AI, embedded finance, first principles, and the 2026 outlook in APAC banking with David Jimenez Maireles

Episode 78 of Banking Reinvented explores what the future of banking in APAC could look like by 2026, from the rise of AI-driven personalization to the growth of embedded finance and digital-first challengers.

In this episode, host Tim Rutten is joined by David Jimenez Maireles, fintech influencer and Fractional Digital Advisor at D19 Advisory. David shares his predictions for how the region’s banks will close the gap between promise and performance, using his nearly two decades of experience working in digital banking at Banco Santander, ING, and TNEX Vietnam.

Together, they discuss how AI can make banking more human, what it takes to thrive when super apps and e-commerce players are embedding financial services, and why successful digital banks are built on platform thinking and customer-centric design.

Tune in to hear the technologies, trends, and mindsets that will define banking success in 2026 and beyond.

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Timestamps

(00:00) – Welcome to the “Banking Reinvented” podcast

(00:24) – Introduction to David

(04:26) – AI appetite in Asia

(08:55) – Using AI for growth and engagement

(12:45) – Neobank competitors and their key differentiators

(16:21) – How APAC banks are leaning in for AI

(19:26) – Key use cases for Asian banks

(23:35) – The ideal banking tech stack

(29:34) – The tipping point of AI usage

(36:38) – Key learnings from David

(40:39) – Episode wrap-up