Couchonomics with Arjun

Dive deep into the bustling world of investment, fintech, and the strategy behind successful consolidations. In this episode of Couchonomics, we venture into the art of picking the right businesses, the significance of 'cash,' and why sometimes, it's not just about growth.Meet Nabil Ismail, the Executive Director at Gulf Capital. With over a decade of experience in investment and private equity, Nabil brings his expertise, especially from the tech & fintech realms, to our couch. From representing the UAE National Golf team to serving as a judge on several SME awards, Nabil’s journey is nothing short of inspiring.Nabil talks about the ongoing mergers happening in the region, such as Magnati and Ideal, the consolidation story around payments, and how good money can still be made in this sector. Everyone is talking about profitability, but do they truly grasp it? It's not just about net profit or EBITDA; it's about the cash flow!Other topics discussed:  - Buying a Business: The reasons and strategies behind acquisitions.- Regional Perspectives: Analyzing the 'dry powder' scenario across regions, and how geopolitical shifts are influencing investment directions.- Embedded Finance: The significance of banks and how fintech is being integrated into various platforms.- Expanding Horizons: Gulf Capital's investments in international markets like India and Southeast Asia.With insights from one of the leading minds in the investment sector, this episode is a treasure trove of knowledge for anyone looking to understand the landscape of alternative investments, fintech trends, and the nuances of regional and global expansions. Remember, as Nabil rightly points out, it's all about having the right people on board and learning from both successes and failures.Be sure to hit that 'Like' button if you found value in this episode and don't forget to subscribe for more Couchonomics insights!Our website 👉 https://bit.ly/3jk7UH0Find us on our social media platforms: Arjun's LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/arjunvirsingh/ CCN LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/couchonomics-with-arjun-singh/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/couchonomics/ Twitter https://twitter.com/Arjun_Vir_Singh?s=20 TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@couchonomics Subscribe to Arjun's LinkedIn newsletter, Couchonomics Crunch: https://bit.ly/3WI4A6E

Meet Prakash Somosundram, a serial entrepreneur in the digital advertising, startup, and blockchain realms. Dive into the future of technology and sustainability with Prakash as he demystifies Web 3.0, discusses investment trends, AI's promising horizon, and the role of blockchain. Learn about Enjinstarter's journey, the rise of the metaverse, and the potential of carbon credits as a significant asset class.

In this insightful episode of Couchonomics with Arjun, we engage in a thought-provoking discussion with Khalifa AlShamsi, the CEO at e& life, navigating the intriguing waters of digital disruption, FinTech innovations, and the rise of Super Apps. Tune in as we explore the cutting-edge strategies propelling the technology and investment group e& into new horizons. Khalifa AlShamsi, our esteemed guest, holds over 29 years of experience in telecom, media, and ICT. As the Chief Executive Officer at e& life, he has spearheaded key innovations in digital services, shaping new revenue streams and accelerating business growth. With a formidable resume encompassing roles like Head of Mobile Networks, Chief Marketing Officer, and Chief Digital Officer, Khalifa brings a wealth of knowledge and industry insights to our conversation.In our engaging dialogue, Khalifa sheds light on e& life's strategic approach to their B2B business and their venture into the consumer digital space. He outlines the company’s intention to provide high-value, quality services that extend beyond traditional telecom offerings, aiming to transform digital services across multiple markets.Other Major Topics Discussed: - The promising future of FinTech across e& group markets and the company’s focus on tailoring products for diverse customer segments.- The role and evolution of Super Apps, with specific focus on the partnership with Careem.- The success story of 'Smiles', a top-performing loyalty program.- Exploring untapped potential in sectors like healthcare technology and media production.- The emergence of blockchain in the remittance business, its cost-effectiveness, and its impact on investment areas, such as real estate tokenization. This episode is an enriching journey through the evolving digital landscape, illuminating the transformative power of technology, strategy, and innovation. With Khalifa AlShamsi's in-depth insights and experiences, we take a closer look at how e& life is shaping a digital-first future. For anyone intrigued by the digital revolution, this episode is a must-listen. So tune in, and let's delve into the world of digital disruptions together!Our website 👉 https://bit.ly/3jk7UH0Find us on our social media platforms: Arjun's LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/arjunvirsingh/ CCN LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/couchonomics-with-arjun-singh/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/couchonomics/ Twitter https://twitter.com/Arjun_Vir_Singh?s=20 TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@couchonomics Subscribe to Arjun's LinkedIn newsletter, Couchonomics Crunch: https://bit.ly/3WI4A6E

Renowned futurist Dr. Noah Raford and Financial Economist & Emerging Tech Strategist Amna Usman Chaudhry discuss the transformative impact of AI on the fintech industry. Topics include AI models' impact on social media feeds, generative AI's revolution in the creator economy, AI's effect on jobs and upskilling, AI's potential in task execution and user experience enhancement, and the challenges and implications of AI in the financial services sector.

Welcome to the latest episode of Couchonomics with Arjun. In this fascinating conversation, we delve deep into the world of Ultra Platforms, fintech, and the future of digital services with our esteemed guest, Abdallah Abu-Sheikh, the dynamic CEO of Botim and Founder of Astra Tech.Abdallah Abu-Sheikh is a renowned entrepreneur and a visionary leader in the MENA region, known for his unconventional approach to business and innovation. At the helm of Astra Tech, he is paving the way towards an Ultra Platform future that seeks to simplify daily transactions and activities for consumers. His transformation of Botim into an Ultra App that provides an all-encompassing range of services sets the bar high for what consumer technology can accomplish.In this eye-opening discussion, Abdallah talks about the evolution of Astra Tech and its various ventures, including Botim, PayBy, and Rizek. He shares insights on the need for and the creation of Ultra Platforms, noting the four components that define them: extreme usage, organic adoption, multi-service functionality, and their inherent ability to transcend targeted platforms.Other Major Topics Discussed:- Unpacking the journey of Botim and its success in markets beyond the UAE.- The strategy of "last mover advantage" and how it can help companies thrive in saturated markets.- A critical look at how businesses pass on costs to consumers and the urgent need for change.- An introduction to Botim GPT, a world-first execution of generative AI that can carry out tasks based on user commands.In this episode of Couchonomics with Arjun, Abdallah Abu-Sheikh has not just shared the journey of Astra Tech and Botim but also provided a glimpse into the future of the digital world. His insights and experience offer valuable lessons for entrepreneurs, businesses, and consumers alike. Tune in to understand the intricate world of fintech, the essence of Ultra Platforms, and to get a peek into what the future holds for digital services.Our website 👉 https://bit.ly/3jk7UH0Find us on our social media platforms: Arjun's LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/arjunvirsingh/ CCN LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/couchonomics-with-arjun-singh/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/couchonomics/ Twitter https://twitter.com/Arjun_Vir_Singh?s=20 TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@couchonomics Subscribe to Arjun's LinkedIn newsletter, Couchonomics Crunch: https://bit.ly/3WI4A6E

Welcome to another insightful episode of Couchonomics with Arjun. In this episode, we delve into the innovative world of FinTech, discussing the groundbreaking journey of Twig, a start-up focused on cultivating a culture of saving in the MENA region. Twig's unique embedded savings infrastructure offers goal-based saving tools, enabling consumers to realize their financial dreams effortlessly.Joining us on the show are the brain trusts behind Twig – Chafic Idriss, the founder and CEO, Rayan Antonios, the founder and CBO, and Karam El Dik, the founder and COO. Through their collective efforts, Twig has made remarkable strides in the realm of financial wellness, reshaping how individuals and businesses perceive and engage with saving strategies.Throughout this episode, we discuss the inspiration behind Twig, and how the idea of making saving fun and engaging led to a transformative platform. Our guests also delve into the journey of their pre-seed round, the milestones achieved, and the strategic planning behind using the funds for expansion.Key Topics Discussed:Twig's unique business model and its focus on the engagement aspect of financial managementThe significance of receiving the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA) approval and why Dubai was chosen as their launchpadTwig's latest automated savings platform and its user-friendly, goal-oriented featuresThe company's expansion plans and their aim to seamlessly integrate their services into different platforms, making savings a natural part of users' daily livesIn this riveting discussion, our guests provide an in-depth look at their ambitions to integrate savings into the daily lives of individuals and businesses alike. They also reveal insights into the challenges and triumphs of their entrepreneurial journey and their vision for Twig's future. Join us on Couchonomics to learn more about the revolution Twig is bringing to the financial landscape in the MENA region.Find Twig online: https://www.twig.ae/Our website 👉 https://bit.ly/3jk7UH0Find us on our social media platforms: Arjun's LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/arjunvirsingh/ CCN LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/couchonomics-with-arjun-singh/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/couchonomics/ Twitter https://twitter.com/Arjun_Vir_Singh?s=20 TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@couchonomics Subscribe to Arjun's LinkedIn newsletter, Couchonomics Crunch: https://bit.ly/3WI4A6E

In this riveting episode of Couchonomics, we dive deep into the intricate world of blockchain, metaverse, and web 3.0 with Amna Usman Chaudhry, a renowned Financial Economist & Emerging Tech Strategist. From the mechanics of blockchain and metaverse to its implications on fintech, Islamic fintech, and the efforts towards gender equality, this conversation explores the intersection of technology and societal norms.Amna Usman Chaudhry is a force in the financial and tech space. As a part of the UNICEF Giga Blockchain, Metaverse, and Web 3.0 team, she contributes to a mission to connect every school and child worldwide to the internet by 2030. Amna holds several prestigious positions, including her work with the Oxford Blockchain Foundation and the AllStarsWomen NFT Club and DAO. Her deep involvement in the blockchain space and her passion for improving female representation and inclusion in tech uniquely positions her as a thought leader in the industry.The discussion between Amna and Arjun delves into an array of insightful topics, including the World Economic Forum's Future of Jobs report's predictions, the potential of generative AI, and the history of DAOs. A notable highlight is the exploration of the importance of thorough smart contract auditing, evidenced by the 2016 DAO hack.Amna also touches on the concept of deep fakes and generative AI, comparing it to both a magic lamp and a Pandora's box. The talk transitions to web 3.0, where Arjun and Amna ponder its nature, viewing it more as a transition or state of mind rather than a destination.Other Major Topics Discussed:A discussion on John Rawls' concept of "veil of ignorance" in relation to AI regulations.The value of blockchain in providing control over one's digital identity.The dichotomy of blockchain's environmental impact, emphasizing the shift from energy-intensive proof of work mechanisms to environmentally friendlier options.Exploring how blockchain can aid in environmental efforts, highlighted by the example of the Plastic Bank project.The episode wraps up with a reflection on Amna's extensive work in promoting diversity and inclusion in the tech space. Her insights on how blockchain and Web 3.0 can serve as tools for empowering women and fostering societal equality provide a hopeful perspective on the future of technology.Join us on this insightful journey as we delve deep into the opportunities and challenges of blockchain, metaverse, and Web 3.0, and the importance of diversity and inclusion in these burgeoning fields.Our website 👉 https://bit.ly/3jk7UH0Find us on our social media platforms: Arjun's LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/arjunvirsingh/ CCN LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/couchonomics-with-arjun-singh/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/couchonomics/ Twitter https://twitter.com/Arjun_Vir_Singh?s=20 TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@couchonomics Subscribe to Arjun's LinkedIn newsletter, Couchonomics Crunch: https://bit.ly/3WI4A6E

Welcome to a very special edition of Couchonomics with Arjun, your window into the dynamic world of global finance. We're incredibly excited to share this episode with you, recorded live from the city of a thousand hills, Kigali, Rwanda. Arjun, our esteemed host, joined the conversation at the first-ever Inclusive FinTech Forum (IFF), a global platform advocating financial inclusion and good FinTech practices, especially in emerging markets.Our guest for this episode is none other than Sopnendu Mohanty, the Chief Fintech Officer of the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) and Chairman of the Board of Elevandi, the company behind IFF. With his profound insights into fintech and financial policy, Sopnendu provides a unique perspective on global finance.Throughout this exciting conversation, Sopnendu shares the genesis and vision behind the Inclusive FinTech Forum. They delve into the challenges and unique opportunities of solving financial inclusion problems in Africa, while exploring the high costs of financing, the demand for new technology, and the immense talent pool available. In addition, the discussion leads to the importance of domestic capital formation, with Sopnendu highlighting the need for local capital to have a 'skin in the game.'Other Major Topics Discussed• The high bar set by IFF's inaugural event and how it aims to grow even more prominent in the coming years.• President Kagame's keen interest in fostering tech-based solutions in Rwanda and his desire to see the event expand.• The palpable hunger for innovation observed by Arjun, alongside the recognition of unique problem-solving approaches needed in Africa.• The critical role Middle East could play in supporting and participating in future editions of the IFF.In this special edition of Couchonomics, we take you into the heart of a new movement, leveraging the power of fintech for financial inclusion. Arjun's conversation with Sopnendu paints an inspiring picture of the potential held by emerging markets and the pivotal role technology can play in driving inclusive growth.Join us on this insightful journey exploring the next frontiers of global finance, and stay tuned for more riveting conversations in our upcoming episodes of Couchonomics. If you enjoyed this special edition, don't forget to like, share and subscribe. See you in the next episode!Our website 👉 https://bit.ly/3jk7UH0Find us on our social media platforms: Arjun's LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/arjunvirsingh/ CCN LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/couchonomics-with-arjun-singh/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/couchonomics/ Twitter https://twitter.com/Arjun_Vir_Singh?s=20 TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@couchonomics Subscribe to Arjun's LinkedIn newsletter, Couchonomics Crunch: https://bit.ly/3WI4A6E

Welcome to the 50th episode of Couchonomics with Arjun, the show where we dissect the evolving landscape of global finance. In this, anniversary, episode, we take a deep dive into the financial technologies shaping the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. Our special guest, Renier Lemmens, Group CEO of Geidea, shares his insights on the future of payments, the reality of cashless societies, and the trajectory of fintech in emerging markets.Renier Lemmens, a seasoned fintech leader, is the Group CEO of Geidea, one of the largest payment fintechs in Saudi Arabia. His illustrious career includes positions as CEO of PayPal EMEA, COO of Barclays International Retail and Commercial Banking, and Partner with McKinsey & Company. He is also a Visiting Professor of Fintech and Innovation at The London Institute of Banking & Finance, providing him with a unique perspective on the fintech ecosystem.Renier discusses the journey of Geidea, its approach to customer acquisition, and the strategy behind launching the Geidea POS system. He provides thought-provoking insights into the debate about a cashless society, the challenges of fragmented markets, and the importance of 'doing a hundred small things right' in the payments industry.Other Major Topics Discussed- The future of artificial intelligence in shopping and its potential impact on traditional retail models.- The viability and future of cryptocurrencies and their place in the global economy.- The rise and implications of 'Buy Now Pay Later' (BNPL) models, including potential regulatory challenges and credit management issues.- Geidea's exponential growth in the acquiring business and the strategic vision for the company in the next five years.In an ever-evolving fintech landscape, leaders like Renier Lemmens offer invaluable insights into the complexities and opportunities of the industry. This episode provides an in-depth look at the journey of a successful fintech company, the realities of navigating emerging markets, and the promising future of the MENA region's financial technology scene.So, if you're eager to understand the mechanics of fintech operations, the future of payments, or just gain some expert insights, this is an episode you won't want to miss. Subscribe to Couchonomics and stay tuned for more engaging conversations about the world of finance.Our website 👉 https://bit.ly/3jk7UH0Find us on our social media platforms: Arjun's LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/arjunvirsingh/ CCN LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/couchonomics-with-arjun-singh/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/couchonomics/ Twitter https://twitter.com/Arjun_Vir_Singh?s=20 TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@couchonomics Subscribe to Arjun's LinkedIn newsletter, Couchonomics Crunch: https://bit.ly/3WI4A6E

Welcome to the latest episode of Couchonomics with your host, Arjun. In this episode, we sit down with Pat Patel, Executive Director of Elevandi, an esteemed thought leader in the FinTech ecosystem, who takes us on a deep dive into the dynamic world of financial technology, its potential, and how we can harness its power to drive economic growth across borders.Elevandi is a company initiated by the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) with a mission to foster dialogue between the public and private sectors to promote the growth of FinTech in the digital economy. Pat has a profound experience in building collaborative fintech ecosystems across South Asia, Africa, and Europe, and has previously led Money20/20's growth into Europe, Singapore, and China.Pat provides valuable insights into the role of Elevandi in bridging the gap between policymakers, regulators, and innovators in the FinTech world. He sheds light on the necessity of updating risk frameworks to suit the ever-evolving digital landscape. Patel also shares his perspective on the significant potential India holds, especially with the upcoming G20 summit. The discussion with Patel led us to other topics, such as:- The promising development of FinTech ecosystems in Africa, specifically Rwanda's burgeoning scene and its collaboration with KIFC.- The importance of building digital public goods for the advancement of a digital economy- The global shift from experimenting with fintech to implementing it- The role of technology in reaching out to underserved communities. In this engaging discussion, Pat Patel provides a comprehensive outlook on the future of FinTech, the challenges, and opportunities it brings, and how companies and nations can collaborate to leverage its potential. This episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in the intricate dynamics of the fintech ecosystem and its impact on global and local markets. So, make sure to tune in and equip yourself with the knowledge to navigate the exciting world of FinTech!Our website 👉 https://bit.ly/3jk7UH0Find us on our social media platforms: Arjun's LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/arjunvirsingh/ CCN LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/couchonomics-with-arjun-singh/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/couchonomics/ Twitter https://twitter.com/Arjun_Vir_Singh?s=20 TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@couchonomics Subscribe to Arjun's LinkedIn newsletter, Couchonomics Crunch: https://bit.ly/3WI4A6E