Evolutionary Exchanges

In this episode of Evolutionary Exchanges, David and Freddie explore interest rates and inflation as a key trend in Evolution Partners’ upcoming 2026 Banking Trends Report. They explain what’s driving renewed inflationary pressures and how central banks are responding in an increasingly uncertain environment. The discussion covers the impact on consumers as well as the implications for banks. While higher rates can boost profitability, they also increase risks across loan books and the broader economy. Looking ahead, the episode considers whether markets and institutions are prepared for further volatility and what the next 6–12 months could hold.

In this episode of Evolutionary Exchanges, David Powell and Freddie Krone discuss why stablecoins are rapidly moving up the strategic agenda for banks, regulators and consumers. Drawing on insights from Evolution Partners’ forthcoming 2026 Banking Trends Report, they explain what stablecoins are, how they differ from cryptocurrencies and central bank digital currencies, and why adoption is accelerating.

They explore emerging use cases in payments and cross‑border transactions, the implications for financial inclusion, and the reasons stablecoins represent both a major opportunity and a material risk for incumbent banks. With regulatory momentum building - particularly in the US - the episode looks ahead to what the next phase of stablecoin adoption could mean for the global banking landscape.

In this episode of Evolutionary Exchanges, David Powell is joined by Jonathan Hay, former COO in global investment banking and a participant in the 2023–24 Clipper Round the World Yacht Race. Jonathan reflects on a career spanning consulting and senior operational leadership, alongside the experience of circumnavigating the globe as part of a constantly changing crew under extreme conditions.

Drawing on lessons from nearly a year at sea, the conversation explores the parallels between ocean racing and organisational life: sustaining shared purpose under pressure, building trust through honesty, and the value of understanding processes end‑to‑end. Jonathan also shares insights on leadership, resilience, attitude versus capability, and why personal networks remain critical within large, complex organisations.

In this episode of Evolutionary Exchanges, David Powell and Freddie Krone explore the rapid rise of private markets, focusing on the growth of private equity and private credit since the 2008 financial crisis. They break down how these asset classes work, why they’ve become increasingly attractive to investors, and the factors driving their expansion. The discussion also examines recent high‑profile collapses, the challenges of limited transparency, and the growing interconnectedness between banks and private credit funds. Offering a balanced view of both opportunities and emerging risks, David and Freddie consider what 2026 may hold as private markets continue to evolve.

In this episode of Evolutionary Exchanges, David Powell and Freddie Krone review the major themes that shaped financial services in 2025 and explore what may lie ahead in 2026. They discuss the rapid adoption of AI across the industry, shifts in digital assets and stablecoin regulation, growing cybersecurity pressures, and turbulence in private markets. The conversation also touches on banking M&A trends, fintech competition, and the broader macroeconomic and geopolitical forces influencing the sector. Drawing on elements from our 2025 Banking Trends Report, the episode offers a clear, balanced view of the opportunities and uncertainties shaping the year to come.

In this episode of Evolutionary Exchanges, David Powell andFreddie Krone discuss the rise of artificial intelligence in banking and financial services. They explore the stages of AI adoption, real-world use cases, and the opportunities and risks AI presents for organisations and employees. The conversation covers data protection, regulatory concerns, and the future of work, offering a balanced perspective on how AI is shaping the industry and what lies ahead.

In this episode of Evolutionary Exchanges, David Powell andFreddie Krone explore robotic process automation (RPA) and its growing role in business transformation. They explain how RPA differs from artificial intelligence, share real-world examples from banking and insurance, and discuss the benefits of efficiency and scalability. The conversation also covers challenges such as resistance to change and process standardisation, highlighting why RPA is becoming essential across industries.

In this episode of Evolutionary Exchanges, David Powell andFreddie Krone discuss the shifting landscape of financial regulation and deregulation. They examine the impact of recent political changes, the ongoing debate between principles-based and rules-based regulation, and the challenges posed by private markets, AI, and global economic uncertainty. The conversation highlights what industry leaders should watch for as regulatory frameworks evolve and new risks emerge.

In this episode of Evolutionary Exchanges, David Powell andFreddie Krone explore the concept of responsive resilience in the financial sector. They discuss why banks and regulators are prioritising the ability to anticipate, withstand, and recover from disruptions - whether from cyberattacks, operational failures, or global events. The conversation coverslessons from recent incidents, the importance of planning and robust systems, and how embedding resilience can become a competitive advantage for financial institutions.

In this episode of Evolutionary Exchanges, David Powell andFreddie Krone discuss the growing importance of cybersecurity, especially in the financial sector. They examine recent cyberattacks, the rise of both state-backed and independent hackers, and the increasing use of AI anddeepfakes. The conversation highlights the need for strong digital defences, ongoing employee training, and a culture of cyber awareness. Practical advice is shared for organisations to stay resilient and prepared for evolving threats.