Episodes
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In this episode of The Bankers' Bookshelf series for Breaking Banks Europe, hosted by Paolo Sironi, Nicola Bilotta, a Senior Research Associate at the Florence School of Banking and Finance, delves into the evolving landscape of international reserve currencies and monetary systems. Bilotta discusses the forces driving the transformation—economic dislocation, geopolitical shifts, and advancing technology—while addressing the global dissatisfaction with the US dollar. He explains how countries like China and the European Union are exploring digital currency initiatives, each with distinct motivations: China aiming for monetary control, while Europe seeks strategic autonomy and a pan-European payment system. Bilotta also explores why the US has been slow to adopt a digital dollar, citing political skepticism and fears of losing influence. The conversation highlights future scenarios, including fragmentation, digital dominance, and global shifts. This insightful discussion is based on Bilotta’s book The Geoeconomics of Money in the Digital Age, and marks the transition of The Bankers' Bookshelf series into its own show since 2025.
Get the book: https://www.routledge.com/The-Geoeconomics-of-Money-in-the-Digital-Age/Bilotta/p/book/9781032812168?srsltid=AfmBOoo8O35JN-o-TBvUnGfDzfkpYPrfiivuGtVQi89w_TH6sgnGHJkA
FOLLOW THE NEW SHOW: https://provoke.fm/show/the-bankers-bookshelf/ -
In this episode, Anthony Day, Managing Partner at Midnight, sits down with Matteo Rizzi to explore the major shifts in 2024 and early 2025 in the world of digital asset finance, tokenization, and AI technologies. Matteo announces that Breaking Banks Europe will transition from a weekly to a monthly show, while introducing new monthly series Breaking Banks Africa and a spin-off of #BBE, Paolo Sironi’s success The Bankers’ Bookshelf. The conversation dives into key topics like decentralized finance, the evolving landscape of AI, and the challenges surrounding data privacy and asset tokenization. Join us as we unpack the future of finance and explore the opportunities shaping the financial sector in this insightful discussion.
Follow Anthony: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anthonyjjday/
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In this Breaking Banks Europe live podcast episode, Matteo Rizzi interviews Parul Seth Khanna and Sam Ghiotti during the Singapore Fintech Festival. Parul, co-founder of pinbox solutions, discusses the evolving fintech landscape in Asia, particularly in India. She shares insights on how the region is embracing technology and innovation to transform financial services, and the challenges companies face in such a dynamic market. Sam Ghiotti, co-founder of Abito, talks about his experience in building a fintech company in Japan, navigating the country’s unique cultural and regulatory environment. He explains the complexities of Japan’s financial behavior, where risk aversion and low financial literacy dominate, and how Abito is addressing these issues with fresh financial solutions. The episode explores global fintech trends, with both Parul and Sam offering valuable perspectives on market dynamics, innovation, and overcoming obstacles in diverse regions.
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At the Singapore Fintech Festival, Breaking Banks Europe, hosted by Matteo Rizzi and supported by CXO Conversations, featured conversations with Premier Oiwoh (NIBSS CEO) and Jo Ann Barefoot (CEO of the Alliance for Innovative Regulation). Premier highlighted Africa's innovation leadership, emphasizing USSD payments and financial inclusion. Jo Ann discussed regulatory challenges in emerging markets, noting the impact of technology and generational shifts in central banks, including insights from Rwanda, Ghana, and Namibia. The podcast explored cross-border payments, digital asset regulation, and the evolving role of technology in finance. Jo Ann also shared her podcast, Barefoot Innovation.
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In an insightful conversation at the Singapore FinTech Festival with CXO Conversations, Valeria Ndapunikwa Mbango and Tune Hafo Brock from the Bank of Namibia and host Matteo Rizzi discussed the nation’s progressive approach to driving fintech innovation. They highlighted initiatives like the Artificial Intelligence and Robotics Accelerator Lab in partnership with NUST, aimed at building tech talent locally. The Bank is also spearheading projects such as instant payment solutions for financial inclusion, a regulatory technology platform for real-time data use, and exploration of Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs) for cross-border efficiency. Acknowledging Namibia’s small population as a challenge, they emphasized the need for collaboration among startups, banks, and international investors. With a focus on interoperability, tourism-linked fintech opportunities, and fostering entrepreneurship, the Bank aims to position Namibia as a unique player in Africa’s digital ecosystem. Their mindset reflects a commitment to innovation, inclusion, and partnerships, paving the way for the nation’s financial transformation.
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The podcast explores Morocco’s evolving fintech and innovation landscape, highlighting its potential as a hub for technological and economic growth. Despite challenges like a large unbanked population and bureaucratic hurdles, fintech startups are bridging gaps with innovative, user-friendly solutions, supported by collaborations with traditional banks and regulators. Morocco’s adoption of cryptocurrencies, upcoming regulations, and focus on emerging technologies, such as AI and green energy, reflect its commitment to modernization. Initiatives like UM6P university emphasize nurturing local talent, crucial for driving innovation. Morocco's stability, low costs, and strategic location also attract digital nomads and investors, particularly in real estate and hospitality, which are poised for growth.
Connect with Yassine:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/yassine-loqmane -
In this month’s installment of News From The Fintech Front, Silvia Attanasio, Mico Curatolo, and host Don Ginsel dive into the future of European finance, focusing on the digital euro and the impact of new regulations such as MiCAR. Silvia Attanasio shares her perspective on the digital euro, highlighting its potential for innovation but stressing the need for clarity in regulation. Mico Curatolo discusses the opportunities and challenges MiCAR brings, such as standardizing the crypto market and enhancing consumer protection, while acknowledging the complex compliance journey ahead. Silvia calls MiCAR a "Frankenstein" of regulations, blending payment and financial instruments law, and emphasizes the need for more clarity. Mico talks about the opportunities for collaboration across the industry, while Don Ginsel facilitates the conversation, noting the importance of creating a unified European financial infrastructure. They all agree on the necessity of working with regulators to drive innovation while maintaining security and compliance.
Follow our guests:
Mico Curatolo: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mico-curatolo-57a18497/
Silvia Attanasio: https://www.linkedin.com/in/silviaattanasio/ -
At this year’s Web Summit Lisbon, Matteo Rizzi took the mic to host two riveting live interviews on Breaking Banks Europe, bringing fresh insights from two of the brightest minds in fintech. First, he sat down with Ali Niknam, the visionary CEO and founder of bunq, a digital banking disruptor on a mission to offer transparency and a customer-first approach to financial services. Ali shared how bunq is challenging the traditional banking model and navigating the complexities of regulation while empowering users to take control of their finances.
Next, Matteo caught up with Jaidev Janardana, the dynamic CEO of Zopa, one of the trailblazers in the peer-to-peer lending space. Jaidev shared the journey from P2P lending to full banking services, revealing how AI, data, and a customer-centric approach are shaping the future of finance. He also emphasized the importance of small steps toward financial literacy to help people thrive. The interviews showcased how fintech leaders are changing the game and making an impact worldwide!
Connect and learn more:
Ali Niknam - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ali-niknam-50253913/
bunq.com
Jaidev Janardana - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaidev-janardana-a4071b3
zopa.com -
In this episode of Breaking Banks Europe, host Don Ginsel is joined by Geert Van Kerckhoven, CEO and Co-Founder of Oper, to discuss the transformation of mortgage lending through digitalization. They explore the evolving housing market, the challenges of making homeownership more accessible, and the role of technology in revolutionizing mortgage processes. Geert shares insights into the importance of digital property valuation, real-time underwriting, and AI-powered solutions for loan advisors. They also touch on regulatory hurdles, the impact of energy efficiency requirements, and innovations in financing, such as fractional ownership and reverse mortgages. Geert envisions a future where home financing evolves to meet the needs of an aging population and a more complex real estate market.
For more about Geert and Oper:Geert Van Kerckhoven: LinkedInOper: Website -
In Episode 252 of News From the Fintech Front, host Roberto Capodieci is joined by fintech expert Devie Mohan, co-founder and CEO of Burnmark, known for her influential research and advocacy for bank-startup collaboration. Together, they explore the UK’s dominance in European fintech, capturing 65% of deals despite reduced funding, with highlights from Monzo’s $5.9 billion valuation. Topics include Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs) focused on decentralization and privacy, alongside AI data privacy concerns due to unconsented data usage. They also discuss AI’s transformative impact on banking roles and Hong Kong’s recent virtual asset platform expansions, marking its ambition as a digital finance hub. This episode offers an insightful look into the innovations, challenges, and regulatory shifts shaping fintech today.
Connect with Devie Mohan:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/deviemohan -
In this episode, host Elizabeth Kleinveld speaks with John Lombela, founder and CEO of Axalio, about how fintech innovations are transforming the mining industry in Africa. John explains how Axalio empowers small-scale miners by providing access to modern equipment, financial education, and direct global markets, helping them increase safety, improve income stability, and reduce environmental harm. Through blockchain and geospatial technology, Axalio ensures transparency and legal compliance, while reinvesting in local communities to build schools and hospitals. The conversation also touches on expanding these solutions to Latin America and Southeast Asia.
John Lombela: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnlombela/
Axalio.com
Serial entrepreneur and technology leader with over 17 years of experience in managing complex projects across diverse industries. As the Founder and CEO of Axalio.com Technologies, he focuses on innovative financial solutions in emerging markets, emphasizing transparency and ethical sourcing in mining operations. John holds a bachelor’s degree from Tshwane University of Technology in South Africa and has founded multiple successful startups. -
In this special 250th episode of Breaking Banks Europe, titled “Fintech in a Word,” Matteo Rizzi celebrates 500 unique guests and 5 years of the show, by leading an insightful conversation with the six hosts, each reflecting on the one word that represents the last 15 years in fintech.
Matthias Kroener emphasizes the importance of culture in shaping fintech’s future, while Paolo Sironi focuses on strategy as the key to success. Roberto Capodieci looks ahead, discussing the future of the industry and how it’s evolving. Elizabeth Kleinveld sees possibilities in every challenge fintech has faced, and Don Ginsel describes the industry’s exciting journey as a true rollercoaster. Francesca Aliverti highlights inclusion, with a special focus on emerging markets in EMEA. Finally, Matteo Rizzi shares his thoughts on the crucial role of talent, particularly upskilling through initiatives like Timepledge.org.
Join us as we celebrate 250 episodes and reflect on our favorite show moments from the past five years! -
In this month’s News From The Fintech Front, host Don Ginsel is joined by guests Alex Johnson and Gabriella Orille, marking a major milestone for the show: 500 unique guests!
Key topics include the increasing role of Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs) in transforming financial systems and how neobanks are strengthening ties with traditional banks to diversify their services. They also dive into the growth of Embedded Finance, reshaping consumer experiences by integrating financial services into everyday platforms, and innovations in RegTech and compliance technology to address regulatory challenges in fintech.
The episode closes with the last Fintech Groove segment, promoting the upcoming Milan Fintech Summit, where Matteo Castelnuovo interviews Alberta Pelino. Pelino, herself a summit speaker, discusses gender equality in fintech, her experience founding We Are Fibi, and her mission to close the gender gap in finance through education and empowerment.
Stay tuned as Breaking Banks Europe gears up to celebrate five years in two weeks!
Connect with our guests:
Alex Johnson - Founder, Fintech Takes
https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexhjohnson
Website: https://fintechtakes.com/
Subcribe now: https://newsletter.fintechtakes.com/
Gabriela Orille - Independent Board Member, Denarius
https://www.linkedin.com/in/gabrielaorille
Website: https://gabrielaorille.com/acerca-de/
Alberta Pelino - President, Young Ambassadors Society and CEO & Founder Fibi
https://www.linkedin.com/in/albertapelino
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This episode of Breaking Banks Europe explores the rise of embedded finance, its impact on businesses, and why today is the best time to be a fintech entrepreneur. Experts Nicolas Benady and Paolo Zaccardi discuss how companies of all sizes are integrating financial services through APIs, simplifying operations in a conversation with host Matteo Rizzi. Later on the “Fintech Groove” installment - Denis Gven from Wamo highlights how fintechs like his are revolutionizing banking for SMEs, offering faster onboarding, personalized services, and innovative credit solutions. The conversation also touches on the importance of maintaining a human touch in fintech, combining technology with personal interaction to support business growth effectively.
Nicolas Benady: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolasbenady
Nicolas Benady is the co-founder of swan.io , a fintech platform that provides APIs for embedded banking. Under his leadership, swan.io empowers businesses to integrate banking services seamlessly, offering solutions like accounts and payments. Benady’s vision drives innovation, making advanced financial services more accessible and efficient.
Paolo Zaccardi: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paolozaccardi
Paolo Zaccardi is the CEO and co-founder of Fabrick, a fintech platform that bridges banks and fintechs through APIs. Fabrick’s ecosystem streamlines financial operations, fostering innovation and connectivity in the industry. Zaccardi's leadership enhances collaboration, driving forward the future of financial technology and services.
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In this episode of Breaking Banks Europe, Matteo Rizzi interviews Chiara Padua, Deputy CEO of the Fintech District and Head of the Milan Fintech Summit (MFS). They discuss the upcoming 2024 Milan Fintech Summit, its theme, “Smells Like Fintech Spirit,” inspired by music, reflecting the evolving, dynamic nature of fintech. Chiara highlights how MFS has grown since its inception in 2020, including new tracks and regional events, emphasizing the importance of in-person gatherings for networking and collaboration. She outlines key themes for 2024, such as embedded finance, sustainability, diversity, and AI, all covered in sessions titled after iconic songs. They also preview notable speakers and collaborations, underscoring the event's community-driven ethos and positioning MFS as a hub for fintech innovation in Southern Europe. The episode provides a sneak peek into what attendees can expect, including the chance to engage with leading industry figures.
Get your pass and be part of it!https://www.milanfintechsummit.com/#BuyTickets#MilanFintechSummit #MFS #MFS24
Connect with Chiara: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chiara-padua/ -
In this month’s “News From The Fintech Front" host Elizabeth Kleinveld discusses recent fintech developments with guests Bruno Diniz and Ritesh Jain. They explore major fintech news, focusing on topics like the expansion of payment company Adyen into India, investments by Japan’s Credit Saison in Latin American startups, and HSBC's involvement in open property data for smoother home buying in the UK. They also delve into Brazil’s innovative financial infrastructure, including PIX, open finance, and the central bank’s efforts in AI and data science. Furthermore, they discuss challenges in retail CBDC adoption and MasterCard's partnerships aimed at expanding fintech opportunities in Africa and the Middle East. Throughout the conversation, the importance of financial literacy versus financial inclusion is emphasized, alongside concerns about AI biases in financial systems.
Bruno Diniz
https://www.linkedin.com/in/brunoevdiniz
Managing Partner, Spiralem Innovation Consulting / Professor on Financial Innovation, University of Sao Paulo (USP) Regarded as one of the top fintech influencers in LATAM, Mr. Diniz is also an international speaker, and bestselling author of three books on financial innovation: The Fintech Phonomenon, The New Financial Logic, and The Age of Crypto-Economy.
Dr. Ritesh Jain - Founder, Infynithttps://www.linkedin.com/in/drriteshjain/
Known for his work in payments innovation, open banking, and digital public infrastructure. He has held key roles at HSBC, VISA, Apple, and Maersk, where he developed the Apple Pay tokenization stack and led major transformations.Dr. Jain advises global payment programs like UPI, FedNow, and PIX, and is a recognized expert in financial inclusion. He is the first to earn a PhD in Open Banking and played a crucial role in Maersk's recovery from the NotPetya ransomware attack. He is also a trusted advisor to G20 and GPFI, an active fintech investor, and a sought-after speaker at global conferences. -
In this first episode of Breaking Banks Europe, part of the Milan Fintech Summit Special 3 episode-series, host Matteo Rizzi talks with Stefania Di Bartolomeo, CEO of Physis Investment. Stefania discusses her company's mission to empower sustainable investing through data-driven tools, enabling investors to support companies with positive societal impacts. She contrasts the U.S.'s supportive innovation ecosystem with Europe's and highlights the importance of collaboration among entrepreneurs.
Stefania also shares Physis Investment's new chatbot, designed to make sustainability information accessible to a broader audience. As Physis considers expanding into Europe, Milan is a potential location.
The episode wraps up with Chris Richmond, founder of Migrants, who discusses financial inclusion challenges for asylum seekers and refugees in Italy with Matteo Castelnuovo for the new segment of “Fintech Groove”. Richmond highlights the role of digital platforms and emerging technologies in building trust between migrants and financial institutions, improving access to credit and opportunities for marginalized groups. -
In this episode of Breaking Banks Europe, part of the Ecosystem Zoom-In series, host Matteo Rizzi explores the dynamic fintech landscape of the Democratic Republic of Congo with guest Joel Tshilumba (Co-Founder, Ultimate Corporation). For the first time in #BBE, this special episode is presented in two languages, with the first section in English and the second in French, to honor the significant impact of francophone Africa on the continent (the YouTube video includes subtitles for wider accessibility)
The discussion dives into how the Congolese fintech ecosystem has evolved, highlighting the key players driving change and innovation. They explore the vibrant start-up scene and the increasing investment opportunities that are shaping the financial landscape. The episode also examines how traditional financial institutions are adapting to this new environment, sharing compelling stories of transformation. Joel Tshilumba provides insights into the country’s demographics and economic statistics, offering a comprehensive look at the challenges and opportunities within this rapidly growing market.
Follow Joel:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/joel-tshilumba-j-92797916b -
In this month's episode of News From The FinTech Front, host and industry extraordinaire Don Ginsel unmutes Micky Tesfaye, and Grant Easterbrook discuss the latest fintech headlines from July 2024. They explore the upcoming integration of ChatGPT into Apple devices and its potential to revolutionize personal finance by serving as a voice-based advisor. This development could lead to outcomes ranging from tech companies disintermediating traditional financial firms to strengthening big banks' dominance or even having minimal impact on market dynamics.
The episode also covers presidential candidate President Donald Trump's recent move to embrace cryptocurrency, including a promise to create a "national Bitcoin stockpile" and replace SEC chair Gary Gensler if re-elected. The hosts discuss Revolut's successful acquisition of a UK banking license after a prolonged delay due to regulatory hurdles. Additionally, they highlight MNT Halan's achievement of unicorn status with a $150 million funding round, marking its expansion beyond Africa into the Turkish SME lending market.
Learn more about our guests:
Micky Tesfaye - Content Manager, Money20/20
Fintech enthusiast and content strategist bridging innovation and engagement. As Content Manager for Money20/20, I curate thought-provoking content that shapes industry dialogue.
Subscribe to his newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/7221690904741376000/?displayConfirmation=true
Connect: https://www.linkedin.com/in/micky-tesfaye/
Join Money2020: https://www.money2020.com/
Grant Easterbrook - Longtime Fintech Consultant
Grant is a longtime fintech expert based in Amsterdam. Over the course of 13 years in the industry, Grant has been cited in the media over 200 times. He co-founded the fintech startup Dream Forward, which was acquired in 2020. Dream Forward built a specialized AI chatbot designed to help people navigate saving for retirement and other long-term financial goals. Grant also organizes the AI on the Amstel meetup in Amsterdam.
Check Grant on media: https://granteasterbrook.wordpress.com/in-the-news/
Join AI on the Amstel: https://www.aiontheamstel.nl/
Connect with Grant: https://www.linkedin.com/in/granteasterbrook/ -
In the latest episode of Breaking Banks Europe, host Elizabeth Kleinfeld delves into the intersection of fintech and agriculture, focusing on how innovations are transforming the lives of farmers. Joining her are Trevor Sieck from Rabobank's FoodBytes and Jake Joraanstad, CEO of Bushel.
Jake explains how Bushel’s software digitizes the grain supply chain, enabling seamless financial transactions and better data management for farmers. Trevor highlights the broader impact of such technologies, including improved sustainability and efficiency in the food sector. They discuss how fintech solutions like electronic payments and loan management are modernizing traditional agricultural practices, making it easier for farmers to access capital and manage their operations.
Tune in to discover how agri-tech and fintech collaborations are driving positive change in the agricultural sector!
Meet the guests:
Trevor Sieck: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-sieck-a27513131/
https://www.foodbytesworld.com
Jake Joraanstad: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jakejoraanstad/
https://bushelpowered.com - Show more
