Couchonomics with Arjun

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

Welcome to another electrifying episode of Couchonomics with Arjun, where we're making sense of the rapidly evolving world of finance and technology! In this episode, we're venturing into the Middle East's dynamic fintech landscape, discussing the breakthroughs and challenges of online payments, and understanding what it takes to connect a fragmented market.We're joined by an influential game-changer in the fintech industry, Ali Abulhasan. As the Co-Founder & CEO at Tap Payments, Ali is transforming the way businesses and consumers experience online payments. With a strong background in payments within the oil, gas, and telecom industries, Ali has steered Tap Payments to bridge the disconnected payment landscape across the MENA region, revolutionizing the experience for over 100,000 businesses.Ali shares his insights on how his vision to reduce the processing time of online payments has driven Tap Payments' mission. He also delves into the complexities of growing and evolving in a region marked by a fragmented market and diverse consumer behaviors.In this enlightening conversation, Ali opens up about the various preferences by consumers across different countries in the Middle East. He emphasizes the necessity for a broader investment to cater to these varying preferences, and how it influences the growth of fintech in the region.Other major topics discussed:- The essential role of public infrastructure in building a sustainable fintech business.- The potential of crypto and biometric technology in shaping the future of payment methods.- The role of AI in driving the fintech landscape and the potential challenges it presents.- The importance of collaboration in bridging different networks globally and locally.So, plug in and get ready for an insightful ride into the future of payments and fintech with Ali Abulhasan, only on Couchonomics. Stay tuned, and let's decode the future of finance 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

In this episode, we explore the burgeoning digital payment landscape in Egypt. The market is seeing rapid growth, driven by new digital platforms, Covid-19's impact on consumer behavior, and supportive regulations.Meet our guest, Dr. Waleed Sadek, a seasoned entrepreneur and expert in digital financial services. He is the founder and CEO of PaySky and Yalla, leading players in the Middle Eastern and African fintech industry. Dr. Sadek discusses his journey from the world of medicine to the helm of several fintech startups and his vision to democratize the digital payment ecosystem.Dr. Sadek shares PaySky's two-pronged approach: the Super Payment Gateway powering central banks and retail banks in the Middle East and Africa, and a consumer proposition aiming to disrupt digital banking.Dr. Sadek introduces Yalla's Super App, an all-in-one ecosystem providing everything from remittances and bill payments to saving schemes and an integrated marketplace. Other Major Topics Discussed- The role of blockchain in the payment ecosystem.- The future of fintech and banking, wherein the experience and services will take precedence over the actual place of money storage.- The rise of Yalla's Super App and the positive customer reception.Tune in to listen to Dr. Waleed Sadek's unique perspective on the current digital payment ecosystem, the transformative role of fintech, and the future of banking. It's a deep dive into the digital revolution that is transforming financial services in the Middle East and Africa.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 enlightening episode, we delve into the fascinating world of crypto and blockchain, exploring how these groundbreaking technologies are reshaping not only finance, but also society and governance.Our guest is Saqr Ereiqat, a blockchain pioneer and Co-Founder of Crypto Oasis, who brings a wealth of experience from his time at IBM and his role in shaping Dubai's official government blockchain strategy.Crypto Oasis is an ecosystem investment structure dedicated to fostering growth and innovation in the blockchain sphere within the Middle East and North Africa. With Saqr at the helm, Crypto Oasis has reached significant milestones, aiding the emergence of over 1800 companies in this space.Saqr offers in-depth insight into how blockchain is akin to concrete, capable of building a variety of structures. He discusses the rapid growth of the blockchain space in the Middle East and North Africa, viewing gaming as a Trojan horse that could bring blockchain and crypto to a wider audience. Saqr also shares his vision for a world teeming with stable coins and a more decentralized, centralized architecture, akin to the relationship between the internet and intranets.Other Topics Discussed:- World Economic Forum's future jobs report- Potential of tokenization- Governmental strategies of Dubai and the UAEThis episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in blockchain, cryptocurrency, or the future of decentralized systems. Saqr Ereiqat, with his vast experience and vision, provides valuable insights into the ongoing evolution of these technologies and the potential they hold for reshaping our world. Join us on this journey through the Crypto Oasis!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 episode of Couchonomics, we welcome Wael Fakharany, CEO of Edenred Middle East, a leading provider of smart technology solutions in the UAE. Wael shares his expertise in empowering businesses across various sectors, including retail, facilities management, and construction, through technology-driven financial solutions.Edenred UAE offers a comprehensive range of products, such as the C3Pay card, C3Pay mobile app, and Edenred Payroll Portal, designed to streamline financial processes and enhance employee experiences. Their mission is to increase banking services uptake among the unbanked and underbanked population in the UAE, making financial services accessible to all.Wael reveals that Edenred processes a staggering two and a half million salaries every month, serving around two million individuals. Their commitment to their "C3 pay champions" is evident, with a focus on their clients who are the fuel that runs the company.The interview delves into various topics, including the importance of solving financial inclusion problems for micro and small businesses to indirectly benefit their employees. Wael envisions Edenred becoming the platform of choice for the underbanked, empowering individuals and corporations alike.Topics on the menu also are the potential of open banking, the growth opportunities in Egypt despite challenges, and the importance of user-centric thinking and the adoption of emerging technologies like blockchain.Throughout the episode, Wael's passion for innovation and commitment to profitability in the fintech industry shine through. Edenred's tripled tech investment and continued profitability showcase their ability to navigate and thrive in a rapidly evolving landscape.Other Topics Discussed:- The Role of Open Banking and Blockchain- Building a Profitable Fintech- Leveraging b2b2c partnerships to offer value-added services for corporations and their employeesJoin us for an enlightening episode as Wael Fakharany shares his invaluable insights into the world of fintech, financial inclusion, and the transformative power of technology. Discover how Edenred Middle East is shaping the future of financial services and paving the way for a more inclusive and empowered society.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 the latest episode of Couchonomics with Arjun, we had the pleasure of interviewing Oliver Hughes, former CEO of Tinkoff, one of the largest digital platforms in Russia. Oliver's unique experience in the finance industry and his excellent reputation in the market led him to be recruited by Oleg Tinkov as part of the leadership team of the newly-launched Tinkoff Credit Systems. Oliver's journey in Tinkoff and his experience in the financial industry gave us valuable insights into the current state and future of digital banking and FinTech.During the podcast episode, Oliver shared how Tinkoff evolved from a direct-to-mail credit card business to a giant financial lifestyle ecosystem that offers a wide range of lifestyle services like brokerage, travel, entertainment, and much more. He emphasized how the lessons they learned during the global financial crisis of 2008 became competitive advantages that they still carry through today. Oliver also highlighted the importance of balance sheet management and profitability in the digital banking and FinTech industry. He discussed the liabilities-led approach that many companies used in the past, which resulted in scaling without profitability. He also touched on the concept of traditional banking and how it's being replaced by digital banking, which he believes is the future. However, he also noted that private equity-fueled neo banking has led to a lack of discipline in managing balance sheets, which is essential for running a profitable digital banking business.In addition, Oliver talked about the challenges that traditional banks face in building ecosystems, as it requires expensive online expertise and a tech culture that traditional banks are not equipped to handle. He also shared his belief that the B2C business model won't move to tech companies or retailers, but rather to digital banks that have the balance sheet and the ability to go direct to consumers through mobile channels. Other topics of discussion in this episode include:-      The importance of unit economics in digital banking-      The future of traditional branch-based banking-      The barriers to entry for entrepreneurs in emerging markets.  Don't miss this exciting episode of Couchonomics with Arjun, where we dive deep into the world of digital banking and FinTech with Oliver Hughes. 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