Fintech Files: Insights on TECH by BCG Platinion

From the Step Conference in Dubai, February 2024, comes an insightful discussion on the transformative impact of neobanks on small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Moderated by Annika Melchert, the episode features Meenah Tariq of Metric and Dyota Marsudi of Bank Aladin, who share their pioneering work in making financial management and banking more accessible for SMEs. Discover how these digital platforms are not just alternatives to traditional banking but are redefining the landscape for business growth and financial inclusion. Discussion Highlights:Defining Neobanking: Neobanks redefine banking with digital-first solutions that bypass traditional physical branches, making financial services more accessible and user-friendly. Neobanking simplifies financial processes for users, allowing them to manage their finances easily from their smartphones.Empowering SMEs with Neobanking: Neobanks like Bank Aladin revolutionize SME banking by offering fast, accessible financial services, adhering to Islamic banking principles. Digital banks eliminate common banking hurdles for SMEs, providing a seamless, efficient banking experience.Overcoming Regulatory and Operational Challenges: This discussion highlights the regulatory and operational obstacles facing neobanks and SMEs, from obtaining licenses to gaining legitimacy as financial institutions. There is a need for a balance between innovation and regulatory compliance to foster growth and stability.Neobanks as Enablers of Financial Inclusion: Neobanks play a crucial role in extending financial services to underbanked populations, supporting SME growth through innovative solutions. Digital banking platforms break down traditional barriers, offering easier access to financial services.Future Innovations in Neobanking: Speculation about the future of neobanking focuses on potential advancements such as cryptocurrency and asset digitization, which could further personalize and secure banking experiences, considering the transformative impact these innovations may have on the financial landscape.Collaboration for SME Success: The potential for neobanks, traditional banks, and fintech platforms to collaborate underscores a holistic approach to supporting SME development. Partnerships can combine the strengths of each to provide comprehensive financial solutions to SMEs.About Fintech Files:Are you ready to unravel the most innovative trends disrupting the world of Fintech today? Join us on Fintech Files from BCG Platinion, where we delve deep into the dynamic landscape of Fintech, NeoBanks, and the Digital Banking world, sparking insightful conversations with industry disruptors from around the globe. So, what are the most groundbreaking trends shaping the future of Fintech, and how will they impact your financial world? Fintech Files takes an accessible approach to technology. We break down complex topics and have our guests explain them in a relatable "explain it to your grandma" style. In every episode, we focus on real-world stories of how financial technology operates, demystifying complex concepts and making them relatable for both Fintech enthusiasts and professionals.The Hosts of Fintech Files:Hosted by Nora Hocke, a manager at BCG Platinion in Munich, and Annika Melchert, a principal currently based in the Middle East, our hosts specialize in IT strategy, modern tech architecture, and state-of-the-art banking. In their work, they've collaborated with some of today's most innovative Fintechs to transform their organizations;

Join us as we delve into the vibrant intersection of technology, finance, and diversity with Jacqueline O'Flanagan, the guiding force of Microsoft's financial services strategy in Canada. In this enlightening conversation, Jacqueline discusses the efforts to enhance women's roles in finance, the transformative power of AI in the sector, and Microsoft's commitment to fostering a sustainable and inclusive culture. This episode moves beyond a discussion of the current state of women in FinTech, offering a visionary look at the technological innovations driving the future of financial services.Discussion Highlights:Trailblazing Women in FinTech: Jacqueline guides us through the evolving landscape for women in finance, highlighting both the strides made and the challenges that lie ahead. It's an honest assessment of the current situation and our collective goals for the future.Empowering Women at Microsoft and Beyond: Listen in as Jacqueline sheds light on the "Women at Microsoft" initiative, detailing its objectives, successes, and her personal journey in advocating for broader representation within tech and finance sectors. Additionally, we underscore the business impact of female leadership and diverse teams. [More info: "Learning from Women Who’ve Made It to the Top in Tech"].AI’s Transformative Impact on Finance: Discover how AI is revolutionizing the financial industry, from improving customer interactions to pioneering new approaches in risk management and sustainable practices.Diversity and AI Development: The critical importance of diversity in AI development is highlighted, focusing on efforts to mitigate gender biases in AI models. BCG research indicates that senior women in tech are leading the adoption of generative AI, demonstrating the value of inclusive perspectives in shaping future technologies. [More info: "Women ‘can lead the charge on GenAI’ in the workplace"].Technology for Environmental Good: Explore how Microsoft leverages technology for environmental sustainability, particularly through AI initiatives that enable financial institutions to support a net-zero economy.Career Advice for Women in FinTech: Jacqueline offers valuable advice for women aspiring to make their mark in financial technology, emphasizing the significance of a growth mindset, lifelong learning, and aligning personal values with professional paths.Envisioning the Future of Financial Services: Jacqueline shares her insights on potential future transformations within the financial services sector, including advancements in digital lending, payments, and the evolving regulatory environment.About Fintech Files:Are you ready to unravel the most innovative trends disrupting the world of Fintech today? Join us on Fintech Files from BCG Platinion, where we delve deep into the dynamic landscape of Fintech, NeoBanks, and the Digital Banking world, sparking insightful conversations with industry disruptors from around the globe. So, what are the most groundbreaking trends shaping the future of Fintech, and how will they impact your financial world? Fintech Files takes an accessible approach to technology. We break down complex topics and have our guests explain them in a relatable "explain it to your grandma" style. In every episode, we focus on real-world stories of how financial technology operates, demystifying complex concepts and making them relatable for both Fintech enthusiasts and professionals.The Hosts of Fintech

This week on Fintech Files, we're bringing you 'In Her Element' from BCG. A show featuring conversations with women at the vanguard of business, digital, and technology. We're delving into how these powerhouse leaders got to where they are—covering everything from the joy of projects gone right to the realities of family responsibilities. In this episode, AI and digital expert Suchi Srinivasan will be introducing fintech practice leader Kamila Rakhimova as her new co-host. If you like this episode, subscribe to 'In Her Ellement' from BCG wherever you get your podcasts to stay up to date with the show. Enjoy!About this Episode:Kamila takes us on a journey from her native Tajikistan to the USA and through a career that she has mapped out on her terms. Every few years, Kamila gets the itch to try something new. Back in her home country, her proficiency in English and her qualifications in international relations made her an asset in her field. She quickly discovered that microfinance could have a significant impact on underprivileged communities. This niche brought her to the US and eventually to Amazon.At Amazon, she spearheaded the Amazon Alexa Fund, which supported founders in creating innovative businesses. For her, the most meaningful part of the program was being able to launch the careers of underrepresented founders. When Kamila first moved to the US, she followed what she thought was the playbook for success. She quickly discovered that a one-size-fits-all approach didn't work for her. Now, she listens carefully to her inner voice and does things her own way.About Fintech Files:Are you ready to unravel the most innovative trends disrupting the world of Fintech today? Join us on Fintech Files from BCG Platinion, where we delve deep into the dynamic landscape of Fintech, NeoBanks, and the Digital Banking world, sparking insightful conversations with industry disruptors from around the globe. So, what are the most groundbreaking trends shaping the future of Fintech, and how will they impact your financial world? Fintech Files takes an accessible approach to technology. We break down complex topics and have our guests explain them in a relatable "explain it to your grandma" style. In every episode, we focus on real-world stories of how financial technology operates, demystifying complex concepts and making them relatable for both Fintech enthusiasts and professionals.The Hosts of Fintech Files:Hosted by Nora Hocke, a manager at BCG Platinion in Munich, and Annika Melchert, a principal currently based in the Middle East, our hosts specialize in IT strategy, modern tech architecture, and state-of-the-art banking. In their work, they've collaborated with some of today's most innovative Fintechs to transform their organizations; including supporting generative AI use cases. With their unique blend of tech expertise and passion, they bring you stories that capture the essence of the evolving Fintech landscape.  This season, we're thrilled to introduce Bianca Lopes. Originally from Brazil and currently based in Denmark, Bianca is an entrepreneur and economist with a remarkable background in digital identity and biometrics. Throughout her career, she has supported over 40 financial institutions and 8 governments, reshaping their approach to technology, reimagining identity, and driving innovation agendas.We Want to Hear from You!Reach out to us at fintech-podcast@bcgplatinion.com with your questions, guest suggestions, or topics you'd like us to explore. Or just drop in to say hi! Visit our website ata...

How do we elevate our perspective of the cloud from merely a technological tool boosting efficiency, to a strategic ally that addresses key business challenges? Maxim Afanasyev, Financial Services Industry Lead at Google Cloud, shares his insights on the transformative approach of 'cloud for value' within the financial sector. This approach requires shifting focus from an infrastructure-centric view to embracing a strategy enriched with digital, data, and AI innovations. He articulates how this transition is not only reshaping the way financial services operate but also tackling the intricate regulatory landscapes that financial institutions navigate.  Discussion Highlights:Cloud Transformation in Financial Services: Maxim explains the concept of cloud transformation, illustrating its impact on financial institutions and how it enables them to better serve stakeholders like clients and regulators.From Cloud for Infrastructure to Cloud for Value: The evolution from traditional cloud services to a more value-driven approach, focusing on innovation, real-time data processing, and solving complex business problems.The Ethical Implications and Strategic Uses of AI in Finance: The transformative role of AI in the financial sector, highlighting ethical considerations, the importance of transparent and responsible AI deployment, and how AI is being strategically used. Case Study: HSBC's Anti-Money Laundering Initiatives: AI and cloud technologies are revolutionizing approaches to anti-money laundering, significantly reducing false positives while improving detection rates.Addressing Regulatory Concerns and Risks: Maxim shares how Google Cloud navigates the complexities of regulatory compliance and security concerns, ensuring financial institutions can adopt cloud solutions without compromising on governance.Customizing Cloud Journeys: We discuss the necessity for financial services to develop bespoke cloud adoption strategies that cater to their distinctive needs.  For more info on this, check out BCG’s article "Financial Institutions Need to Pursue Their Own Path to the Cloud.” Singapore's Regulatory Environment: Explore how Singapore is leading by example in fostering innovation through a 'Digital-first' regulatory approach and how this impacts the financial services industry and compares to the EU AI Act. The Future of Banking with Cloud Technology: Maxim forecasts the long-term effects of cloud-driven digital transformation on banking, including enhanced customer experiences, operational efficiencies, and regulatory compliance.About Fintech Files:Are you ready to unravel the most innovative trends disrupting the world of Fintech today? Join us on Fintech Files from BCG Platinion, where we delve deep into the dynamic landscape of Fintech, NeoBanks, and the Digital Banking world, sparking insightful conversations with industry disruptors from around the globe. So, what are the most groundbreaking trends shaping the future of Fintech, and how will they impact your financial world? Fintech Files takes an accessible approach to technology. We break down complex topics and have our guests explain them in a relatable "explain it to your grandma" style. In every episode, we focus on real-world stories of how financial technology operates, demystifying complex concepts and making them relatable for both Fintech enthusiasts and professionals.The Hosts of Fintech Files:Hosted by

We dive into the complexities and opportunities within Africa's financial services sector with Alfred Mukudu, Financial Services Go-To-Market Lead at Amazon Web Services (AWS) South Africa. With over 50 countries and about 42 different currencies, Africa presents a unique landscape for financial innovation. Alfred shares insights into the critical role of interoperability, cloud-based solutions, and emerging technologies in driving digital transformation and financial inclusion across the continent.Discussion Highlights:Africa's Financial Landscape: Alfred provides an overview of the complexities and challenges posed by Africa's diverse market landscape, highlighting the varying regulatory environments and the need for tailored technology solutions across different countries.Interoperability in Financial Services: Alfred explains the concept of interoperability “to his grandma” and discusses its importance in fostering collaboration and driving digital innovation in Africa's financial services sector. Examples like M-Pesa in Kenya and emerging open finance regulations across several African countries are highlighted.Role of Technology in Financial Inclusion: The conversation delves into how cloud-based solutions, such as those offered by AWS, are making financial services more accessible and scalable in Africa. Alfred shares examples of innovative solutions leveraging machine learning and mobile channels to address challenges like identity verification and cross-border payments.  The conversation touches on open banking. Be sure to check out our episode “Revolutionizing the Future of Finance in the Middle East through Open Banking” with Emir Isik from Tarabut Gateway.  Investment in Infrastructure and Skills Development: Alfred discusses the significance of infrastructure investments, including AWS's cloud region in Cape Town, in advancing fintech development. He also emphasizes the importance of skill development programs in empowering local talent and driving economic growth.Internet Connectivity and Access: Around 30% of South Africans lack internet access according to a 2023 study from datareportal.com. The concentration of innovation often lies in urban centers and relies on alternative channels like USSD and SMS due to connectivity issues. By concentrating connectivity points and reducing data costs, broader adoption of fintech products could be achieved.Impact of Managed Services and Emerging Technologies: Alfred highlights the role of managed services and AI-driven solutions in simplifying technology adoption for businesses, with examples ranging from data analytics to machine learning. He also touches upon the potential of quantum computing and blockchain in addressing complex challenges like supply chain integrity.Future Outlook: Looking ahead, Alfred shares his optimism about the future of technology in Africa, from the short-term potential of machine learning to the long-term possibilities of spatial computing and the metaverse. He emphasizes the importance of regulatory clarity and technological innovation in driving Africa's digital transformation journey.About Fintech Files:Are you ready to unravel the most innovative trends disrupting the world of Fintech today? Join us on Fintech Files from BCG Platinion, where we delve deep into the dynamic landscape of Fintech, NeoBanks, and the Digital Banking world, sparking insightful...

How do companies combat financial crime and adhere to the strict regulations of our industry? Camila Vincenci Witt has unique insight as the Chief Risk and Compliance Officer at Inpay, a fintech specializing in facilitating cross-border payments. Camila shares the importance of data and data governance in compliance and risk, as well as highlighting the significance of leveraging diverse perspectives as a key strength of her team. Join us for this fascinating conversation with Camila!Discussion Highlights:MobilePay and Identity Verification: Camila delves into her experience working with MobilePay, a digital wallet leveraging the Danish Civil Registration System (CPR number) for identity verification, setting the stage for a discussion on the intersection of technology and compliance.InPay's Origins and Cross-Border Payments: We explore the genesis of InPay, born out of a mission to provide relief after the 2008 Myanmar natural disaster, unraveling the intricacies of cross-border payments and the challenges inherent in navigating diverse regulatory landscapes.Combating Fraud in Fintech: Camila sheds light on the perpetual battle against fraudsters and criminals in the fintech realm, underscoring the importance of proactive fraud prevention measures to safeguard customer assets and data.Data's Role in Risk Management: The conversation turns to the pivotal role of data in risk management, with Camila highlighting the significance of data quality, patterns, and behaviors in informing effective risk mitigation strategies.AI and Automation in Compliance: Camila discusses how InPay harnesses AI, automation, and machine learning to bolster compliance efforts, particularly in transaction screening, monitoring, and fraud detection, ushering in a new era of efficiency and effectiveness.The Significance of Data Governance: We delve into the importance of robust data governance frameworks for fintech companies, exploring how they ensure regulatory compliance, data integrity, and trustworthiness in the eyes of regulators and customers alike.Navigating Regulatory Compliance: Camila provides insights into InPay's regulatory obligations under the Danish Financial Supervisory Authority (FSA), highlighting the pivotal role of transparency and trust in fostering strong relationships with regulatory bodies and customers.Future Horizons: Gen AI and Cross-Border Payments: The conversation concludes with a glimpse into the future of fintech, as Camila shares her vision of Gen AI revolutionizing cross-border payments, driven by a commitment to innovation and collaboration in the industry.Digital identity: The hosts discuss how identity remains a complex challenge globally, with antiquated systems prevailing despite technological advancements. Various approaches, from biometric systems like Aadhaar in India to blockchain technology, offer potential solutions to the decentralized ownership and verification of personal data. For more discussion on identity check out our episode with Peter Grosskopf, former CTO of Solaris. About Fintech Files:Are you ready to unravel the most innovative trends disrupting the world of Fintech today? Join us on Fintech Files from BCG Platinion, where we delve deep into the dynamic landscape of Fintech, NeoBanks, and the Digital Banking world, sparking insightful conversations with industry disruptors from around the globe. So, what are the most groundbreaking trends shaping the future of Fintech, and how will they...

In this special throwback episode, we revisit one of our favorite moments from Season One with a fintech titan, Dr. Jörg Howein, formerly the Chief Product Officer at Solarisbank. Since we last spoke with Jörg, Solarisbank, now known simply as Solaris, has continued its meteoric rise in the fintech world. In this engaging conversation, Jörg shares valuable insights into how this German fintech unicorn seamlessly transitioned from a monolithic to a self-built modular core, all while ensuring their end customers remained blissfully unaware of the shift. Since our previous encounter with Solaris, the company has achieved remarkable milestones, including raising an impressive €38 million euros in funds earmarked for scaling up their banking-as-a-service business. If you're intrigued by fintech innovation, curious about the secrets behind Solaris' success, or simply eager to stay ahead in the ever-evolving financial landscape, this episode is a must-listen. Join us as we dive into the world of fintech with Dr. Jörg Howein and uncover the strategies that keep Solaris at the forefront of the competition.About Fintech Files:Are you ready to unravel the most innovative trends disrupting the world of Fintech today? Join us on Fintech Files from BCG Platinion, where we delve deep into the dynamic landscape of Fintech, NeoBanks, and the Digital Banking world, sparking insightful conversations with industry disruptors from around the globe. So, what are the most groundbreaking trends shaping the future of Fintech, and how will they impact your financial world? Fintech Files takes an accessible approach to technology. We break down complex topics and have our guests explain them in a relatable "explain it to your grandma" style. In every episode, we focus on real-world stories of how financial technology operates, demystifying complex concepts and making them relatable for both Fintech enthusiasts and professionals.The Hosts of Fintech Files:Hosted by Nora Hocke, a manager at BCG Platinion in Munich, and Annika Melchert, a principal currently based in the Middle East, our hosts specialize in IT strategy, modern tech architecture, and state-of-the-art banking. In their work, they've collaborated with some of today's most innovative Fintechs to transform their organizations; including supporting generative AI use cases. With their unique blend of tech expertise and passion, they bring you stories that capture the essence of the evolving Fintech landscape.  This season, we're thrilled to introduce Bianca Lopes. Originally from Brazil and currently based in Denmark, Bianca is an entrepreneur and economist with a remarkable background in digital identity and biometrics. Throughout her career, she has supported over 40 financial institutions and 8 governments, reshaping their approach to technology, reimagining identity, and driving innovation agendas.We Want to Hear from You!Reach out to us at fintech-podcast@bcgplatinion.com with your questions, guest suggestions, or topics you'd like us to explore. Or just drop in to say hi! Visit our website at https://bcgplatinion.com/insights/podcast-fi/ and follow us on social media for updates and additional content.The digital future is now. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Chartable - https://chartable.com/privacy

How many globally lack access to banking? Astonishingly, one in three. In this insightful conversation, Vera Futorjanski, former Head of Communications at Rocket Internet and founding member of Dubai Future Accelerators, shares her journey. Emphasizing the transformative role of technology, she explores challenges and strategies to enhance accessibility and diversity in finance through education and innovation.Discussion Highlights:Dubai as a Hub for Innovation: Vera discusses the unique ecosystem in Dubai, where the government actively supports and accelerates innovation. Vera elaborates on her involvement with the Dubai Future Accelerators program, highlighting the collaboration between government entities and startups. Female Representation in the Startup Ecosystem: The discussion delves into the challenges faced by female founders, investors, and leaders in the startup ecosystem. Vera shares a shocking statistic; only 2% of globally available funding for startups goes to female founders.Beyond Community and Empowering Women: Vera introduces Beyond, a curated community of female leaders launched by her that provides a safe and trusted space for women leaders to connect, collaborate, and grow.Web3 and Diversity in the Tech Space: Vera expresses her early optimism in the Web3 space and her disappointment in the progress made regarding diversity. She highlights her experiences in the Metaverse, NFTs (Non-Fungible Tokens), and the need for greater representation of women in key roles in Web3 technologies.AI and the Importance of Female Representation: Vera highlights the lack of representation of female voices in AI discussions, referencing that Sam Altman's quotes in AI news coverage last year surpassed those of all female AI experts listed in Times Magazine's top AI influencers combined. Read more in Where are all the ‘godmothers’ of AI? Women’s voices are not being heard from Luba Kassova for The Guardian. Importance of Funding for Women in Tech: Vera acknowledges the importance of funding in driving change in the tech industry. She emphasizes the need for more female Limited Partners who can influence investment decisions and stresses that change will come through a combination of education, funding opportunities, and increased visibility for women in the tech space.About Fintech Files:Are you ready to unravel the most innovative trends disrupting the world of Fintech today? Join us on Fintech Files from BCG Platinion, where we delve deep into the dynamic landscape of Fintech, NeoBanks, and the Digital Banking world, sparking insightful conversations with industry disruptors from around the globe. So, what are the most groundbreaking trends shaping the future of Fintech, and how will they impact your financial world? Fintech Files takes an accessible approach to technology. We break down complex topics and have our guests explain them in a relatable "explain it to your grandma" style. In every episode, we focus on real-world stories of how financial technology operates, demystifying complex concepts and making them relatable for both Fintech enthusiasts and professionals.The Hosts of Fintech Files:Hosted by Nora Hocke, a manager at BCG Platinion in Munich, and

Happy New Year from your friends at Fintech Files!  To kick off 2024 in style, we’re bringing you a throwback to our very first episode of 2023; “Revolutionizing the Future of Finance in the Middle East through Open Banking” with Emir Isik, Head of Business Development from Tarabut Gateway.  We felt this was the perfect episode to kick off the new year as there have been so many exciting developments with Open Banking and Tarabut since we had them on the show, including raising $32m in Series A funding round to propel open banking in Saudi Arabia. This episode dives into the world of open banking! We dive deep into the buzzword that has taken the financial world by storm. What is open banking? Why is it relevant? And how is it transforming the finance landscape in the Middle East? Join Emir Isik, Head of Business Development at Tarabut Gateway, the largest open banking platform in the region, as he delves into the organization’s challenges, opportunities, the role it plays in Saudi Vision 2030 and its impact on the future of finance.About Fintech Files:Are you ready to unravel the most innovative trends disrupting the world of Fintech today? Join us on Fintech Files from BCG Platinion, where we delve deep into the dynamic landscape of Fintech, NeoBanks, and the Digital Banking world, sparking insightful conversations with industry disruptors from around the globe. So, what are the most groundbreaking trends shaping the future of Fintech, and how will they impact your financial world? Fintech Files takes an accessible approach to technology. We break down complex topics and have our guests explain them in a relatable "explain it to your grandma" style. In every episode, we focus on real-world stories of how financial technology operates, demystifying complex concepts and making them relatable for both Fintech enthusiasts and professionals.The Hosts of Fintech Files:Hosted by Nora Hocke, a manager at BCG Platinion in Munich, and Annika Melchert, a principal currently based in the Middle East, our hosts specialize in IT strategy, modern tech architecture, and state-of-the-art banking. In their work, they've collaborated with some of today's most innovative Fintechs to transform their organizations; including supporting generative AI use cases. With their unique blend of tech expertise and passion, they bring you stories that capture the essence of the evolving Fintech landscape.  This season, we're thrilled to introduce Bianca Lopes. Originally from Brazil and currently based in Denmark, Bianca is an entrepreneur and economist with a remarkable background in digital identity and biometrics. Throughout her career, she has supported over 40 financial institutions and 8 governments, reshaping their approach to technology, reimagining identity, and driving innovation agendas.We Want to Hear from You!Reach out to us at fintech-podcast@bcgplatinion.com with your questions, guest suggestions, or topics you'd like us to explore. Or just drop in to say hi! Visit our website at https://bcgplatinion.com/insights/podcast-fi/ and follow us on social media for updates and additional content.The digital future is now. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Chartable - https://chartable.com/privacy

As a special holiday treat for you, our listeners, we’re revisiting one of our favourite season 2 episodes. It’s “The Art of Navigating a Company Through Rapid Growth and Post-Merger Integration” – with Michael Stephan, COO and Co-founder of Raisin.” They are the first and only pan-European deposit marketplace. Since our 2022 episode, this Berlin-based fintech unicorn has secured over 60 million euros in funding in a series E round.The Berlin-based fintech unicorn Raisin has written quite a success story of organic and inorganic growth since it was founded in 2012. Starting with a “savings-as-a-service” offering, it has massively expanded over the years both in functionality and in markets. Most recently, it merged with its former competitor Deposit Solutions to grow even stronger. Listen in to this episode to learn about Raisin’s evolution and the challenges they’ve overcome—both technical and operational—and hear about what lies ahead on their journey to become one of the biggest European open banking fintechs.About Fintech Files:Are you ready to unravel the most innovative trends disrupting the world of Fintech today? Join us on Fintech Files from BCG Platinion, where we delve deep into the dynamic landscape of Fintech, NeoBanks, and the Digital Banking world, sparking insightful conversations with industry disruptors from around the globe. So, what are the most groundbreaking trends shaping the future of Fintech, and how will they impact your financial world? Fintech Files takes an accessible approach to technology. We break down complex topics and have our guests explain them in a relatable "explain it to your grandma" style. In every episode, we focus on real-world stories of how financial technology operates, demystifying complex concepts and making them relatable for both Fintech enthusiasts and professionals.The Hosts of Fintech Files:Hosted by Nora Hocke, a manager at BCG Platinion in Munich, and Annika Melchert, a principal currently based in the Middle East, our hosts specialize in IT strategy, modern tech architecture, and state-of-the-art banking. In their work, they've collaborated with some of today's most innovative Fintechs to transform their organizations; including supporting generative AI use cases. With their unique blend of tech expertise and passion, they bring you stories that capture the essence of the evolving Fintech landscape.  This season, we're thrilled to introduce Bianca Lopes. Originally from Brazil and currently based in Denmark, Bianca is an entrepreneur and economist with a remarkable background in digital identity and biometrics. Throughout her career, she has supported over 40 financial institutions and 8 governments, reshaping their approach to technology, reimagining identity, and driving innovation agendas.We Want to Hear from You!Reach out to us at fintech-podcast@bcgplatinion.com with your questions, guest suggestions, or topics you'd like us to explore. Or just drop in to say hi! Visit our website at https://bcgplatinion.com/insights/podcast-fi/ and follow us on social media for updates and additional content.The digital future is now. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Chartable - https://chartable.com/privacy

How should banks navigate Gen AI's regulatory challenges? Kirsten Rulf, BCG Partner and Associate Director, shares key strategies and opportunities. As the former Senior Digital Policy advisor aka “nerd-in-chief” to Chancellor Angela Merkel, Kirsten played a key role in negotiating the EU AI Act.  Now, Kirsten guides global Fintech clients in adopting this transformative technology.Discussion Highlights:Regulatory Challenges: Kirsten explores negotiations behind the EU AI Act, detailing the hurdles in aligning Gen AI adoption with regulations and grasping its comprehensive impact on the financial sector.Gen AI Opportunities in Finance: Highlighting potential in personalized interactions such as chatbots and knowledge management, Kirsten underscores Gen AI's prospects in the financial sector. The discussion emphasizes the ongoing challenge of balancing opportunities with inherent regulatory and technological risks.Challenging Stereotypes: Kirsten advocates for a positive perspective on AI, steering away from doomsday narratives and promoting it as an opportunity for significant positive impact.Human in the Loop Challenges: Discussing the challenges of the "human in the loop" concept, particularly in large-scale AI systems with extensive data, Kirsten and Nora delve into the complexities of effective human oversight implementation.AI Risk & Panic Button: Kirsten introduces the concept of a "panic button" in AI systems, citing an example of an inappropriate encounter with an AI agent. The panic button enables human intervention to halt AI processes during critical situations.AI Impact on Creativity: BCG's study involving 750 consultants reveals a 40% boost in creativity for 'AI-friendly' tasks but a 23% decrease for tasks aligned with human intuition. This underscores the importance of nuanced AI deployment. Building Trust in Gen AI: Kirsten stresses the role of trusted institutions, like banks, in public AI education, emphasizing the need to showcase AI's positive potential while actively managing risks and ensuring regulatory compliance.Reputational & Financial Risk: Nora, Bianca, and Annika discuss the reputational risk of Gen AI, citing Google's stock plunge after an AI incident with Google Bard. The example underscores the necessity for financial institutions to navigate AI risks while seizing opportunities to avoid reputational and financial damage.About Fintech Files:Are you ready to unravel the most innovative trends disrupting the world of Fintech today? Join us on Fintech Files from BCG Platinion, where we delve deep into the dynamic landscape of Fintech, NeoBanks, and the Digital Banking world, sparking insightful conversations with industry disruptors from around the globe. So, what are the most groundbreaking trends shaping the future of Fintech, and how will they impact your financial world? Fintech Files takes an accessible approach to technology. We break down complex topics and have our guests explain them in a relatable "explain it to your grandma" style. In every episode, we focus on real-world stories of how financial technology operates, demystifying complex concepts and making them relatable for both Fintech enthusiasts and professionals.The Hosts of Fintech Files:Hosted by Nora Hocke, a manager at BCG Platinion in Munich,...

What is the role of technology in aligning banking and investments with sustainability? Eve Morelli, Head of Sustainable Transparency unveils Radicant’s unique approach to sustainable finance.  Discover how this Swiss digital banking startup integrates the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into its framework, ensuring users can see where their money is going and why. This is a special sustainable fintech episode to coincide with the 2023 United Nations Climate Change Conference, also known as COP28. Discussion Highlights:Eve Morelli's Journey: Eve, Head of Sustainable Transparency at Radicant, shares her 20-year journey in sustainable finance, emphasizing the importance of transparency.Radicant's Methodology: Radicant, a Swiss digital banking startup, integrates sustainability into banking and investments. The app offers transparency, aligning investments with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).Sustainable Finance Explained: Eve breaks down sustainable finance into banking and investment aspects, highlighting the impact on society and the environment. The SDGs serve as Radicant's investment framework.Challenges and Surprises: Eve discusses challenges in evaluating companies for sustainability and shares surprises, such as finding luxury brands in the gender equality portfolio.Radicant's Approach: Radicant's digital banking offers quick account setup with a focus on avoiding fossil fuel financing. Investments start with a low threshold, and clients have a say in their preferences, providing a unique level of transparency.Carbon Footprint Tracker: Radicant includes a carbon footprint tracker in its app, raising awareness about individual carbon footprints with every transaction.Women in Finance: Eve touches on the underbanking of women, stressing the need for inclusivity and technology-driven solutions in the financial sector.About Fintech Files:Are you ready to unravel the most innovative trends disrupting the world of Fintech today? Join us on Fintech Files from BCG Platinion, where we delve deep into the dynamic landscape of Fintech, NeoBanks, and the Digital Banking world, sparking insightful conversations with industry disruptors from around the globe. So, what are the most groundbreaking trends shaping the future of Fintech, and how will they impact your financial world? Fintech Files takes an accessible approach to technology. We break down complex topics and have our guests explain them in a relatable "explain it to your grandma" style. In every episode, we focus on real-world stories of how financial technology operates, demystifying complex concepts and making them relatable for both Fintech enthusiasts and professionals.The Hosts of Fintech Files:Hosted by Nora Hocke, a manager at BCG Platinion in Munich, and Annika Melchert, a principal currently based in the Middle East, our hosts specialize in IT strategy, modern tech architecture, and state-of-the-art banking. In their work, they've collaborated with some of today's most innovative Fintechs to transform their organizations; including supporting generative AI use cases. With their unique blend of tech expertise and passion, they bring you stories that capture the essence of the evolving Fintech landscape.  This season, we're thrilled to introduce a...

Welcome back to Fintech Files from BCG Platinion! In this special episode, "Meet the Hosts," we'll bring you up to speed on our latest endeavors since the last episode and introduce the newest member of our hosting team. Join us for a sneak peek into the exciting topics we're eager to explore this upcoming season.Host Introductions:Nora Hocke: Manager at BCG Platinion, based in Munich, and a passionate diver. Nora specializes in IT strategy, data, AI, and navigating the fintech ecosystem.Annika Melchert: Principal at BCG Platinion, originally from Germany and currently based in the Middle East. Annika, also a passionate diver, is an expert in banking technology builds, integration strategies, and digital transformations for fintechs and incumbent banks.Bianca Lopes: Entrepreneur and economist, originally from Brazil and currently residing in Denmark. Bianca's extensive experience includes reshaping technology, identity, and innovation for financial institutions and governments.Discussion Highlights:Generative AI: Nora dives into recent projects involving generative AI and reflects on the industry impact, exploring technologies like ChatGPT.Project Experiences: The hosts share insights from recent projects, including driving IT strategy, core banking system replacements, and navigating identity, biometrics, and tokenization.Trends in FinTech: The hosts discuss exciting trends, from mobile payments and investments to neobanking, highlighting the growth of FinTech in the Middle East.Looking Ahead:The hosts express their excitement for the upcoming season, promising deep dives into topics like tokenization, neobanking, sustainable finance, and cloud transformation. Stay tuned for live episodes and engagements at financial industry conferences. This season, we'll take a more global approach, exploring fintechs around the world.We Want to Hear from You!Reach out to us at fintech-podcast@bcgplatinion.com with your questions, guest suggestions, or topics you'd like us to explore. Or just drop in to say hi! Visit our website at https://bcgplatinion.com/insights/podcast-fi/ and follow us on social media for updates and additional content.Thank you for joining us for this Meet the Hosts episode of Fintech Files. Get ready for an insightful and engaging season as we explore the latest trends and innovations shaping the future of fintech, neobanks, and the digital banking world.The digital future is now. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Chartable - https://chartable.com/privacy

Are you ready to unravel the most innovative trends disrupting the world of Fintech today? Join us on Fintech Files from BCG Platinion, where we delve deep into the dynamic landscape of Fintech, NeoBanks, and the Digital Banking world, sparking insightful conversations with industry disruptors from around the globe.Hosted by Nora Hocke, a manager at BCG Platinion in Munich, and Annika Melchert, a principal currently based in the Middle East, our hosts specialize in IT strategy, modern tech architecture, and state-of-the-art banking. In their work, they've collaborated with some of today's most innovative Fintechs to transform their organizations; including supporting generative AI use cases. With their unique blend of tech expertise and passion, they bring you stories that capture the essence of the evolving Fintech landscape.This season, we're thrilled to introduce Bianca Lopes. Originally from Brazil and currently based in Denmark, Bianca is an entrepreneur and economist with a remarkable background in digital identity and biometrics. Throughout her career, she has supported over 40 financial institutions and 8 governments, reshaping their approach to technology, reimagining identity, and driving innovation agendas.So, what are the most groundbreaking trends shaping the future of Fintech, and how will they impact your financial world?  This season we want to explore questions such as how tokenization will transform business, the role of neobanks in reshaping financial services, and the impact of sustainable and regenerative finance on the industry. Get ready to deep dive into generative AI, digital identity, biometrics, wealth management, mobile payments, investment, and cloud transformation as we navigate these exciting topics this season.Fintech Files takes an accessible approach to technology. We break down complex topics and have our guests explain them in a relatable "explain it to your grandma" style. In every episode, we focus on real-world stories of how financial technology operates, demystifying complex concepts and making them relatable for both Fintech enthusiasts and professionals.Join us on this journey into the ever-evolving world of Fintech, as we keep a close watch on the cryptocurrency landscape, tackle cybersecurity challenges, delve into data analytics, explore artificial intelligence, and peek into the future of digital banking. Your voice matters, and we invite you to share your thoughts and dream guests with us at fintech-podcast@bcgplatinion.com. Your feedback shapes our content, ensuring it remains relevant, engaging, and informative.Fintech Files is here to guide you through the world of financial technology. For more information and to stay updated, visit our website at https://bcgplatinion.com/insights/podcast-fi/.Join us every two weeks on Fintech Files from BCG Platinion. The digital future is now.This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Chartable - https://chartable.com/privacy

In this episode, the hosts Annika and Nora dive deep into the world of data with Antonio Martinez, Industry Solution Architect at Snowflake, the world's leading cloud-based data platform. We explore how data has become the lifeblood of the finance industry enabled by Snowflake's cutting-edge technology and advanced data analytics possibilities. Antonio shares how their powerful platform is transforming the way banks and fintechs manage, process and utilize data. Whether you're a bank looking to streamline your data processing, or a fintech striving to gain a competitive edge, this episode is a must-listen. Join us as we uncover the secrets of Snowflake's game-changing technology and learn how it's revolutionizing the world of finance. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Chartable - https://chartable.com/privacy

In celebration of International Women's Day, Nora and Annika are joined by two BCG colleagues and renowned leaders in the financial institution's space, Claudia Rasper (Partner) and Jan Koserski (Partner & Managing Director). Together, they co-authored BCG’s "Gender Equality in the European Banking Industry" report, which explores the current state of gender equality in leadership within Europe’s top 50 banks and track their year-on-year development. Listen in to hear them discuss what needs to be done to break down barriers, advance gender parity in the banking sector, and create an equitable workplace. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Chartable - https://chartable.com/privacy

Welcome to the world of open banking! In our first episode of 2023, we dive deep into the buzzword that’s taking the financial world by storm. What is open banking? Why is it relevant? And how is it transforming the finance landscape in the Middle East? Join Emir Isik, Head of Business Development at Tarabut Gateway, the largest open banking platform in the region, as he delves into the organization’s challenges, opportunities, the role it plays in Saudi Vision 2030 and its impact on the future of finance.This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Chartable - https://chartable.com/privacy

OakNorth has rethought credit decisioning with their data-centric credit intelligence platform. Even more interestingly, their first real-life reference was their own bank. Be it the bank or the software provider, both OakNorth companies share a common focus topic: climate change. Listen in to learn what banks can do to address this global matter now! This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Chartable - https://chartable.com/privacy

Hardly any other fintech is tied as strongly to the terms “next-gen core banking” and “cloud first” as the unicorn Mambu. Bringing in broad experience across the fintech and banking ecosystem, Mambu General Manager Anton Langbroek shares his views on modern versus traditional core banking systems. What are the implications of a modern core banking system on the customer experience but also operability? How can incumbent banks migrate from a traditional to a modern core banking system? And how can software as a service be realized if the regulator imposes restrictions in terms of hosting location? Listen in to find out!This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Chartable - https://chartable.com/privacy

While other “buy now, pay later” players are laying off employees to make up for increasingly pessimistic market expectations, the Berlin-based fintech Mondu just raised €40M in funding. We met with the two co-founders, Malte Huffman and Philipp Povel, and asked them about their secret recipe for building yet another successful start-up, the challenges of integrating into B2B ecosystems, and their approach to create a tech platform that caters to their ambitious growth plans. Listen in and find out what role our previous guest Raisin plays in the Mondu landscape and how Mondu differs from marketplace payments provider Payaut. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Chartable - https://chartable.com/privacy