Tier One People presents Fintech Game Changers. Dexter Cousins brings you exclusive interviews with leaders in Fintech to discuss their secrets on; Hiring the best talent - Creating a winning culture - Scaling the business successfully.
Tier One People - Dexter Cousins
Welcome back to Fintech Chatter Podcast! In this episode your host Dexter Cousins invites guest No2 back onto the show.David M. Brear is CEO of 11:FS Group and 11:FS Holdings. The award winning digital consultancy has built digital banks all over the world and through 11:FS holdings, David and the team are finally going to build the next generation of financial services, this time for their own company!Having first appeared on the show in January 2020, David and Dexter talk about the evolution of fintech, the challenges facing the fintech industry, and the future of digital banking. They also discuss the impact of AI on the consultancy model, the importance of understanding customer insights to drive innovation, plus the current state of fintech in the UK and Australia. David also reveals his new favourite hobby, the increasing role of influencers in fintech media and his personal health challenges that have him more motivated than ever.Chapters00:00 Introduction 01:16 About 11:FS03:05 Changing the Fabric of Financial Services17:20 Regulatory Challenges and Market Dynamics23:07 The Future of UK FinTech26:00 Maturity Challenges in FinTech29:05 Emergence of Influencers in FinTech33:26 The Power of Podcasting in FinTech38:13 The Reality of FinTech Media41:54 Cult of Personality in FinTech48:55 Building 11FS Holdings54:30 Health, Work, and Life BalanceFor more information on 11:FS - https://www.11fs.com/Listen to Fintech Insider Podcast - https://content.11fs.com/podcastsSend us a textSubscribe Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/fintech-leaders-7092732051488980992/Connect on Linkedin: https://bit.ly/3DsCJBp
Dexter welcomes back Josh Foreman to discuss their global expansion and recent Series C capital raise.Josh first appeared on the show in 2020 and he shares the lessons he has learned from writing Indebted's first line of code to launching in 7 countries!Chapters00:00 Introduction to Indebted and Its Mission03:04 The Evolution of Technology in Debt Collection09:08 Disrupting Traditional Debt Collection Models15:00 The Future of Credit Infrastructure18:03 Lessons Learned and Strategic Insights30:42 Scaling a Global Business35:59 The Role of Intuition in Decision Making39:00 Raising Capital in a Challenging Environment45:41 The Future of Fintech and AI InnovationsFind out more about Indebted - https://www.indebted.co/careers/You can find previous episodes with Josh - 2020 - https://tieronepeople.com/2020/11/11/josh-foreman-indebted-fintech-australia-podcast/2022 - https://youtu.be/iA0j-yejKDQ?si=ibKW4oNXZUxHaJpgSend us a textSubscribe Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/fintech-leaders-7092732051488980992/Connect on Linkedin: https://bit.ly/3DsCJBp
Dexter Cousins interviews Antony Jenkins, the CEO and founder of 10X Banking, the core banking platform that makes banking ten times better.Antony stands out in Fintech as the global CEO of Barclays who decided to start a fintech. Tune in for a deep dive into the challenges of core banking, the outdated technology in the banking sector, and how 10X helps banks like Westpac and Chase innovate fast. We talk about fixing the banking technology silo problem, Antony's transition from a large bank to a startup, and his approach to creating a high-performance culture within 10x and how it differs to running a global bank.Antony also shares his thoughts on the future of fintech, opportunities in the Australian market (and their partnership with Constantinople) plus his advice for banking professionals considering a move to fintech.Find out more https://www.10xbanking.com/Send us a textSubscribe Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/fintech-leaders-7092732051488980992/Connect on Linkedin: https://bit.ly/3DsCJBp
Antony Jenkins, CEO and Founder of 10x Banking joins Dexter Cousins to talk about the Future of 10x and the Fintech Industry - Full interview available Monday 7th AprilSend us a textSubscribe Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/fintech-leaders-7092732051488980992/Connect on Linkedin: https://bit.ly/3DsCJBp
In this episode of Fintech Chatter, Dexter Cousins interviews Julian Fayad, CEO of LoanOptions.ai about the challenges and advantages of bootstrapping a fintech company from the ground up. LoanOptions.ai aims to revolutionise the loan application process. Julian shares insights into how they're using AI to build a mobile first loan application process.Julian first appeared on the show in 2023. We chat about his progress and the lessons he has learned over the past two years. Julian also talks about the transition from a broking business to a technology-focused company, and the launch of Synapses, the API services hub for Fintech! We also discuss the launch of HAILO and LoanOptions.ai, expansion into New Zealand and future plans for market expansion into the US and UAE.Find out more: https://loanoptions.aiChapters00:00 The Bootstrap Journey of a Fintech Founder02:12 Innovating the Loan Application Process10:45 Transitioning from Broking to Technology18:04 Launching New Products and Partnerships25:49 Building an API Services Hub for Fintechs26:48 Navigating B2B Partnerships and SaaS Pricing Strategies32:05 Transitioning from Brokerage to Tech: Lessons Learned35:21 Building a Cohesive Team and Company Culture39:47 Innovative Talent Acquisition Strategies41:45 Valuable Lessons in Business Partnerships46:22 Expanding Horizons: New Markets and Future PlansSend us a textSubscribe Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/fintech-leaders-7092732051488980992/Connect on Linkedin: https://bit.ly/3DsCJBp
In this episode of Fintech Chatter, Dexter Cousins chats to Nathan Walsh and Michael Starkey, Co-Founders of Athena Home Loans.Making their long awaited return to the show, Nathan and Michael discuss their journey over the past four years, and the insane challenges they've had to navigate as interest rates rose rapidly and funding markets dried up. According to Wikipedia Athena was the patron goddess of heroic endeavor; she was believed to have aided the heroes Perseus, Heracles, Bellerophon, and Jason. She may have also aided Michael and Nathan over this last few years!We ask Nathan and Michael the tough questions like how do you compete with banks, balance innovation with regulatory requirements, navigating the rapid interest rate rises since 2022, and the importance of partnerships. Nathan and Michael also share their secrets to building a resilient team and maintaining a strong company culture as they aim for the next stage of growth and innovation in the home loan sector.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Athena Home Loans03:38 Founding Story and Vision05:48 Tech Fin vs Fin Tech: Athena's Position07:32 Navigating Regulation and Innovation11:48 Challenges of Distribution in a Fragmented Market13:34 Impact of Interest Rate Rises on Fintech19:45 Lessons from Big Banks23:23 Partnerships and Growth Opportunities29:29 Cultural Alignment in Partnerships33:47 The Journey of Co-Founders37:59 Hiring The Right People40:51 Navigating Growth and Change45:09 Reflections on Past Experiences48:40 Future Aspirations and GrowthSend us a textSubscribe Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/fintech-leaders-7092732051488980992/Connect on Linkedin: https://bit.ly/3DsCJBp
In this episode of Fintech Chatter, host Dexter Cousins speaks with Di Challenor and Macgregor Duncan, co-founders of Constantinople, about their journey in building the Operating System for banks. Constantinople is the most ambitious startup in Fintech, tackling the most complex problem in Fintech, rethinking how banks become fully digital.Tune in as Mac and Di discuss the challenges of winning banking clients, the importance of establishing trust, and the strategies behind their successful capital raising efforts. We revisit our first interview in 2023 and talk through the challenges and learnings of the past two years. As they look to the future, they share their vision for Constantinople and the endless quest for excellence.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Constantinople04:09 The Evolution of Banking Technology07:17 Challenges in Client Acquisition10:10 Building Trust and Credibility12:53 Creating a New Category in Banking16:04 Navigating Capital Raising19:03 The Importance of Execution25:02 Scaling the Business34:08 The Importance of Documentation in Scaling36:49 Driving Excellence in Early Stage Companies42:45 Commitment to Excellence: Attracting the Right Talent49:07 Identifying and Filling Skill Gaps53:15 Future Vision: Building a Multi-Tenanted Banking PlatformSend us a textSubscribe Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/fintech-leaders-7092732051488980992/Connect on Linkedin: https://bit.ly/3DsCJBp
In this episode of Fintech Chatter podcast, Dexter Cousins chats with Justin Greenstein, CEO of 1835i, about the evolution of corporate venture capital in Australia's banks. Justin shares insights on the structure and strategy of 1835i, its investment thesis, and the importance of aligning with ANZ's overarching strategy. We get Justin's top tips for partnering with a CVC, his thoughts on the future of fintech in Australia, and what he sees as the Biggest untapped opportunity in Fintech. About 1835iAs ANZ Bank's external innovation partner, 1835i invest in and partner with fintechs that are focused on homeowners, small and medium sized businesses, trade and capital flows, and transforming businesses through data, analytics and digital technologies.Notable Fintech investments include Airwallex, Cash Reward, Lendi, Valiant, Datamesh, Slyp and Citoplus.Chapters00:00 How To Raise Capital From a Big 4Bank - Justin Greenstein, CEO of 1835i04:24 The Evolution of 1835i: From ANZ to Independence09:05 Understanding Corporate Venture Capital vs. Traditional VC14:27 Horizon 2 and Horizon 3: Future Technologies and Startups19:22 Success Stories and Strategic Partnerships24:21 Navigating the VC Landscape and Founder Expectations29:06 The State of Fintech in Australia and Globally34:19 The Untapped Opportunities in Fintech39:00 Closing Thoughts and Future Directions for 1835iSend us a textSubscribe Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/fintech-leaders-7092732051488980992/Connect on Linkedin: https://bit.ly/3DsCJBp
Vincent Gramoli - RedBelly Network Dexter Cousins invites Vincent Grimoli, Founder and CTO of RedBelly Network to this week's Fintech Chatter Podcast. Vincent charts his journey in the blockchain environment from academia to entrepreneurship. He outlines the innovative approach RedBelly Network takes towards the tokenisation of real-world assets and the need for collaboration between Tradfi and Defi.Vincent shares insights on blockchain technology safety measures, the importance of compliance, and how he sees the future of fintech in Australia. About RedBelly NetworkRedbelly Network is a team of innovators, engineers, and visionaries committed to building a secure and inclusive blockchain ecosystem. RedBelly Network believes in the power of collaboration — within both their team and the global community, working towards reshaping the future of finance and technology.About Vincent GramoliVincent Gramoli is the Founder and CTO of Redbelly Network and the Head of the Concurrent Systems Research Group at the University of Sydney. Vincent has chaired the Cybersecurity Committee for the Computing Research and Education Association of Australasia (CORE) and the Blockchain Technical Committee for the Australian Computer Society.His accolades include the Digital National Facilities & Collections Award from CSIRO, the Best Paper Awards at ICDCS'21, IPDPS'22, ICDCS'22 and DSN'24 for his research on blockchains. He received the Education Leader of the Year Award from Blockchain Australia and the Future Fellowship from the Australian Research Council. Vincent has been affiliated with INRIA, Cornell, Data61 and EPF.Key TakeawaysRedBelly Network aims to provide a compliant blockchain solution for traditional finance.The company focuses on tokenising real-world assets to lower barriers for retail investors.Safety measures include linking accounts to real-world identities to ensure accountability.The collaborative approach to scalability is a key feature of RedBelly Network's technology.Commercialising innovation in Australia can be a lengthy process due to regulatory hurdles.Emphasising the importance of learning business skills for tech founders.Building stong networks is crucial for finding talent in niche markets.Investor interest in compliant asset tokenisation is growing.RedBelly Network aims to reduce transaction fees by maintaining a fixed fee structure.Sound Bites"We're entering a new era with tokenisation.""I had to learn the business side of things."Chapters00:00 Introduction to Vincent and Red Belly Network05:27 Navigating Regulation in Blockchain08:58 Tokenisation of Real-World Assets12:08 Safety Measures using Layered Technology19:33 Transitioning from Tech to Business24:36 Hiring the right Talent27:19 The Challenge of Funding30:51 Reducing Fees for Consumers34:30 The Pro-Crypto Movement39:23 Learning from TradFi for Future Innovations41:33 Future Plans for RedBelly NetworkSend us a textSubscribe Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/fintech-leaders-7092732051488980992/Connect on Linkedin: https://bit.ly/3DsCJBp
Dexter Cousins speaks with Simon Lee, founder of Teamified, about the transformative role of AI in startups and recruitment. We discuss tactics on how to build and rapidly scale a startup by harnessing an offshore workforce augmented by AI agents.We also chat about the impact of AI on jobs and hiring, venture capital and the evolving landscape of entrepreneurship in Australia.And we also unravel why Fractional Executives may not be the right solution for Fintech startups.Simon shares his insights on building businesses with limited resources and the importance of health and passion in the startup journey. TakeawaysAI is significantly reducing hiring times and costs.Offshoring talent can provide access to specialised skills not available locally.The traditional path to entrepreneurship is changing with technology.AI is not just a tool; it's a game changer for startups.Health and well-being are crucial for sustained entrepreneurial success.The rise of AI will democratize business opportunities.Every SaaS application needs to be rethought in the age of AI.Chapters00:00 The Power of AI in Startups02:59 Teamified's Unique Approach to Recruitment06:03 Offshoring and Remote Work Dynamics09:04 The Impact of AI on Hiring and Recruitment11:23 The Evolution of the Job Market14:06 Democratizing Entrepreneurship with Technology17:12 AI Agents: The Future of Business?20:15 Optimizing Outsourcing Functions23:14 The Future of Recruitment and AI Tools29:52 The Future of Executive Roles in a Changing Landscape37:16 The Reality of Work: Expectations vs. Performance40:15 Prioritizing Health: A Shift in Perspective43:02 Passion vs. Burnout: The Balancing Act44:38 The Impact of AI on Business and Employment46:07 Democratisation of Business: Opportunities for All48:45 Starting a Business with Limited ResourcesFind out more - https://teamified.com.auSend us a textSubscribe Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/fintech-leaders-7092732051488980992/Connect on Linkedin: https://bit.ly/3DsCJBp
The Spriggy story returns to Fintech Chatter Podcast! Five years after his debut, our most-requested guest ever is back with insights you can't afford to miss.Dexter Cousins chats to Alex Badran, the founder of Spriggy, a fintech app designed to help parents teach their children about money management. This isn't just another success story - it's a masterclass in scaling consumer fintech in a challenging market.Alex shares his decade-long journey with Spriggy, its growth to over one million users, and the importance of real-world financial education for kids. Join us as we take a deep dive into building a category and product that has captured the hearts and minds of millions of Australian families.Favourite quotes "We created a category that didn't exist before.""You can't outsource growth to a partner.""Your ability to learn is what matters."Chapters00:00 Introduction and Background of Spriggy03:58 The Problem Spriggy Solves07:13 Understanding User Needs and Early Development10:10 Adapting to Growing Users and Changing Needs13:07 The Impact of Technology on Kids' Financial Education15:57 Growth Strategies and Market Positioning19:12 Partnerships and Their Role in Growth22:12 Lessons Learned and Personal Growth as a Founder29:10 The Importance of Learning and Enjoying Work30:59 Authenticity in Leadership33:33 Navigating Team Dynamics and Cohesion37:00 Adapting to Economic Changes in Hiring41:49 Future Vision for Spriggy47:28 Behavioral Education and Parenting51:56 Podcast intro vid no audio.mp4About SpriggySpriggy is Australia's #1 Pocket Money app that helps kids learn about money. Spriggy was founded in 2016 with a clear mission to help parents teach their kids about money. We believe that financial literacy is a crucial life skill, one that lays the groundwork for a secure and confident future. By learning how to manage money from a young age, kids are empowered to make informed financial decisions as they grow, mastering everything from saving and spending to setting goals and budgeting.Download Spriggy Explore Careers at SpriggySend us a textSubscribe Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/fintech-leaders-7092732051488980992/Connect on Linkedin: https://bit.ly/3DsCJBp
Dexter Cousins welcomes Sean O'Malley CEO of AMP Bank for his Fintech Chatter debut. It's been a BIG week for AMP Bank as they launched their new digital mobile-first bank aimed at helping small business owners manage their business and personal finances.Dexter and Sean discuss the role of technology in modern banking and how an established financial institution tackles innovation.Sean and Dexter uncover AMP's extensive research on the needs of small businesses and the need for more human support in banking. Sean also shares the thesis on the problem they're solving and the rapidly evolving nature of how, when and where people work.And Sean shares his secrets to successful partnerships showcasing their relationship with UK Fintech Starling Bank and their ‘Engine' platform.About Sean O'Malley Sean O'Malley was appointed the Group Executive of AMP Bank in September 2021, after 11 years at AMP. He is responsible for the management and growth of AMP Bank, delivering its future growth strategy, uplifting its digital capability and ensuring the ongoing delivery of high-quality products and services to customers.He has over 25 years of experience in delivering enhanced business results, predominately in the financial services industries.About AMP BankAMP Bank is aiming to disrupt the small business banking market in Australia. They have launched a fully digital, 24x7 human-supported, full-service Bank to help serve the needs of the Australian small business community.Their aim is to help Small businesses get started, survive and thrive, embracing the challenge of bringing new thinking, new ways of working and new bold ideas to a 26 year old Bank, inside a 175 year old Super & Wealth business.Key Takeaways AMP Bank has launched a fully digital offering for small business owners.The future of work is evolving, with more emphasis on gig and flexible employment. Sean sees continued growth in small and micro businesses as a result.The banking industry faces challenges in balancing innovation and risk management.Brand reputation is crucial for banks, especially in the digital age.Curiosity and a willingness to learn are key traits for success.AMP Bank is focused on building a customer-centric culture.Partnerships are vital for delivering innovative banking solutions.Chapters00:00 The Launch of AMP Bank's New Platform03:39 Targeting Small Businesses & Personal Banking Customers06:03 Insights on the Future of Work11:13 Viewing Business Failures as Learning Opportunities14:18 Embracing the Challenges of Modern Workforces17:31 Lessons from Fintech Startups and Neobanks23:00 Navigating Change and Innovation at AMP27:28 The Importance of Strategic Business Relationships31:53 Risk Management in Fintech Partnerships35:58 Talent Acquisition and Staff Retention38:59 Managing Stress and Building Resilience43:50 Future Outlook for AMP BankSend us a textSubscribe Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/fintech-leaders-7092732051488980992/Connect on Linkedin: https://bit.ly/3DsCJBp
Matt Baxby - RevolutDexter welcomes back friend of the show, Matt Baxby, CEO of Revolut Australia, to talk about their remarkable growth to 50 million customers globally. It's been five years since Tier One People placed Matt into the Country CEO role at Revolut. Matt shares his journey over the last five years, discusses the challenges and strategies involved in building a digital bank in Australia, the importance of reaching profitability, and the unique approach Revolut has taken to integrate technology with consumer needs.Matt shares his insights on leadership, team building, and the future of consumer banking with Dexter.About RevolutRevolut's global mission is for every person and business to handle their money in just a few taps, removing the friction that gets in the way of your money goals. Revolut delivers faster, better, smarter products to over 50 million customers across the globe giving you access to investments and your money effortlessly and across borders.About Matt BaxbyMatt is a strategic and people-oriented leader with diverse experience across consumer-facing businesses facing disruption or significant regulatory change.He has broad finance services sector experience - particularly consumer banking - from start-ups to an ASX-listed company.Matt embodies the entrepreneurial spirit from a decade with the Virgin Group combined with the discipline and scaled leadership as the Group Executive - Retail Banking and then Group CFO of the Bank of Queensland.Key TakeawaysRevolut aims to be a single place for managing financial life.The company has grown to over 800,000 customers in Australia.Revolut has achieved profitability at both group and local levels.Building a strong local team is crucial for success in new markets.The fintech landscape is maturing, with significant challenges for startups.Australia's remittance market presents a unique opportunity for Revolut.A strong focus on technology and innovation is essential for differentiation.Leadership qualities include action orientation and adaptability.The importance of a clear strategy in a fast-paced environment.Talent acquisition is critical for long-term success.Chapters00:00 Introduction 01:18 Revolut's Global Reach and Market Strategy02:32 Profitability and Financial Milestones03:27 Long-Term Commitment to the Australian Market05:26 Building a Digital Bank: Lessons Learned07:33 Consumer-Centric Approach and Product Development10:33 Opportunities in the Australian Market13:01 Future Product Offerings with a Banking License18:33 Matt's Unique Journey in Fintech27:03 The Power of Being a Founder-Led Organisation30:39 Building a Cohesive and Effective Team35:59 What is Send us a textSubscribe Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/fintech-leaders-7092732051488980992/Connect on Linkedin: https://bit.ly/3DsCJBp
A little taste of what is to come in this weeks Fintech Leader episode of Fintech Chatter.Matt Baxby, CEO of Revolut Australia joins Dexter Cousins to take about his five years with Revolut, their remarkable growth to 50 million customers, the path to profitability and what it takes to succeed at a Fintech unicorn.Send us a textSubscribe Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/fintech-leaders-7092732051488980992/Connect on Linkedin: https://bit.ly/3DsCJBp
In this rant, Dexter Cousins discusses the ongoing debate between Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) and Merit, Excellence, and Intelligence (MEI) in hiring practices. He argues that while diversity is essential, it should not come at the expense of merit. Dexter highlights the importance of hiring based on meritocracy to improve business performance and shares insights from the McKinsey Report on diversity's impact on financial returns. He highlights the need for companies to focus on the overall talent of their executive teams rather than just superficial diversity metrics. The McKinsey Report - https://www.mckinsey.com/capabilities/people-and-organizational-performance/our-insights/why-diversity-matters----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Follow us LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/fintech-chatter-podcastContact us - https://tieronepeople.com/contact/Send us a textSubscribe Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/fintech-leaders-7092732051488980992/Connect on Linkedin: https://bit.ly/3DsCJBp
About this EpisodeDexter Cousins talks with Tristan Dakin, Country Manager at Wise on the Fintech Chatter Podcast. They chat about the innovative solutions Wise provides in the payments technology space and the complexities of instant payments. Tristan speaks about the company's growth and the challenges of operating in a highly regulated environment.He shares insights into Wise's culture, the importance of transparency in financial services, and the future of fintech in Australia.About WiseWise launched in 2011 making international money transfers cheap, fair, and simple their vision. Today, their multi-currency account helps millions of customers and businesses manage their money globally.Their story started in London with Taavet (paid in Euro's) & Kristo (paid in Pounds) solving the issue of making money in one country but needing to meet payment commitments in their home country. Expensive fees and bad exchange rates led them to make a simple workaround. Taavet would pay Kristo's mortgage in Estonia and Kristo would pay him back in pounds.No waiting, no stress, and no extra cost, they quickly realised that they had hit upon a great idea and TransferWise was born. They have since added a multi-currency account, a debit card, and a business account, and changed their name to Wise.About TristanTristan joined Wise in 2020, and since 2022, has been leading Wise in ANZ as Country Manager. Before joining Wise, Tristan worked in the financial services industry, including Lombard Securities in the UK.He is skilled in FX, Banking, Management, Financial Markets, Trading, Structured Products and Derivatives, and Financial Risk.Key TakewaysWise aims to build the best way for people to move money globally.The company focuses on transparency in fees and payment processes.Instant payments are achieved through advanced technology and infrastructure.Wise's growth has been significant, with millions of active customers.The complexity of regulatory compliance is a major challenge for fintechs.Tristan's background in financial services shaped his approach at Wise.The culture at Wise emphasises autonomy and problem-solving.Australia's fintech landscape is evolving, with increasing competition.Regulatory changes could enhance transparency in the financial sector.Wise is committed to empowering customers and improving financial services.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Fintech Chatter and Wise01:15 Wise's Mission and Products03:27 Challenges of Cross-Border Payments07:09 The Complexity of Instant Payments09:10 Wise's Growth and Market Presence10:54 Wise's Centralised Infrastructure and Competitive Advantage12:32 Australia's Unique Remittance Landscape13:18 Tristan's Background and Attraction to Wise16:25 The Role of Country Manager at Wise17:55 Inspiration and Motivation in Fintech19:43 Cohesion and Culture at WISE26:51 Navigating the FinTech Landscape in Australia30:18 The Future of FinTech: Trends and Innovations38:36 Download the Wise AppSend us a textSubscribe Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/fintech-leaders-7092732051488980992/Connect on Linkedin: https://bit.ly/3DsCJBp
About this Episode Dexter Cousins calls in the expert for the annual Fintech Predictions 2025! We welcome Danny Levy Managing Director, Asia & ANZ for Money 20/20. Dexter and Danny discuss the evolution & significance of Money 2020 and they chat about the unique experience and the rigorous selection process undertaken for speakers.Danny shares insights on trends for 2025, highlighting the rapid changes in the banking scene, the rise of digital payments, and the opportunities in embedded finance. They also explore the role of AI in FinTech and the importance of maintaining energy and focus while travelling for business. About Money 20/20Money20/20 is the world's leading, premium content, sales and networking platform for the global money ecosystem.Their events feature in-depth analytics & inspirational speakers, our world-class insight and networking opportunities help our customers stay ahead.Key TakeawaysMoney 2020 is designed to create a unique festival-like experience.The event focuses on quality networking and content over quantity.Health and wellness initiatives are now integral to event planning.Speaker selection is based on editorial integrity and industry relevance.The banking landscape in Asia is rapidly evolving with digital innovations.Digital payments are leading the way in cross-border transactions.Embedded finance presents significant growth opportunities in FinTech.AI is transforming customer service and operational efficiency in financial services.FinTech innovations can significantly improve financial inclusion.Maintaining personal health and wellness is crucial for high performance in business.About DannyWith 15 years of senior leadership experience in Singapore, Danny is an accomplished business leader with a proven track record of scaling businesses and driving record-breaking profits. As the founder and host of "Digital Transformation & Leadership," a top 100 Business podcast, Danny regularly engages with industry leaders from global companies. He is a guest host on the South China Morning Post podcast, focusing on digital transformation.Danny serves as an Ambassador for the Emerging Payments Association Asia (EPAA).Danny spent a decade as Managing Director at Worldwide Business Research, where he delivered consecutive record-breaking profit results and led market expansion across Asia and ANZ.Danny's leadership philosophy centres on creating empowering environments where teams can excel. He is passionate about strategic business growth and innovation, recruiting and developing high-potential talent, building inclusive, high-performing teams, and driving innovation and digital transformation.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Money2020 and Its Impact 03:36 The Evolution of Money202006:28 Wellness and Networking at Events09:22 Speaker Selection and Content Integrity12:18 Trends and Insights from the 2025 Report15:05 Digital Payments and Cross-Border Innovations17:56 The Role of Regulators and Collaboration in FinTech20:47 Opportunities in Emerging Markets23:49 Innovations and Challenges in FinTech26:50 The Evolution of AI in FinTech29:39 Identifying Opportunities in FinTech33:20 Game-Changing Innovations inSend us a textSubscribe Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/fintech-leaders-7092732051488980992/Connect on Linkedin: https://bit.ly/3DsCJBp
After receiving great feedback on our LinkedIn posts this year, Dexter has decided to record a weekly rant sharing his thoughts and insights on leadership, careers and Fintech.In this very first episode, Dexter discusses the impact of AI on the job market, AI is indeed replacing jobs rather than just augmenting them. He highlights the shift in focus from hiring based on technical skills to leadership capabilities, reflecting a broader trend in Fintech. Dexter also provides insights on how professionals should adapt their experience to remain relevant in a rapidly changing industry.TakeawaysAI is replacing jobs, not just augmenting them.Fintech companies are thriving with fewer employees.The focus is shifting from skills to leadership capabilities.Leadership can come from any background or demographic.Every hire should embody leadership qualities.Experience should be framed around problem-solving.The next 20-30 years will differ significantly from the past.Diversity in leadership is essential for success.Adapting resumes to highlight relevant experience is crucial.If you enjoyed this format send us a message.You can check out the episode with Paul Roos on Leadership - https://tieronepeople.com/2025/01/21/paul-roos-building-high-performance-cultures/Send us a textSubscribe Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/fintech-leaders-7092732051488980992/Connect on Linkedin: https://bit.ly/3DsCJBp
About this Episode Dexter Cousins interviews Craig Carroll, co-founder of JustFund, one of Australia's fastest-growing startups.Craig shares their innovative approach to solving a problem that creates untold stress on those seeking divorce - lending for family law fees.With a background as a serial entrepreneur, Craig shares insights on navigating uncertainty, his lessons learned from the US market, the importance of company culture, and the role of AI in enhancing client service. Dexter gets to discuss his favourite topic - hiring the right talent and building a strong company culture as JustFund prepares for international expansion.About Craig Craig is passionate about financial services, education and technologies that either promote economic well-being and/or address societal challenges. Craig's career has been focused on creating, building and managing teams, raising capital, consumer social lending, product development, software development, corporate strategy and general management across various sectors.Craig has extensive experience developing services that help individuals deal with financial matters. He has also advised educational institutions on admission strategies and accessibility. Throughout his career, Craig has been an investor and advisor to various early-stage and growth companies. Key TakeawaysJustFund has approved about $115 million in lines of credit since its inception.Lessons from the US market -the importance of controlling customer acquisition costs.JustFund focuses on client-centric solutions for individuals facing family law issues.The cultural differences between the US and Australia have a major impact on business strategies and operations.How AI can enhance productivity and client service in the lending process.Hiring for adaptability and resilience is crucial in a startup environment.Building a strong company culture from day one is essential for long-term success.JustFund's plans to expand into international markets, starting with New Zealand.Chapters00:00 Introduction to JustFund and Its Mission03:24 Innovating Financial Products Using Data06:36 The Role of AI in Product Development12:17 Rapid Growth and Scaling Strategies19:26 Craig's Experience in the USA23:32 Australian vs US Talent27:40 The Challenges of Hiring in 202531:36 Setting the Foundations of Culture36:35 The Benefits of Being Obsessed with NPSLinks & Resources:Visit JustFund websiteConnect with Craig Carroll Connect with Dexter CousinsLearn more about Tier One PeopleSend us a textSubscribe Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/fintech-leaders-7092732051488980992/Connect on Linkedin: https://bit.ly/3DsCJBp
In this special episode of Fintech Chatter, host Dexter Cousins speaks with Paul Roos, an AFL legend and founder of Performance by Design. They explore the parallels between elite sports and startup culture, discussing how founders and leaders can build high-performance teams on a budget! Paul shares insights from his trophy winning coaching career, steering the Sydney Swans to their first title in 72 years! The culture Roosy built at the club is still legendary 20 years later. He's spent the past decade advising startups and executives at some of Australia's largest companies on building high-performing cultures unique challenges faced by Fintech founders.In the interview Dexter and Paul discuss the importance of self-awareness, the role of leadership in shaping culture, and the challenges startups face as they grow. The conversation also touches on the significance of health and wellbeing in leadership, and how small companies can create a positive culture that drives success.TakeawaysThe culture built at the Sydney Swans is a model for startup success.Leadership behaviors directly influence organisational culture.Self-awareness is crucial for effective leadership.Startups must define their culture early to avoid fragmentation.Investing in culture can prevent costly turnover.High-performance teams require clear role definitions.Remote work challenges can be overcome with a team-first mindset.Health and wellbeing are essential for leadership effectiveness.Leaders should model the behaviors they want to see in their teams.Incremental changes can lead to significant improvements in culture.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Guest Background04:38 Transition from Sports to Corporate Culture09:30 Building a High-Performance Culture14:11 Leadership and Self-Awareness in Startups18:44 The Importance of Foundational Culture23:25 Role of Leaders in Shaping Culture27:16 Navigating Growth and Leadership Challenges30:13 The Shift to Remote Work and Team Dynamics33:11 Hiring for Culture and Team Cohesion36:32 The Importance of Defining Company Culture39:07 Mental Health and Personal Wellbeing in Leadership42:02 Looking Ahead: Commitment to Growth in 2025Send us a textSubscribe Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/fintech-leaders-7092732051488980992/Connect on Linkedin: https://bit.ly/3DsCJBp
About this EpisodeDexter Cousins welcomes Rob Lincolne, Founder & CEO of PayDock to the latest episode of the Fintech Chatter Podcast.Rob shares Paydock's unique position in the payments ecosystem with a deep-dive into payments orchestration and the importance no-code solutions.He discusses the challenges of attracting top talent, and the complexities of building a global team. He highlights the resilience his team in Ukraine who have operated under tough conditions since 2022.Rob shares with Dexter his daily routines and the importance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance as a founder of a global Fintech venture.About Rob LincolneRob Lincolne is an accomplished entrepreneur with extensive experience in the payments industry. Founder and Co-CEO of Paydock, he is dedicated to transforming how we transact by creating the world's most trusted payment orchestration platform.His journey began in Sydney 2007 when he founded a digital marketing agency specialising in the not-for-profit sector.The Paydock vision arose from the need for better integration between financial institutions and their merchant clients. Their innovative approach aims to unlock the fintech market's true benefits.Rob has also founded a successful "near-shore" talent placement agency in Ukraine, connecting software engineers with fintechs around the globe.About PaydockPaydock is a payments orchestration platform, leading the way in resolving costly merchant issues with its innovative API-first technology that harmonises payment, fraud, identity and other vendors (such as Stripe, PayPal, etc.) through a single interface.Key TakeawaysPayDock addresses the technology gaps between large banks and fintech.Adopting a no-code solution within the payments industry is essential for merchant adoption of fintech.Orchestration should be about enabling merchants, not commoditising services.Building a global team has been crucial for scaling the business.Customer relationships are vital in the fintech space.The future of payments is modular and interoperable.Attracting talent requires offering challenging problems to solveCharacter and resilience are more important than skills.The hype in fintech is over; it's time for real business.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Fintech Chatter01:59 Understanding PayDoc and Its Unique Position06:06 Innovation and the No-Code Approach10:58 Defining Payments Orchestration14:58 The Journey of PayDoc: From Australia to the UK19:09 Building a Global Team and Talent Acquisition21:54 Supporting Teams During Crisis: The Ukraine Experience25:32 Attracting Top Talent in Fintech29:26 The Importance of Character in Hiring33:56 Resilience and Overcoming Adversity38:33 Current Trends in Fintech42:14 Daily Routines and Habits of Founders45:06 Looking Ahead: PayDoc's FutureLinksVisit Paydock Connect - Rob LincolneConnect - Dexter CousinsSend us a textSubscribe Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/fintech-leaders-7092732051488980992/Connect on Linkedin: https://bit.ly/3DsCJBp
Fintech Chatter is brought to you by Tier One People - the executive search firm dedicated to connecting high-growth fintech companies with exceptional leadership talent. About this EpisodeIn the latest episode of Fintech Chatter, host Dexter Cousins chats to Simon Schwarz, Co-Founder and CEO of FreightInsure, about his journey from fintech to insurtech.Simon shares how his career from investment banking, to fintech, to insurtech (working with SocietyOne, Zip and BizCover along the way) has shaped his current scaleup, FreightInsure.We take a deep dive into Simon's strategy to build FreighInsure and how the MGA (Managing General Agent) model has enabled the distribution of embedded insurance products.Simon reflects on the dual responsibilities as Co-Founder and CEO, and his life hacks for balance and well-being. About SimonSimon is the Co-Founder and Managing Director of FreightInsure, Australia's leading platform for embedded freight insurance. He started his career at Investec Bank in Australia, holding roles as Head of Investments, Head of Credit and Head of Board Risk and Capita. Simon has sat on boards as a Non-Executive Director and Chairman at several investee companies. He has also acted on advisory boards at Zip Co and Middle, and is a Board member of Insurtech Australia and the Regulatory and Compliance Working Group.Simon is a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors, holds an MBA (Exec), Masters of Applied Finance, and is the recipient of the University Medal for pure mathematics from the University of Sydney. He was an Honorary Fellow at Macquarie University's Applied Finance Centre and a member of the Menzies School of Health Research Development Committee. About FreightInsureFreightInsure offers embedded goods-in-transit insurance directly from a transport company's booking platform. Shippers no longer need to buy annual marine insurance policies, but can simply purchase insurance on a needs basis, when booking their freight, within less than a minute.Key TakeawaysHow the MGA model allows for rapid growth without the need for capital reservesHow distribution innovation is big Insurtech opportunityHow AI applications are being developed to enhance underwriting processesFreight and logistics market isn't sexy but it presents vast opportunities for growthIdentifying profitable market opportunities is crucial for business successThe quality of founders is the key to a startup's successFocus on distribution to solve market problems effectivelyThe role of a founder differs significantly from that of a CEOInsurTech in Australia is gaining momentum and attracting capitalChapters00:00 Introduction05:54 The Birth of FreightInsure12:01 Innovation in Distribution17:57 Future Innovations and AI Applications25:15 Identifying Market Opportunities30:54 The Dual Role of Founder and CEO39:00 The InsurTech Landscape in AustraliaLinks & Resources:Visit FreightInsure websiteConnect with SimoSend us a textSubscribe Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/fintech-leaders-7092732051488980992/Connect on Linkedin: https://bit.ly/3DsCJBp
About this EpisodeIn Episode 198 of the FintechChatter podcast, Dexter Cousins chats with Joel Yarbrough, CEO of Moment. Joel, an OG fintech leader, discusses his global journey with roles at PayPal, Grab, and now Moment, where he's tapping into Africa's fintech opportunities.Dexter and Joel discuss the qualities of successful individuals in startup environments, emphasizing the importance of passion, collaboration, and a growth mindset.Joel talks about the Importance of giving back and building diverse teams, as well as the challenges of hiring in a rapidly changing market. He also provides insights into the future of Moment and the importance of being mission-driven in the business world.About JoelA passionate leader whose love of technology drives him to deconstruct complex systems and rebuild them to solve real problems. He has spent most of my career helping strategise, design, product manage, and deliver multi-channel solutions in and around the intersections of financial services, commerce, and technology.He would describe himself as a great evangelist and dot connector, working with partners to understand their strategies and solve their problems. The delight of leading product teams to make the vision a reality is a real joy. His core belief is that together we can make the world a better place - even if it's through our own enlightened self-interest. By doing things well, and being decent to each other we will all keep pushing to a brighter place together.About MomentMoment is an integrated payments platform for Africa, incubated as a joint venture by MultiChoice, Rapyd, and General Catalyst. We connect businesses and consumers in over 40 African countries. We're able to do so through our broad network that aims to cover over 100 payment providers, 200 local payment methods, and 40 currencies.Key TakeawaysHow Africa's projected population growth presents unique opportunities for fintech.Moment's aims to build a comprehensive payment network for Africa, as the trend towards digital payments grows. Regulatory changes are shifting towards enabling innovation rather than just consumer protection.Australia's fintech scene is strong but needs to leverage its geographic and cultural assets more effectively.Regional trade clusters are more valuable than cross-oceanic trade relationships.The gig economy has empowered individuals in emerging markets, changing their economic prospects.The diversity in teams provides greater problem-solving capabilities and drives a growth mindset for individuals.Navigating hiring challenges requires clear communication to achieve high standards and cultural fit.Giving back creates a positive network effect and greater sense of fulfillment.Chapters00:00. Introduction to Joel Yarbrough and Moment05:42. The Unique Opportunity in Africa's Fintech Landscape14:01. The Impact of Fintech on Personal Agency19:44. Australia's Fintech Identity and Global Positioning25:08. Understanding Human Capital in Startups30:32. Passion vs. Mission-Driven Work39:01. Navigating Hiring Challenges in a Changing MarketSend us a textSubscribe Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/fintech-leaders-7092732051488980992/Connect on Linkedin: https://bit.ly/3DsCJBp
Dexter Cousins shares an update from Tier One People with some exciting news on Executive hires.And a snippet from a fantastic podcast episode with Joe Yarbrough, CEO of Moment.Send us a textSubscribe Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/fintech-leaders-7092732051488980992/Connect on Linkedin: https://bit.ly/3DsCJBp
About this EpisodeIn episode 197 of the Fintech Chatter Podcast, host Dexter Cousins reconnects with Liam Millward, CEO and Co-Founder of Instant. They discuss the remarkable growth and evolution of Instant since their last conversation. Liam shares insights on shifting from a product-focused mindset to a revenue-driven approach, navigating challenges in a competitive landscape.He shares the importance of building a high-performance team. Liam emphasises the significance of leadership, decision-making, and the role of personal experiences in shaping his entrepreneurial journey. The conversation also touches on the future of Instant and the strategies for market expansion.The Instant Journey As CEO and Co-founder of Instant; Liam is on a mission to power the world's most innovative brands, helping to drive their revenue and retention on autopilot. He launched his first funding round led by Blackbird, at age 17, generating $7.5m, the biggest pre-seed to date in Australia. As the business grew to $1.5m in annualised revenue, they have raised an additional $30m across Seed and Series A rounds. Hitting a healthy 1 million shoppers within 12 months of their launch.Since Instant launched its Checkout product, they have gone on to develop Audiences and Targeting offering their 3 product across the US and Australia. This is a triple-pronged approach to customer retention and greater outcomes for business revenue. About Liam Millward Liam started his first venture aged 13 in a caravan, travelling around Australia and the world with his family. His love of travel resulted in him curating and developing a well-known travel magazine, Navigate Australia with a monthly readership of 50,000+.Key TakeawaysLiam Millward reflects on the rapid growth of Instant since its inception.The importance of focusing on revenue rather than just product development.Building a strong sales strategy is crucial for startup success.Creating a high-performance culture is essential for team motivation.Leadership requires transparency and accountability within the team.Identifying and nurturing talent is key to sustaining growth.Travel and personal experiences can significantly influence an entrepreneurial mindset.Having a clear vision can inspire teams to achieve ambitious goals.Market expansion requires understanding and adapting to new environments.Failing as a company is not an option; resilience is vital.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Instant and Liam's Journey05:28 Shifting Focus: From Product Obsession to Revenue11:04 Sales Strategies for Rapid Revenue Growth16:40 Leadership and Transparency in Startups22:27 Creating an Inspiring Vision for the Team27:00 Navigating Toxic Work Environments34:26 The Impact of Travel on Entrepreneurship42:13 Finding Inspiration and Setting Ambitious Goals49:14 The Realities of Starting a Business Send us a textSubscribe Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/fintech-leaders-7092732051488980992/Connect on Linkedin: https://bit.ly/3DsCJBp
About this EpisodeIn Episode 196 of the Fintech Chatter podcast, Dexter Cousins is joined by Graham Strain, Co-Founder of Citoplus a digital platform for commercial broking. The Citoplus Journey Dexter and Graham look back at their first meeting and discuss Graham's journey from traditional Banking to Start up. His recognition that he was a transformation guy at heart and wanting to do "cool stuff for customers" was the driver behind founding Citoplus. He chats about support from great shareholders, and how they funded Citoplus through, what he calls the "Friends, Families & Fools" model, who have shown great faith in their vision. Graham outlines the plans for the future and how Citoplus aims to reach 100% of the digital broking market through partnerships with Banks and Non-Banks. Watch out for lots of new announcements. About CitoplusCitoPlus is the cornerstone of modern, frictionless commercial lending. Designed by industry leaders, they launched a product that streamlines the laborious process of SME lending.Citoplus has focussed on removing the paperwork-heavy process through automation. The result is a broker-friendly data-rich system that delivers better client service and achieves quicker outcomes, meaning deals are closed faster.About Graham StrainAs Co-founder of Citoplus, Graham has a background in banking, including 13 years at NAB in product, business bank and corporate development executive roles. He held the position of interim CFO and Product Head at start-up Angle Auto Finance, an asset finance company. He was GM - Business Products at Judo Bank in the SME lending space.Chapters:00:01:15 Citoplus The Journey and Solution 00:19:45 Graham's Backstory and Career in Banking 00:25:20 Why Startups and Banks are so different 00:39:00 Big News from Citoplus Links & Resources:Visit Citoplus websiteConnect with Graham StrainConnect with Dexter CousinsLearn more about Tier One PeopleSend us a textSubscribe Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/fintech-leaders-7092732051488980992/Connect on Linkedin: https://bit.ly/3DsCJBp
In this special episode of Fintech Chatter, host Dexter Cousins and guest Kristofer Rogers of Volt.io discuss the Singapore Fintech Festival 2024, highlighting its scale, the quality of discussions, and the global interest in fintech. They explore themes of financial health, geopolitical impacts, interoperability, and the future of embedded finance emphasizing the need for collaboration in the fintech ecosystem. In this conversation, Kristofer Rogers and Dexter discuss the evolving landscape of FinTech, focusing on the implications of disruption, the changing nature of leadership, and the critical importance of talent. They explore the accessibility of industry leaders, the significance of community events, and Australia's position in the global FinTech arena. The discussion highlights the challenges and opportunities facing Australia, the need for a long-term vision, and an optimistic outlook for the future of FinTech, particularly in relation to trade finance and digital currency.TakeawaysThe Singapore Fintech Festival 2024 had 65,000 delegates.Financial health is a more pressing issue than financial inclusion.Interoperability is becoming more important than innovation in fintech.Africa presents unique opportunities for fintech.Collaboration among fintechs and banks is essential for success.Embedded finance is maturing, but challenges remain.The festival highlighted the importance of genuine business connections.Talent is a critical focus area that is often overlooked in discussions.Accessibility of industry leaders fosters networking and collaboration.A long-term vision is necessary for Australia to establish its identity in FinTech.Optimism exists for the future of FinTech in Australia, with potential growth opportunities.Global trade and currency are poised for significant changes in the coming years.The FinTech landscape is evolving, and businesses must adapt to stay relevant.Chapters00:00 Overview of the Singapore Fintech Festival06:04 Global Perspectives on Fintech12:01 Interoperability vs. Innovation in Fintech18:00 Collaboration in the Fintech Ecosystem27:46 The Implications of Disruption33:21 Accessibility and Networking in FinTech40:05 Challenges and Opportunities for Australia45:55 Optimism for the Future of FinTechSend us a textSubscribe Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/fintech-leaders-7092732051488980992/Connect on Linkedin: https://bit.ly/3DsCJBp
We have a great Fintech Chatter Podcast for you this week, a transformative piece in more ways than one. Dexter Cousins caught up with Paul Weingarth, Co-founder & CEO of Slyp, Australia's only independent startup backed by all four major banks.About This Episode12 months ago Paul and Slyp were in a challenging place. Paul's health and fitness had suffered with the stress of running a startup and Slyp were facing capital runway challenges. Things weren't looking great.After a week of playing the victim (and a good talking to himself), he decided enough was enough and he needed to change right now! By focussing on his health first, the past year has been transformative. Paul is back in his best shape since his Uni days, shedding 25kg and doing his first triathlon. And Slyp has bounced back from its challenges with the launch of Go Rewards!This is one of our favourite-ever episodes. Paul first appeared as an early guest - to see first-hand his journey and to be able to share it with you through the podcast is something we're really proud of!About SlypSince Slyp launched in 2017 they have made it their mission to bring brands closer to their customers. The digitising of receipts and connecting the "SKU to Who" has allowed them to grow their market presence. Their DNA has always been about enriching the customer experience and helping retailers unleash the power of their POS data, to drive targeted engagement opportunities with their customers.Go Rewards Powered By SlypThey recently launched Go Rewards the first turnkey, full-stack loyalty platform that drives smarter commerce allowing retailers including, Kmart, Country Road Group, Chemist warehouse and countless others, the opportunity to harness the power of consumer buying, getting to "Know & Grow" their customer relationships.About PaulWith a career rooted in digital commerce and payments, Paul previously led PayPal Australia's growth team. His expertise and passion lie in customer experience, with a vision to revolutionise payment experiences, delivering step-change value to both retailers and their suppliers.Outside of work, Paul has reignited his dedication to health and fitness, recently competing in his first triathlon.Send us a textSubscribe Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/fintech-leaders-7092732051488980992/Connect on Linkedin: https://bit.ly/3DsCJBp
In the latest episode of the Fintech Chatter podcast, Dexter reconnects with Ryan Edwards-Pritchard, CEO of Anna.MoneyRyan chats to Dexter about the recent merger of Cape and how he's joined forces with the UK's Anna.Money to bring a new approach to supporting the 2 million plus small businesses in Australia.About this EpisodeRyan shares the back story of launching Cape in Australia and the challenges he faced getting through the pandemic, securing funding, growing the business and then navigating the funding crunch.They discuss the synergies that led to Cape being acquired by ANNA and Ryan shares his learnings and advice for other founders seeking an acquisition partner.Ryan also shares the plans for growth in the region as well as some unique product offerings and services for the Aussie market.About Anna.MoneyAs "The business account that does your accounting and taxes" Anna.Money provides a smart all-in-one business account for money, invoicing, expenses, bookkeeping and taxes.About RyanRyan would describe himself as a British expat Fintech Nerd. His background in the UK saw him heading up Europe's largest digital marketplace for SME Finance in Funding Options.Send us a textSubscribe Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/fintech-leaders-7092732051488980992/Connect on Linkedin: https://bit.ly/3DsCJBp
In episode 193, Dexter Cousins sits down with Co-Founders John Crutchley and Dave Malcolm, the brains behind Mist, an innovative solution helping students organise their new life in Australia. It doesn't sound glamorous, but it is an untapped market ripe for digital innovation.Dave and John share their vision for what promises to be a unique Fintech scaleup. Mist stands out as an ambitious concept. Where many Fintech's have essentially created a business that could easily be a feature in an app, Mist is an app that makes Fintech a feature of their design.Dave and John share their Mist journey so far and how their contrasting startup experiences at MarleySpoon and Volt Bank are helping them navigate the pitfalls of a Fintech startup.Key Takeaways:Finding the right co-founderMaking Fintech a feature to solve a bigger problemEmbedded finance - cutting through the hypeBuilding a solution that customers will use for lifeInfluencing partners and government to create opportunitiesThe HUGE opportunity for Aussie Fintechs in IndiaHow learning from startup success and failure is shaping Mist's strategyAbout Our Guests:John Crutchley John gained extensive experience in various leadership roles in the Banking sector before founding Mist. He specialised in migration and international banking for ANZ and Volt Bank, where he was specifically hired as Head of International Banking to lead their go-to-market strategy in the international student market.Dave MalcolmA passionate C-Level executive and entrepreneur with a proven track record of founding, building, and scaling digital ventures across web2 and web3 in Australia.He pinpoints the co-founding of Marley Spoon & Dinnerly in 2015 as his career highlight, which went on to be listed on the ASX in 2018 (ASX: MMM). Show Notes:[00:57] Dave Malcolm introduces Mist.[01:53] John Crutchley shares the genesis for the idea and how he met Dave.[04:40] Dave Malcolm on getting into the mindset of a Gen Z customer.[08:30] Case studies: Embedded finance done right.[13:32] Big wins and successes so far.[19:29] Getting the business off the ground, overcoming challenges and obstacles.[24:10] Busting Fintech startup myths. Move fast and break things vs slow and deliberate growth[34:29] The complexity of Fintech. Why fixing problems is so hard.[40:15] Identifying valuable, global, niche markets.Links & Resources:Visit Mist's website: https://gomist.co/Connect with Dave Malcolm on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davemalcolm/Connect with John Crutchley on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-crutchley-0842827/Connect with Dexter Cousins on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dextercousins/Learn more about Tier One People: https://tieronepeople.com/Subscribe & Review:If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave us a review on [Apple Podcasts/Send us a textSubscribe Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/fintech-leaders-7092732051488980992/Connect on Linkedin: https://bit.ly/3DsCJBp
In this episode of the Fintech Chatter Podcast, Dexter sits down with Robert Kassis, a visionary leader and co-founder of DigiZoo, a digital consultancy supporting some of Australia's most innovative Fintech including 86 400, Volt Bank, Afterpay Money, Constantinople and Great Northern Bank.DigiZoo is at the forefront of transforming businesses through innovative digital solutions, helping organizations navigate the complexities of the digital landscape with confidence and agility.Robert shares his insights on the complexities of digital transformation in today's banks, how DigiZoo helps incumbents stay ahead of the curve, and the critical role that technology plays in driving business success. We also delve into the unique approach DigiZoo is developing by productising their service offering.Whether you're a founder/executive looking to enhance your product capability or someone interested in the latest trends in digital innovation, this episode offers valuable perspectives on how to thrive in the Fintech 2.0 era.Key Takeaways:The complexities of digital transformation in banks and legacy systems.BaaS? Embedded Finance? - What is the BIG opportunity in Fintech?Moving from a consultancy operating model to a product operating model.Bootstrapping and building sustainably.Attracting and retaining the best talent.The secret to successful partnerships.The future of digital consultancies and emerging trends in the industry.About Our Guest:Robert Kassis is the co-founder of DigiZoo, bringing years of experience in digital strategy and innovation. With a passion for helping businesses leverage technology to achieve their goals, Robert has been instrumental in positioning DigiZoo as a leading consultancy in the digital space.Show Notes:[01:35] Robert Kassis introduces DigiZoo and its core mission.[08:00] From service to product operating model.[12:39] Fixing problems - Avoiding hype. DigiZoo's unique approach to digital consultancy.[21:14] Case studies: The complexity of fixing bank legacy technology.[25:59] AI - The impacts and opportunities.[29:29] Finding the right tech talent.[36:15] Aligning purpose and values for sustainable growth.[40:29] What the future holds for Digizoo and their partners.Links & Resources:Visit DigiZoo's website: https://digizoo.com.au/Connect with Robert Kassis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-kassis-2238972/Subscribe & Review:If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave us a review on [Apple Podcasts/Spotify/Your Preferred Platform]. Your feedback helps us bring more engaging content and insightful conversations to you.Join the Conversation:Got questions or thoughts on this episoSend us a textSubscribe Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/fintech-leaders-7092732051488980992/Connect on Linkedin: https://bit.ly/3DsCJBp
In Episode 191 of the Fintech Chatter Podcast, Dexter Cousins is joined by Tim Buskens CEO of Hope Housing a not-for-profit initiative assisting Essential Service Workers. Dexter and Tim chat about the very real issue of home ownership in Australia for essential workers, as they battle to afford housing closer to where they work.About Hope Housing Tim has witnessed first-hand the issues faced by our essential workers in their fight to afford home ownership. He was struck by the stress many of our essential workers face on a daily basis. Observing how they are often forced to move away from their community in order to buy a home, resulting in long journeys to get to work. Mainstream banks view essential workers as too high risk for the traditional mortgage route and Tim felt there could be a better way.From this Hope Housing materialised. An innovative way for people to finance their home purchase through alternative investment, not just the bank route. Now in its 4th year, they are working with great partners who are helping make this happen.They've assembled an experienced team of financial and technology experts, culminating in a group of people who continue to innovate the solution and deliver the mission to help Australia's unsung heroes buy a home.About Tim BuskensTim is Chief Executive Officer and a Founding Director of HOPE Housing. Tim brings over 25 years' experience in financial services across both private and public sectors to the role at Hope Housing. Most recently as COO of the Australian Superannuation Funds Association, Tim has also held executive positions in Link Group, Oasis Asset Management and ASIC. Tim has a Bachelor of Business from Victoria University and a Masters of Applied Finance from Macquarie University.Send us a Text Message.Subscribe Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/fintech-leaders-7092732051488980992/Connect on Linkedin: https://bit.ly/3DsCJBp
In episode 190 of Fintech Chatter Dexter Cousins is joined by Chad West, VP of Marketing for Argent. Dexter first met Chad in 2018 when Chad was VP of Marketing for Revolut. Tune in as they talk about Chad's journey from UK Politics to UK Fintech and now the world of digital assets.About Argent - Argent is the world's most simple and secure smart wallet for Ethereum. It puts the power of crypto into the hands of anyone with a phone. Empowering users to control and prosper from their digital assets and identity.Store, save and send; borrow, earn interest and invest. No-nonsense and non-custodial. Combining beautiful design and bulletproof security. Without borders or boundaries.Launched in 2018 Argent is backed by Silicon Valley and Europe's top investors, including Paradigm, Index Ventures, Creandum and firstminute capital.About This Episode -Chad and Dexter talk about the early days of Revolut. When Chad joined as their first marketing leader, he was employee no25. Revolut had amassed a fairly impressive 50,000 customers at this stage. Chad shares some of the strategies he harnessed to take the company to 20 MILLION customers just 5 years later.Dexter also talks to Chad about his career post Revolut. And Chad shares why he believes the world of digital assets has even more potential to fulfil the early promise of Fintech.And as one of the most accomplished marketers on the planet, Chad shares his tips for founders and gives some career advice to marketeers concerned about the rapid shake up in the industry by AI.About Chad West Chad was an early employee and Director of Global Marketing & Communications at Revolut. He helped transform the company from a fintech app that no one had heard of, into one of the fastest-growing technology companies in the world.Chad's marketing philosophy is a little different. He doesn't believe in blowing money on expensive Super Bowl ads, but instead by bringing customer's as close to the business as possible, and scaling through advocacy.From product marketing and community building, to referral campaigns and engagement, Chad has seen it all.Chad began his career in Public Affairs supporting at the the time UK Prime Minister, David Cameron.He then joined renowned Internet giant Rocket Internet, where he really cut his teeth in growth marketing, before joining Revolut as their first senior marketing hire in 2017.Chad is now VP of Marketing for Argent and holds an advisory role with Sorare.Send us a Text Message.Subscribe Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/fintech-leaders-7092732051488980992/Connect on Linkedin: https://bit.ly/3DsCJBp
In episode 189 of Fintech Chatter Dexter Cousins is joined by Pablo Gil Brusola, CEO of PropHero. About PropHero PropHero, founded in July 2021, is Australia's leading PropTech platform redefining property investment through cutting-edge data & AI technologies. The platform empowers over 1000 clients worldwide to craft high-return, low-risk property portfolios. PropHero simplifies the entire investment journey by connecting clients with trusted partners and handling everything from market research to property management. As we fast forward to today, the PropHero team has grown to over 100 dedicated members and expanded to property markets in Sydney, Spain, Bali, and Ireland.Prophero raised $8m in October 2022, is profitable and on course to generate $40m ARR this year. About This Episode Pablo dials in from Barcelona to share his secrets on building a global Fintech/Proptech.Dexter goes in depth with Pablo to understand how he, and his co-founder Mikael Roger, have built a global business with over 100 people across Australia, Spain, Bali and Ireland.Dexter digs deeper to understand Pablo's values, principles and motivations that drive him towards success.Tune in to find out:How to expand an Aussie Fintech globallySeeking the right investors and the right amount of capitalWhy a Bootstrap mindset is essential for success The secrets to hiring executive talentUnderstanding the different stages of growth and the people required for each stageHow to commercialise an idea and find paying customersRecognising your strengths and what to look for in a co-founderAbout Pablo Gil Brusola As a native Spaniard Pablo moved to Australia to study in 2009. He instantly fell in love with the country and decided he had to come back. Starting his career in a Big 4 consulting firm, he quickly realised he was an entrepreneur and started his first company Growpro. After a successful exit, Pablo teamed up with a friend and fellow co-founder Mikael Roger to launch PropHero.Find out more www.prophero.com.auSend us a Text Message.Subscribe Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/fintech-leaders-7092732051488980992/Connect on Linkedin: https://bit.ly/3DsCJBp
In episode 188 of Fintech Chatter podcast, Dexter Cousins is joined by Stevie Ann Dovico, CIO of Beyond Bank.We know what you're thinking, This is a Fintech Podcast, why are you featuring a Community Bank?Back in 2020 Dexter made a bold prediction that talent would move from Fintech and Big banks to the community banking space, as they looked to make an impact on community.So we were not as surprised as others when Beyond Bank managed to attract one of NAB's rising star executives in Stevie-Ann.Tune in as Dexter chats to Stevie-Ann about her motivations for joining a community bank, the synergies with Fintech and how Fintech founders can work in partnership with community banks to solve BIG societal problems like affordable housing.About Beyond BankBeyond Bank is one of Australia's largest, 100% customer-owned mutual banks with a credit union heritage. Founded over 60 years ago by those who felt left behind by a traditional banking system that failed to meet their needs or expectations. Beyond Bank has a vision to be the best bank for relationships. Striving to create and return value for their customers and communities helping to change lives.Stevie-Ann talks about how Beyond Bank proudly attained B Corp Certification in Australia, showing their commitment to the social and environmental impact their business has on the community. About Stevie-AnnStevie-Ann is a dynamic and visionary Information Technology and Digital Executive with over 15 years of experience in Financial Services across Asia Pacific. She has proven success in leading large (600+), cross-functional, global teams across Technology, Digital, Strategy and Innovation, Product and Distribution, Risk and Compliance and Enterprise Transformation. At Westpac Stevie-Ann experienced the growth of the Australian Fintech scene through the partnership with Re-Inventure fund and her involvement with Stone and Chalk.In 2022 Stevie was awarded Executive Leader of the Year by Women in Digital. She holds an MBA from the University of Sydney in addition to B.Business and B.Information Technology. Stevie is a Member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.Send us a Text Message.Subscribe Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/fintech-leaders-7092732051488980992/Connect on Linkedin: https://bit.ly/3DsCJBp
In episode 187 of the Fintech Chatter podcast, Dexter Cousins is joined by CEO of Finmo, David Hanna.David talks to Dexter about how he and the team are tackling a global problem affecting pretty much every SME.David shares his Fintech journey as the Head of Risk and Compliance at Paypal and Chief Risk and Compliance Officer at Rapyd.Tune in to find out how to make the transition from risk to CEO, the optimal way to launch a global Fintech and how to win enterprise clients without a marketing budget!About David HannaDavid is the CEO and co-founder of Finmo and has over 20 years of expertise in the financial services and payments sector. Prior to founding Finmo, he held global leadership roles in Risk and Compliance for Financial Services companies headquartered in various locations globally. David has held senior roles across companies such as PayPal, Ernst & Young, Zurich, ING Bank, Banxa and others. He serves on several advisory boards and has invested in many startups around the world.About FinmoFinmo is a global B2B treasury management platform that is focused on providing thenecessary tools for the “CFO Office” including finance teams, CFOs, and treasurers. Finmo provides a single platform to enable the core elements of treasury to be managed from one place.Finmo does this by providing four core modules to its clients, Money movementCash management, including AR/AP modulesFX Hedging capabilities Integrations into existing accounting and enterprise softwareFollowing 20+ years of working across the financial services industry with founders from organisations such as PayPal, Citi, and other big names, the Finmo exec team realised that everyone has a treasury problem!Especially companies with multiple bank accounts and multiple org. structures within their group, handling multiple currencies in servicing their clients. In identifying this problem, Finmo is addressing a significant gap in the market for a solution that serves the end-to-end treasury management lifecycle.https://finmo.netSubscribe Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/fintech-leaders-7092732051488980992/Connect on Linkedin: https://bit.ly/3DsCJBp
Erica Xie joins Dexter Cousins to chat about Tanggram, a smart wealth-creating App that integrates investment with shopping rewards.The app provides a seamless wealth building journey to well-educated, young people who have stable income streams and financial goals. Co-founded with CEO Nick Tang in 2017, Tanggram is unique in that it serves a massively underserved segment of Australia's community, Asian immigrants. Dexter spoke to Erica just days before she was awarded Emerging Fintech Leader of te Year at the prestigious Finnies Awards. Erica shares her journey as COO from starting out as a financial advisor with Nick, to building a Fintech Platform, leading a team of 15 people through Covid, and keeping people together along the rollercoaster ride.Erica also shares news of the upcoming launch of their superannuation product.https://www.tanggram.com/more-superAbout Erica XieErica is a results-oriented leader with extensive experience in business management and operations, particularly in startups and the Fintech industry. As the Co-founder of Tanggram, Erica has played a key role in building a cohesive and goal-oriented team, and has contributed to the successful partnerships and market position of the business. Erica was honored as the "Young Leader of the Year" at the Women in Finance 2022, and has been nominated for the "Female Fintech Leader of the Year" in both the 2023 and 2024 Fintech Australia Finnies Awards.https://www.tanggram.com/Subscribe Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/fintech-leaders-7092732051488980992/Connect on Linkedin: https://bit.ly/3DsCJBp
In episode 185 of Fintech Chatter Dexter Cousins is joined by Andrew Ward, CEO and Founder of Liquidise.Hi, Dexter here with another great episode with another great Aussie Fintech founder. This week I chat with Andrew Ward about the launch of his latest venture, Liquidise. I'm excited to bring you this chat as Andrew has developed a solution that almost all of our listeners will benefit from!And as this isn't Andrew's first Rodeo, he shares some honest and candid advice for founders who may be a little earlier in the journey.About LiquidiseRecorded in the week Liquidise launched into the Aussie market, Andrew shares how Liquidise is unlocking private equity for company owners, investors and employees. Liquidise is a unique platform, giving shareholders and investors access to guaranteed cash and equity with instant cash settlements.Company owners retain complete control over their cap table, and can reward employees meaningfully. Investors get access to pre-vetted unlisted company opportunities, with direct ownership on the Liquidise share registry.Using blockchain technology, Liquidise is revolutionising the way founders and private companies can grow their companies, attract the best talent and keep control of their business.About Andrew WardThe inspiration for Liquidise came from Andrew's own experience of launching, growing and listing SelfWealth. His shareholders, like those in all unlisted companies, had to wait for either a public listing, company sale or change of control, or transact at a buyer's set price – if a buyer could be found. These options for private shareholders can be expensive and value destroying. In founding Liquidise, Andrew and his team are intent on solving this problem to unlock the value in private companies.Find out more - https://liquidise.com/Or watch Andrew tell you all about Liquidise in this promo video - https://youtu.be/QbqOklgComM?si=PWZZ4t2oj_88TxCXSubscribe Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/fintech-leaders-7092732051488980992/Connect on Linkedin: https://bit.ly/3DsCJBp
Meet Australia's newest bank CEO, Peita Piper of Avenue Bank. Avenue were recently granted a full ADI banking license and Dexter Cousins chats to Peita about their journey.In this episode Peita shares the strategy of Avenue and their focus on a niche business banking product neglected by banks, the bank guarantee.Avenue have digitised this paper process which takes up to 60 days to offer a bank guarantee in 24 hours!We also talk about the challenges of dealing with regulators in the aftermath of failed digital banks Xinja and Volt, while also looking at the big successes like Judo.Peita also shares her personal experience as we talk about the 'glass cliff'. Peita shares her own inspiring story of backing herself and taking on the CEO role at a very difficult time in the business.I also get the chance to ask Peita about what I believe is the hardest part of being a scale up CEO, taking the reigns from founders whilst they remain in the business.Finally I just want to say a MASSIVE well done to everyone involved in the Avenue journey. There is no tougher startup challenge than building a bank - it's the Everest of startup mountains to climb.You can find out more about Avenue Bank and careers https://www.avenuebank.com.au/careersUntil the next episode, keep well!Dexter.Subscribe Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/fintech-leaders-7092732051488980992/Connect on Linkedin: https://bit.ly/3DsCJBp
In episode 182 of Fintech Chatter Podcast Dexter Cousins is joined by Pål Krogdahl, Director of Advisory at Samlink and co-host of Fintech Daydreaming Podcast.In this episode, Dexter chats with Pål Krogdahl about the Fintech scene in the Nordics. They talk through the latest customer trends and research based on 40-plus banks, revealing the key themes and areas for innovation.Covering everything from AI to Open Banking, Banking as a Service to Embedded Finance, and everything in between the research reveals where customers are shifting their focus and expectations from their bank. Pål also shares some key findings on the major issues keeping banking execs awake at night, giving some clear indications on where the next wave of Fintech entrepreneurs should focus their energy.The Nordics is the birthplace of Fintech OG's like Klarna and Tink. It is a region with a rich history of innovation and Pål gives a rundown on the Fintech scene in his native Finland. There are some startling similarities to the Fintech scene down under and lessons can be learned from our European cousins.You can follow Pål on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/krogdahl/Download the report - https://samlink.fi/news/the-samlink-equation-2024-navigating-the-transformative-trends-in-banking/Listen to Fintech Daydreaming - https://fintechdaydreaming.com/Subscribe Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/fintech-leaders-7092732051488980992/Apple: https://apple.co/3D7NsPtSpotify: https://spoti.fi/3IzSViQSubscribe and like on Youtube: https://bit.ly/3tBlRmEConnect on Linkedin: https://bit.ly/3DsCJBp
Stake Co-Founders Matt Leibowitz and Dan Silver join Dexter Cousins in episode 182 of Fintech Chatter Podcast.In another one of our 'Origin Stories' Matt and Dan share their incredible journey from becoming friends to becoming business partners. Stake is one of Australia's most successful Fintech. They have raised US $93.5m to date with Tiger Global investing in their $50m Series A in March 2022.Their international success and growth has led Matt and Dan to see a much bigger opportunity ahead of them than they first envisaged in 2017 when Stake launchedEntrepreneurs are often known for their adaptability in driving scaleups, but many find it difficult adapting to someone else at the helm. For many scaleups, the CEO shuffle is a key part of long term success, but why?Stake is the latest scaleup to appoint a new CEO, Jon Howie, seeing Matt return to his roots in product and business strategy.But for many founders, the thought of letting go of their baby is unfathomable. Dexter chats to Matt and Dan about their thinking in bringing in Jon and their appointment last year of Chair, Geoff Lloyd. Tune in for an honest, thoughtful and candid discussion on life as co-founders and 'letting go of the baby' as we celebrate the first seven years of Stake.Dan and Matt share lessons they've learned, the decisions they've made and the people they've brought on board as they Stake a market leading position in the next seven years.Download the Stake AppFind out about Stake careers Subscribe Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/fintech-leaders-7092732051488980992/Apple: https://apple.co/3D7NsPtSpotify: https://spoti.fi/3IzSViQSubscribe and like on Youtube: https://bit.ly/3tBlRmEConnect on Linkedin: https://bit.ly/3DsCJBp
Dexter Cousins is joined by Chris Jewell, the CEO and Co-Founder of Zepto, one of an emerging number of Fintechs to base themselves from Regional Australia.Zepto creates real-time, account-to-account [A2A] payment solutions for business. Founded in 2016 and backed by Airtree Ventures, Zepto is one of Australia's fastest growing Fintech.In this first episode of 2024 Chris chats to Dexter about:- The opportunities Payto presents emerging Fintech like Zepto to totally redefine the payments landscape- The origins of Zepto and how a problem in an existing business turned into a whole new opportunity- Why Australia is perfectly poised to lead global innovation in payments- The challenges and benefits of being based from Byron Bay- The pressure of leaving the safety of a banking job and put your life savings into a new businessMake sure to follow us on your favourite podcast player for future episodes and check out our back catalogue of 300 plus episodes on Apple podcasts, Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts.Subscribe Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/fintech-leaders-7092732051488980992/Apple: https://apple.co/3D7NsPtSpotify: https://spoti.fi/3IzSViQSubscribe and like on Youtube: https://bit.ly/3tBlRmEConnect on Linkedin: https://bit.ly/3DsCJBp
Join us for a live recording of Fintech Chatter recorded at the CreditorWatch offices in Sydney.In part one Dexter Cousins is joined by guests from the podcast to review 2023 as we look back at the key events and share the amazing stories of fintech founders.Hear from Constantinople, Parpera, LoanOptions, Primer and Prospend.In part two CreditorWatch CEO, Patrick Coghlan unveils their latest Business Risk Index report and gets expert commentary from Prospa CEO, Greg Moshal and Lendi Group COO, Sebastian Watkins.Each share their insights on consumer behaviour in small business and the home loan market providing an accurate insight into what we can expect in 2024.Will there be a rebound or is Fintech in for another tough year? Tune in as we celebrate the year that was 2023 and get set for another rollercoaster ride in 2024!Check out the CreditorWatch BRI reportThanks to CreditorWatch for making this live recording possible and a special thanks to the audience for making this such a great event.Subscribe Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/fintech-leaders-7092732051488980992/Apple: https://apple.co/3D7NsPtSpotify: https://spoti.fi/3IzSViQSubscribe and like on Youtube: https://bit.ly/3tBlRmEConnect on Linkedin: https://bit.ly/3DsCJBp
In episode 179 of Fintech Chatter Podcast, Dexter Cousins chats to Honey Insurance CEO Richard JoffeMaking his Fintech Chatter debut Richard is CEO and founder of Honey Insurance, arguably Australia's hottest early-stage Fintech! Honey Insurance is the smarter way to protect your home and contents. Backed by RACQ, Honey uses sensors in the home to offer a new type of insurer whose focus is on helping avoid accidents and protect against damage rather than just paying out after events.Dexter chats to Richard in the week he was awarded CEO Magazines Entrepreneur of the Year and Honey featured at #6 in the Deloitte Fast 50. Expect to see some massive announcements from Honey in 2024!As a 3x founder, Richard shares his secrets on:Building successful tech startupsThe key differences between launching in the US and AusAttracting and retaining the best talentBuilding a high-performance cultureWinning investment in a down marketPartnering with incumbentsAbout Honey InsuranceHoney is Smart Home Insurance, and they are on a mission to eliminate the 50% of avoidable accidents that happen to homes. Honey gives customers free technology and services from day 1 to keep homes safer, then rewards them with a lower price on their insurance.https://www.honeyinsurance.com/About Richard JoffeRichard Joffe is the founder of 3 successful startups, and currently the CEO of Honey Insurance. Previously, Richard founded Park Assist which automated the parking industry, and after expanding to 20 countries was acquired by TKH in 2012. Then Stella.ai which automated the recruitment industry using AI, and was acquired as part of a $1.1 billion merger with Trustaff. Formerly, Richard was a strategy consultant with McKinsey and an investment banker with Morgan Stanley.Now with Honey Insurance, Richard has turned his attention to home insurance, where he is on a mission to give Australians free technology and services, to eliminate the 50% of avoidable accidents that happen to homes.Richard believes technology and automation can make everyone's lives more efficient, so we can spend more time doing the things that matter most in life.Subscribe Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/fintech-leaders-7092732051488980992/Apple: https://apple.co/3D7NsPtSpotify: https://spoti.fi/3IzSViQSubscribe and like on Youtube: https://bit.ly/3tBlRmEConnect on Linkedin: https://bit.ly/3DsCJBp
In episode 178 of Fintech Chatter Podcast, Dexter Cousins is joined by Ada Guan, CEO and Co-Founder of RDC (Rich Data Co).About this episode of Fintech Chatter PodcastIs there a viable use case for AI in banking?
Ryan Edwards-Pritchard from Cape joins Dexter as they celebrate the fourth anniversary of the very first episode of Fintech Chatter.Dexter delves through the archives picking his favourite memories from the podcast. And Ryan does a great job of interviewing dexter about the 4 year journey of Fintech Chatter Podcast.Thank you to all of our guests, partners and co-hosts past and present.Almost 500,000 listens4.9 Star ratings in Apple and Spotify250 amazing guests294 showsSpecial mention to Fintech Australia, Patona, NAB, Chloe White, Simon Lee, Ben Ford and Joanne Cousins ❤️And a very BIG thank you to you for listening and supporting the show
Dexter Cousins invites Datamesh CEO Mark Nagy back on the show. Mark made his first appearance 12 months ago as part of our spotlight on the next wave of Aussie Fintech startups. One year on from his debut Mark shares his tips on how Datamesh secured $30m Series A funding in the midst of the downturn.Mark also shares his secrets for winning contracts with global clients like Deutsche Bank and how to expand an Aussie Fintech internationally.You can check out our original podcast with Mark https://tieronepeople.com/2022/09/16/datamesh-mark-nagy/Subscribe Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/fintech-leaders-7092732051488980992/Apple: https://apple.co/3D7NsPtSpotify: https://spoti.fi/3IzSViQSubscribe and like on Youtube: https://bit.ly/3tBlRmEConnect on Linkedin: https://bit.ly/3DsCJBpFollow on Twitter: https://twitter.com/DexterCousins
In episode 175 Dexter is joined by a returning guest, Patrick Coghlan of CreditorWatch, a leading Australian data and technology company offering a complete suite of credit reporting products and data insights covering the entire customer lifecycle.About Patrick CoghlanPatrick is the CEO of CreditorWatch. In 2010, he became one of the three founding employees of CreditorWatch. He was appointed CEO in December 2018.Patrick is a specialist commentator on issues in the credit industry and regularly appears in the media as well as presenting to corporate and government stakeholders. He has played an integral role in transforming the approach to the management of B2B credit risk in Australia.Patrick has led the development of CreditorWatch's values and team-spirited culture, as well as driving the company to considerable growth. He has a Bachelor of Arts from Sydney University and is a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.About CreditorWatchhttps://creditorwatch.com.au/CreditorWatch is a leading Australian data and technology company that provides businesses with access to unique data and innovative products. By using our platform, our customers can confidently manage their commercial relationships, improve productivity and reduce financial risk. As a commercial credit reporting bureau, CreditorWatch offers a complete suite of credit reporting products and data insights covering the entire customer lifecycle, from customer onboarding and credit decision automation to credit risk management and automated collections.Subscribe Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/fintech-leaders-7092732051488980992/Apple: https://apple.co/3D7NsPtSpotify: https://spoti.fi/3IzSViQSubscribe and like on Youtube: https://bit.ly/3tBlRmEConnect on Linkedin: https://bit.ly/3DsCJBpFollow on Twitter: https://twitter.com/DexterCousins
Dexter Cousins is joined by Sharon Nouh, Founder and CEO of Prospend in episode 175 of Fintech Chatter.Prospend automates and digitises all of the business spend processes for businesses. They build next-generation finance tools that empower businesses to make proactive financial decisions while also enabling their people to be more productive.Sharon pioneered the expense management market in Australia by developing and launching the first locally built expense management platform. At that time, expense management technology was in its infancy. Although the original version was simple, it provided a powerful alternative to businesses managing their processes manually.However, Sharon didn't stop at automating expenses. She foresaw a desire among businesses to automate all their spending processes within a unified platform. Two years later, she incorporated accounts payable automation into the platform, establishing herself as a global pioneer in this technology, not just in Australia.Sharon, who has a deep understanding of the intricacies of financial technology, has been able to leverage and develop technology that addresses real business problems, as opposed to merely following trends.Throughout ProSpend's journey, Sharon has maintained a laser focus on solving challenges for mid to larger businesses and has competed with global players. ProSpend is now recognized as a world-class solution with more than 600 customers, reflecting Sharon's understanding of customer needs and her ability to provide solutions that address real problems.About Sharon NouhSharon's journey as a female entrepreneur in the predominantly male fintech sector has had its challenges. In the early days, she faced difficulties securing venture capital funding due to a lack of confidence and role models for female tech entrepreneurs. The company's growth is a testament to her unwavering belief in her vision and her dedication to success. She is passionate about fostering diversity in the fintech sector and hopes her story will inspire and encourage more women to pursue fintech careers.Sharon's leadership has been pivotal in guiding ProSpend's growth and development. She has displayed her ability to inspire and lead a team, navigate challenges, foster a positive work culture, and adapt to changes in the fast-paced fintech landscape.Subscribe Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/fintech-leaders-7092732051488980992/Apple: https://apple.co/3D7NsPtSpotify: https://spoti.fi/3IzSViQSubscribe and like on Youtube: https://bit.ly/3tBlRmEConnect on Linkedin: https://bit.ly/3DsCJBpFollow on Twitter: https://twitter.com/DexterCousins
Julian Fayad is the founder & CEO of LoanOptions.ai. Australia's first AI powered loan marketplace. It uses AI to match borrowers with the best loan options from over 75+ major banks and lenders to save them thousands of dollars and heaps of time with its one simple application form that does not impact the borrowers credit score. Julian represents the next generation of Fintech founder. He's a pioneer of artificial intelligence in the asset finance finance space. His love for technology started from a very young age and he built many projects including an app that was deployed onto the apple app store at just 18 years old. Dexter and Julian talk about his experience as a first time founder, leadership lessons and how he has grown LoanOptions from a self funded Covid business to a profitbale Fintech scaleup now employing 40+ people.Find out more https://loanoptions.aiSubscribe Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/fintech-leaders-7092732051488980992/Apple: https://apple.co/3D7NsPtSpotify: https://spoti.fi/3IzSViQSubscribe and like on Youtube: https://bit.ly/3tBlRmEConnect on Linkedin: https://bit.ly/3DsCJBpFollow on Twitter: https://twitter.com/DexterCousins
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