Recent Episodes

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The latest news in payments with JK Khalil

Dive into the future of Fintech with J.K. Khalil, General Manager at MasterCard GCC & Pakistan! Join Arjun and J.K. as they explore the partnership dynamics between fintechs and banks, the game-changing role of governments in innovation, embedded finance, and MasterCard's bold new initiatives! Don't miss out on this epic start to the third season!

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Crypto Ana Jovicic Crypto Ana Jovicic

Better Than Money: David Chaum On Architecting The Financial System Of The Future

In the season finale of Couchonomics S02, Arjun was joined by David Chaum, inventor of electronic money and privacy technology. He is known as a pioneer in cryptography and privacy-preserving technologies, and widely recognized as the inventor of digital cash. His 1982 dissertation is the first known proposal for a blockchain protocol. Complete with the code to implement the protocol, Chaum's dissertation proposed all but one element of the blockchain later detailed in the Bitcoin whitepaper.

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Fintech Ana Jovicic Fintech Ana Jovicic

Fintech: Friend, Foe or Frenemy?

In the latest episode of Couchonomics, Arjun was joined by Paul Melotto, Executive Board Member at Alraedah Finance. Paul has played a key part in Arjun’s journey to understand the Saudi ecosystem, especially regarding fintech and financial services.

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Banking Ana Jovicic Banking Ana Jovicic

EP 66: Wealth Management Gets An AI Makeover: Mehdi Fichtali of FinaMaze

In the latest episode of Couchonomics, Arjun was joined on the couch by Medhi Fichtali, Founder & CEO of FinaMaze, MENA’s first AI digital wealth manager. Founded by a highly experienced team with decades of track record in capital markets and asset management, their hybrid human/machine teams are currently managing hundreds of portfolios. We spent a fair amount of the episode breaking down AI’s role in wealth management and the need for a product like FinaMaze.

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Digital Payments Ana Jovicic Digital Payments Ana Jovicic

Powering The Payments That Make The UAE Thrive with Jan Pilbauer

In the latest episode of Couchonomics, Arjun was joined by Jan Pilbauer, Chief Executive Officer of Al Etihad Payments, a national payments utility and fully owned subsidiary of the Central Bank of the UAE. Al Etihad Payments recently launched Aani, a “payments experience” that allows you to make instant payments to people or merchants from your bank accounts, wallets, or other sources. We spent a good portion of the episode exploring this latest venture, and how it is furthering Al Etihad’s mission of powering the payments that make the UAE thrive.

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Inspire Ana Jovicic Inspire Ana Jovicic

Reimagining the 9 to 5: Diego Carrete's Quest for Corporate Wellness in a Digital Age

Join us on Couchonomics as we explore corporate wellness with Diego Carrete, Chief Wellness Officer at FAB. Discover the new era where wellness is key to attracting talent, the role of wellness in the workplace, and practical tips for a healthier life. Tune in for a transformative discussion on balancing work, health, and personal growth in our latest episode, "Reimagining the 9 to 5."

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Fintech Ana Jovicic Fintech Ana Jovicic

From Street Parties to Policy Talks: A Glimpse into SFF 2023 with Pat Patel

Dive into the heart of FinTech with Arjun's exclusive episode featuring Pat Patel, the mastermind behind Elevandi, as they unveil the highlights of Singapore FinTech Festival (SFF) 2023. From key figures like World Bank's Ajay Bhanga to groundbreaking tech discussions, get an insider's look into the world's premier FinTech event. Whether it's the significance of Ravi Menon's address or Singapore's Club Street transformation, this episode is a must-listen for every FinTech enthusiast. Don't miss the blend of policy, finance, and tech reshaping the global digital economy.

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Fintech Ana Jovicic Fintech Ana Jovicic

Reimagining Retirement: Aurem's Global Vision with Michael Watkins

In the latest episode of Couchonomics with Arjun, dive into the world of financial technology and the future of retirement with none other than Michael Watkins, the mastermind behind Aurem. From unearthing behavioral challenges people face in securing their future, to demystifying the real value of money and breaking down misconceptions about wealth - this episode is a treasure trove of insights. As the landscape of work and finance shifts beneath our feet, discover how platforms like Aurem stand at the forefront of innovation, illuminating the path to a prosperous future. Don't miss this enlightening conversation!

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Fintech Ana Jovicic Fintech Ana Jovicic

Investment Realities in MENA: Analyzing Trends and Predictions with MAGNiTT's Philip Bahoshy

Venture capital, startups, and the nuances of the MENA region - these are the intriguing elements at the core of our latest episode of Couchonomics. We're honored to host Philip Bahoshy, the visionary CEO of MAGNiTT, as he shares unparalleled insights into the evolving landscape of venture investments in the MENA ecosystem. Drawing from his wealth of experience and MAGNiTT's impactful journey, Philip presents an in-depth perspective on the significant trends, challenges, and opportunities in the startup world. Whether you're an investor, entrepreneur, or an ardent follower of the MENA market, this episode promises a riveting dive into the heart of venture capital dynamics. Tune in and be part of this enlightening discourse!

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Fintech Ana Jovicic Fintech Ana Jovicic

Future-Proof Wealth Management with Joseph El Am: A StashAway Perspective

Dive into the dynamic world of digital wealth management in the latest episode of Couchonomics. As we navigate the intricacies of asset management and financial adaptability in the MENA region, Joseph El Am from StashAway MENA offers an insider’s perspective on the future of investments. From StashAway's cutting-edge ERA investment strategy to the post-COVID financial landscapes and the crucial pursuit of financial literacy, this episode is a deep dive into the mechanisms, challenges, and innovations of the modern investment era. Unearth the nuances behind StashAway's expansion, their visionary approach, and the ever-evolving market trends. A must-listen for every finance enthusiast eager to grasp the pulse of the MENA investment horizon.

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Web 3.0, Web3 Ana Jovicic Web 3.0, Web3 Ana Jovicic

The Age of Content: Unveiling TikTok’s Master Plan with VP Shant Oknayan

Dive deep into the evolving universe of digital media, commerce, and technology in this fascinating episode of Couchonomics with Arjun, featuring TikTok’s Global Business Solutions Head, Shant Oknayan. Explore TikTok's revolutionary impact beyond dance trends and discover its role in shaping the future of content and digital ecosystems. Shant, with his extensive experience and insight, unfolds TikTok's master plan, discussing the convergence of shopping and entertainment—Shoppertainment, the emergence of micro-communities like BookTok and BeautyTok, and the platform’s endeavors in 'edutainment'. He enlightens us on TikTok’s vision to provide a space for passion-driven creators, offering a wealth of knowledge on personalized content, community building, safety, and brand engagement in the digital age. Don’t miss out on this rollercoaster of insights and future-forward thinking, whether you’re a creator, consumer, or a C-suite executive—there's a wealth of knowledge for everyone!

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Fintech Ana Jovicic Fintech Ana Jovicic

From Pearl Trading to Digital Wallets with Hasan Al Fardan

This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in understanding the complex world of global financial services. From discussions on adopting Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs) to the role of financial literacy in fostering inclusion, this conversation promises to change the way you think about money, technology, and their impact on human lives globally. Don't miss this compelling journey through the past, present, and future of financial systems, guided by one of the industry's leading figures.

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Banking Ana Jovicic Banking Ana Jovicic

Innovation, Customer Obsession, and Partnership: The 3 Pillars of Mashreq Bank with Radu Topliceanu

Ready to take a deep dive into the future of banking? In this riveting episode of Couchonomics with Arjun, we explore the digital transformation journey of traditional banks with our esteemed guest, Radu Topliceanu, the Executive Vice President, Head of Neo and Personal Banking at Mashreq. With over two decades in the industry, Radu deciphers the key pillars—customer obsession, innovation, and partnerships—that are steering Mashreq into the digital age. This episode is an invaluable resource as we also delve into hot topics like Embedded Finance, Open Banking, and the vision of creating a "Super App." Don't miss out on these insights; click the play button and let's decode the future of finance together!

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Fintech Ana Jovicic Fintech Ana Jovicic

Solving The Gulf's Financial Puzzle with Nabil Ismail: Fintech, Consolidation, and The Cash Game

Unlock the secrets of fintech and the magic of cash flow with Nabil Ismail, the brains behind Gulf Capital. Dive into the world of mergers, embedded finance, and global investment strategies. From the UAE's golf greens to global boardrooms, join Arjun on Couchonomics as we decode the Gulf's financial puzzle. Don't miss the gold in this episode!

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Web 3.0 Ana Jovicic Web 3.0 Ana Jovicic

The New Kid on the Block(chain): A Dive into Web 3.0 with Prakash Somosundram

In this gripping episode of Couchonomics, host Arjun delves into the intricacies of Web 3.0, blockchain's influence on the internet's evolution, and the emerging carbon economy with Prakash Somosundram, the innovative Co-Founder & CEO of Enjinstarter. Together, they navigate the realms of blockchain gaming, metaverse developments, and the potential of decentralized finance. Prakash offers enlightening insights on digital ownership, content security, and the significant promise of carbon credits as a new asset class. From the essence of trust in Web3 projects and the global carbon trading scene to the realities of starting blockchain ventures, this episode is a riveting blend of tech insights, environmental concerns, and startup dynamism. Perfect for tech enthusiasts, eco-advocates, and startup aficionados alike, Arjun and Prakash's exchange is a beacon of knowledge in today's rapidly changing world.

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Embedded Finance Ana Jovicic Embedded Finance Ana Jovicic

Unravelling Digital Disruptions with Khalifa AlShamsi: A Deep Dive into e& life, FinTech, Super Apps and More

This episode is an enriching journey through the evolving digital landscape, illuminating the transformative power of technology, strategy, and innovation. With Khalifa AlShamsi's in-depth insights and experiences, we take a closer look at how e& life is shaping a digital-first future. For anyone intrigued by the digital revolution, this episode is a must-listen. So tune in, and let's delve into the world of digital disruptions together!

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Web 3.0 Ana Jovicic Web 3.0 Ana Jovicic

AI Revolution: Insights from the Frontlines of Finance and Technology Special Edition of Couchonomics

Get ready for a deep dive into the riveting world of AI with our special edition of Couchonomics. In this episode, we revisit our most insightful discussions from the second season, talking to the industry's leading voices in finance, technology, and regulation. From the transformative impact of AI on the fintech industry, real-world applications in payment solutions, to the regulatory landscapes of AI - we've got it all covered! This episode provides an essential snapshot of where we are now and where we're heading in the brave new world of AI. Don't miss this chance to get on board with the AI revolution. Dive in now!

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Fintech Ana Jovicic Fintech Ana Jovicic

Mastering the Art of Ultra Platforms: A Conversation with Abdallah Abu-Sheikh

In our recent Couchonomics episode, Arjun explores the intriguing domain of Ultra Platforms and the evolving future of fintech and digital services with Abdallah Abu-Sheikh, the pioneering CEO of Botim and Founder of Astra Tech. A visionary leader, Abu-Sheikh is transforming the way we interact with technology, turning Botim into an all-in-one Ultra App that encompasses a vast range of services. He dives into the evolution of Astra Tech, discussing the concept and necessity of Ultra Platforms, characterized by extreme usage, organic adoption, multi-service functionality, and the capability to surpass targeted platforms. Tune in to gain unique insights into the future of the digital landscape, courtesy of this thought-provoking conversation with Abdallah Abu-Sheikh.

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