penny and why he believes there is an advice gap!
In this week's podcast, Dharm and I chat with John Blicq. John is an Associate Director of Innovation for NAB, and also the author of the fascinating book ‘𝘿𝙞𝙜𝙞𝙩𝙖𝙡 𝙏𝙬𝙞𝙣𝙨, 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙉𝙚𝙭𝙩 𝙃𝙪𝙢𝙖𝙣 (𝙍)𝙚𝙫𝙤𝙡𝙪𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣’ that explores the way the emergence of DigitalTwins and DigitalHumans will eclipse banks and insurance companies who are only equipped to service physical humans with physical assets. We discuss the book, Digital Twins and Johns view on the innovation horizon.
In this episode, our guest is the incredible Richard Turrin, who helps demystify the concept of Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDC). Based out of China, Richard has a ringside seat on how China is transforming into a cashless society - a theme picked up in his latest book Cashless. He talks us through what a CBDC is and why he believes they are the future.
In this weeks episode, we talk to Nick Heller, CEO and Founder of the fintech Tomato Pay and Jonathan Holman, Head of Digital for Corporate & Commercial Banking at Santander, about SME's being an underserved segment and how a fintech and a bank are collaborating to address that.
In this weeks episode, we chat with John Saunders and Conor McDermott from Monument Bank. Monument has recently been awarded a full and unrestricted bank licence in the UK. It has a very targeted proposition focusing on lending and saving to the affluent. John tells us about the history of the bank, and Conor talks to us about how the lending products can add real value to customers.
Our guests are Brett King and Richard Petty, who talk about their new book: The Rise of Technosocialism: How Inequality, AI and Climate Will Usher in a New World. In this very timely publication, we discuss how the confluence of Climate Change, Technology and Social changes will profoundly affect society and how humanity can respond.
This week we chat with Ulrich Pietsch, CEO and co-founder of Ecolytiq, a company based out of Germany that provides a Sustainability-as-a-Service® solution that enables financial institutions to offer their customers environmental footprinting and personalised impact offsetting and ESG investments.
This week in part 2 of a 2 part special, we chat with Craig Massey and Richard Boase from Satoshi Block Dojo about their mission to educate, train and elevate start-up entrepreneurs. We talk about the opportunity, the BSV (BITCOIN) standard, and why they are both convinced Craig Wright is Satoshi Nakamoto.
This week in part 1 of a 2 part special, we chat with Craig Massey and Richard Boase from Satoshi Block Dojo about their mission to educate, train and elevate start-up entrepreneurs. We talk about the opportunity, the BSV (BITCOIN) standard, and why they are both convinced Craig Wright is Satoshi Nakamoto.
We chat with Gillian Lee about how DBS Bank uses personalisation to enhance its customer proposition through its Intelligent Bank strategy and proposition.
Laura and Holly Pomfret set up Financielle, a service aimed at helping women become more financially confident and adept. They realised that many financial products do not speak to women, leading to a lack of trust, low financial confidence and a lack of action when it comes to investing for the future.
Paul Schulte helps demystify Crypto, Proptech and how China is using these technologies to transform society and the implications for the West. Paul is the founder and editor of Schulte Research, a company researching banks, financial technology, bank algorithms and credit algorithms. He has just written a book about the digital transformation of property in China. We chat crypto, prop-tech, 5G and AI.
This week, our guest is Gihan Hyde. Gihan has recently launched Communique, a consultancy focused on helping brands with their ESG communications. Gihan helps demystify ESG and talks about why it is so important to fintechs and the FS industry more broadly.
This week we chat with Paula Rothman, the Social and Content Lead from the Brazilian bank Nubank. Paula talks to us about why Nubank is so successful at harnessing the power of social media. Nubank has over 40 million customers and a valuation of $55bn, so they must be doing something right!
Our guest is Afshan Dadan co-founder of Whitesight, a Fintech research and insight company. We chat to Afshan about their proposition, what they are hoping to achieve and the Fintech scene in Indian.
Listen in to some proper fintech history as Dharm and I look back to when we worked with the Woolwich Building Society to deliver online and mobile banking in the late 1990's. We are joined by Brian Cox who was the project lead at the time. The Woolwich were pioneers and we were lucky to be there. The Woolwich was later sold to Barclays.
We chat with Chris Skinner about purpose-driven banking and some of his predictions for the future that have come true. Chris Skinner is known as one of the most influential people in technology and an independent commentator on the financial markets and fintech through his blog, the Finanser.com.
In this weeks episode, we talk to Dorel Blitz VP of Strategy and Business Development at Personetics. Dorel talks to us about how personalisation is delivering customer value through the Personetics platform, and how automation and self-driving finance are the future.
In this weeks episode, Dharm and I chat with Benjamin Fernandes. Benjamin is the founder of Nala (https://www.iwantnala.com/), a fintech based out of Tanzania. Nala is on a mission to make remittances to East Africa, faster and cheaper. Benjamin's story and passion for solving problems speak to the incredible story that is FinTech in Africa!
Our guest this week is Helene Panzarino. Helene is an experienced fintech professional, former banker, investment readiness consultant & business advisor. She is a creator of fintech innovation programmes, lecturer, board member and author. Helene talks to us, about SME banking.
This weeks guest is Martin Hyde, the Head of HSBC Kinetic, the recently launched mobile banking proposition focused on small businesses. Martin talks about why the Bank launched Kinetic and how it fits into HSBC's portfolio of commercial offerings. He also talks very passionately about why a customer-led, design thinking approach was adopted for the project to get Kinetic launched.
In this specially extended show, our guests are Peter Deming, Warburg Pincus's MD for London and European Head of FS and Tom Bentley CCO of Vodeno, one of Warburg's recent acquisitions.
We chat about Warburg's vision and acquisition strategy and how these are being driven by the seismic changes happening in financial services, including embedded banking, Baas, mobile and enriching the customer experience through insight and data.
On this week's show, we welcome Ben Joakim. Ben is currently Head of Strategy for Principality Building Society and is a NED for FinTech Wales. He was previously founder and CEO of a FinTech start-up Disberse (https://www.disberse.com/), whose mission was to ensure greater transparency, velocity and accountability between donors and receivers in the aid sector. Ben talks about his experience at Disberse. He then chats about the challenges and opportunities for the building society sector and about FinTech in Wales.
In this episode, the 2 D's become 3, as Dave and Dharm chat to Dan Phipps from Truth Consulting Partners about Digital Transformation. Dan was until recently Head of Digital for HSBC in Asia and was one of the driving forces behind digital change and adoption in the Bank. Dan gives us the benefit of his experience over the last decade, providing valuable observations and insight that will appeal to anyone with an interest in Digital Transformation at scale.
This week, Dave and Dharm talk to Samora Kariuki from Finbank S.A. in Burundi about FinTech in Africa. Samora is incredibly knowledgeable and insightful about the topic having worked in digital finance for many years. A big takeout; how digital is truly globalising so much.
Samora publishes a brilliant newsletter: Fintech Frontier (https://frontierfintech.substack.com/) which is well worth subscribing to.
Dave and Dharm have a fascinating discussion with Yves Roesti and Fraser Wilkie of Synpulse and Nick Wilde from Thought Machine about why Asia is rapidly becoming one of the most advanced regions for FinTech. Tied into this, we also discuss why the future of digital FS requires a much more creative and customer-centric approach.
In this episode, Dave and Dharm look across the fintech landscape and chat with Jim Marous about a wide range of topics, including the trip to China that Dave and he went on last year. Jim offers such a wise perspective on what is going on and truly demonstrates, why he is one of the top 5 fintech influencers in the world.
In this episode, Dave and Dharm talk to the amazing April Rudin about WealthTech. She helps demystify the digital opportunity in wealth management and gives a direct and honest appraisal of key trends in wealth management including mobile and social media.
April is CEO of the global wealth management marketing firm, The Rudin Group, (https://therudingroup.com) and has been recognised by Onalytica as the #1 wealth management influencer online.
In this weeks episode, Dave and Dharm chat to Jerry Blanton. Jerry was formally the Head of Customer Experience Design and Marketing at CitiBank FinTech Asia and EMEA, based out of Singapore. Jerry talks through why the Brand is important and helps demystify why it is so much more than a logo and corporate colour palette.
In this episode, Dave and Dharm are joined by Rahul Sanghi and Aaryaman Vir who DeMystify the India Stack. They talk about what it is, its origins, what has been achieved so far and the incredible opportunity it offers India for innovation in Fintech going forward.
For further reading on the subject look no further than https://tigerfeathers.substack.com/ and the article "The Internet Country. How India created a digital blueprint for the economies of the future"
In this episode, Dave and Dharm chat to Ron Shevlin, Director of Research at Cornerstone Advisors and Senior Contributor at Forbes, Fintech Snark Tank (bit.ly/FintechSnarkTank). We discuss with Ron emerging trends in the US financial services landscape and how these compare to the UK. He also discusses how communities of interest are the new community banking opportunity.
In this episode, Dave and Dharm chat to the legendary David Birch, who helps to demystify the topic of digital identity. David does an incredible job of taking this complex subject and making it understandable.
In this episode, we talk to the award-winning Archie Hesse, CEO of GHIPSS. GHIPSS is a subsidiary of the Ghanaian Central Bank with a mission to re-engineer Ghana's payments system. Its mandate was to make it simple for citizens to access banking, ensure banking was flexible to use and secure. GHIPSS has transformed Ghana's underlying infrastructure, ensuring that the Ghanaian banking system is truly world-class, modern and future-focused.
In this episode, Dave and Dharm look to demystify new banking paradigms in discussion with Bruce Pannaman co-founder of StorkCard. StorkCard is an amazing service that has been designed to meet the financial needs of new parents. The StorkCard proposition is to do the financial thinking for busy parents so that they can focus on the joys of having kids, not the costs.
In this episode, we welcome the incredible Leda Glyptis PhD, Chief Client Officer for 10X Future Technologies, to help us demystify core banking. What actually does core banking mean? And what is the future? Tune-in and listen and in a meer half an hour, we are pretty sure we will have covered any questions you might have!
In this episode, we talk to Professor Sue Black and Simon Schofield about the work that TechUP Women are doing to encourage more women into a career in technology. Through re-training and support, they aim to address the gender imbalance; women are currently significantly under-represented.
In this episode, Dave and Dharm demystify the man that is Brett King. In this incredibly candid interview, Brett and Dave talk about the work they did together with HSBC in HK and how that got Brett thinking... The rest, as they say, is history!
In this episode, Dave and Dharm talk to Adrian Webb and Max Wiggins of the Lab group, about the incredible work they are doing to determine vulnerability based on a user's online behaviour and what that could mean for delivering a customised user-experience. As you will hear, this is the cutting edge of true psychology-based insight driving innovation, but doing it for a purposeful outcome.
In the second of a 2 part mini-series, Dave and Dharm look back to the year 2000 and talk to Jeff Scott (CMO) and Paul Loberman (Senior Manager) about Inscape.
Inscape was one of the very original FinTech companies, launched by the Abbey National (now Santander)in the year 2000. It was a superbly well-crafted wealth management proposition that combined the power of digital with relationship managers. We discuss the brand, the proposition and ultimately why it failed.
In the first of a 2 part mini-series, Dave and Dharm look back to the year 2000 and talk to Jeff Scott (CMO) and Paul Loberman (Senior Manager) about Inscape.
Inscape was one of the very original FinTech companies, launched by the Abbey National (now Santander) in the year 2000. It was a superbly well-crafted wealth management proposition that combined the power of digital with relationship managers. We discuss the brand, the proposition and ultimately why it failed.
In this weeks episode, Dave and Dharm talk to Henry Baye, the CEO of Standard Chartered Jersey. Henry helps demystify the rise & rise of digital wallets in Africa and why they have become so dominant. Henry also talks about his experience as a CEO driving a digital transformation agenda and how the lessons he learned in his time in West Africa are being applied to his role in Jersey.
Two guests join Dave and Dharm this week to discuss hows banks are using social media. Paul Loberman, who is ex HSBC and Santander, gives a banks eye view, and Tilly Wallace a student at UWE who discusses her thoughts from the perspective of a 20 something.
(Link to report discussed in the podcast - https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/banking-social-dave-wallace/)
This week the 2 D's demystify Banking as a Service (BAAS). By looking back through the mists of time to a web-based email service that they both helped create before there was even Hotmail, Dharm helps Dave to understand what BAAS actually is and why it is so relevant for the here and now!
In this weeks episode, the 2 D's talk about gamification in financial services with special guest Colin Weir. Colin is founder and Chief of Moroku Gamesystems which brings the power of gameplay to the financial services industry. We talk about how gamification can be used to help build more productive engagement and relationships.
In this weeks episode, Dharm demystifies microservices for Dave. Dave is baffled to begin with.
In this episode, Dave and Dharm talk about how they met and the challenges they faced 20 years ago when working on launching online insurance for Eagle Star Direct (now part of Zurich) and online banking for the Co-operative bank.
In this episode, Dave demystifies the design thinking process for Dharm. He explains why he believes it is crucial that design thinking is part of designing and developing a digital platform, product or service. Dharm is sceptical about it to begin with, so let's see if Dave can change his mind!
In this episode Dave and Dharm demystify Cloud. Dharm explains what the concept of cloud is and helps Dave to better understand why companies have adopted could based platforms