Recent Episodes
All Twigged Out: The MENA Start-Up Rocking the Financial Boat
In this riveting discussion, our guests provide an in-depth look at their ambitions to integrate savings into the daily lives of individuals and businesses alike. They also reveal insights into the challenges and triumphs of their entrepreneurial journey and their vision for Twig's future. Join us on Couchonomics to learn more about the revolution Twig is bringing to the financial landscape in the MENA region.
Inclusive Future in Blockchain & Web 3.0: Insights from Amna Usman Chaudhry
In this riveting episode of Couchonomics, we dive deep into the intricate world of blockchain, metaverse, and web 3.0 with Amna Usman Chaudhry, a renowned Financial Economist & Emerging Tech Strategist. From the mechanics of blockchain and metaverse to its implications on fintech, Islamic fintech, and the efforts towards gender equality, this conversation explores the intersection of technology and societal norms.
In the Heart of Africa: The Evolution of Fintech and its Global Impact
In this special edition of Couchonomics, we take you into the heart of a new movement, leveraging the power of fintech for financial inclusion. Arjun's conversation with Sopnendu paints an inspiring picture of the potential held by emerging markets and the pivotal role technology can play in driving inclusive growth.
Navigating the “MENA Fintech Landscape” with Renier Lemmens, CEO of Geidea
Welcome to a milestone episode of Couchonomics with Arjun - a golden journey through the intricate labyrinth of global finance. Our 50th episode features an exciting guest, Renier Lemmens, the seasoned CEO of Geidea. Renier unveils the riveting dynamics of fintech in the MENA region, the rise of cashless societies, and how Geidea is contributing to this transformative shift.
From Singapore to Africa: Charting the FinTech Course with Pat Patel
In this episode, Pat Patel of Elevandi discusses advancing FinTech through public-private collaboration, fostering innovation and redefining risk frameworks for today's economy. He also shares insights into India's potential as a FinTech hub, the pivotal role of digital public goods in constructing a digital economy, and the transformative power of technology in reaching underserved markets. Learn about Elevandi's role in sparking open dialogue between public and private sectors to shape the future of FinTech.
Tapping into the Future of Payments: Ali Abulhasan's Fintech Revolution
In this dynamic episode of Couchonomics with Arjun, Ali Abulhasan takes us on a thrilling journey through the world of fintech and the future of digital payments. As we navigate through the intricacies of the MENA region's fragmented market, one thing becomes clear - the future is digital, and companies like Tap Payments are leading the charge!
The FinTech Frontier: Insider’s View Into the Egypt’s Digital Payments Revolution
Tune in to listen to Dr. Waleed Sadek's unique perspective on the current digital payment ecosystem, the transformative role of fintech, and the future of banking. It's a deep dive into the digital revolution that is transforming financial services in the Middle East and Africa.
Navigating the Crypto Oasis: Blockchain Innovation and the Future of Decentralized Architecture
This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in blockchain, cryptocurrency, or the future of decentralized systems. Saqr Ereiqat, with his vast experience and vision, provides valuable insights into the ongoing evolution of these technologies and the potential they hold for reshaping our world.
Empowering the Underbanked and Redefining Fintech in the Middle East
In this episode of Couchonomics, we welcome Wael Fakharany, CEO of Edenred Middle East, a leading provider of smart technology solutions in the UAE. Wael shares his expertise in empowering businesses across various sectors, including retail, facilities management, and construction, through technology-driven financial solutions.
Digital Banking vs Traditional Branch-Based Banking
In this episode of Couchonomics with Arjun, Oliver Hughes, former CEO of Tinkoff, discussed the future of digital banking and how it is changing the financial industry. Hughes shared his thoughts on the challenges that traditional banks face in building ecosystems, the importance of unit economics in digital banking, and the future of traditional branch-based banking.
Building a Super App: The Journey of Careem Pay
In this episode of Couchonomics with Arjun, we speak with Madiha Sattar, VP of Careem Pay, the fintech arm of Careem, the Middle East's first unicorn. As VP of Careem Pay, Madiha is leading strategy development and key partnerships for Careem's fintech business and products. She envisions making Careem Pay the leading digital financial services provider in the region.
Building a Fintech Ecosystem
In this episode of the Couchonomics podcast, Gabrielle Inzirillo, Head of Ecosystem Development at the Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA) of Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM), discussed how ADGM is working to create an internationally friendly business environment that people outside the UAE understand and are comfortable with.
Building a World-Class FinTech Hub
This episode of Couchonomics with Arjun offers valuable insights into how Singapore has become a world-class FinTech hub and the role of regulatory policies, innovation strategies, and public good projects in driving growth and competitiveness in the financial sector. Sopnendu Mohanty's expertise and experience make this episode a must-watch for anyone interested in FinTech and innovation.
Solving Cross-Border Payments with Ripple and the Future of Blockchain
Meet Navin Gupta, Managing Director of South Asia and MENA at Ripple, a global payments network that enables fast and efficient cross-border payments. On this episode of Couchonomics with Arjun, Navin shares insights on how Ripple uses blockchain technology to solve cross-border remittances and how CBDCs could revolutionize the public sector.
Closing the Gap: How CFTE is Revolutionizing Fintech Education
This episode of Couchonomics with Arjun provides valuable insights into the world of Fintech and the importance of upskilling in the rapidly changing industry. Tram Anh's journey and the mission of CFTE demonstrate the need to bridge the gap between finance and technology.
The Enabling of Cross-Border Payments
This episode offers an insightful conversation with Peter de Caluwe about the world of cross-border payments and the challenges that come with it. Peter's expertise and experience in the industry provide valuable insights into the future of international payments and the role that Thunes is playing in making it more accessible and affordable.
Exploring MENA Region's Venture Capital Potential
In this episode of Couchonomics with Arjun, we welcome Noor Sweid, managing partner at Global Ventures, to share her insights on venture capital funds and the investment potential of the MENA region.
The Future of Open Banking and Open Finance in the MENA Region
In this episode of Couchonomics with Arjun, we discuss with Hisham Al-Falih, how open banking and open finance are transforming the financial industry.
New Banks for a New World
What role will neobanks play on the global stage? Wio Bank CEO Jayesh Patel joins Arjun on the couch to share his perspective.
Into the Future with Dr. Noah Raford
Renowned futurist Dr. Noah Raford takes us on a journey into the crystal ball to offer a glimpse into how technology is influencing our lives.