Navigating Islamic Fintech: Challenges and Innovations

Episode number 50!!!

We’re joined by Abdul Haseeb Basit, cofounder of Madinah Angels to discuss Islamophobia in the startup ecosystem, prompted by controversial comments from a top VC partner, and explore how Muslim entrepreneurs can build their own spaces and funding networks. They also delve into the origins and growth of Madinah Angels and the Muslim CEOs Dinner series, aimed at empowering Muslim founders.


This podcast is hosted by Areeb Siddiqui, the founder and CEO of Kestrl, the app that helps people to grow their wealth without compromise

Find out more about our app here: https://kestrl.io/

And how we help banks here: https://business.kestrl.io/


Show Notes


00:00 - Trailer and intro 

02:20 – The book that changed his career

04:49 - Mystery guest arrives

07:21 – Growing up nomadic and pilot dreams 

11:36 – Career in banking (working with Areeb’s dad?!)

15:06 - Islamic Finance Impressions and moving to FinTech

18:08 – Ethical vs. Islamic branding: lessons for founders

24:05 – Why Islamic fintech will outpace Islamic banks

29:28 – Islamophobia in Silicon Valley and start-up culture 

35:31 – Madinah Angels: Vision, first deal & founder advice

44:11 - Web3, Stable coins and the future of Islamic fintech 

48:31 – The Muslim CEOs Dinner: building community & collaboration

54:41 – Legacy, supporting Muslim businesses & global impact

1:01:22 – Closing thoughts & next steps