When it comes to both FinTech and open banking, the UK is leading the charge globally. In this episode, Eyal sits down with one of the key figures behind the country’s leadership in financial innovation: Charlotte Crosswell, the newly appointed Chair and Trustee of the Open Banking Implementation Entity (OBIE), which is the organization responsible for bringing open banking to the UK and acting as a shining example for the rest of the world. During their discussion, Charlotte shares her perspective on the UK’s strong FinTech reputation and how it’s evolved throughout her 25-year career serving in key leadership roles at the intersection of financial services, regulation and technology. She also offers her position on the UK’s national digital strategy, the factors that led to the UK’s success and the importance of a strong and inclusive culture. Finally, Charlotte offers her advice to peers in other regions hoping to help usher in this new age of open banking.Specifically they discuss:The UK’s FinTech landscapeCharlotte’s time as CEO of Innovate FinanceThe UK’s national digital strategyThe driving factors behind the UK’s open banking success The importance of culture in open bankingThe next incarnation of the OBIEThe future of open banking on a global scaleCharlotte’s advice for other practitioners aiming to adopt open bankingThe implications of smart data on businesses and individuals

Charlotte Crosswell, Chair of the Centre for Finance, Innovation, and Technology (CFIT), talks about the goals of CFIT and how the UK can be a global leader in improving financial services. They discuss demystifying open banking and finance, driving progress, transitioning to a commercial model, and the importance of financial services innovation.