The New Alpha: How AI Is Democratizing Access to Data

In this episode of Momentum: Where FinTech Meets AI, host Stan Altshuller sits down with Kirk McKeown, CEO and Founder of CarbonArc, to explore how AI is reshaping the economics of data access—and redefining where alpha comes from. For years, alternative data was expensive, fragmented, and largely reserved for hedge funds and institutional investors with deep pockets. Kirk built CarbonArc to challenge that model by making high-value data more accessible through modern, consumption-based pricing and AI-driven analytics. Stan and Kirk break down how traditional financial research evolved into today’s alternative data ecosystem—and why the next wave will be powered by AI agents that can analyze information faster than ever before. They also discuss the friction that has historically slowed adoption, why accessibility matters, and how industries beyond finance are beginning to leverage these tools for smarter decisions. From Wall Street to enterprise strategy, this conversation explores what happens when access to intelligence becomes cheaper, faster, and more scalable. If you’re an investor, operator, data leader, or simply curious about the future of AI-powered decision-making, this episode offers a compelling look at where the market is heading. Key Takeaways : Why traditional alternative data models were broken How CarbonArc is changing data accessibility The shift toward consumption-based pricing models Why AI agents will transform research workflows How alternative data extends beyond hedge funds The future of investment intelligence Why access to data may become the ultimate competitive advantage  Key Moments:  04:57 Building a frictionless data market 08:38 Transforming the license structure 13:37 Rev share and flexible solutions 17:25 Exploring data and analytics 19:34 AI economy and data structure 24:51 Understanding alpha in trading strategies 26:55 Understanding data accessibility challenges 30:58 Evaluating company decisions 33:35 Expanding developer community About the guest :  Kirk McKeown is the CEO and Founder of CarbonArc, a company focused on democratizing access to alternative data through modern pricing models and AI-driven infrastructure. With over two decades of experience in financial data and investment research, Kirk has helped reshape how institutions source and consume intelligence for better decision-making. Connect Krik :  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kirk-mckeown-400607214/ Website: https://www.carbonarc.ai/ About the host :  Stan Altshuller is a leading figure at the intersection of fintech and artificial intelligence. As an investor, founder, and advisor, he has collaborated with some of the world’s top hedge funds, asset managers, and data companies, helping them leverage technology for smarter decision-making and growth. Stan hosts the Momentum podcast, where each week he shares practical AI strategies designed to help financial professionals cut through the noise, beat data overload, and build intelligent, data-driven workflows. With a passion for exploring what’s next in finance, Stan empowers his audience to stay ahead of the curve by turning ideas into actionable results. Connect Stan :  LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stanalt/ Website www.acadia.im