Fintech Chatter: Insights From Fintech Leaders

Dexter Cousins brings a new weekly insight on Fintech careers and hiring.In this episode he explores the growing trend of C-suite professionals contemplating a shift from their current roles to alternatives that better support their well-being. While at the same time executives who have made the shift by becoming self-employed or starting Fractional service offerings, are seeking permanent work again.Let s know what you think. What has been your experience in either offering Fractional Exec services or using them?Send us a textContact dexter@tieronepeople.com to discussSubscribe Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/fintech-leaders-7092732051488980992/Connect on Linkedin: https://bit.ly/3DsCJBp

In this episode of Fintech Chatter, host Dexter Cousins speaks with Dan Jowett, CEO of OpenMarkets Group, about the rapid convergence of Tradfi and DeFiAbout OpenMarkets GroupPower your Fintech, Advisory, or Trading business with an end-to-end Wealth Management and Trading solutions. Openmarkets empowers financial institutions and advisers to deliver a seamless investment experience to their clients. They provide a comprehensive suite of trading, clearing and settlement, custody, and technology solutions that enable businesses to efficiently manage portfolios, scale their business, and support investors in achieving their financial objectives.About This EpisodeTune in as Dan and Dexter discuss how OpenMarkets has transformed from a traditional stockbroker to a technology-focused fintech, the regulatory hurdles facing the crypto industry, and the future of equities trading in a rapidly changing environment.Chapters00:00 Introduction to OpenMarkets and Fintech Landscape02:26 Evolution of OpenMarkets: From Stockbroker to Tech Innovator06:08 Navigating the Future: DeFi and Traditional Finance11:45 Regulatory Challenges and Opportunities in Digital Assets15:37 Building a Strong Culture at OpenMarkets18:47 Navigating Market Changes in Fintech21:07 Lessons from Leadership During Challenging Times23:22 The Importance of Networking and Global Perspectives24:26 The Future of DeFi and Regulatory Challenges27:24 Cultivating a Positive Workplace Culture30:59 Finding the Right Fit in a Dynamic EnvironmentFind Out More - https://openmarkets.com.au/Send us a textContact dexter@tieronepeople.com to discussSubscribe Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/fintech-leaders-7092732051488980992/Connect on Linkedin: https://bit.ly/3DsCJBp

In this episode of Fintech Chatter, host Dexter Cousins speaks with Joni Pirovich, a crypto compliance expert and founder of Crystal AOS. They discuss Joni's journey from being a crypto lawyer to a tech founder, the challenges of hiring in the compliance space, and the role of AI in enhancing productivity and filling the compliance knowledge gap in the digital assets space. Joni and Dexter chat about the current state of play in the crypto industry in Australia, regulatory challenges, and the need for holistic policy to foster innovation in the tech sector.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Fintech Chatter and Guest Background04:50 The Evolution of Compliance in Crypto09:24 AI's Role in Enhancing Compliance and Legal Practices14:11 Challenges in the Australian Crypto Landscape18:43 The Need for Holistic Regulatory Approaches23:18 Building a Supportive Ecosystem for Startups27:56 Conclusion and Future OutlookContact Joni: joni@crystalaos.com Send us a textContact dexter@tieronepeople.com to discussSubscribe Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/fintech-leaders-7092732051488980992/Connect on Linkedin: https://bit.ly/3DsCJBp

Is Ethereum the layer to exchange value via the internet? In this episode of Fintech Chatter, host Dexter Cousins speaks with Jake Denny, Chief Commercial Officer of Pier Two, about Ethereum staking and its commercial potential.Tune in for a discussion on the differences between Ethereum, Bitcoin, and Solana, the future of money through smart contracts, and the real world use cases that are being delivered through stablecoin adoption.Find out more - https://piertwo.com/Chapters00:00 Introduction 01:28 Understanding Ethereum Staking and Its Commercial Potential07:00 The Use Cases of Ethereum vs. Bitcoin and Solana13:05 The Future of Money and the Role of Smart Contracts18:55 The Impact of Technology on Traditional Finance24:51 The Importance of Speed in Financial Transactions31:07 The Role of Curiosity and Hustle in Fintech Careers39:19 Pier Two's Mission and Vision in the Crypto Space56:24 Connecting DeFi and TradFi: Opportunities for CollaborationSend us a textContact dexter@tieronepeople.com to discussSubscribe Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/fintech-leaders-7092732051488980992/Connect on Linkedin: https://bit.ly/3DsCJBp

In this episode of Fintech Chatter, Dexter Cousins speaks with Morty Tollo, co-founder of Elbaite and Faststables.com, about the intersection of traditional finance (TradFi) and decentralised finance (DeFi). They discuss the evolution of Elbaite, the importance of stablecoins in solving everyday business problems, and the challenges posed by regulation and banking in the crypto space. Morty shares insights on the future of crypto, and his observations from Token 2049 in Singapore. The need for optionality in payment solutions paints a bright future for stablecoins in the evolving landscape of financial services.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Elbaite and Morty Tollo02:20 Bridging TradFi and DeFi10:22 Challenges and Successes of FastStables17:04 The Future of Stablecoins and Banking27:37 Connecting with Elbaite and Closing ThoughtsFind out more: https://www.faststables.com/https://elbaite.com/auConnect with Morty on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mortytollo/Send us a textContact dexter@tieronepeople.com to discussSubscribe Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/fintech-leaders-7092732051488980992/Connect on Linkedin: https://bit.ly/3DsCJBp

In this final episode on Housing Affordability, Fintech Chatter host, Dexter Cousins speaks with Dean Fraser, founder of BrickFloor.BrickFloor aims to help "Forever Renters" through innovative property technology and fintech solutions, including a market price guarantee product that locks in a price for sellers before they go to market.Find out more - https://brickfloor.com.au/Chapters00:00 Introduction to Housing Affordability Solutions02:39 Understanding BrickFloor's Business Model05:32 Navigating the Challenges of the Housing Market08:21 Regulatory Hurdles and Product Innovation11:08 Success Stories and Customer Experiences17:02 Future Plans for BrickFloorSend us a textContact dexter@tieronepeople.com to discussSubscribe Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/fintech-leaders-7092732051488980992/Connect on Linkedin: https://bit.ly/3DsCJBp

In this episode of Fintech Chatter, host Dexter Cousins speaks with Matt McKenzie, CEO and co-founder of Nuj, a Regtech company making serious strides in the Aus$ 4trn Superannuation sector. Nuj’s plug-and-play solution streamlines workflows while ensuring compliance with all current and upcoming regulations.The platform enables quick integration, with automated workflows, audit trails, and real-time updates.Nuj raised a $4m seed round in early 2025 and counts Bluechip names like MUFG and AMP as clients.Find out more - https://www.nujsuper.com/Key topics covered in the chat:Nudge was founded during COVID-19 in 2020.The superannuation industry has significant legacy challenges.Client acquisition requires proving value in a slow-moving market.Funding strategies can include leveraging early client relationships.Growth in fintech requires patience and resilience.Remote work has become integral to Nudge's culture.Establishing authentic company values is crucial for team alignment.Hiring should focus on cultural fit and embracing collective wisdom.Networking within the fintech community provides valuable insights.Future growth at Nuj will leverage AI and technological innovations.Connect with Matt: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-mckenzie/Send us a textContact dexter@tieronepeople.com to discussSubscribe Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/fintech-leaders-7092732051488980992/Connect on Linkedin: https://bit.ly/3DsCJBp

Another instalment of our series on Housing Affordability! In this episode, Dexter speaks with OSQO CEO Stuart McGregor on how they're using Blockchain technology to solve housing affordability and the last frontier of finance yet to be adapted for the internet - Debt!Starting with deposit gap loans - Stuart shares his bold and ambitious vision https://depositgaploans.com/Chapters00:00 Introduction to Housing Affordability Challenges01:21 Osco's Innovative Approach to Home Ownership02:51 The Role of Technology in Fintech Solutions08:19 Navigating Regulatory Challenges in Fintech11:53 The Evolution of Osco's Business Model15:02 Future Opportunities and Market Adaptation21:11 Connecting Capital Supply and Demand for Home OwnershipFind out more - https://depositgaploans.com/Send us a textContact dexter@tieronepeople.com to discussSubscribe Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/fintech-leaders-7092732051488980992/Connect on Linkedin: https://bit.ly/3DsCJBp

In a captivating discussion, Alan Costello, the second employee at Afterpay, shares his remarkable journey from the startup's humble beginnings to its rise as a global fintech giant. He delves into the challenges of rapid growth and the critical importance of timing and relationships in business success. Alan reflects on the emotional rollercoaster of entrepreneurship, the impact of external factors like the pandemic, and what it truly means to scale a company while maintaining culture. His insights offer a unique window into the dynamic world of fintech.

In this episode of Fintech Chatter, we continue our series on the challenges of housing affordability in Australia. Dexter Cousins speaks with Michael Ragavan, founder of Our Leg Up.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Housing Affordability02:48 The Concept of OurLegUp05:37 Innovation in Financial Products08:37 Challenges in Product Development12:17 Investor Relations and Capital Raising14:21 Legal Wins and Product Feasibility16:08 Future Plans and Market StrategyFind out more: https://www.ourlegup.com/Send us a textContact dexter@tieronepeople.com to discussSubscribe Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/fintech-leaders-7092732051488980992/Connect on Linkedin: https://bit.ly/3DsCJBp