Fintech Files: Insights on TECH by BCG Platinion

How can we create credit histories for unbanked people? In this episode, we sit down with Rajat Dayal, CEO and Founder of YabX, to explore how his company is revolutionizing credit access in emerging markets. About 1.5 billion individuals and businesses have no access to credit or any other financial product. Rajat shares insights on leveraging alternative data, like mobile wallet activity, to create credit histories for those overlooked by traditional banking systems. We delve into the challenges of non-traditional credit scoring, the impact on local economies, and how purpose-driven loans can foster financial inclusion.

Discussion Highlights:

• Financial Inclusion and the Credit Gap: Rajat discusses the massive challenge of providing financial services to the 1.5 billion individuals and businesses without access to credit. Traditional banks often overlook this segment due to the lack of credit histories, creating a chicken-and-egg problem where people can't get credit because they have no credit history, and vice versa.
• Leveraging Mobile Wallets and Alternative Data: In regions like Africa, mobile wallets such as M-Pesa have transformed how people transact. Rajat explains how YabX utilizes mobile wallet data and other alternative data sources—like utility payments and telecom data—to assess creditworthiness. This approach helps create credit scores for individuals who previously had no formal financial footprints.
• Challenges with Non-Traditional Credit Scoring: Traditional banks often hesitate to trust alternative credit scoring methods. Rajat shares how YabX builds trust with banking partners by demonstrating the efficacy of their models through back-testing and pilot programs. He emphasizes the importance of proving that these non-traditional methods can predict repayment behavior accurately.
• Purpose-Driven Loans: YabX focuses on offering loans for specific purposes, such as purchasing handsets or paying school fees. Rajat explains how purpose-driven loans increase the likelihood of repayment because the funds are used for essential needs, aligning the interests of both the lender and the borrower.
• Impact on Local Economies: By providing access to credit, YabX empowers small businesses and individuals in rural and underserved areas. This not only helps these businesses grow but also contributes to job creation and economic development in local communities. Rajat highlights how digital lending platforms can reach areas traditional banks can't, fostering broader economic digitization.

About Fintech Files:

Join us on Fintech Files from BCG Platinion as we explore the cutting-edge trends disrupting Fintech today. From NeoBanks to Digital Banking, we delve into the dynamic landscape of financial technology through insightful conversations with global disruptors. We’ll uncover the most groundbreaking trends shaping the future of Fintech and examine their impact on the financial world. Our episodes break down complex topics, with guests explaining everything in a way even their grandmas could understand. We focus on real-world examples, making financial technology relatable and accessible to both Fintech enthusiasts and professionals alike.

Meet the Hosts:

Hosted by Nora Hocke, a manager at BCG Platinion in Munich, and Annika Melchert, a principal currently based in the Middle East, our hosts bring expertise in tech transformations, platform architecture, and digital innovation. With a wealth of experience working with leading Fintechs, they offer unique insights into the evolving financial landscape. Joining them is Bianca Lopes, an entrepreneur and economist from Brazil, now based in Denmark, with a background in digital identity and biometrics. Having supported over 40 financial institutions and 8 governments, Bianca’s work reshapes technology, reimagines identity, and drives innovation.

We Want to Hear from You!

Reach out to us at [email protected] with your questions, guest suggestions, or topics you'd like us to explore. Or just drop in to say hi! Visit our website at https://bcgplatinion.com/insights/podcast-fi/ and follow us on social media for updates and additional content.

The digital future is now. 

How can financial institutions drive sustainability and responsible AI practices? In this episode, we sit down with Anne Kleppe, a leading expert in sustainability and responsible AI at BCG. Anne shares her insights on how banks and financial institutions can leverage their influence to promote sustainable practices, reduce their carbon footprints, and use AI responsibly. We explore the challenges of measuring financed emissions, how AI can contribute to a more sustainable world, and explore real world examples of banking more sustainably in action.

Discussion Highlights:

• Finance as a Force for Good: Anne discusses the unique position of financial institutions to drive positive change. By directing capital flows into sustainable activities, banks can significantly impact the economy and promote environmentally and socially responsible practices.
• Measuring Financed Emissions: Banks have a complex task—measuring the emissions of the businesses they finance. Anne explains how financial institutions can navigate the challenge of measuring financed emissions using advanced modeling tools and data sources, offering transparency and enabling banks to make more informed lending decisions.  For example, tools like CO2 FI help streamline this process. 
• AI and Sustainability: AI has the potential to help banks and industries reduce their environmental impact by analyzing vast amounts of data, predicting outcomes, and providing actionable insights that contribute to greener business practices. However, Anne also highlights the need to balance this with the fact that AI is energy-intensive and can significantly increase carbon emissions. To truly drive sustainability, institutions must ensure that the environmental benefits of AI outweigh its energy demands, finding ways to optimize both technology and resource use.
• The Role of Responsible AI: Anne discusses the importance of responsible AI in financial services, emphasizing the need for it to be secure, equitable, and fit for purpose. While AI can offer valuable support in decision-making and drive efficiency, Anne also underscores the need to carefully manage the associated risks, such as bias and data security. Balancing the benefits of AI with ethical considerations is key to its responsible deployment in the industry.
• Real-World Examples of Navigating Sustainability: Anne provides examples of how financial institutions are grappling with sustainability in their lending practices. In one instance, a bank identified that a significant portion of its financed emissions came from a coal power plant, prompting them to reconsider their involvement. Another example highlights efforts in the agricultural sector, where banks are supporting farmers in adopting greener practices, like improving soil health, which can enhance productivity. 

About Fintech Files:

Join us on Fintech Files from BCG Platinion as we explore the cutting-edge trends disrupting Fintech today. From NeoBanks to Digital Banking, we delve into the dynamic landscape of financial technology through insightful conversations with global disruptors. We’ll uncover the most groundbreaking trends shaping the future of Fintech and examine their impact on the financial world. Our episodes break down complex topics, with guests explaining everything in a way even their grandmas could understand. We focus on real-world examples, making financial technology relatable and accessible to both Fintech enthusiasts and professionals alike.

Meet the Hosts:

Hosted by Nora Hocke, a manager at BCG Platinion in Munich, and Annika Melchert, a principal currently based in the Middle East, our hosts bring expertise in tech transformations, platform architecture, and digital innovation. With a wealth of experience working with leading Fintechs, they offer unique insights into the evolving financial landscape. Joining them is Bianca Lopes, an entrepreneur and economist from Brazil, now based in Denmark, with a background in digital identity and biometrics. Having supported over 40 financial institutions and 8 governments, Bianca’s work reshapes technology, reimagines identity, and drives innovation.

We Want to Hear from You!

Reach out to us at [email protected] with your questions, guest suggestions, or topics you'd like us to explore. Or just drop in to say hi! Visit our website at https://bcgplatinion.com/insights/podcast-fi/ and follow us on social media for updates and additional content.

The digital future is now. 

What trends do we see in wealth management as the GenAI Era Unfolds? Akin Soysal is a global expert on digital investing and part of our BCG X leadership team in Europe, the Middle East and South America. Akin dives into the biggest topics disrupting financial management across the globe. How does Gen Z leverage retail investing for saving for retirement?  Can AI be an effective financial advisor? How are millionaires migrating around the globe?  We’ll explore these topics and more in our conversation with Akin. 

Discussion Highlights: 

• The GenAI Era Unfolds: Global Wealth Report 2024: The BCG annual wealth management report calculates how much wealth there is in the world. It gets broken down into regions and essentially allows you to draw conclusions about who got richer and who got poorer. This year's report touches on the impact of AI, how wealth is distributed, and trends disrupting the financial services industry. 
• Income Generation vs. Wealth Management: Akin discusses how income is tangible and immediate, whereas wealth management and investing are not. This often causes people to overlook the importance and impact of investing on their overall wealth. Financial literacy can play a big role in shifting this mindset, helping people to better understand and plan for their future. 
• Retail Investing with Gen Z: We explore the growing popularity of retail investing, especially with Gen Z.  Retail investing is where people take advantage of investing on their own rather than relying on financial institutions to manage their portfolios. AI is helping to support this trend, with easy to access financial advice being so readily available. 
• Cross-Border Wealth Flows: Akin delves into the dynamics of what he calls cross-border wealth flows. High net worth individuals are increasingly mobile, moving their assets to financially favorable regions like Dubai and Singapore. As wealth is moving globally certain regions are looking to attract millionaires. 
• Regulatory Pressures and Financial Literacy: Akin shares how regulatory frameworks shape the accessibility of financial knowledge and tools. This can sometimes make it challenging for people to gain financial literacy. He discusses the balance between protecting investors and maintaining open access to financial advice.
• The Say-Do Gap in Finance: Akin discusses the emotional aspect of finance, highlighting how people often behave differently than the way they say they will. Financial management is so emotional, and balancing that side of it is key to overall financial health. 
• Impact of AI on Financial Advice: Generative AI is disrupting the wealth management industry by providing sophisticated, scalable investment advice to the masses. This is transforming how people engage with financial markets and has the potential to democratize financial advice for people who otherwise would not have access to it. 

About Fintech Files:

Join us on Fintech Files from BCG Platinion as we explore the cutting-edge trends disrupting Fintech today. From NeoBanks to Digital Banking, we delve into the dynamic landscape of financial technology through insightful conversations with global disruptors. We’ll uncover the most groundbreaking trends shaping the future of Fintech and examine their impact on the financial world. Our episodes break down complex topics, with guests explaining everything in a way even their grandmas could understand. We focus on real-world examples, making financial technology relatable and accessible to both Fintech enthusiasts and professionals alike.

Meet the Hosts:

Hosted by Nora Hocke, a manager at BCG Platinion in Munich, and Annika Melchert, a principal currently based in the Middle East, our hosts bring expertise in tech transformations, platform architecture, and digital innovation. With a wealth of experience working with leading Fintechs, they offer unique insights into the evolving financial landscape. Joining them is Bianca Lopes, an entrepreneur and economist from Brazil, now based in Denmark, with a background in digital identity and biometrics. Having supported over 40 financial institutions and 8 governments, Bianca’s work reshapes technology, reimagines identity, and drives innovation.

We Want to Hear from You!

Reach out to us at [email protected] with your questions, guest suggestions, or topics you'd like us to explore. Or just drop in to say hi! Visit our website at https://bcgplatinion.com/insights/podcast-fi/ and follow us on social media for updates and additional content.

The digital future is now. 

How can Fintech contribute to building a better world? In Season 4 of Fintech Files, we’re turning our focus to where financial technology meets social impact. This season, we explore financial inclusion, sustainable investing, and decarbonization with some of the brightest minds in the industry. As financial services touch every aspect of our lives, the opportunity to drive positive change is enormous.

About Fintech Files:

Join us on Fintech Files from BCG Platinion as we explore the cutting-edge trends disrupting Fintech today. From NeoBanks to Digital Banking, we delve into the dynamic landscape of financial technology through insightful conversations with global disruptors. We’ll uncover the most groundbreaking trends shaping the future of Fintech and examine their impact on the financial world. Our episodes break down complex topics, with guests explaining everything in a way even their grandmas could understand. We focus on real-world examples, making financial technology relatable and accessible to both Fintech enthusiasts and professionals alike.

Meet the Hosts:

Hosted by Nora Hocke, a manager at BCG Platinion in Munich, and Annika Melchert, a principal currently based in the Middle East, our hosts bring expertise in tech transformations, platform architecture, and digital innovation. With a wealth of experience working with leading Fintechs, they offer unique insights into the evolving financial landscape. Joining them is Bianca Lopes, an entrepreneur and economist from Brazil, now based in Denmark, with a background in digital identity and biometrics. Having supported over 40 financial institutions and 8 governments, Bianca’s work reshapes technology, reimagines identity, and drives innovation.

We Want to Hear from You!

Reach out to us at [email protected] with your questions, guest suggestions, or topics you'd like us to explore. Or just drop in to say hi! Visit our website at https://bcgplatinion.com/insights/podcast-fi/ and follow us on social media for updates and additional content.

The digital future is now. 

We know that you’ve just been dying for more episodes of Fintech Files since we wrapped up season three, so we’ve decided to throw one final one in for you.  This week we’re bringing you one of BCG’s other shows that covers Fintech as it relates to compliance and risk. BCG on Compliance is hosted by Hanjo Seibert, a leading expert in compliance, anti-financial crime and fraud. Each episode dives into today’s most pressing criminal trends, and how compliance experts are innovating to stay ahead of the curve, and shape the future of the industry. If you like what you hear, follow BCG on Compliance on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app. Enjoy!

About this Episode:

This episode covers the fascinating story behind HSBC’s massive transformation process following the bank’s 2012 anti-money-laundering controls violations. Hanjo speaks to Andy Maguire, who held the role of Group Chief Operating Officer and had a key role in engineering an extensive remediation process for the bank, which took years and millions of dollars. It is one of the most prominent banking compliance stories in recent history, and Andy shares his critical insights and valuable learnings that have had ripple effects across the industry. 

About Fintech Files:

Are you ready to unravel the most innovative trends disrupting the world of Fintech today? Join us on Fintech Files from BCG Platinion, where we delve deep into the dynamic landscape of Fintech, NeoBanks, and the Digital Banking world, sparking insightful conversations with industry disruptors from around the globe. So, what are the most groundbreaking trends shaping the future of Fintech, and how will they impact your financial world? Fintech Files takes an accessible approach to technology. We break down complex topics and have our guests explain them in a relatable "explain it to your grandma" style. In every episode, we focus on real-world stories of how financial technology operates, demystifying complex concepts and making them relatable for both Fintech enthusiasts and professionals.

The Hosts of Fintech Files:

Hosted by Nora Hocke, a manager at BCG Platinion in Munich, and Annika Melchert, a principal currently based in the Middle East, our hosts specialize in IT strategy, modern tech architecture, and state-of-the-art banking. In their work, they've collaborated with some of today's most innovative Fintechs to transform their organizations; including supporting generative AI use cases. With their unique blend of tech expertise and passion, they bring you stories that capture the essence of the evolving Fintech landscape.  This season, we're thrilled to introduce Bianca Lopes. Originally from Brazil and currently based in Denmark, Bianca is an entrepreneur and economist with a remarkable background in digital identity and biometrics. Throughout her career, she has supported over 40 financial institutions and 8 governments, reshaping their approach to technology, reimagining identity, and driving innovation agendas.

We Want to Hear from You!

Reach out to us at [email protected] with your questions, guest suggestions, or topics you'd like us to explore. Or just drop in to say hi! Visit our website at https://bcgplatinion.com/insights/podcast-fi/ and follow us on social media for updates and additional content.

The digital future is now. 

Join hosts Nora, Annika, and Bianca as they wrap up the season with a special compilation episode of FinTech Files from BCG Platinion. This episode revisits the season's standout moments, featuring a diverse lineup of guests from around the globe. From the transformative power of generative AI to the challenges and opportunities of cloud transformation, this episode covers key themes that have shaped the fintech landscape. Listen in as our hosts highlight insights on financial inclusion, women in fintech, regulatory landscapes, and predictions for the future of financial technology.

Discussion Highlights:

• Representation Across the Season: Our hosts celebrate the impressive 60% female representation among the guests this season, showcasing voices from North America, the Middle East, Europe, Africa, and Southeast Asia. 
• Generative AI: Given all of the amazing perspectives that were shared this season around how AI is disrupting the industry, particularly in our conversations with Kirsten Rulf, Camilla Vincenci Witt and Jacqueline O Flanagan, the hosts discuss how to balance the AI risk and opportunities in financial services. 
• Cloud Transformation:Reflecting on discussions with guests like Maxim Afanasyev  from Google Cloud and Alfred Mukudu from Amazon Web Services, the hosts explore how cloud transformation is reshaping the fintech industry. They discuss the importance of focusing on cloud for value and the unique challenges faced in regions like Africa, including the need for reliable internet connectivity and the diverse regulatory landscape.
• Regulation: With insights from Alfred Mukudu and Meenah Tariq, they discuss the complexities of cross-border transactions and the hurdles faced by neobanks in gaining global acceptance. The conversation underscores the balance between regulation and innovation necessary for fintech growth.
• Financial Inclusion and Women in Fintech: This season featured compelling discussions on financial inclusion, such as those with Vera Futorjanski from Beyond Global, Eve Morelli, from Radicant and Reem Ikram from Thriftplan. The hosts talk about how financial inclusion is crucial for reducing poverty and boosting prosperity. They also highlight the underrepresentation of women in fintech, emphasizing the need for transparency, financial literacy, and support for female founders.
• Future of Fintech/Predictions: The hosts share their predictions for the future of fintech, drawing from discussions throughout the season. Nora, Annika, and Bianca talk about the potential of generative AI, and technological leapfrogging in developing countries. They explore how future technologies like spatial computing, and blockchain could revolutionize the industry, and discuss the concept of the metaverse as a future banking environment.

About Fintech Files:

Are you ready to unravel the most innovative trends disrupting the world of Fintech today? Join us on Fintech Files from BCG Platinion, where we delve deep into the dynamic landscape of Fintech, NeoBanks, and the Digital Banking world, sparking insightful conversations with industry disruptors from around the globe. So, what are the most groundbreaking trends shaping the future of Fintech, and how will they impact your financial world? Fintech Files takes an accessible approach to technology. We break down complex topics and have our guests explain them in a relatable "explain it to your grandma" style. In every episode, we focus on real-world stories of how financial technology operates, demystifying complex concepts and making them relatable for both Fintech enthusiasts and professionals.

The Hosts of Fintech Files:

Hosted by Nora Hocke, a manager at BCG Platinion in Munich, and Annika Melchert, a principal currently based in the Middle East, our hosts specialize in IT strategy, modern tech architecture, and state-of-the-art banking. In their work, they've collaborated with some of today's most innovative Fintechs to transform their organizations; including supporting generative AI use cases. With their unique blend of tech expertise and passion, they bring you stories that capture the essence of the evolving Fintech landscape.  This season, we're thrilled to introduce Bianca Lopes. Originally from Brazil and currently based in Denmark, Bianca is an entrepreneur and economist with a remarkable background in digital identity and biometrics. Throughout her career, she has supported over 40 financial institutions and 8 governments, reshaping their approach to technology, reimagining identity, and driving innovation agendas.

We Want to Hear from You!

Reach out to us at [email protected] with your questions, guest suggestions, or topics you'd like us to explore. Or just drop in to say hi! Visit our website at https://bcgplatinion.com/insights/podcast-fi/ and follow us on social media for updates and additional content.

The digital future is now. 

How financially prepared are you for retirement? It’s a question that too many people don’t think about until it’s too late. Reem Ikram, CEO and Co-Founder of Thriftplan is on a mission to change that. In this episode we’ll explore how Thriftplan is revolutionizing savings for both employees and employers, promoting long-term financial stability. We dive into the importance of financial literacy, approaches to financial inclusion and regulation in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and the vital role of women in fintech.

Discussion Highlights:

• The Importance of Savings: Reem Ikram opens the conversation with insights into the growing focus on savings by financial institutions and its implications for consumer behavior. With banks intensifying efforts to encourage savings, there's a notable shift in how people manage their finances, aiming for greater financial security.
• Introducing Thriftplan: Reem describes Thriftplan as a flexible savings plan that mirrors the structure of 401k plans in the U.S., providing a dual benefit structure for employees and employers. This system not only helps in accumulating savings efficiently but also aids companies in retaining talent by offering compelling financial benefits.
• Financial Literacy and Planning: The episode explores the critical role of financial literacy in effective financial planning and saving. Reem shares her personal experiences and stresses the need for a structured approach to managing finances both in the short term and for future needs like retirement.
• Regulatory Evolution in Saudi Arabia: Delving into the fintech regulatory environment in Saudi Arabia, Reem discusses how sandbox regulatory frameworks foster innovation by allowing experimentation in a controlled environment, making the Kingdom a burgeoning hub for fintech startups.
• The Role of Women in Fintech: The discussion also covers the evolving landscape for women in the fintech sector, particularly in Saudi Arabia. With the country undergoing rapid socio-economic reforms, opportunities for women are expanding, yet challenges remain in achieving gender parity in the fintech workforce.

About Fintech Files:

Are you ready to unravel the most innovative trends disrupting the world of Fintech today? Join us on Fintech Files from BCG Platinion, where we delve deep into the dynamic landscape of Fintech, NeoBanks, and the Digital Banking world, sparking insightful conversations with industry disruptors from around the globe. So, what are the most groundbreaking trends shaping the future of Fintech, and how will they impact your financial world? Fintech Files takes an accessible approach to technology. We break down complex topics and have our guests explain them in a relatable "explain it to your grandma" style. In every episode, we focus on real-world stories of how financial technology operates, demystifying complex concepts and making them relatable for both Fintech enthusiasts and professionals.

The Hosts of Fintech Files:

Hosted by Nora Hocke, a manager at BCG Platinion in Munich, and Annika Melchert, a principal currently based in the Middle East, our hosts specialize in IT strategy, modern tech architecture, and state-of-the-art banking. In their work, they've collaborated with some of today's most innovative Fintechs to transform their organizations; including supporting generative AI use cases. With their unique blend of tech expertise and passion, they bring you stories that capture the essence of the evolving Fintech landscape.  This season, we're thrilled to introduce Bianca Lopes. Originally from Brazil and currently based in Denmark, Bianca is an entrepreneur and economist with a remarkable background in digital identity and biometrics. Throughout her career, she has supported over 40 financial institutions and 8 governments, reshaping their approach to technology, reimagining identity, and driving innovation agendas.

We Want to Hear from You!

Reach out to us at [email protected] with your questions, guest suggestions, or topics you'd like us to explore. Or just drop in to say hi! Visit our website at https://bcgplatinion.com/insights/podcast-fi/ and follow us on social media for updates and additional content.

The digital future is now. 

From the Step Conference in Dubai, February 2024, comes an insightful discussion on the transformative impact of neobanks on small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Moderated by Annika Melchert, the episode features Meenah Tariq of Metric and Dyota Marsudi of Bank Aladin, who share their pioneering work in making financial management and banking more accessible for SMEs. Discover how these digital platforms are not just alternatives to traditional banking but are redefining the landscape for business growth and financial inclusion. 

Discussion Highlights:

• Defining Neobanking: Neobanks redefine banking with digital-first solutions that bypass traditional physical branches, making financial services more accessible and user-friendly. Neobanking simplifies financial processes for users, allowing them to manage their finances easily from their smartphones.
• Empowering SMEs with Neobanking: Neobanks like Bank Aladin revolutionize SME banking by offering fast, accessible financial services, adhering to Islamic banking principles. Digital banks eliminate common banking hurdles for SMEs, providing a seamless, efficient banking experience.
• Overcoming Regulatory and Operational Challenges: This discussion highlights the regulatory and operational obstacles facing neobanks and SMEs, from obtaining licenses to gaining legitimacy as financial institutions. There is a need for a balance between innovation and regulatory compliance to foster growth and stability.
• Neobanks as Enablers of Financial Inclusion: Neobanks play a crucial role in extending financial services to underbanked populations, supporting SME growth through innovative solutions. Digital banking platforms break down traditional barriers, offering easier access to financial services.
• Future Innovations in Neobanking: Speculation about the future of neobanking focuses on potential advancements such as cryptocurrency and asset digitization, which could further personalize and secure banking experiences, considering the transformative impact these innovations may have on the financial landscape.
• Collaboration for SME Success: The potential for neobanks, traditional banks, and fintech platforms to collaborate underscores a holistic approach to supporting SME development. Partnerships can combine the strengths of each to provide comprehensive financial solutions to SMEs.

About Fintech Files:

Are you ready to unravel the most innovative trends disrupting the world of Fintech today? Join us on Fintech Files from BCG Platinion, where we delve deep into the dynamic landscape of Fintech, NeoBanks, and the Digital Banking world, sparking insightful conversations with industry disruptors from around the globe. So, what are the most groundbreaking trends shaping the future of Fintech, and how will they impact your financial world? Fintech Files takes an accessible approach to technology. We break down complex topics and have our guests explain them in a relatable "explain it to your grandma" style. In every episode, we focus on real-world stories of how financial technology operates, demystifying complex concepts and making them relatable for both Fintech enthusiasts and professionals.

The Hosts of Fintech Files:

Hosted by Nora Hocke, a manager at BCG Platinion in Munich, and Annika Melchert, a principal currently based in the Middle East, our hosts specialize in IT strategy, modern tech architecture, and state-of-the-art banking. In their work, they've collaborated with some of today's most innovative Fintechs to transform their organizations; including supporting generative AI use cases. With their unique blend of tech expertise and passion, they bring you stories that capture the essence of the evolving Fintech landscape.  This season, we're thrilled to introduce Bianca Lopes. Originally from Brazil and currently based in Denmark, Bianca is an entrepreneur and economist with a remarkable background in digital identity and biometrics. Throughout her career, she has supported over 40 financial institutions and 8 governments, reshaping their approach to technology, reimagining identity, and driving innovation agendas.

We Want to Hear from You!

Reach out to us at [email protected] with your questions, guest suggestions, or topics you'd like us to explore. Or just drop in to say hi! Visit our website at https://bcgplatinion.com/insights/podcast-fi/ and follow us on social media for updates and additional content.

The digital future is now. 

Join us as we delve into the vibrant intersection of technology, finance, and diversity with Jacqueline O'Flanagan, the guiding force of Microsoft's financial services strategy in Canada. In this enlightening conversation, Jacqueline discusses the efforts to enhance women's roles in finance, the transformative power of AI in the sector, and Microsoft's commitment to fostering a sustainable and inclusive culture. This episode moves beyond a discussion of the current state of women in FinTech, offering a visionary look at the technological innovations driving the future of financial services.

Discussion Highlights:

• Trailblazing Women in FinTech: Jacqueline guides us through the evolving landscape for women in finance, highlighting both the strides made and the challenges that lie ahead. It's an honest assessment of the current situation and our collective goals for the future.
• Empowering Women at Microsoft and Beyond: Listen in as Jacqueline sheds light on the "Women at Microsoft" initiative, detailing its objectives, successes, and her personal journey in advocating for broader representation within tech and finance sectors. Additionally, we underscore the business impact of female leadership and diverse teams. [More info: "Learning from Women Who’ve Made It to the Top in Tech"].
• AI’s Transformative Impact on Finance: Discover how AI is revolutionizing the financial industry, from improving customer interactions to pioneering new approaches in risk management and sustainable practices.
• Diversity and AI Development: The critical importance of diversity in AI development is highlighted, focusing on efforts to mitigate gender biases in AI models. BCG research indicates that senior women in tech are leading the adoption of generative AI, demonstrating the value of inclusive perspectives in shaping future technologies. [More info: "Women ‘can lead the charge on GenAI’ in the workplace"].
• Technology for Environmental Good: Explore how Microsoft leverages technology for environmental sustainability, particularly through AI initiatives that enable financial institutions to support a net-zero economy.
• Career Advice for Women in FinTech: Jacqueline offers valuable advice for women aspiring to make their mark in financial technology, emphasizing the significance of a growth mindset, lifelong learning, and aligning personal values with professional paths.
• Envisioning the Future of Financial Services: Jacqueline shares her insights on potential future transformations within the financial services sector, including advancements in digital lending, payments, and the evolving regulatory environment.

About Fintech Files:

Are you ready to unravel the most innovative trends disrupting the world of Fintech today? Join us on Fintech Files from BCG Platinion, where we delve deep into the dynamic landscape of Fintech, NeoBanks, and the Digital Banking world, sparking insightful conversations with industry disruptors from around the globe. So, what are the most groundbreaking trends shaping the future of Fintech, and how will they impact your financial world? Fintech Files takes an accessible approach to technology. We break down complex topics and have our guests explain them in a relatable "explain it to your grandma" style. In every episode, we focus on real-world stories of how financial technology operates, demystifying complex concepts and making them relatable for both Fintech enthusiasts and professionals.

The Hosts of Fintech Files:

Hosted by Nora Hocke, a manager at BCG Platinion in Munich, and Annika Melchert, a principal currently based in the Middle East, our hosts specialize in IT strategy, modern tech architecture, and state-of-the-art banking. In their work, they've collaborated with some of today's most innovative Fintechs to transform their organizations; including supporting generative AI use cases. With their unique blend of tech expertise and passion, they bring you stories that capture the essence of the evolving Fintech landscape.  This season, we're thrilled to introduce Bianca Lopes. Originally from Brazil and currently based in Denmark, Bianca is an entrepreneur and economist with a remarkable background in digital identity and biometrics. Throughout her career, she has supported over 40 financial institutions and 8 governments, reshaping their approach to technology, reimagining identity, and driving innovation agendas.

We Want to Hear from You!

Reach out to us at [email protected] with your questions, guest suggestions, or topics you'd like us to explore. Or just drop in to say hi! Visit our website at https://bcgplatinion.com/insights/podcast-fi/ and follow us on social media for updates and additional content.

The digital future is now. 

This week on Fintech Files, we're bringing you 'In Her Element' from BCG. A show featuring conversations with women at the vanguard of business, digital, and technology. We're delving into how these powerhouse leaders got to where they are—covering everything from the joy of projects gone right to the realities of family responsibilities. In this episode, AI and digital expert Suchi Srinivasan will be introducing fintech practice leader Kamila Rakhimova as her new co-host. If you like this episode, subscribe to 'In Her Ellement' from BCG wherever you get your podcasts to stay up to date with the show. Enjoy!

About this Episode:

Kamila takes us on a journey from her native Tajikistan to the USA and through a career that she has mapped out on her terms. Every few years, Kamila gets the itch to try something new. Back in her home country, her proficiency in English and her qualifications in international relations made her an asset in her field. She quickly discovered that microfinance could have a significant impact on underprivileged communities. This niche brought her to the US and eventually to Amazon.

At Amazon, she spearheaded the Amazon Alexa Fund, which supported founders in creating innovative businesses. For her, the most meaningful part of the program was being able to launch the careers of underrepresented founders. When Kamila first moved to the US, she followed what she thought was the playbook for success. She quickly discovered that a one-size-fits-all approach didn't work for her. Now, she listens carefully to her inner voice and does things her own way.

About Fintech Files:

Are you ready to unravel the most innovative trends disrupting the world of Fintech today? Join us on Fintech Files from BCG Platinion, where we delve deep into the dynamic landscape of Fintech, NeoBanks, and the Digital Banking world, sparking insightful conversations with industry disruptors from around the globe. So, what are the most groundbreaking trends shaping the future of Fintech, and how will they impact your financial world? Fintech Files takes an accessible approach to technology. We break down complex topics and have our guests explain them in a relatable "explain it to your grandma" style. In every episode, we focus on real-world stories of how financial technology operates, demystifying complex concepts and making them relatable for both Fintech enthusiasts and professionals.

The Hosts of Fintech Files:

Hosted by Nora Hocke, a manager at BCG Platinion in Munich, and Annika Melchert, a principal currently based in the Middle East, our hosts specialize in IT strategy, modern tech architecture, and state-of-the-art banking. In their work, they've collaborated with some of today's most innovative Fintechs to transform their organizations; including supporting generative AI use cases. With their unique blend of tech expertise and passion, they bring you stories that capture the essence of the evolving Fintech landscape.  This season, we're thrilled to introduce Bianca Lopes. Originally from Brazil and currently based in Denmark, Bianca is an entrepreneur and economist with a remarkable background in digital identity and biometrics. Throughout her career, she has supported over 40 financial institutions and 8 governments, reshaping their approach to technology, reimagining identity, and driving innovation agendas.

We Want to Hear from You!

Reach out to us at [email protected] with your questions, guest suggestions, or topics you'd like us to explore. Or just drop in to say hi! Visit our website at https://bcgplatinion.com/insights/podcast-fi/ and follow us on social media for updates and additional content.

The digital future is now.