Couchonomics with Arjun

In the latest episode of Couchonomics, Arjun was joined by Paul Melotto, Executive Board Member at Alraedah Finance. Paul has played a key part in Arjun's journey to understand the Saudi ecosystem, especially regarding fintech and financial services. In the episode, Arjun and Paul discussed: The state of Non-Banked Financial Institutions in KSAThe liquidity gap faced by SMEs and how to address itExamples of government initiatives supporting SMEsThe possibility of banks changing their attitude toward SMEsWhether fintechs are considered friends, foes, or frenemies What regulators can do to unlock potential in the SME and NBFI nexus Alraedah Finance's plans to help SMEs over the next 3 years Thank you to Fintech Saudi for opening up their space to us for the recording of this 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

In the latest episode of Couchonomics, Arjun was joined on the couch by Mehdi Fichtali, CEO & Founder of FinaMaze, MENA's first AI digital wealth manager.Founded by a highly experienced team with decades of track record in capital markets and asset management, their hybrid human/machine teams are currently managing hundreds of portfolios. We spent a fair amount of the episode breaking down AI's role in wealth management and the need for a product like FinaMaze. In the episode, Arjun and Mehdi spoke about: Their general frustration with traditional investment optionsThe pitfalls of using trading platforms without proper trainingThe wealth management industry's failure to educate customers FinaMaze's process of tailoring micro-portfolios for individual clients The way they’ve partnered human decision-makers with AIChallenges in B2C wealth managementWhat differentiates FinaMaze from other "robo-advisors"This is a great episode for AI enthusiasts, those working in wealthtech or wealth management, and anyone trading in their personal capacity.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

"We're behind the scenes. We make money move."In the latest episode of Couchonomics, Arjun was joined by Jan Pilbauer, Chief Executive Officer of Al Etihad Payments, a national payments utility and fully owned subsidiary of the Central Bank of the UAE.Al Etihad Payments recently launched Aani, a "payments experience" that allows you to make instant payments to people or merchants from your bank accounts, wallets, or other sources. We spent a good portion of the episode exploring this latest venture, and how it is furthering Al Etihad's mission of powering the payments that make the UAE thrive. In the episode, Arjun and Jan spoke about: The emergence of national payment infrastructures, whether they're commercially owned, state-owned, or mutual/cooperative modelsAll things Aani, from how Al Etihad identified this gap in the market to the problems they’re solving with this payment experience The unique challenges facing payments in the UAE, with the dichotomy of the region being digitally enabled but still relying strongly on cash in particular areas Trends shaping the payments sector, such as the technologies enabling transformation in the industry The cashless versus "less cash" debate and how it applies to MENA How to enable faster payments: will CBDCs help? Open finance and debit card innovations taking place in the UAE Opportunities in the space of B2B payments Future banking models and the challenges facing the adoption of open banking If you, like Arjun, are a "payments geek", this episode is definitely one to add to your listening lineup for the week! 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 today's high-paced corporate world, the importance of wellness cannot be emphasized enough. As firms compete in the war for talent, a new dimension has emerged as a magnet for the modern workforce: wellness. In this episode, we dive deep into this crucial topic with an industry stalwart.Meet Diego Carrete, Chief Wellness Officer at First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB). Beyond his pivotal role at the UAE's largest bank, Diego is a fitness aficionado, guiding busy executives on their path to peak wellness. His journey, filled with ups and downs, offers invaluable insights for anyone aiming for holistic health.Diego unveils the crucial role of a Chief Wellness Officer, emphasizing the holistic development of an employee, both mentally and physically. Why are new generations prioritizing wellness over paychecks? Diego dissects the rise of wellness in the corporate value proposition.Other Discussions:The dynamic world of online earning and the shifting perspectives of young generations.The importance of physical wellness as a foundation for emotional and mental health.Navigating through different stages of weight loss and the nuances of metabolic rates.The indispensable role of sleep in our wellness routine.Quick wellness hacks for busy professionals: The 10-minute body, mind, and soul routine.At the heart of this enlightening discussion lies a message of balance, prioritizing oneself, and the imperative to evolve with changing times. The corporate world is shifting, with wellness at its core, and leaders like Diego Carrete are at the forefront of this movement. Tune in to learn, get inspired, and transform your approach to holistic well-being.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

Dive into the vibrant and ever-evolving world of FinTech as we explore the Singapore FinTech Festival (SFF) 2023 which is happening 15-17 November 2023. This is the global event where policy, finance, and technology not only meet but converge to reshape global economies.Joining Arjun for this special episode is Pat Patel, the Executive Director of Elevandi. Having led the International FinTech Office at the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) and played a pivotal role in shaping the digital economy, Pat offers a unique insider's perspective into the preparations and expectations of SFF.Pat reveals some of the major industry leaders and key figures marking their presence at the event, including insights about Ajay Bhanga, the new president of the World Bank, and Eric Jing from Ant Group.From policy discussions and financial tech showcases to its vast size resembling six giant warehouse hangers, Pat emphasizes the diversity and scale of the event. He also highlights the key thematic focuses of SFF this year, such as re-architecting the monetary system and the pivotal role of AI.Other topics discussed:The significance of Ravi Menon's last festival address.Importance of talent pipelines in the global economic climate.The expansive evening festivities, turning Singapore's Club Street into a week-long street party.The challenge of navigating the vast offerings of SFF.Arjun's humorous take on the need for digital visiting cards and energy drinks to make the most of the festival.Tune in to get a comprehensive understanding of what to expect from SFF 2023 and why, if you're serious about FinTech, it's an event you cannot afford to miss. Follow the journey with Arjun and Pat Patel as they discuss the nuances, attractions, and future trajectories of the festival. Don't miss out on this exclusive insider's view into the world's largest fintech event!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

Join us on this enlightening episode of Couchonomics as we navigate the intricate world of financial technology, focusing on the evolving landscape of employee benefits on a global scale.We are thrilled to have Michael Watkins, the visionary CEO and Founder of Aurem, a pioneering platform bridging businesses and their global teams to financial services. With a rich history in the financial services sector, Michael delves into Aurem's mission to reimagine retirement solutions, especially within the unique context of the UAE.Behavioral Barriers: Discover the inherent challenges faced by individuals when envisioning long-term financial security, and the innovative solutions Aurem brings to the table.Money's True Worth: Unpack the delicate balance between saving and spending, with insights on maximizing the value of every dollar and understanding its impact on our life choices.Other topics discussed:The role of employers in shaping employee financial futures and the symbiotic relationship between the two.Dissecting misconceptions surrounding wealth and its effective utilization.Exploring the value proposition of Aurem's offerings beyond the UAE.The significance of financial education in today's rapidly changing economic landscape. In a world where the dynamics of work and personal finance are rapidly evolving, platforms like Aurem offer a beacon of innovation and security. Dive deep into these insights and more, understanding how businesses and their global teams can harness the power of financial services to create a more prosperous tomorrow. Join Arjun and Michael in this riveting dialogue, only on Couchonomics.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

Embark on an insightful journey into the heart of the MENA startup ecosystem, where we unravel the intricacies of venture capital trends and the challenges and opportunities ahead.Join Arjun as he sits down with Philip Bahoshy, the CEO of MAGNiTT - the MENA region's formidable connector of startups, investors, and mentors. Philip, with his vast expertise and a pulse on the market, shares a unique perspective on the venture capital landscape, shedding light on MAGNiTT's mission and vision.Navigate the complex weave of global venture capital, where Philip emphasizes the significance of macroeconomic factors like inflation, interest rates, and stock market volatility. Dive deep into MENA's venture capital nuances, observing the impact of significant deals and the fascinating role of fintech as the new frontier of investment. **Other Topics Discussed:**- The influence of global economic trends on venture capital- Fintech's meteoric rise and its dominance in investments- Reflections on regional investment trends and challenges- Exploration of international markets and the importance of looking Eastward- Venture capital in the context of rising interest rates and macroeconomic indicators- Navigating the MENA startup scene: Opportunities, challenges, and the need for consolidation In a dynamic and often unpredictable venture capital ecosystem, understanding the nuances is crucial. With Philip Bahoshy at the helm of this episode, we get a front-row seat to the evolving narrative of startups, investments, and the future of the MENA region. Dive into this episode of Couchonomics for a comprehensive look into what fuels, drives, and challenges the world of startups and investments in MENA.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 of Couchonomics, we delve deep into the revolutionary world of digital wealth management, exploring its innovations, challenges, and future trajectory. We peer into the intricate fabric of asset management, financial literacy, and economic adaptability in an ever-evolving market, all with a lens focusing on the MENA region.Joining Arjun for this riveting discussion is Joseph El Am, the General Manager and Senior Executive Officer at StashAway MENA, the region's largest digital asset manager. Joseph, a seasoned professional, offers invaluable insights into StashAway’s unique business model, their expansion journey, and their visionary approach to offering state-of-the-art investment strategies to a broad audience.Joseph elucidates StashAway's proprietary investment strategy, ERA (Economic Regime-Based Asset Allocation), spotlighting its adaptability in varying economic climates. He also draws a vivid picture of the financial landscapes post-COVID, detailing the intriguing shifts in investment behaviours, the general wariness of investors, and the growing appetite for varied investment avenues like money market funds and the imminent private market suite in the region.Other topics discussed as bullet points:The glaring gap in financial literacy and the pivotal need for educational synergies involving wealth managers, banks, and educational institutions.The unveiling of StashAway’s innovative features like recurring deposits in partnership with Lean Technologies and the contemplation of introducing features available in other markets like Simple Guaranteed.Joseph's reflections on the current market trends, the unpredictable nature of investments, and the essence of avoiding the reinvention of the wheel.The potential expansion prospects of StashAway in the MENA region, with a particular focus on Saudi Arabia, and the strive for enhancing their footprint in the UAE. As we explore StashAway's endeavours and aspirations, Joseph's perspectives offer a mirror reflecting the ongoing shifts and future possibilities in the investment world, making it a must-listen for anyone interested in finance, investment, and economic innovations. 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

Get ready for an exhilarating ride into the future of digital media, commerce, and technology as we dive deep into the world of TikTok! If you ever wondered why TikTok isn't just for dance trends and how it's revolutionizing the content game, then you’re in for a treat. Arjun welcomes a very special guest who plays a crucial role in shaping TikTok's global strategy. Fasten your seat belts; this episode of Couchonomics will challenge your preconceptions and offer a visionary glimpse into the future of digital ecosystems.Meet Shant Oknayan, the Head of Global Business Solutions for Asia-Pacific, Central & South Asia, Middle East & Africa - TikTok. With over two decades of experience in leading digital & business development strategies, Shant is a formidable voice in the tech world. A Double Master’s degree holder from MIT and Imperial College London, he's a strategist, an influencer in advisory ecosystems, and a forward-thinking executive who has held key positions at tech giants like Facebook (now Meta) and Google. Get ready to tap into his incredible wealth of knowledge!The Age of Content: Shant delves into how TikTok fits into the evolution of digital spaces and the "fourth phase" of technology—The Age of Content. He explains how machine learning and smart algorithms are making content more personalized and relevant than ever.Other Topics Discussed:-      Community Building: Communities like BookTok, BeautyTok, and FinTok are not only thriving but also helping users discover their passions. Shant discusses how these micro-communities are the future of content consumption and creation.-      Shoppertainment: Shant introduces us to this catchy term that embodies the future of commerce. It's where shopping meets entertainment, and TikTok aims to be at the forefront of this convergence.-      Safety and Relevance: How TikTok is ensuring that its recommendation engine not only serves relevant content but also keeps users safe.-      Edutainment: From bite-sized educational content for school kids to educational feeds dedicated to STEM, TikTok is pushing the boundaries of 'edutainment.'-      Creator vs. Influencer: Shant distinguishes between these two, emphasizing that TikTok is a platform for creators driven by passion rather than influencers chasing popularity.-      The C-Suite Perspective: Shant’s advice to C-suite executives about the need to understand and adopt TikTok as a serious platform for brand engagement and marketing.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 delve deep into the complex world of money exchange, remittance, and financial inclusion. We discuss how technology is changing the landscape while traditional services continue to serve a critical role.We're honored to host Hasan Fardan Al Fardan, the CEO of Al Fardan Exchange L.L.C., a pioneering financial institution in the UAE with roots stretching back to 1954. Hasan guides us through his journey in transforming a family business into a modern financial powerhouse, serving communities both local and international.Hasan shares insights on their digital application, AlfaPay, and their strategic partnership with Western Union, as well as how they're adopting Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs). The conversation explores the meaning of true financial inclusion, extending beyond mere money transfer to broader financial services like loans and mortgages. Other Topics Discussed:·       The historical legacy of Al Fardan Exchange·       Importance of Compliance and Governance·       The growing relevance of the African corridor in remittance·       The role of financial literacy in boosting inclusion·       Future expansion and new product offerings by Al Fardan Exchange Don't miss this eye-opening conversation that navigates through the past, present, and future of money exchange and financial services. Hasan Al Fardan enlightens us on how Al Fardan Exchange is not just a financial service provider but a lifeline for millions globally. Join us in this insightful journey that promises to redefine how you think about money, technology, and human connection.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