Season 2

Ana Jovicic Ana Jovicic

State of the Nation: Venture Capital and Fintech Startups in KSA

In the latest episode of Couchonomics, Arjun was joined by Eyad Albayouk, General Manager at Flat6Labs. Eyad comes from a 12-year background focused on alternative investments. This special episode, shot at Fintech Saudi, provided great insight into the state of the fintech startup ecosystem in KSA.

Read More
Ana Jovicic 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.

Read More
Ana Jovicic 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.

Read More
Ana Jovicic 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!

Read More
Ana Jovicic 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.

Read More
Ana Jovicic 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!

Read More
Ana Jovicic 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!

Read More
Ana Jovicic 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.

Read More
Ana Jovicic Ana Jovicic

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.

Read More
Ana Jovicic Ana Jovicic

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.

Read More
Ana Jovicic Ana Jovicic

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.

Read More
Ana Jovicic Ana Jovicic

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.

Read More
Ana Jovicic Ana Jovicic

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.

Read More
Ana Jovicic Ana Jovicic

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.

Read More