Fintech Chatter: Insights From Fintech Leaders

In this episode of Fintech Chatter podcast, Dexter Cousins chats with Justin Greenstein, CEO of 1835i, about the evolution of corporate venture capital in Australia’s banks. Justin shares insights on the structure and strategy of 1835i, its investment thesis, and the importance of aligning with ANZ's overarching strategy. We get Justin's top tips for partnering with a CVC, his thoughts on the future of fintech in Australia, and what he sees as the Biggest untapped opportunity in Fintech. About 1835iAs ANZ Bank’s external innovation partner, 1835i invest in and partner with fintechs that are focused on homeowners, small and medium sized businesses, trade and capital flows, and transforming businesses through data, analytics and digital technologies.Notable Fintech investments include Airwallex, Cash Reward, Lendi, Valiant, Datamesh, Slyp and Citoplus.Chapters00:00 How To Raise Capital From a Big 4Bank - Justin Greenstein, CEO of 1835i04:24 The Evolution of 1835i: From ANZ to Independence09:05 Understanding Corporate Venture Capital vs. Traditional VC14:27 Horizon 2 and Horizon 3: Future Technologies and Startups19:22 Success Stories and Strategic Partnerships24:21 Navigating the VC Landscape and Founder Expectations29:06 The State of Fintech in Australia and Globally34:19 The Untapped Opportunities in Fintech39:00 Closing Thoughts and Future Directions for 1835iSend us a textContact info@tieronepeople.com for further detailsSubscribe Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/fintech-leaders-7092732051488980992/Connect on Linkedin: https://bit.ly/3DsCJBp

Vincent Gramoli - RedBelly Network Dexter Cousins invites Vincent Grimoli, Founder and CTO of RedBelly Network to this week's Fintech Chatter Podcast. Vincent charts his journey in the blockchain environment from academia to entrepreneurship. He outlines the innovative approach RedBelly Network takes towards the tokenisation of real-world assets and the need for collaboration between Tradfi and Defi.Vincent shares insights on blockchain technology safety measures, the importance of compliance, and how he sees the future of fintech in Australia. About RedBelly NetworkRedbelly Network is a team of innovators, engineers, and visionaries committed to building a secure and inclusive blockchain ecosystem. RedBelly Network believes in the power of collaboration — within both their team and the global community, working towards reshaping the future of finance and technology.About Vincent GramoliVincent Gramoli is the Founder and CTO of Redbelly Network and the Head of the Concurrent Systems Research Group at the University of Sydney. Vincent has chaired the Cybersecurity Committee for the Computing Research and Education Association of Australasia (CORE) and the Blockchain Technical Committee for the Australian Computer Society.His accolades include the Digital National Facilities & Collections Award from CSIRO, the Best Paper Awards at ICDCS’21, IPDPS’22, ICDCS’22 and DSN’24 for his research on blockchains. He received the Education Leader of the Year Award from Blockchain Australia and the Future Fellowship from the Australian Research Council. Vincent has been affiliated with INRIA, Cornell, Data61 and EPF.Key TakeawaysRedBelly Network aims to provide a compliant blockchain solution for traditional finance.The company focuses on tokenising real-world assets to lower barriers for retail investors.Safety measures include linking accounts to real-world identities to ensure accountability.The collaborative approach to scalability is a key feature of RedBelly Network's technology.Commercialising innovation in Australia can be a lengthy process due to regulatory hurdles.Emphasising the importance of learning business skills for tech founders.Building stong networks is crucial for finding talent in niche markets.Investor interest in compliant asset tokenisation is growing.RedBelly Network aims to reduce transaction fees by maintaining a fixed fee structure.Sound Bites"We're entering a new era with tokenisation.""I had to learn the business side of things."Chapters00:00   Introduction to Vincent and Red Belly Network05:27   Navigating Regulation in Blockchain08:58   Tokenisation of Real-World Assets12:08   Safety Measures using Layered Technology19:33   Transitioning from Tech to Business24:36 Hiring the right Talent27:19 The Challenge of Funding30:51 Reducing Fees for Consumers34:30 The Pro-Crypto Movement39:23 Learning from TradFi for Future Innovations41:33 Future Plans for RedBelly NetworkSend us a textContact info@tieronepeople.com for further detailsSubscribe Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/fintech-leaders-7092732051488980992/Connect on Linkedin: https://bit.ly/3DsCJBp

Dexter Cousins speaks with Simon Lee, founder of Teamified, about the transformative role of AI in startups and recruitment. We discuss tactics on how to build and rapidly scale a startup by harnessing an offshore workforce augmented by AI agents.We also chat about the impact of AI on jobs and hiring, venture capital and the evolving landscape of entrepreneurship in Australia.And we also unravel why Fractional Executives may not be the right solution for Fintech startups.Simon shares his insights on building businesses with limited resources and the importance of health and passion in the startup journey. TakeawaysAI is significantly reducing hiring times and costs.Offshoring talent can provide access to specialised skills not available locally.The traditional path to entrepreneurship is changing with technology.AI is not just a tool; it's a game changer for startups.Health and well-being are crucial for sustained entrepreneurial success.The rise of AI will democratize business opportunities.Every SaaS application needs to be rethought in the age of AI.Chapters00:00 The Power of AI in Startups02:59 Teamified's Unique Approach to Recruitment06:03 Offshoring and Remote Work Dynamics09:04 The Impact of AI on Hiring and Recruitment11:23 The Evolution of the Job Market14:06 Democratizing Entrepreneurship with Technology17:12 AI Agents: The Future of Business?20:15 Optimizing Outsourcing Functions23:14 The Future of Recruitment and AI Tools29:52 The Future of Executive Roles in a Changing Landscape37:16 The Reality of Work: Expectations vs. Performance40:15 Prioritizing Health: A Shift in Perspective43:02 Passion vs. Burnout: The Balancing Act44:38 The Impact of AI on Business and Employment46:07 Democratisation of Business: Opportunities for All48:45 Starting a Business with Limited ResourcesFind out more - https://teamified.com.auSend us a textContact info@tieronepeople.com for further detailsSubscribe Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/fintech-leaders-7092732051488980992/Connect on Linkedin: https://bit.ly/3DsCJBp

In this engaging discussion, Alex Badran, founder of Spriggy, shares his inspiring journey in creating a fintech app that educates children about money management. He dives into the critical role of real-world financial education and how Spriggy has grown to over a million users. The conversation also touches on navigating children's independence in a digital era, innovative growth strategies, and the importance of authenticity in leadership. Alex emphasizes that learning is key to success, both personally and for the organization.

🎯 1M+ paying users 🇦🇺 Australian market 💡 One remarkable journeyThe Spriggy story returns to Fintech Chatter, five years after their debut. Our most-requested guest ever is back with insights you can't afford to miss.Follow now - premiering Friday, Feb 21st.Send us a textContact info@tieronepeople.com for further detailsSubscribe Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/fintech-leaders-7092732051488980992/Connect on Linkedin: https://bit.ly/3DsCJBp

Dexter Cousins welcomes Sean O'Malley CEO of AMP Bank for his Fintech Chatter debut. It's been a BIG week for AMP Bank as they launched their new digital mobile-first bank aimed at helping small business owners manage their business and personal finances.Dexter and Sean discuss the role of technology in modern banking and how an established financial institution tackles innovation.Sean and Dexter uncover AMP’s extensive research on the needs of small businesses and the need for more human support in banking. Sean also shares the thesis on the problem they’re solving and the rapidly evolving nature of how, when and where people work.And Sean shares his secrets to successful partnerships showcasing their relationship with UK Fintech Starling Bank and their ‘Engine’ platform.About Sean O’Malley Sean O’Malley was appointed the Group Executive of AMP Bank in September 2021, after 11 years at AMP. He is responsible for the management and growth of AMP Bank, delivering its future growth strategy, uplifting its digital capability and ensuring the ongoing delivery of high-quality products and services to customers.He has over 25 years of experience in delivering enhanced business results, predominately in the financial services industries.About AMP BankAMP Bank is aiming to disrupt the small business banking market in Australia. They have launched a fully digital, 24x7 human-supported, full-service Bank to help serve the needs of the Australian small business community.Their aim is to help Small businesses get started, survive and thrive, embracing the challenge of bringing new thinking, new ways of working and new bold ideas to a 26 year old Bank, inside a 175 year old Super & Wealth business.Key Takeaways AMP Bank has launched a fully digital offering for small business owners.The future of work is evolving, with more emphasis on gig and flexible employment. Sean sees continued growth in small and micro businesses as a result.The banking industry faces challenges in balancing innovation and risk management.Brand reputation is crucial for banks, especially in the digital age.Curiosity and a willingness to learn are key traits for success.AMP Bank is focused on building a customer-centric culture.Partnerships are vital for delivering innovative banking solutions.Chapters00:00   The Launch of AMP Bank's New Platform03:39   Targeting Small Businesses & Personal Banking Customers06:03   Insights on the Future of Work11:13     Viewing Business Failures as Learning Opportunities14:18    Embracing the Challenges of Modern Workforces17:31     Lessons from Fintech Startups and Neobanks23:00   Navigating Change and Innovation at AMP27:28    The Importance of Strategic Business Relationships31:53    Risk Management in Fintech Partnerships35:58   Talent Acquisition and Staff Retention38:59   Managing Stress and Building ResilienceSend us a textContact info@tieronepeople.com for further detailsSubscribe Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/fintech-leaders-7092732051488980992/Connect on Linkedin: https://bit.ly/3DsCJBp

Matt Baxby, CEO of Revolut Australia, shares his experience steering Revolut's growth to 50 million global customers. He discusses the unique challenges of building a digital bank in Australia, the importance of profitability, and the significance of super apps in promoting financial freedom. Matt reflects on shifting attitudes towards financial independence across generations, emphasizing team dynamics and entrepreneurial leadership in navigating the fintech landscape. He also highlights Revolut's ambitious plans for 2025 and the necessity of user-friendly technology in consumer banking.

A little taste of what is to come in this weeks Fintech Leader episode of Fintech Chatter.Matt Baxby, CEO of Revolut Australia joins Dexter Cousins to take about his five years with Revolut, their remarkable growth to 50 million customers, the path to profitability and what it takes to succeed at a Fintech unicorn.Send us a textContact info@tieronepeople.com for further detailsSubscribe Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/fintech-leaders-7092732051488980992/Connect on Linkedin: https://bit.ly/3DsCJBp

In this rant, Dexter Cousins discusses the ongoing debate between Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) and Merit, Excellence, and Intelligence (MEI) in hiring practices. He argues that while diversity is essential, it should not come at the expense of merit. Dexter highlights the importance of hiring based on meritocracy to improve business performance and shares insights from the McKinsey Report on diversity's impact on financial returns. He highlights the need for companies to focus on the overall talent of their executive teams rather than just superficial diversity metrics. The McKinsey Report - https://www.mckinsey.com/capabilities/people-and-organizational-performance/our-insights/why-diversity-matters----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Follow us LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/fintech-chatter-podcastContact us - https://tieronepeople.com/contact/Send us a textContact info@tieronepeople.com for further detailsSubscribe Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/fintech-leaders-7092732051488980992/Connect on Linkedin: https://bit.ly/3DsCJBp

About this EpisodeDexter Cousins talks with Tristan Dakin, Country Manager at Wise on the Fintech Chatter Podcast. They chat about the innovative solutions Wise provides in the payments technology space and the complexities of instant payments. Tristan speaks about the company's growth and the challenges of operating in a highly regulated environment.He shares insights into Wise's culture, the importance of transparency in financial services, and the future of fintech in Australia.About WiseWise launched in 2011 making international money transfers cheap, fair, and simple their vision. Today, their multi-currency account helps millions of customers and businesses manage their money globally.Their story started in London with Taavet (paid in Euro's) & Kristo (paid in Pounds) solving the issue of making money in one country but needing to meet payment commitments in their home country. Expensive fees and bad exchange rates led them to make a simple workaround. Taavet would pay Kristo's mortgage in Estonia and Kristo would pay him back in pounds.No waiting, no stress, and no extra cost, they quickly realised that they had hit upon a great idea and TransferWise was born. They have since added a multi-currency account, a debit card, and a business account, and changed their name to Wise.About TristanTristan joined Wise in 2020, and since 2022, has been leading Wise in ANZ as Country Manager. Before joining Wise, Tristan worked in the financial services industry, including Lombard Securities in the UK.He is skilled in FX, Banking, Management, Financial Markets, Trading, Structured Products and Derivatives, and Financial Risk.Key TakewaysWise aims to build the best way for people to move money globally.The company focuses on transparency in fees and payment processes.Instant payments are achieved through advanced technology and infrastructure.Wise's growth has been significant, with millions of active customers.The complexity of regulatory compliance is a major challenge for fintechs.Tristan's background in financial services shaped his approach at Wise.The culture at Wise emphasises autonomy and problem-solving.Australia's fintech landscape is evolving, with increasing competition.Regulatory changes could enhance transparency in the financial sector.Wise is committed to empowering customers and improving financial services.Chapters00:00    Introduction to Fintech Chatter and Wise01:15      Wise's Mission and Products03:27     Challenges of Cross-Border Payments07:09     The Complexity of Instant Payments09:10     Wise's Growth and Market Presence10:54     Wise's Centralised Infrastructure and Competitive Advantage12:32      Australia's Unique Remittance Landscape13:18      Tristan's Background and Attraction to Wise16:25     The Role of Country Manager at Wise17:55      Inspiration and Motivation in Fintech19:43     Cohesion and Culture at WISE26:51      Navigating the FinTech Landscape in Australia30:18     The Future of FinTech: Trends and Innovations38:36     Download the Wise AppSend us a textContact info@tieronepeople.com for further detailsSubscribe Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/fintech-leaders-7092732051488980992/Connect on Linkedin: https://bit.ly/3DsCJBp