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Is today's financial system fit for a digital-first world?Not quite — and Siddharth Shetty is here to tell us why.In this episode of Couchonomics, Arjun speaks with Finternet Labs CEO Siddharth Shetty, one of the architects behind India's UPI and Account Aggregator framework, to unpack the vision for Finternet — a universal financial infrastructure layer designed to empower users, build trust, and unlock global interoperability.We explore how fragmented rails, legacy systems, and a lack of verifiability are holding back progress, and how Finternet could be the solution that brings it all together.
Live from Proof of Talk Paris 2025, this episode of The Edge of Show explores the evolution of digital finance, security, and real-world blockchain utility with four visionary leaders shaping the next phase of Web3.First, we spoke with Stephan Lutz, CEO of BitMEX, who shared insights on exchange security, AI-assisted trading, and how BitMEX is navigating a more responsible approach to token listings and trader education.Next, we sat down with Nkiru Uwaje, CEO of Mansa, to learn how her team is powering cross-border payments with stablecoins and building liquidity rails for Africa, Southeast Asia, and Latin America.Then we spoke with Jason Jiang, Chief Business Officer at CertiK, who outlined how real-time monitoring and smarter compliance tools are transforming security in blockchain—and why regulators are finally catching up.Lastly, Damu Winston from Amazon Web3 joined us to discuss the convergence of Web3, AI, and spatial computing—plus a surprise appearance from his personal AI agent Samir, who gave us a glimpse into the not-so-distant future.This episode offers a rare and dynamic cross-section of the global leaders building Web3's next chapter—combining infrastructure, policy, finance, and futuristic tech.Support us through our Sponsors! ☕
The future of payments won't be card-swiped or cash-counted — it'll be fast, digital, and deeply integrated.In this episode of Couchonomics with Arjun, Floris de Kort, CEO of Thunes, joins to unpack what it really takes to build a global payments network across 130+ markets, from wallets to banks to mobile rails.What's inside:- Why real-time payments still face real-world friction- How Thunes is turning compliance into a competitive edge- The rise of B2B payouts — and why corporates are driving the volume- Why MENA is now a proving ground for wallet innovation- The growing role of stablecoins in global financeIf you're building in fintech, infrastructure, or cross-border payments, this one's essential listening.
On June 04, 2025, Tokenovate and Future of Finance co-hosted a half-day event at the City of London Club, titled Exploring Blockchain's Real Impact on Securities Finance, Collateral Management and the Repo Market. The event attracted more than 120 attendees from banks, asset management companies, market infrastructure, law firms, industry associations, Fin-Techs and consultants. This is an edited summary of the discussions that took place.Panellists: Adrian Dale, Head of Regulation & Market Practice at the International Securities Lending Association (ISLA); Marcus van Abbé, Head of Digital Market Infrastructure at R3; Steve Whyman, European Commercial Head of Digital Asset Funds and Business at Apex; Roy Zimmerhansl, Partner and Head of Capital Markets, WTS Hansuke.To download the book for free, Click here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
On June 04, 2025, Tokenovate and Future of Finance co-hosted a half-day event at the City of London Club, titled Exploring Blockchain's Real Impact on Securities Finance, Collateral Management and the Repo Market. The event attracted more than 120 attendees from banks, asset management companies, market infrastructure, law firms, industry associations, Fin-Techs and consultants. This is an edited summary of the discussions that took place.Panellists: Ciarán McGonagle, Chief Legal and Product Officer at Tokenovate; Steve Whyman, European Commercial Head of Digital Asset Funds and Business at Apex.To download the book for free, Click here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
On June 04, 2025, Tokenovate and Future of Finance co-hosted a half-day event at the City of London Club, titled Exploring Blockchain's Real Impact on Securities Finance, Collateral Management and the Repo Market. The event attracted more than 120 attendees from banks, asset management companies, market infrastructure, law firms, industry associations, Fin-Techs and consultants. This is an edited summary of the discussions that took place.Panellists: John Allan, Head of the Innovation and Operations Unit at the Investment Association; Romin Dabir, Partner, Financial Services and Regulation, Reed Smith; Anna Matson, EMEA Head of Digital Assets and Innovation, Northern Trust.To download the book for free, Click here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
On June 04, 2025, Tokenovate and Future of Finance co-hosted a half-day event at the City of London Club, titled Exploring Blockchain's Real Impact on Securities Finance, Collateral Management and the Repo Market. The event attracted more than 120 attendees from banks, asset management companies, market infrastructure, law firms, industry associations, Fin-Techs and consultants. This is an edited summary of the discussions that took place.Panellists: Doug Bambrick, Head of the UK Custody Product for the UK and Middle East, BNP Paribas Securities Services; Basu Choudhury, Head of Partnerships and Alliances, OSTTRA; Yalini Isweran, Executive Director, Product Management at DTCC Digital Assets; Martin O'Connell, Solutions Architect, HQLAx.To download the book for free, Click here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this new episode of One Vision Podcast, the incredible Sophie Guibaud shares her startup journey from digital banking and embedded finance to cryptocurrency, and her latest venture with Martyna Lewinska. Unsure about entrepreneurship? Looking to power up your career or personal life? This episode is a must-listen for you —and Sophie's enthusiasm and sense of curiosity is contagious. #AI #Fintech #FinancialServcies #Startup #Entrepreneurship
In this episode of The Defiant Podcast, we explore the global shift toward Bitcoin as digital gold with Jeff Garzik, Co-Founder of Hemi, the largest programmable Bitcoin sidechain. Jeff shares his journey as a crypto OG, from contributing to Bitcoin in its earliest days to building innovative scaling solutions for Bitcoin. We discuss macroeconomic trends driving Bitcoin adoption, the evolution of decentralized finance, and how Hemi is shaping the future of BTCFi.Chapters00:00: Intro to the episode00:06: Why the world is turning to Bitcoin01:00: Meet Jeff Garzik: A crypto OG's journey03:06: From Linux to Bitcoin: Lessons in decentralization06:08: Scaling Bitcoin: The evolution of sidechains09:05: Hemi's approach to Bitcoin security and DeFi12:17: The rise of Bitcoin as a global reserve currency15:16: Hemi's innovations: Proof of Proof mining and beyond20:20: Bitcoin DeFi: Challenges and opportunities25:00: Macro trends driving Bitcoin adoption30:00: The future of Bitcoin DeFi and Hemi's roadmap35:00: Bitcoin's role in a decentralized financial future40:00: Closing thoughts and where to find Hemi
LightSpeed VT: https://www.lightspeedvt.com/ Dropping Bombs Podcast: https://www.droppingbombs.com/ You're here because you want to win—big. Brad Lea doesn't mess around. In this episode, he sits down with Jake Claver to tear into how his firm helps high-net-worth clients securely manage and grow their crypto portfolios, delivering the unfiltered truth you won't find anywhere else. No fluff, just real talk and actionable steps to crush it in business and life. Jake's link https://www.jakeclaver.com https://www.digitalwealthpartners.net https://www.youtube.com/@jakeclaver https://x.com/beyond_broke Brad Lea is a self-made entrepreneur who turned small-town grit into a multi-million-dollar empire. With over 25 years dominating sales and leadership, he's mentored thousands to outsmart, outwork, and out win their competition. His top-rated podcast, Dropping Bombs, brings raw, game-changing insights from the biggest names in business. LightSpeed VT is Brad's brainchild—the world's leading interactive training platform. It's built to make your team sharper, faster, and more effective, without wasting time or money. Whether you're a startup or a Fortune 500, LightSpeed VT is how you scale success and dominate your industry. Curious? Check it out: https://www.lightspeedvt.com/ Brad's also behind Closer School, the go-to program for mastering sales and closing deals like a pro. Want to 10x your income? This is where you start. His book, The Hard Way, lays out the brutal, honest lessons he learned building his empire—your blueprint to winning the game. Get it here: https://bradlea.com/product/the-hard-way/ This isn't just a video. It's a wake-up call. Watch it. Share it. Act on it. Closer School: https://www.closerschool.com/cs
Crypto isn't dead, it's going institutional. In this episode of Couchonomics with Arjun, Rifad Mahasneh, CEO of OKX MENA, joins the show to unpack what real digital asset adoption looks like beyond the headlines.We explore how OKX is building for scale, trust, and regulation - especially in the UAE, where crypto is becoming infrastructure, not just innovation.
Send us your thoughtsIn this episode of CFO 4.0, host Hannah Munro speaks with Andy Mellor, Fractional CFO at Summit 17 Ltd, about navigating M&A, preparing for financial events, and leading finance teams through high-growth environments.Key topics covered:Andy's career journey and transition into fractional CFO workStructuring finance teams to support rapid, acquisition-led growthManaging M&A deals end-to-end, including due diligence and integrationCommunicating effectively with sellers, stakeholders, banks, and PE firmsBuilding robust financial models and scenarios for funding strategiesPreparing businesses to be “event ready” with data, tools, and disciplineLinks mentionedAndy's LinkedinLearn more about Summit 17 Ltd Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here. Subscribe to our Podcast!
Financial markets have transformed dramatically, shifting from noisy trading floors to lightning-fast, technologically-driven platforms. At the March 2024 FIA conference, Citadel founder Ken Griffin discussed company growth in an episode of Inside the ICE House. Following that, Citadel Securities appointed Jim Esposito—former Goldman Sachs executive with nearly 30 years of experience—as its new President. Nearing a year into his tenure with Citadel Securities, Jim goes Inside the ICE House to discuss what differentiates the firm, it's role in helping maintain efficient and orderly markets, and how he, CEO Peng Zhao and Founder Ken Griffin are plotting its future.
In this new episode of One Vision Podcast, the incredible Sophie Guibaud shares her startup journey from digital banking and embedded finance to cryptocurrency, and her latest venture with Martyna Lewinska. Unsure about entrepreneurship? Looking to power up your career or personal life? This episode is a must-listen for you —and Sophie's enthusiasm and sense of curiosity is contagious. #AI #Fintech #FinancialServcies #Startup #Entrepreneurship Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Send us your thoughts In this episode of the CFO 4.0 Podcast, host Hannah Munro is joined by experienced CFO and executive coach Jeremy Earnshaw to explore one of the most critical – and often overlooked – phases of the CFO journey: the 60–90 day window. In this episode, we cover:How to assess and ensure data integrity before making strategic decisionsSigns of broken processes, bottlenecks, and weak control environmentsBuilding trust and alignment with your CEO, team, and peersManaging people issues and making tough but necessary team changesThe importance of cash, liquidity, and long-term visibility in planningAvoiding early mistakes and setting the tone for your CFO leadership journeyLinks mentioned: Jeremy's LinkedinLearn more about Clarendon Executive Coaching and Mentoring Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here. Subscribe to our Podcast!
Paolo Ardoino is the CEO of Tether, the company behind the ticker symbol USDT, the world's largest stablecoin. He also serves as CTO of the cryptocurrency exchange Bitfinex and co-founded Holepunch, a platform for peer-to-peer applications. Ardoino holds a Master's in Computer Science from the University of Genoa and is one of the most visible proponents of improving the banking system with cryptocurrencies.In this conversation, we discuss:How Paolo built the infrastructure behind the world's most used stablecoin and why he believes math, not politics, should govern moneyWhy he believes Bitcoin is the first form of money governed by math, and how that math could reshape global financeHow USDT became the most used digital dollar by solving practical challenges in regions with limited banking accessWhy Paolo believes traditional finance is broken and how decentralized tech offers a more inclusive infrastructureThe case for brain–computer interfaces and why Paolo sees human and AI symbiosis as the next frontier of intelligenceWhy he's optimistic about AI's role in society, even as he argues that long term AI safety might be an illusionResources:Subscribe to the AI & The Future of Work NewsletterConnect with Paolo on LinkedIn or on XAI fun fact articleOn How to Ensure the AI and Workplace Technologies Align with Civil Rights Laws
Thomas hat eine Leidenschaft fürs Reisen und ist Partner im Bereich Risk & Regulatory mit Schwerpunkt Insurance. Im Podcast sprechen wir über die zukunftsorientierte Vision seines CMAAS-Teams, die bereichsübergreifende Zusammenarbeit im Accounting und Reporting bei PwC und darüber, wie man standortübergreifend das Teamgefühl aufrechterhält. Außerdem: Was macht Finanzthemen auch nach mehr als 20 Jahren noch spannend? Wie geht er im Urlaub mit seinem Workload um? Du möchtest bei Risk & Regulatory Financial Services einsteigen? Dann schau dir diese Stelle an: ► Consultant Accounting & Reporting: https://t1p.de/w7js8
AI isn't a campaign. It's a core banking reset.In this episode of Couchonomics with Arjun, we're joined by Amith Rajan, CEO of Neo Ventures and Head of Digital Wholesale Banking at Mashreq, for a candid conversation on how AI, tokenization, and infrastructure transformation are reshaping the banking stack from the inside out.We unpack:- Why "rip and replace" is a myth and what real legacy evolution looks like-How Mashreq is deploying AI across KYC, onboarding, and customer insights-The role of tokenized assets, CBDCs, and smart contracts in wholesale banking- How Neo Ventures is exporting IP and scaling infrastructure beyond capital- Why culture, not technology, is the biggest barrier to digital transformation
With the changes discussed in previous episodes in our Forming the Future of Finance limited series – the growth of AI, coupled with changes in portfolio construction – business models will need to change.This fourth and last episode features how GPs will be running their businesses in the future.Cornelia Andersson – Chief Product Officer at With Intelligence moderates this dynamic discussion. An expert on creating value from data and building customer-centric data and analytics products, Cornelia is a frequent speaker at industry events and a published author on various related topics, including market data and information, sustainable finance and investing. Joining her are:Enrico Ohnemüeller, Co-founder and CEO of Bunch, the digital backbone of European Private Markets. With a track record of bridging traditional finance with emerging fintech, Enrico previously gained experience at Goldman Sachs and led innovation at finleap.Nick Leopard, Founder and CEO of Accordion, the financial consulting firm uniquely focused on private equity with more than 300 of the world's leading PE firms and their portfolio companies as clients. Serving the entire CFO function, under Nick's leadership Accordion has become the premier digital-enablement partner for portfolio CFOs.Returning to our podcast is Jake Walker, this time as a client of Lyra, a Motive Partners portfolio company and recent spin-out from Apollo's client services division, Lyra offers a differentiated client-servicing solution, delivering technology and operations capabilities that enhance efficiency and the client experience in both the institutional and wealth channels.Let's hear what's next…This series was recorded during an exclusive event, co-hosted by Motive Partners and With Intelligence in Berlin to kick off SuperReturn where the world of private capital meets.___The information contained in this podcast is intended for discussion purposes only. It is not a recommendation, offer, or a solicitation for the purchase or sale of a security or any services of Motive Partners. All investing involves risk and there is no guarantee that past performance will be indicative of future results.The views and opinions expressed in the podcast are as of the date of recording, reflect the views and opinions of the persons expressing them, and do not necessarily represent the views or opinions of Motive Partners. Motive Partners makes no representations or warranties as to the accuracy, reliability or completeness of any information provided and undertakes no obligation to update, amend, or clarify the information in the podcast, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise. Any securities, transactions, or holdings discussed may not represent investments made by Motive Partners. It should not be assumed that securities, transactions, or holdings discussed (if any) were or will be profitable, or that the recommendations or decisions made in the future will be similar or will equal the performance of the securities, transactions, or holdings discussed herein.This podcast may contain forward-looking statements that are based on beliefs, assumptions, current expectations, estimates, and projections about the financial industry, the economy, Motive Partners or Motive Partners' investments. Nothing in the podcast should be construed or relied upon as investment, legal, accounting, tax or other professional advice or in connection with any offer or sale of securities.
Welcome to Forming the Future of Finance – a special limited series podcast focused on reshaping the financial landscape. Our first episode features Natalya Guseva, Head of Financial Markets and Resilience at the World Economic Forum. In her role, Natalya focuses on retail investors' access to capital markets and the longevity economy. Prior to that, she led the Forum's community of asset owners and alternative asset managers. Joining her in a compelling conversation is Rob Heyvaert, Motive Partners Founder and Managing Partner, who has built his entire career in financial technology infrastructure as a leading global entrepreneur. Motive is Rob's third entrepreneurial success, for which he had the vision to create a private equity firm that assembles world-class leaders in fintech and PE. With Rob's proven Investor-Operator-Innovator model, his firm currently manages one of the largest portfolios in Fintech.Whether you're a founder, investor, reporter, or you're curious about the future of private markets, you're in the right place. Let's dive into what's shaping tomorrow's financial world, today.This series was recorded during an exclusive event, co-hosted by Motive Partners and With Intelligence in Berlin to kick off SuperReturn where the world of private capital meets.___The information contained in this podcast is intended for discussion purposes only. It is not a recommendation, offer, or a solicitation for the purchase or sale of a security or any services of Motive Partners. All investing involves risk and there is no guarantee that past performance will be indicative of future results.The views and opinions expressed in the podcast are as of the date of recording, reflect the views and opinions of the persons expressing them, and do not necessarily represent the views or opinions of Motive Partners. Motive Partners makes no representations or warranties as to the accuracy, reliability or completeness of any information provided and undertakes no obligation to update, amend, or clarify the information in the podcast, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise. Any securities, transactions, or holdings discussed may not represent investments made by Motive Partners. It should not be assumed that securities, transactions, or holdings discussed (if any) were or will be profitable, or that the recommendations or decisions made in the future will be similar or will equal the performance of the securities, transactions, or holdings discussed herein.This podcast may contain forward-looking statements that are based on beliefs, assumptions, current expectations, estimates, and projections about the financial industry, the economy, Motive Partners or Motive Partners' investments. Nothing in the podcast should be construed or relied upon as investment, legal, accounting, tax or other professional advice or in connection with any offer or sale of securities.
This second episode of our Forming the Future of Finance limited series podcast is a hot topic: the transformative power of AI. Our experts look at the promise of AI, its risks, and where we are in tapping AI's potential. Featured in this episode are:Ramin Niroumand, Partner and Head of Ventures at Motive Partners, leading the conversation, an entrepreneur and a native of Germany. Ramin founded finleap at age 27, the country's first and most prolific fintech company builder. As Berlin emerged as a fintech hub, he launched an early-stage fintech venture fund, which he subsequently merged with Motive Partners.Joining him is Akos Ratku, Founder and CTO of AI-platform Zocks. A tech leader and software engineer, Akos co-founded Zocks, which is an AI platform that is instrumental in helping financial advisors streamline and automate their workflow.Joaquim de la Cruz, CEO and co-founder of Flanks – last year, Joaquim was named to the Forbes' 30 under 30 for Europe. His company, Flanks, was founded with the goal of modernizing the wealth management industry. Rounding out this episode is Andrew Tarver, President of the Private Markets Account Network at InvestCloud – a global leader in wealthtech with clients that represent more than 40% of the $132 trillion of total assets globally. Tarver is an innovator in his own right, having previously founded several fintech companies, including Thought Machine, and a Founding Partner at Motive.This series was recorded during an exclusive event, co-hosted by Motive Partners and With Intelligence in Berlin to kick off SuperReturn where the world of private capital meets.___The information contained in this podcast is intended for discussion purposes only. It is not a recommendation, offer, or a solicitation for the purchase or sale of a security or any services of Motive Partners. All investing involves risk and there is no guarantee that past performance will be indicative of future results.The views and opinions expressed in the podcast are as of the date of recording, reflect the views and opinions of the persons expressing them, and do not necessarily represent the views or opinions of Motive Partners. Motive Partners makes no representations or warranties as to the accuracy, reliability or completeness of any information provided and undertakes no obligation to update, amend, or clarify the information in the podcast, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise. Any securities, transactions, or holdings discussed may not represent investments made by Motive Partners. It should not be assumed that securities, transactions, or holdings discussed (if any) were or will be profitable, or that the recommendations or decisions made in the future will be similar or will equal the performance of the securities, transactions, or holdings discussed herein.This podcast may contain forward-looking statements that are based on beliefs, assumptions, current expectations, estimates, and projections about the financial industry, the economy, Motive Partners or Motive Partners' investments. Nothing in the podcast should be construed or relied upon as investment, legal, accounting, tax or other professional advice or in connection with any offer or sale of securities.
Is the 60/40 portfolio a thing of the past? Is it fair to consider private markets an “alternative” part of an investment allocation? What is the appropriate allocation to alternatives? 10%? 20%? More?This third episode in our Forming the Future of Finance limited series podcast will bring clarity to these points.Leading this discussion is Andrew Tarver, key architect of InvestCloud's Private Markets Account Network, a connected ecosystem of industry participants making possible the management of public and private markets assets from a single platform.Joining him are:Alexis Augier, Founder & CEO of Vega, a client service and distribution operating system for alternative asset managers, which announced last November a $20 million Series A investment led by Apollo and Motive to scale its platform.Samuel Dale, managing editor of private markets at With Intelligence – who has his finger on the pulse of all developments in the private markets space.Jake Walker, Partner & COO of client & product solutions at Apollo, where he is instrumental in scaling the firm's client service capabilities across the globe, and architect of Apollo's founding partnership in InvestCloud's Private Markets Account Network.And Andy Stewart, executive chairman/former CEO of Wilshire, a seasoned fintech executive at a global provider of market-leading indexes, advanced analytics and alternative and multi-asset investment solutions. Let's hear more on how to crack the code on private markets investing.This series was recorded during an exclusive event, co-hosted by Motive Partners and With Intelligence in Berlin to kick off SuperReturn where the world of private capital meets.___The information contained in this podcast is intended for discussion purposes only. It is not a recommendation, offer, or a solicitation for the purchase or sale of a security or any services of Motive Partners. All investing involves risk and there is no guarantee that past performance will be indicative of future results.The views and opinions expressed in the podcast are as of the date of recording, reflect the views and opinions of the persons expressing them, and do not necessarily represent the views or opinions of Motive Partners. Motive Partners makes no representations or warranties as to the accuracy, reliability or completeness of any information provided and undertakes no obligation to update, amend, or clarify the information in the podcast, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise. Any securities, transactions, or holdings discussed may not represent investments made by Motive Partners. It should not be assumed that securities, transactions, or holdings discussed (if any) were or will be profitable, or that the recommendations or decisions made in the future will be similar or will equal the performance of the securities, transactions, or holdings discussed herein.This podcast may contain forward-looking statements that are based on beliefs, assumptions, current expectations, estimates, and projections about the financial industry, the economy, Motive Partners or Motive Partners' investments. Nothing in the podcast should be construed or relied upon as investment, legal, accounting, tax or other professional advice or in connection with any offer or sale of securities.
Send us your thoughtsIn this episode of CFO 4.0, Hannah Munro is joined by Matt Topham, Director of Practical CFO, to explore what makes a modern CFO truly effective—from KPIs to strategic decision-making.Key topics covered:Matt's unconventional journey to CFOThe realities of working as a fractional CFO and identifying clients ready for changeHow to use KPIs like productivity, overhead rate, and LTV to CAC to guide decisionsWhy speed and imperfection often beat precision in fast-moving environmentsManaging cash, growth, and riskPractical tips for new CFOs on building meaningful KPIs and driving strategic clarityLinks mentioned: Matt's Linkedin Learn more about Practical CFO Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here. Subscribe to our Podcast!
David from Blockworks and Omar from Dragonfly join the show to debate Coinbase vs Robinhood, two companies racing to become the dominant financial super app. We break down their business models, growth strategies, tokenized asset plays, and how each is approaching crypto, equities, and infrastructure. Will Robinhood's slick UX and expanding product suite win the next generation? Or will Coinbase's onchain infra and stablecoin moat prove unbeatable? Omar & Dragonfly https://x.com/TheOneandOmsy https://x.com/Dragonfly_xyz David & Blockworks https://x.com/EffortCapital https://x.com/BlockworksAdv ---
Send us your thoughtsIn this month's Finance Transformation Live host Hannah Munro explores how finance leaders can design scalable, resilient systems that adapt to change and support long-term growth.Key topics covered:The four pillars of future-proof finance architecture: data, APIs, expandability, and maintenanceWhy multi-dimensional data structures are essential for reporting, AI, and agilityHow to evaluate API strength, integration flexibility, and vendor transparencyAvoiding common pitfalls like over-customisation, poor data design, and dead-end system configurationsBuilding layered tech stacks to support FP&A, BI, automation, governance, and collaborationPlanning for continuous improvement: training, upgrades, and staying ahead of business needsLinks mentioned: Previous session: Finance Record to Report Maturity ModelConnect with Hannah MunroBuilding Out Your Finance Data Strategy Reporting Tools in Sage IntacctWhich Sage Product is Right For You Quiz!Book a discovery call Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here. Subscribe to our Podcast!
DFSA Report on Cyber, Quantum & AI Risk — A Regulatory Wake-Up Call for the Future of Finance
In this episode of Couchonomics with Arjun, we sit down with Tim Levene, CEO of Augmentum Fintech, the UK's only publicly listed fintech venture capital firm.From going public to backing infrastructure instead of hype, Tim shares what permanent capital allows that traditional VC structures don't and why he believes the next decade of fintech will be won with discipline, not just disruption.What we cover:
Send us your thoughtsIn this insightful episode of the CFO 4.0 Podcast, host Hannah Munro is joined by Richard Sanders, Founder and Managing Partner at Sullivan Street Partners, for a no-holds-barred session of myth-busting in the world of private equity. This episode offers practical wisdom, experienced insights, and a refreshingly candid take on what it really means to lead in a PE-backed business. Tune in to explore:Why growth and profit aren't mutually exclusive in private equity strategyThe real expectations around budgeting and how to balance ambition with achievabilityWhat kinds of mistakes are toleratedHow equity structures work, and why understanding “good leaver vs bad leaver” clauses is essentialWhether industry experience or private equity background matters more for CFO rolesHow values, trust, and transparency drive performance in today's private equity landscapeLinks mentioned: Richard's LinkedinLearn more about Sullivan Street Partners Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here. Subscribe to our Podcast!
Episode Topic: Willem Schroé, founder of Botanix Labs, joins PayPod to reveal how Bitcoin is becoming the foundation for a decentralized financial future. Learn how Ethereum-style smart contracts and DeFi applications are now possible on Bitcoin via the Spiderchain—without giving up Bitcoin's security or decentralization. Lessons You'll Learn: How the Spiderchain turns Bitcoin into a programmable financial layer Why Bitcoin yield is now possible—paid in Bitcoin, not tokens The future of interest-free Bitcoin-backed loans and stablecoin trading How Bitcoin can become a global financial operating system by 2100 Why governments can't stop Bitcoin—and why they shouldn't try About Our Guest: Willem Schroé is the founder of Botanix Labs, the company behind the Spiderchain, a decentralized Bitcoin Layer 2 enabling smart contracts and DeFi. A national champion in mathematics and a researcher in cryptography, Willem's passion for Bitcoin was ignited during his time in Saudi Arabia, where he witnessed financial repression and inflation firsthand. Now, he's on a mission to bring open, decentralized financial infrastructure to the world, starting with Bitcoin. Topics Covered: Bitcoin as programmable money Layer-2 innovation via the Spiderchain Interest-free lending and stablecoin DeFi Bitcoin staking and yield generation Financial sovereignty and inclusion through decentralization
At The Wall Street Journal's Future of Everything Festival, WSJ Deputy Editor in Chief Charles Forelle spoke with trading firm CEO Donald Wilson Jr. about the future of digital assets, the path to mainstream adoption, and what it means for the average investor. Sign up for the WSJ's free Markets A.M. newsletter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Send us your thoughtsIn this episode of CFO 4.0, host Hannah Munro speaks with Karl Lloyd, fractional CFO and founder of Lloyd Consulting Limited, about his transition from full-time finance roles to a portfolio CFO career. Karl shares practical insights from working across sectors like e-commerce, SaaS, and travel, and reflects on the realities of life as a fractional CFO.In this episode, Karl covers:The biggest differences and challenges between full-time and fractional CFO rolesBuilding effective financial models and keeping them simple, flexible, and insightfulWorking with investors and managing expectations through clear reportingLessons from multiple management buyouts and how to prepare early for due diligenceAdvice for aspiring fractional CFOs, including mindset, client management, and business developmentLinks mentioned: Karl's Linkedin Learn more about Lloyd Consulting Limted Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here. Subscribe to our Podcast!
The next banking stack won't just be fast — it has to be human.In this episode of Couchonomics with Arjun, Nick Drewett, Chief Commercial Officer at Engine by Starling, joins the conversation to share what it actually takes to launch and scale a digital bank — not in theory, but in practice.Engine is the tech spinout from Starling Bank - one of the world's first profitable digital banks - and it's now powering next-gen banking infrastructure globally.We cover:- How Salt Bank launched in under 12 months- Why most “modern” stacks still act like legacy- Where AI adds real value in banking- Why cost-to-serve is the new frontline- What it means to localise for the GCCEngine isn't theory — it's the tech behind Starling Bank's success.
Send us your thoughtsIn this episode of CFO 4.0, host Hannah Munro chats with Karla Smith, CFO at Ogilvy UK, about her unique path to CFO and how finance operates at the heart of a creative, people-driven organisation.Key topics covered include:Karla's career journey from audit trainee to CFOHow to succeed in senior finance roles with flexible hours and build mutual trust with your organisation.The role of finance in creative industriesBuilding financial literacy across teams through internal trainingApproaching talent investment and balancing short-term results with long-term value.Tips for new CFOs on strategic planning, effective delegation, and building strong CEO partnerships.Links mentioned: Karla's LinkedinLearn more about Ogilvy Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here. Subscribe to our Podcast!
There's a $260B SME financing gap in MENA, and most players are still offering copy-paste solutions.In this episode of Couchonomics with Arjun, Craig Moore, Founder and CEO of Beehive, shares how one of the region's original fintechs is tackling real problems with real results.Since 2014, Beehive has built a lending model that combines technology, regulatory know-how, and operational depth to serve the segment banks continue to overlook.In this conversation, we explore: • What SME lending looks like on the ground in the GCC • Why Beehive shifted from peer-to-peer to institutional capital • How investor appetite is changing, from family offices to global VCs • The practical role of AI in credit decisioning • Beehive's plans for expansion into Saudi Arabia, Oman, and more
Craig Jeffery and Dave Robertson explore embedded banking's growing role in treasury. From API-driven integration to real-time risk mitigation, they discuss how embedded banking is reshaping processes, roles, and even merger strategy. What does this shift mean for corporates, banks, and the future of treasury? Tune in to find out. CashPath Advisors
When Jason Titman took the helm of Swyftx in 2019, he saw a crypto industry riddled with complexity—and a glaring gap: Where was the customer-first mindset? His answer? An exchange that treats Web3 like any trusted service, not a Wild West gamble.Jason and I sit down for a conversation as he breaks down the Swyftx difference, and why culture—not just code—is their competitive edge. We also discussed how they're rewriting crypto's risky reputation, with security as a selling point, the societal shift ahead… and why Australia shouldn't just watch, but lead.The bottom line? Swyftx isn't just trading digital assets—it's building the infrastructure for financial freedom. And for Jason, that starts with one radical idea: Trust shouldn't be revolutionary.You can subscribe to the Mentored newsletter here: https://mentored.com.au/newsletter-sign-upJoin the Facebook Group.Follow Mark Bouris on Instagram, LinkedIn & YouTube. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In This Episode Traditional banks just pocketed $268 billion in profit—even with loan growth stuck in first gear—while global fintech funding barely limped past $10 billion, thanks to a single blockbuster round. This week, Theo Lau and Greg Palmer join hosts JP Nicols, Brett King, and Jason Henrichs to untangle those contradictions and ask who's really carrying the baton in the race for the future of money. Brace yourself for a knife-fight over BaaS regulation, a land-rush toward instant payments, and an AI gold rush that could super-charge compliance… or automate you right out of a job (and maybe swipe your wallet on the way). Is a 3 % NIM so cushy that banks will never reinvent themselves? Are stablecoins the rails of autonomous finance—or just more crypto hype? Add in deep-fake demos, a no-holds-barred scorecard of today's leaders, learners, and laggards, and stark predictions of where they'll be tomorrow. Whether you're sprinting on a 150-year-old balance sheet or a Series A term sheet, the finish line is the same: deliver smarter, safer money experiences—before someone else does. And whatever you do, try not to low-key suck.
Game-Changer? Is Ripple's RLUSD the Future of Finance? ********** SUPPORT ON THE CHAIN GRAB A BADASS YETIS COFFEE – Fuel your crypto grind! ☕ Visit: otc.one/BadassYetisBrew MINT YOUR BADASS YETIS NFT – Own a piece of the legend! Visit: otc.one/mint OTC MERCH IS HERE! – Represent the community in style! Visit: onthechain.shop BUY US A COFFEE – Help keep the content flowing! Visit: otc.one/buy-us-a-coffee JOIN THE CHANNEL – Get exclusive perks & behind-the-scenes content! Visit: otc.one/join ********** ON THE CHAIN – CONNECT WITH US! Listen to the OTC Podcast – Never miss an update! Visit: otc.one/podcast Visit Our Website – The home of crypto insights! Visit: onthechain.io Follow OTC on Twitter – Stay updated in real time! Visit: otc.one/otc Join the OTC Community on Twitter – Be part of the discussion! Visit: twitter.com/i/communities/1599435678995062788 ********** FOLLOW THE OTC TEAM Follow Jeff on Twitter:
Join us for an exciting episode of The Edge of Show, live from Hack Season in Dubai, as we sit down with industry leaders to discuss the latest innovations in the Web3 space. First we spoke with John Jones, CBO and co-founder of Supra, who shares insights on their unique approach as a fully vertically integrated Layer1 blockchain with native Oracle services. Next Rachit Agarwal, APAC lead at Wormhole, discusses the importance of interoperability in the blockchain ecosystem and how this company is bridging the gap between different chains. Also Igor Lessio, a core developer at ElizaOs, talks about the rapid development of their AI-driven agent system. Discover how Eliza is empowering users with automated agents that can handle various tasks, making technology more accessible to everyone.And finally Gaurav Sharma, CEO of Ionet, explains how they are revolutionizing decentralized computers for AI applications. Tune in to learn about the future of blockchain technology, the role of AI, and how these innovative projects are shaping the Web3 landscape. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell for more updates! Support us through our Sponsors! ☕
Will AI transform your life or take your job? Tony Greer of TG Macro and The Navigator Newsletter dives deep into today's most pressing financial and technological questions—from the future of artificial intelligence to the battle between gold and Bitcoin.He returns to The Futures Edge with Jim Iuorio and Bob Iaccaino to explore market volatility, smart trading strategies, and the latest trends in tech stocks, energy, and airlines. You'll hear bold takes on how quantum computing could disrupt crypto, why self-driving cars might save lives (despite safety fears), and what the rise of independent journalism means for legacy media.Topics Covered:AI's impact on finance, writing, and daily decisionsSelf-driving tech: risks, rewards, and the road aheadBitcoin vs. Gold: which is the ultimate hedge?ETFs vs. individual stocks: where's the smart money going?Market sentiment shifts and how to trade themWhy institutional investors are eyeing cryptoGold's role in central bank strategiesAirline and energy stocks—hidden gems or hype? Key Takeaways:Support local food sources to strengthen supply chainsSentiment drives markets—ignore it at your own riskAI isn't just coming, it's already hereGold and Bitcoin can coexist in a modern portfolioVolatility creates opportunity—if you're preparedIndependent media is reshaping the financial conversation
Hear from Joy Adams, Chief Operating Officer at Deutsche Bank, as she shares her journey into the digital asset space, offers insights on the rapidly evolving fintech landscape, and reflects on leadership, innovation, and diversity within financial services.Joy is a Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) and holds an executive education certificate from the Oxford University Fintech Programme. She was also selected as a Rise Up Fellow for the annual Money 20/20 Conference, which recognises up-and-coming leaders in the payments industry.Discussions in the episode:Key trends reshaping the digital asset landscapeRegulation challenges amid rapid tech innovationDiversity, inclusion, and representation in digital assets and financeStrategies for advancing Black women in leadership positionsClick here to reach out to Peter Rabey direct Like this show? Please leave us a review. Every review helps.
The Venture Model Broke. But Startups Are Still Building.In this episode, Arjun is joined by Devin Kohli, General Partner at Outward VC, for a candid conversation on what's next for venture capital.They unpack:- Shifting VC trends in Europe, MENA, and the USA- Outward's bets on Curve, Vauban, Bud & more- AI hype vs. real vertical value- Tokenisation, digital assets & future financial infrastructure- Emerging tech hubs across Japan, MENA, Southeast AsiaPlus, Devin shares what conviction really looks like in a post-hype market — and why MENA founders are ones to watch.No pitch decks. No jargon. Just a candid chat about cycles, conviction, and building through uncertainty.
In this episode of the Revenue Builders Podcast, hosts John McMahon and John Kaplan are joined by Matt Maloney, SVP of Global Sales at Fireblocks. The discussion dives deep into Matt's background in B2B sales, his journey into the world of cryptocurrency, and how Fireblocks is revolutionizing blockchain security. Matt shares insights on the importance of adaptable, coachable sales teams and the application of traditional sales disciplines to new and emerging markets. The conversation also touches on strategic decision-making when entering new markets, the relevance of a strong ideal customer profile, and how foundational sales processes like MEDDPICC contribute to scaling success. The episode concludes with a nod to the influential book 'Inside the Tornado' by Geoffrey Moore and its relevance to Fireblocks' strategy.ADDITIONAL RESOURCESLearn more about Matt Maloney:https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-maloney-75698/Read Force Management's Guide to Embedding AI In Your B2B Sales Organization: https://hubs.li/Q03ldrzD0Download the CRO Strategy Checklist: https://hubs.li/Q03f8LmX0Enjoying the podcast? Sign up to receive new episodes straight to your inbox: https://hubs.li/Q02R10xN0HERE ARE SOME KEY SECTIONS TO CHECK OUT[00:02:13] Matt Maloney's Journey into Crypto[00:02:55] Understanding Fireblocks and Blockchain[00:06:36] The Role of Stablecoins[00:10:28] Security Challenges in Crypto[00:23:18] Adapting Traditional Sales Disciplines to Emerging Markets[00:34:44] Mitigating Risk in Emerging Markets[00:35:07] The Importance of Continuous Development[00:37:11] Building Trust and Credibility[00:38:07] Characteristics of Successful Salespeople[00:39:41] Company Responsibility in Employee Development[00:41:02] Aligning Company Goals with Sales Strategies[00:46:05] Avoiding Shiny Object Syndrome[00:48:36] The Role of Ideal Customer Profiles[00:49:43] Lessons from Mentorship and Experience[00:58:00] The Innovator's JourneyHIGHLIGHT QUOTES"Your job is to figure out hitting the number and making sure you're calibrating your resources, that you hit the number, because that's foundation to our jobs as sales leaders.""If you can be part of a disruptive movement... it could be game-changing.""You need people that are coachable that will take the time to listen and learn about what this market is."
Phygital is the new digital.On Episode 2 of Couchonomics with Arjun Season 4, we sit down with Coenraad Jonker — Founder & Group CEO of Tyme — a digital banking pioneer who's built real scale across emerging markets.Tyme raised $250M in Series C. Reached a $1.5B valuation. Signed up 17M+ customers across South Africa and the Philippines. All while keeping CAC at one of the lowest levels globally.This isn't hype. This is hard-earned traction. We break down regulation, scale, AI-native banks & why incumbents can't keep up.If you want to understand the next decade of retail banking — this is the conversation.
Season 4 of Couchonomics with Arjun kicks off with a venture builder shaking up the system — Gautam Jain from SC Ventures by Standard Chartered.From launching digital banks in Asia to building full-stack ventures in the GCC, Gautam's now part of a team transforming how venture-building happens inside a bank.In this episode:
We're officially back - bigger, bolder, more diverse, and more global than ever. In Season 4, we're asking the real questions: - What's next for AI, digital assets, open banking, and embedded finance? - How are regulations and disruptive technologies reshaping financial services? - Are we really keeping pace with the transformation?Over 100 episodes in — and the journey's just getting started. Tune in and join the conversation as we decode the future of finance together. Our website
Re-architecting Finance with Blockchain - Not Just Hype, But Real-World InfrastructureWe're wrapping up this special Tokyo series of Couchonomics, filmed at the GFTN Forum — and what better way to close than with a bold conversation on the future of financial systems?In this final episode, I'm joined by Naveen Mallela, Co-Head of Kinexys & Managing Director at JP Morgan — and we're going beyond the buzzwords to talk about what it really takes to rewire the plumbing of global finance.It's a fascinating conversation about the real challenges — and opportunities — in transforming the global financial infrastructure.
Redefining Microfinance — With Feet on the Ground & Fire in the BellyWhat if the future of financial inclusion wasn't digital-first… but human-first?In this Tokyo edition of Couchonomics with Arjun, we had the chance to sit down with Taejun Shin, Founder & CEO of Gojo — a rapidly growing microfinance platform working across 13 countries and reaching millions of underserved customers throughout the Global South. As for Gojo? Many are calling it the “private sector's answer to the World Bank” — and it's easy to see why.Tune in to the special series of Couchonomics with Arjun, which was recorded in Tokyo with the help of the GFTN Forum Japan. Available now on YouTube and all podcasting platforms!Chapters:00:00 Introduction and Welcome01:09 Meet Tahin: A Stateless Entrepreneur03:01 Journey to Financial Inclusion05:19 Founding Go J: The Private Sector World Bank08:12 Challenges and Strategies in Microfinance10:29 Technology and Customer Acquisition14:05 Role of Regulators and Major Banks17:50 Investor Relations and Capital Structure22:46 Future Plans and Expansion24:16 Conclusion and FarewellOur website