
Converge
Converge explores the growing intersection of traditional finance (TradFi), Decentralized Finance (DeFi), and financial technology (Fintech) in a time of unprecedented technological advancement and change in financial services. As the world moves fast towards an internet-native financial system, the sharpest minds in finance and technology come together to share the latest innovations in blockchain, AI, and more.
The Market Update is sub-series of global market news covering the latest news and macroeconomic events impacting trade, payments and FX, with forward-guidance for businesses.
Latest episodes

May 14, 2025 • 37min
The "Visa of BNPL" that's transforming embedded payments
In this episode, Bryce Deeney, CEO and founder of Equipifi, discusses the innovative approach of his company in the Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) space. He shares his unique journey from being a professional poker player to leading a fintech startup that aims to disrupt traditional banking models. The conversation delves into the challenges of launching a new financial product, the future of embedded finance, and the potential expansion into the SME market. Bryce emphasizes the importance of consumer engagement and the operational efficiencies that Equipifi brings to financial institutions.Disclaimer: Converge is Convera’s podcast that discusses a range of financial services topics. We want to remind our listeners that the information shared on this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Please note that the opinions expressed on Converge are solely the opinions of the host and the guests, not Convera’s.

May 7, 2025 • 12min
Historic Asian currency moves spark speculation of FX accord
In this episode of Converge, host Steven Dooley and Convera's lead APAC FX and global macro strategist, Shier Lee, discuss the significant movements in Asian currencies, particularly the Taiwanese dollar, and their implications for the broader FX market. The factors driving these changes include tariff worries, of course, but also trade and foreign equity flows, illustrating why these currencies have recently gained. The conversation also touches on the outlook for commodity currencies and the economic landscape across Asia, highlighting the interplay between currency movements and macroeconomic developments.Disclaimer: Converge is Convera’s podcast that discusses a range of financial services topics. We want to remind our listeners that the information shared on this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Please note that the opinions expressed on Converge are solely the opinions of the host and the guests, not Convera’s.

Apr 30, 2025 • 39min
Blockchain meets the real-world: Stablecoins, last-mile payments, and financial inclusion with Stellar's Raja Chakravorti
In this conversation, Raja Chakravorti discusses the transformative potential of blockchain technology, particularly through the Stellar Development Foundation. He emphasizes the importance of creating accessible financial solutions for underserved populations, the role of tokenization and stablecoins in democratizing finance, and the significance of regulatory clarity in driving innovation. The discussion also highlights Stellar's partnerships and initiatives aimed at improving cross-border payments and expanding its reach in the APAC region.Disclaimer: Converge is Convera’s podcast that discusses a range of financial services topics. We want to remind our listeners that the information shared on this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Please note that the opinions expressed on Converge are solely the opinions of the host and the guests, not Convera’s.

Apr 23, 2025 • 20min
Market Update: Trump vs. Powell - the saga continues
In this episode of Converge Market Update, George Vessey and Kevin Ford discuss the growing concerns surrounding the 'Sell America' trade, particularly in light of President Trump's threats to fire Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell unless he cuts interest rates. They explore the implications of this tension on market dynamics, the importance of Fed independence, and the potential future of the US dollar amidst ongoing economic uncertainty.Disclaimer: Converge is Convera’s podcast that discusses a range of financial services topics. We want to remind our listeners that the information shared on this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Please note that the opinions expressed on Converge are solely the opinions of the host and the guests, not Convera’s.

Apr 16, 2025 • 39min
The explosive growth of stablecoins with BlockFuel
In this podcast, Jody Flournoy from Blockfuel talks about how blockchain is shaking things up in traditional finance, especially when it comes to cross-border payments. The conversation covers why stablecoins matter, some of the challenges with international transactions, and what a "stablecoin sandwich" actually means. Jody also touches on where digital treasuries could be heading, how crypto regulations are shaping up, and the mix between permissioned and permissionless tech in finance. It all comes back to the importance of transparency, trust and staying adaptable as the financial world keeps changing. Disclaimer: Converge is Convera’s podcast that discusses a range of financial services topics. We want to remind our listeners that the information shared on this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Please note that the opinions expressed on Converge are solely the opinions of the host and the guests, not Convera’s.

Apr 10, 2025 • 21min
Market Update: A week where decades happen
In this conversation, George Vessey and Kevin Ford discuss the recent turbulence in financial markets triggered by Trump's aggressive tariff policies. They explore the implications of these tariffs on the economy, the potential for a 'hard reset' theory suggesting a deliberate slowdown to pressure the Federal Reserve, and the challenges of balancing economic policies amidst rising inflation and market volatility. The discussion also delves into the weakening US dollar and its impact on global markets, highlighting the uncertainty and complexity of the current economic landscape.Note: Recorded before Trump's recent U-turn on tariffs.Disclaimer: Converge is Convera’s podcast that discusses a range of financial services topics. We want to remind our listeners that the information shared on this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Please note that the opinions expressed on Converge are solely the opinions of the host and the guests, not Convera’s.

Apr 2, 2025 • 38min
Tokenizing real estate and the future of fractionalized investing with Jack Land of MetaWealth
Real estate tokenization is changing how people invest in property. In this episode, hosts Alex Lawrence and Alanna Frost speak with Jack Land, Head of Marketing and UK Growth at MetaWealth, about how blockchain - specifically Solana - enables fractional ownership of high-end real estate. They discuss the benefits of tokenization, regulatory challenges, and how ESG principles shape asset selection. The conversation also explores the broader implications of Web3 for traditional finance and how real-time tracking of rental yields builds investor trust. Tune in for insights from the latest Fintech Meetup and deep dive into real-world asset tokenization. Disclaimer: Converge is Convera’s podcast that discusses a range of financial services topics. We want to remind our listeners that the information shared on this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Please note that the opinions expressed on Converge are solely the opinions of the host and the guests, not Convera’s.

Mar 26, 2025 • 18min
Market Update: Confusion abounds
In this episode of the Converge Market Update, George Vessey, Lead FX & Macro Strategist, and Steven Dooley, Head of Market Insights, discuss the ongoing tariff developments and their impact on financial markets. They explore the mixed economic data trends, the responses from central banks, and the contrasting signals from consumer confidence and commodity prices. The conversation also delves into the recent movements in the FX market, highlighting the performance of various currencies amidst the prevailing uncertainty.Disclaimer: Converge is Convera’s podcast that discusses a range of financial services topics. We want to remind our listeners that the information shared on this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Please note that the opinions expressed on Converge are solely the opinions of the host and the guests, not Convera’s.

Mar 19, 2025 • 43min
AI Agents vs the 'Scamdemic' & Stablecoins as a Universal Payment Layer, with Simon Taylor of Fintech Brain Food
Alex Lawrence and co-host Alanna Frost sit down with fintech expert Simon Taylor from Sardine and Fintech Brainfood to talk about the "scamdemic" facing financial services and how AI is fighting back. Simon shares how his company is using AI to tackle fraud, streamline KYC, and reduce false positives. He also makes a strong case for stablecoins as a "universal layer" for payments - and why every business needs a stablecoin strategy. Disclaimer: Converge is Convera’s podcast that discusses a range of financial services topics. We want to remind our listeners that the information shared on this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Please note that the opinions expressed on Converge are solely the opinions of the host and the guests, not Convera’s.

Mar 12, 2025 • 15min
Market Update: Reversal of fortunes at play
In this episode, Steven Dooley, Head of Market Insights, and George Vessey, Lead FX and Macro Strategist, break down the market volatility sparked by President Trump's tariff policies. They talk about the impact on the US economy, the chances of a recession, and the weakening dollar. They also discuss why the euro is staying strong despite major changes in Europe. The conversation wraps up with insights into how currencies are reacting to shifting geopolitical and economic landscapes. Disclaimer: Converge is Convera’s podcast that discusses a range of financial services topics. We want to remind our listeners that the information shared on this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Please note that the opinions expressed on Converge are solely the opinions of the host and the guests, not Convera’s.