Fintech Takes

Explore the innovative world of fintech as the hosts spotlight Agree, which merges legal agreements and payments using AI. Discover Revenew, an all-in-one payment optimizer for platforms, and learn about Barq, a rapidly growing digital wallet in Saudi Arabia. The discussion also touches on the rise and fall of Tally, a fintech struggling with credit card debt solutions. Dive into the complexities of market dynamics and the future of collaborative data infrastructure in the ever-evolving financial landscape.

Kiah Haslett, Banking and Fintech Editor at Bank Director, joins to discuss pivotal changes in the financial landscape. She highlights the shift from 'FBO' accounts to the more transparent 'Fintech Custody Accounts.' The conversation delves into the excitement surrounding potential rate cuts and their implications for mortgage rates and commercial real estate. Additionally, Kiah examines the FDIC's new rule on fintech ledger controls, bringing transparency into focus, while discussing the OCC's shift towards prioritizing financial health in banks.

Jason Mikula, a fintech expert, joins to discuss emerging trends in the industry. They dive into Klarna’s new ‘Balance’ feature, revealing it as more of a wallet than true banking in the U.S. Affirm's resilience is highlighted as they navigate the BNPL landscape with steady growth. The conversation also touches on niche neobanks like Commune, focusing on their unique offerings for underserved immigrant populations. Finally, Apple’s decision to give third-party access to NFC technology has significant implications for the mobile payment ecosystem.

Join fintech storyteller Mary Wisniewski, Editor-at-Large at Cornerstone Advisors, as she shares her insights on the financial habits of Gen Z. Discover how this generation is more anxious and transparent about money than ever before, heavily influenced by social media pressures. The discussion shifts to the rising emphasis on fintech solutions for the elderly, highlighting innovative tools aimed at preventing fraud and fostering security. Wisniewski also tackles the evolving nature of consumer trust in fintech and the need for personalized support across generations.

The guests discuss groundbreaking fintech innovations, including Revenir's automation for recovering sales tax, making refunds easier for travelers. Summer talks about helping graduates manage student loans and the challenges of distribution via HR. Jeff shares insights on expanding credit access for the underbanked using non-traditional data, potentially establishing a new credit standard. Lastly, Axle highlights its AI-powered compliance solutions and the importance of educating clients about new technologies in the evolving regulatory landscape.

Chris Willis and Jesse Silverman from Troutman Pepper join the discussion to unravel the intricate lifecycle of fintech. They dive into why new fintech VCs pop up every few years, analyzing the technological waves influencing this pattern. The conversation explores the balance between innovation and security, addressing the existential risks fintech faces today. They also touch on enhancing regulations and openness to support diverse operators in the sector, aiming for a better future in bank-fintech partnerships.

In this episode, Jim Bergin, a seasoned partner at Arnold & Porter with nearly two decades at the Federal Reserve, dives into the intriguing world of banking regulations. He clarifies the origins and evolution of the Bank Service Company Act (BSCA) since the 1960s. The trio also tackles recent Supreme Court decisions and their potential ramifications for banks and fintechs. Kiah shares her thoughts on brokered deposits, questioning why the FDIC is still focused on classifying fintech deposits rather than adapting to modern financial behaviors.

Jason Mikula, a fintech industry expert, dives deep into the evolving BaaS landscape, humorously comparing it to a fractured multiverse. He and Alex discuss Mercury's unconventional compliance strategies and the implications of recent Federal requests regarding bank partnerships. They also explore the CFPB’s proposed rule on earned wage access, shedding light on consumer trust issues, and touch on the FDIC’s changes to brokered deposit regulations. It's a captivating mix of insights and humor that highlights the complexities of fintech today.

Jason Henrichs, CEO of Alloy Labs and host of Breaking Banks, dives into the complexities of fintech regulation and accountability. He explores the idea that banks should view consent orders as opportunities, not hurdles. The conversation raises questions about the personal responsibility of entrepreneurs and investors when ventures fail, highlighting the need for robust compliance. They tackle the contrasts between resilience and hubris among entrepreneurs, stressing the importance of adapting to regulatory challenges for a healthier financial ecosystem.

Discover the latest fintech innovations with Niva's AI-driven business identity platform, OatFi providing Lending-as-a-Service solutions, Tapi revolutionizing payments in Latin America, and Aven's debt refinancing strategies. Join Alex and Simon as they explore the challenges of data sharing in fintech and manifest new ideas in the industry.