Couchonomics with Arjun

Welcome to another stimulating episode of Couchonomics with Arjun, where we delve into the intricacies of the financial world! Today we're setting our sights on the evolving landscape of digital banking. We have an insider's look at how traditional banking is transforming to keep up with the digital wave. If you've ever wondered what it takes to make a bank future-ready, you won't want to miss this episode!Our distinguished guest for today is Radu Topliceanu, the Executive Vice President, Head of Neo and Personal Banking at Mashreq. With a career spanning multiple continents and over 20 years in the digital space, Radu is a seasoned banking executive who knows the industry inside and out. He has successfully spearheaded several digital transformations and has a wealth of knowledge in fintech, digitalization, and customer-centric approaches.Radu discusses how Mashreq is building its digital future on three pillars: customer obsession, a culture of innovation, and an ecosystem of partnerships. These aspects are crucial for a bank’s digital transformation and for meeting evolving customer expectations. Radu emphasizes that having the right culture is crucial for the success of any digital transformation. It’s not just about technology but about allowing teams to experiment, learn from failures, and adapt.We also talked about:Embedded Finance and Open BankingThe "Super App" VisionInnovation in Youth Banking with NeonextThis episode is a goldmine for anyone interested in the future of banking, the role of innovation in financial services, and the emerging landscape of fintech partnerships. With a guest as knowledgeable as Radu Topliceanu, you're in for an hour packed with deep insights and forward-thinking discussions. So go ahead and hit that play button; 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

Sit tight, folks! In this electrifying episode of Couchonomics with Arjun, we're diving deep into the labyrinth of the fintech world. How will AI change the way we pay? What's the future of credit cards? How secure is your money really? We've got Khalil Alami, the Founder & CEO of Telr, to answer these burning questions and more! Meet Khalil Alami, a fintech legend with more than two decades of industry experience. He's the mastermind behind Telr, a game-changing online payment gateway that has garnered multiple awards and is redefining the payment landscape. Khalil is a visionary, thought leader, and an unwavering advocate for financial education. Khalil discusses the transformation to a cashless economy and how it's more than just a trend—it's a revolution. Also, he talks about Telr's high standard of security—how it became the first PCI DSS-certified payment gateway in 2014. Other Topics Discussed- Innovation & Interoperability: With ISO 20022 and API-based solutions, Telr is preparing for a unified commerce world. - Open Banking & Credit Lines: Khalil shares thoughts on the future of credit and how open banking is putting pressure on traditional systems.- Blockchain Blues: What's holding Telr back from incorporating cryptocurrencies? It's not technology—it's trust.- The Telr Ecosystem: From Telr Shops to Telr Secure, Khalil walks us through how Telr is becoming the ecosystem payment solution. This episode is a treasure trove of insights for anyone interested in fintech, payments, or simply how the digital age is transforming our wallets! Khalil Alami gives us an unfiltered look into the pioneering spirit that drives Telr, making this an episode you simply can't afford to miss!Our website 👉 https://bit.ly/3jk7UH0Couchonomics with Arjun Season 02 is brought to you by our partners:Adyen https://www.adyen.com/ToYou https://toyou.io/arVisa https://ma.visamiddleeast.com/Geidea https://geidea.net/M2P https://m2pfintech.com/Find 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=20TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@couchonomicsSubscribe to Arjun's LinkedIn newsletter, Couchonomics Crunch: https://bit.ly/3WI4A6EOur 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 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