The This Week in Fintech Podcast

Tune into "This Week in Fintech" for a concise 10-minute episode that brings you the latest in fintech news, insights into micropayments, and a thought-provoking discussion on the future of carbon credits. Don’t miss out on understanding these key developments in the fintech landscape.

News Roundup

This week in fintech witnessed a flurry of product launches and strategic collaborations. Highlights include Mercury's dive into personal banking services, Klarna's new credit card with installment payment options in the US, and 1inch's introduction of a crypto-to-fiat debit card. Additionally, BJ’s Restaurants and Ferry teamed up to digitally disburse tips via a new payroll card, while Episode Six and Loop launched a fintech-as-a-service offering in Saudi Arabia.

Fintechionary: Micropayments

In today's Fintechionary, we explore 'Micropayments'—tiny transactions typically under five dollars. These small sums are revolutionizing digital content consumption, enabling creators to monetize and consumers to access content affordably. Micropayments support a vibrant digital economy by emphasizing the value of every small piece of content.

Signals: Review

Our podcast also reviews Sophie Vo's insightful article, "Signals: If a tree falls in the forest...", which delves into the volatile yet promising world of carbon credits. Amidst significant corporate pullback and increased regulatory scrutiny, Vo discusses the $2.3 billion invested in climate fintechs last year, pointing to a potential growth to a $1.1 trillion industry by 2050. This balanced view presents both the challenges and burgeoning opportunities within the carbon credit market.

In the News: We kick off with a critical analysis of the top headlines that have shaped the fintech landscape this week. From groundbreaking product launches that promise to revolutionize the way we manage our finances, to strategic mergacies and acquisitions reshaping the competitive terrain, we cover the developments that matter.

Fintechionary: Our popular segment, Fintechionary, continues to demystify the complex jargon of the fintech world. This week, we delve into a word beginning with 'L' breaking down its significance in today's digital economy and its impact on future innovations.

Signals: In Signals, we highlight the trends and undercurrents within the fintech industry, offering insights into emerging technologies and regulatory changes. Understand the dynamics driving the fintech sector forward, and what it means for investors, entrepreneurs, and consumers.

Events: Stay informed about the must-attend fintech events and conferences. Whether virtual or in-person, these gatherings are where the future of fintech is debated, created, and showcased. We'll guide you through the events that offer invaluable networking opportunities and cutting-edge insights.

In episode number five of the Fintech OG series, we talk with Jake Gibson of NerdWallet and BTV, and Nik Milinović of TWIF, who share their extensive journeys within the fintech sector, shedding light on the evolution of financial technology, the impacts on traditional banking, and the unresolved challenges that continue to shape the industry.

Also, huge thanks to our sponsors at FS Vector! Go to fsvector.com/headmaster to learn more about their new compliance training platform and additional services.

In today's quick 10-minute dive into "This Week in Fintech News Briefing," we're cutting straight to the chase with the most pivotal fintech developments from Q1 2024. Here's your espresso shot of fintech trends, innovations, and regulatory updates:
Spotlight on Innovation: Visa's Prism is setting new benchmarks in payment solutions. OpenYield and Neverless are redefining finance with their pioneering platforms. These launches signal a surge in fintech innovation, offering sleeker, smarter financial management tools.
Strategic Movements: From Chase Bank's targeted advertising strategy to HSBC's fintech-boosting alliance in Hong Kong, strategic partnerships are reshaping the fintech landscape. Mastercard's collaborations in Nigeria spotlight a drive towards more inclusive financial services.
Regulatory Updates: The EU's new stance on crypto laundering and the CFPB's investigation into credit card rewards underscore a growing focus on transparency and security. These moves reflect the tightening regulatory framework surrounding fintech.
KYC – The Bedrock of Trust: In our rapid rundown, KYC (Know Your Customer) stands out as a cornerstone of fintech's trust and safety measures. Transforming through AI and machine learning, KYC processes are becoming faster and more user-friendly, balancing security with accessibility.
Takeaway: In just ten minutes, we've covered the crux of Q1's fintech landscape. The sector continues to evolve with a strong emphasis on innovation, strategic collaboration, and stringent regulatory compliance, all while making strides in customer verification processes. Fintech is not just keeping pace with digital transformation; it's leading the charge towards a more secure, inclusive, and efficient financial future.

In episode number four of the Fintech OG series, we talk with Frank Rotman and Nigel Morris, the founders of QED Investors and two of the architects of what became Capital One.

These two dove into how they got into fintech, their personal ups and downs, advice to founders, and what they expect the biggest innovations to be over the next decade. 

Also, huge thanks to our sponsors at FS Vector and Empire Startups! Go to fsvector.com/headmaster to learn more about their new compliance training platform, and if you still haven't bought your ticket to the Empire Startup Conference in NYC during New York Fintech week, go to empirestartups.com and use code "FintechOG" for a special discount!

In our next 10-minute episode of the This Week in Fintech (TWIF) podcast, we're diving into a concise but comprehensive overview of the fintech sector's most compelling developments. Here's how we'll line up the episode:

• News Roundup: We'll start with a sprint through the latest fintech headlines. From JP Morgan's groundbreaking introduction of biometric payments to the potential sale of the fintech-friendly CBW Bank, we've got these stories and more. We'll also touch on the innovative steps being taken by central banks using AI for climate risk analysis, tech and healthcare startup boosts by HSBC, and the challenges faced by banks and fintech firms alike, including technical mishaps costing millions and adjustments in the wake of digital transformations.

• Fintechionary - Interest Rate Swap: Next, we'll ease into our Fintechionary segment, where this week's focus is on "Interest Rate Swap." It's a forward contract that plays a critical role in the financial markets for managing interest rate risk. This segment aims to unpack the complexity of financial terms and present them in an easily digestible format, shedding light on how these mechanisms impact fintech innovations and the broader societal financial landscape.

• Job of the Week: Moving on, we'll spotlight the "Job of the Week" from Ampla, which is on the hunt for an Associate Commercial Counsel. This role represents a unique opportunity to shape the future of financial services for consumer brands, reflecting the dynamic nature of career opportunities within the fintech ecosystem.

• Snippet from "Signals": We wrap up with a look into Sophie Vo's article on the post-SVB resilience of small banks, marking the onset of the 'small bank era'. A year after the SVB collapse, this insightful piece delves into how small banks have made a significant comeback, showcasing the evolving landscape of banking resilience and innovation.

Packed into a quick 10-minute listen, this episode promises to deliver a punchy, insightful overview of the fintech world's latest news, educational insights, career opportunities, and thought-provoking analyses. Ideal for fintech enthusiasts looking to stay abreast of the sector’s key developments.

This week’s episode of "This Week in Fintech" is a triple threat, covering the latest in fintech news, deep dives into the personal banking habits of fintech professionals, and an educational segment on cutting-edge payment technology. Here's what we've got lined up:

• News Roundup: We start with a look at some of the most impactful stories in fintech, including BBVA's comprehensive partnership with Cisco to enhance its digital infrastructure, NatWest's strategic exit from the buy now, pay later (BNPL) scene, and the Australian Securities Exchange's penalty for transparency failures. Plus, we discuss Mastercard and MetaMask's collaboration on a blockchain-powered payment card and the financial repercussions following the collapse of Silicon Valley Bank.

• Signals Exclusive with Matthew Goldman: A revealing investigation into where fintech insiders actually bank. Despite being at the forefront of developing innovative financial solutions, a surprising number of fintech professionals stick with traditional banking giants. Matthew Goldman shares insights from his survey, shedding light on this intriguing paradox.

• Fintechtionary: Dive into the world of "Host Card Emulation" (HCE). We explain how HCE technology turns smartphones into virtual debit or credit cards, enabling contactless payments without the need for physical cards. This segment explores the significance of HCE in advancing mobile payment solutions and its implications for both consumers and the fintech industry.

Join us for a compelling blend of news, insider perspectives, and technological exploration, providing a holistic view of the current fintech landscape. Tune in to "This Week in Fintech" for your essential update on the innovations and trends shaping the future of finance.

In episode number three of the Fintech OG series, we talk with Matthew Burton, former Co-Founder and CEO of Orchard and Partner at QED (now working on something new), and Jon Zanoff, the founder of Empire Startups in NYC.

These two dove into how they got into fintech, their personal ups and downs (when each of them thought they were going to fail), and what they expect the biggest innovations to be over the next decade. 

Also, huge thanks to our sponsors at FS Vector and Empire Startups! Go to fsvector.com/headmaster to learn more about their new compliance training platform, and if you still haven't bought your ticket to the Empire Startup Conference in NYC during New York Fintech week, go to empirestartups.com and use code "FintechOG" for a special discount!

In this week’s “This Week in Fintech” podcast episode, we zipped through a mix of the latest news, deep dives, and essential insights into the fintech world. Here’s your quick summary:

• News: We kicked off with a spotlight on Deutsche Börse’s crypto platform launch, navigated through global financial updates including regulatory changes and market strategies, and wrapped up with groundbreaking product launches from industry giants like ChargeAfter, Synctera, and PayPal.

• Signals: Our exclusive look into Robinhood’s strategy for navigating life post-PFOF gave us a peek into how fintech firms are pivoting in response to regulatory and market shifts.

• Fintechtionary: This week’s term was “Gateway,” focusing on Payment Gateways' critical role in e-commerce and fintech ecosystems, highlighting their impact on global commerce and financial inclusion.

• Jobs of the Week: We showcased a standout opportunity at Griffin for an Assurance Senior Manager, emphasizing the chance to be part of a team reshaping the future of banking.

• Events: Stay tuned for updates on upcoming fintech events that promise to bring the community together for networking, learning, and innovation showcases.

Short, sweet, and packed with everything you need to stay ahead in the fintech space. Keep your finger on the pulse!

In just 10 minutes host Helen Femi Williams provided a concise overview of the dynamic fintech sector, reflecting on an insightful conversation between Benjamin Verschuere, Co-Founder and CIO of Treasure, and interviewer Dez. The dialogue, which spanned topics such as the challenges of distinguishing oneself in the crowded fintech landscape of 2024, modernising the CFO tech stack, and navigating the complexities of Embedded Fintech 2.0, was distilled into a 10-minute segment. This analysis delved into the strategic innovations essential for fintech companies to flourish. Furthermore, the briefing touched upon the concept of fractional investing, emphasizing its role in making investment more accessible and in promoting financial inclusivity by allowing investors to purchase portions of assets.

The briefing also highlighted upcoming networking events, including the TWIF Vegas Happy Hour with Gainbridge and the NYC Fintech Coffee, underscoring the significance of community and connection in the fintech industry. These gatherings are pivotal for professionals eager to delve into the latest industry trends and opportunities, fostering a culture of collaboration and knowledge exchange. Through the summary of the interview and the mention of key networking opportunities, the dynamic nature of the fintech industry was captured, showcasing the efforts to drive forward innovation, inclusivity, and growth within this rapidly evolving field.

In episode number 2 of the Fintech OG series, we talk with Max Levchin, Co-Founder and CEO of PayPal, Affirm, and a number of other companies (Yelp, for instance) and Jackie Reses, best known for her time at Square helping Jack Dorsey's payments company get a banking license. Currently, she's the CEO of Lead Bank and sits on a number of company boards, including NuBank.

These two dove into how they got into fintech, their personal ups and downs (find out what sent Max to the floor in the early days of Affirm), and what they expect the biggest innovations to be over the next decade.

Also, huge thanks to our sponsors at FS Vector and Empire Startups! Go to fsvector.com/headmaster to learn more about their new compliance training platform, and if you still haven't bought your ticket to the Empire Startup Conference in NYC during New York Fintech week, go to empirestartups.com and use code "FintechOG" for a special discount!

In this week's episode of our fintech news briefing, hosted by Helen Femi Williams, we delve into the latest and most impactful developments across the fintech landscape in a concise 10-minute format. We kick off with a roundup of notable product launches, highlighting Visa's significant enhancement of its B2B digital wallet capabilities and an array of innovative fintech offerings, including a dating app for those with good to excellent credit scores, a new savings account by Wealthify, and Revolut's expansion into travel eSIM phone plans in the UK. Our coverage extends to pivotal news stories, such as SEC's increased oversight for hedge funds and high-speed traders, and Standard Chartered's contemplation of splitting its corporate investment bank, showcasing the dynamic shifts within the financial sector.

The episode also features our unique "Fintechionary" segment, where we explore the term "E-Wallet," explaining its role in fintech and its significant impact on the industry, supported by real-life examples like AUB's HelloMoney launch in South Korea, Malaysia, and Hong Kong, and India's central bank's actions on Paytm. We further spotlight upcoming fintech events, including the TWIF Nairobi Fintech Happy Hour and the Vegas Happy Hour with Gainbridge, inviting listeners to network and engage with the fintech community. Rounding off the episode, we share a snippet from our subscriber-only long-form content "Signals," focusing on the article "The lost art of ‘F*ck around and find out’" by Jake Gibson, which delves into the bootstrap journey of NerdWallet and the crucial lessons for today's entrepreneurs. This episode, hosted by Helen Femi Williams, offers a comprehensive and insightful overview of the fintech world, making it a must-listen for anyone keen to stay informed about the industry's latest trends and developments.

The Fintech OG series is finally here! In our first episode, we sit down with Matt Harris of Bain Capital Ventures and Steve McLaughlin of FT Partners. Having worked in fintech since the 90s, Matt and Steve offer valuable insights on where the space has created the most value, where there's room to grow, and if fintech is still a good place to build.

Also, huge thanks to our sponsors at FS Vector and Empire Startups! Go to fsvector.com/headmaster to learn more about their new compliance training platform, and if you still haven't bought your ticket to the Empire Startup Conference in NYC during New York Fintech week, go to empirestartups.com and use code "FintechOG" for a special discount!

In this week’s 10 min briefing, we dive deep into the dynamic world of fintech, bringing you a curated mix of the latest news, insightful events, and groundbreaking developments. From the forefront of innovation, we explore significant product launches by giants like Banorte and Citi, and delve into Mastercard's AI-driven approach to fraud detection. The competitive landscape is further animated by HSBC's Zing app, challenging existing FX fintechs and Wise, alongside their strategic installation of cash pods in bankless towns. In the realm of regulatory actions and market shifts, we examine the implications of a hefty fine on City National Bank and the workforce adjustments by TSB and Société Generale, reflecting the industry's constant evolution.

Our exploration doesn't stop at news. We highlight an exceptional opportunity in our 'Job of the Week' segment, focusing on a role at Outgo that promises to make a tangible difference in the financial management for truckers. In our Fintechionary feature, 'DeFi' or Decentralised Finance takes center stage, unpacking its potential to revolutionize personal finance management. Moreover, we provide a snapshot of vibrant fintech events from NYC to Nairobi, illustrating the global community's zeal for innovation and collaboration. This episode is designed not just to inform but to engage and inspire, offering a comprehensive view into the challenges, triumphs, and transformative potential of fintech. Whether you're an industry veteran or new to the scene, join us for a journey through the intersections of finance and technology, where every story is part of the larger narrative shaping the future of finance.

Building the Best, with Jillian Williams feat. Peter of Synctera

In this week's captivating episode by Helen Femi Williams, we dove deep into the intricacies of the fintech world, with a thought-provoking discussion on the phenomenon of idea recycling within the fintech industry, highlighted by insights from Nik Milanović's latest piece. We followed up with our educational "Fintechionary" segment, demystifying 'C' for Cryptocurrency and connecting its concepts to recent news, including India's tax stance and Visa's expansion in crypto services. The episode also spotlighted an exciting job opportunity at Coast, a startup revolutionizing the U.S. B2B card payments infrastructure, seeking early sales hires to drive their mission forward. Rounding off with our "Events Segment," we highlighted upcoming fintech gatherings globally, from mixers in Mexico City to networking coffee mornings in NYC and happy hours in San Francisco and Nairobi, offering listeners a gateway to connect with the fintech community. This episode not only informed but also inspired, providing listeners with a comprehensive overview of the current trends, challenges, and opportunities within the fintech landscape.

In this week's episode of the Weekly Briefing, we delve into the latest developments in the fintech world, highlighting key product launches and partnerships that are shaping the industry. We explore significant news such as JP Morgan's record-breaking profitability, the speculation around an ETH ETF, and the innovative strides companies are making in areas like wealth management for couples, tax preparation services, and B2B financing solutions. The podcast also covers the critical role of luck and serendipity in career paths, as exemplified in our feature interview with Emily Luk, CEO & Co-Founder of Plenty. Join us as we navigate the exciting and ever-evolving landscape of financial technology in 2024.

Welcome to our 10-minute Fintech News Briefing, where we delve into the latest happenings in the fintech world. This week, we explore key events shaping the industry, keeping you informed and ahead of the curve. Dive into the 'Hottest Fintech Jobs' segment for insights into career opportunities that are making waves. Our 'Signals' feature examines the trends of 2024 – what's hot and what's not in fintech. Plus, don't miss our 'Fintechionary' section, where we focus on AI and its transformative impact on fintech. Stay updated, stay ahead – your essential fintech update starts here.

• FinTech news, scams, and fraud with a special guest. 0:00

  • Helen discusses changes to Hey Fintech Friends podcast now the TWIF podcast,

    News, and fintechtionary: with a focus on the difference between scams and fraud.

• Fraud prevention and scams in the digital age. 4:47

  • Sardine prevents fraud and identity theft by detecting and preventing unauthorized transactions.

  • Sardine's API helps financial institutions detect fraud and scams, with a focus on young adults who are frequent online users.

• Fraud and scams in payments. 8:03

  • Soups clarifies fraud and scam differences: fraud is unauthorized use, scam is authorized but misleading.

  • Helen was scammed out of money by someone claiming to be a landlord in Lisbon, who requested additional payment after she had already sent a deposit.

  • Helen felt embarrassed and ashamed about being scammed, and struggled to come forward due to the emotional impact.

  • Soups explains that the core problem with faster payment methods is that there is no built-in dispute mechanism, making it difficult to determine if the payment instrument matches the identity of the individual on the other side.

  • Sardine's long-term vision is to create a database of trustworthy parties for faster payments, allowing for more secure transactions and reducing the risk of fraud.

• Banking and payment scams, solutions to prevent fraud. 14:14

  • Soups highlights the rapid growth of scams and fraud, particularly in the UK and US, where faster payment systems have led to increased losses due to authorized push payment scams.

  • Soups predicts that regulators will soon take a closer look at this issue, potentially leading to changes in how victims of scams are treated.

  • Soups explains the core problem of sender verification in online transactions, which is the lack of built-in sender verification in internet protocols like DNS, email, and voice over IP.

  • Sardine's solution is to build in signals to detect if someone is being scammed in real time, using tools like screen sharing and remote session detection.

• Regrets and lessons learned as a founder. 19:50

  • Soups reflects on their experience with Sardine, a startup they co-founded, and shares two key insights: prioritizing health and not hiring a salesperson too early.

  • Soups advises other entrepreneurs to prioritize their health and wait until they reach $1 million in ARR before hiring a salesperson.

• FinTech, fraud detection, and compliance. 23:18

  • Helen and Soups discuss the importance of authenticity and building relationships in sales, with Soups sharing their experience of learning through rejections and following up quickly.

  • Soups predicts that in the next 12-24 months, we will see a FinTech story that has not yet been seen, possibly related to the impact of the pandemic on time and its effects on the industry.

  • Soups predicts increasing interconnection of faster payment methods worldwide, leading to competition for Visa and Mastercard.

  • Soups company aims to provide fraud and compliance solutions for fintechs and banks building new products on faster payment methods.

• Quick Fire, Signals and Events. 29:35

Dive into the thrilling world of FinTech with the latest episode of "This Week in FinTech," a must-listen for anyone keen on the intersection of finance and technology. Discover inspiring stories of innovation and partnerships, like Paymentology's collaboration with Visa, and explore the transformative impact of financial inclusion, particularly through prepaid card solutions for underbanked communities. The episode also delves into the challenges and opportunities of creating equitable digital payment platforms, making it an essential listen for those fascinated by the ethical and practical dimensions of FinTech. Packed with insights and expert perspectives, this podcast episode is your gateway to understanding and appreciating the dynamic world of financial technology.

In a riveting dialogue that takes you on a journey through technology, personal evolution, and societal shifts, Simon and Helen delve deep into the transformative power of gamification. From its impact on modern-day dating apps to finance and healthcare, they unpack the pros and cons of this motivational tool. Simon opens up about his personal tribulations, shedding light on how hardships can shape one's outlook and build resilience. But the debate doesn't end there; they also ponder whether adversity is the only path to developing empathy and resilience, or if self-mastery can be achieved through alternative avenues.

Throughout their conversation, expect a cerebral tennis match filled with insightful analyses and thought-provoking debates that promise to challenge your viewpoints on multiple fronts. Don't miss this intellectual feast that leaves you questioning, pondering, and above all, eager for more.

Intro

Fintechionary: 0.58

News: 1.38

Interview: 5.14

Signals: 44.30

Events: 46.50

0.55 - Fintechionary DAO

2.13 - News

6.00 Guest Interviews

41.10 - Signals

43.00 - Events

0.55: Fintechionary (Public Key)

1.55: News

5.07: Emily Man Interview

30.28: Emily Man quick-fire session

39.65: Signals 'Why fintech has failed Mexico’s unbanked'

42.05: Events

Timestamps

Intro

1.04: Fintechionary

1.33 News

5.30 Interview

52.39 Signals

55.31 Events

Intro

0:51 Fintechionary 

01:49 News

05: 45 Interviews

32:55 Quick Fire

39:55 Signals 

42:58 Events

• Intro
• ‘Fin-techionary’ of the Week: Moblie Money Pay (1.31)
• News (2.27)
• Interview with Ray & Michael about their experience and current work at Opareta (5.01)
• Ray & Michael Interview each other (26.34)
• Quick Fire Questions with Ray & Michael (32.09)
• Signals Fintech Founders: Qanlex’s Yago Zavalia on Building Fintech in Inefficient Markets (42.11)