Couchonomics with Arjun

Before a trading app reaches a user, there is an entire system underneath it doing the real heavy lifting.In this episode of Couchonomics with Arjun, Arjun is joined by Yoshi Yokokawa, Co-Founder and CEO of Alpaca, for a sharp and wide-ranging conversation on brokerage infrastructure, on-chain finance, market access, and what it really takes to build financial products at global scale.It is a grounded look at how trading has shifted from web to mobile to on-chain, why financial access still needs to be designed around culture and local behaviour, and what happens when traditional markets and digital assets begin moving closer together.From tokenised stocks and stablecoins to prediction markets and infrastructure complexity, this conversation explores the less visible layer of finance, the one powering the apps, products, and experiences users see on the surface.They also discuss why infrastructure should behave like a utility, what responsibilities licensed platforms carry around investor protection and market integrity, and why the long-term shift toward on-chain finance may be less about ideology and more about real product-market fit.🎙️ In this episode:• What Alpaca actually does and why brokerage infrastructure matters now• How trading behaviour has evolved from desktop to mobile-first experiences• Why financial products cannot be copied globally without cultural context• The difference between building apps and building the infrastructure beneath them• Why Yoshi believes everything will eventually move on-chain• Stablecoins, tokenised stocks, and where real adoption is already happening• Why bridging fiat and on-chain systems is harder than it looks• The role of infrastructure in investor protection, compliance, and market safety• Whether finance is heading toward super apps or continued specialisation• Why Yoshi thinks access matters more than the language of “democratisation”• Building globally across 45 countries and operating financial infrastructure at scale• Yoshi’s view on Japanese founders, risk-taking, and what may change nextIf you are trying to understand where financial infrastructure is heading, and how brokerage, stablecoins, tokenisation, and digital assets are starting to connect, this episode gives you a practical lens into the layer most people never see.⏱️ CHAPTERS00:00 Why infrastructure matters more than people think01:00 Meet Yoshi Yokokawa and what Alpaca does02:14 Why this is a big moment for brokerage infrastructure04:54 How trading behaviour has changed over time07:28 Why financial products need cultural context09:30 Trading, gambling, and the role of infrastructure12:19 Why Yoshi believes everything will move on-chain15:14 Investor protection, fraud, and market integrity18:05 Tokenised stocks and infrastructure complexity20:51 Bridging fiat and on-chain finance23:46 Bundling, unbundling, and where finance is going27:04 AOur website 👉 https://bit.ly/3jk7UH0Find us on our social media platforms:Arjun's LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/arjunvirsingh/CCN LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/couchonomics-with-arjun-singh/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/couchonomics/Twitter https://twitter.com/Arjun_Vir_Singh?s=20TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@couchonomicsSubscribe to Arjun's LinkedIn newsletter, Couchonomics Crunch: https://bit.ly/3WI4A6E

Money is no longer just held. It is moving, earning, and quietly reshaping the system around it.In this episode of Couchonomics with Arjun, Arjun is joined by Anton Golub, Founding Member of RWA Labs, for a sharp, grounded conversation on what is actually happening beneath the surface of crypto, stablecoins, and tokenization.It is a clear breakdown of how liquidity, leverage, and market structure are shaping Bitcoin cycles, why stablecoins are becoming impossible to ignore, and what happens when financial systems built for control collide with technologies built for movement.From retail dominance in crypto markets to the real risks behind products like Strategy, and from yield-bearing stablecoins to the tension they create with traditional banks, this conversation stays rooted in what actually matters.They also explore tokenization beyond the buzz, why most real-world asset experiments are still early, and how infrastructure gaps like liquidity, regulation, and market access continue to limit adoption.🎙️ In this episode:• What really caused recent Bitcoin volatility and liquidity drops• Why retail still dominates crypto ownership more than we think• Strategy, leverage, and the idea of “too big to fail” in crypto• The reality behind stablecoin yield and why regulators are cautious• How stablecoins could pressure smaller economies and currencies• Tokenized deposits vs stablecoins and where each fits• Why most tokenization use cases are still early or incomplete• Real estate tokenization, liquidity gaps, and market readiness• The future of Layer 1 blockchains and why many won’t survive• Where crypto infrastructure still falls short todayIf you are trying to understand where crypto meets real financial systems, and what actually drives adoption beyond narratives, this episode gives you a practical lens to think through it.⏱️ CHAPTERS00:00 Bitcoin, yield, and why stablecoins are everywhere03:00 What broke the crypto market and liquidity after October07:00 Who really owns Bitcoin today11:00 Strategy, leverage, and systemic risk14:00 Stablecoin yield and regulatory pressure20:00 Stablecoins vs monetary policy in emerging markets23:00 Tokenized deposits vs stablecoins explained29:00 Cross-border payments and real-world use cases33:00 Tokenization of real-world assets, reality vs hype40:00 Layer 1 blockchains and future consolidationSOCIAL LINKSArjun’s LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/arjunvirsingh/Couchonomics LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/couchonomics-with-arjun-singh/Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/couchonomics/Twitter (X) → https://twitter.com/Arjun_Vir_SinghTikTok → https://www.tiktok.com/@couchonomicsNewsletter → https://bit.ly/3WI4A6EPARTNERSCouchonomics with Arjun Season 04 is brought to you by:Adyen → https://www.adyen.com/Thunes → httpsOur website 👉 https://bit.ly/3jk7UH0Find us on our social media platforms:Arjun's LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/arjunvirsingh/CCN LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/couchonomics-with-arjun-singh/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/couchonomics/Twitter https://twitter.com/Arjun_Vir_Singh?s=20TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@couchonomicsSubscribe to Arjun's LinkedIn newsletter, Couchonomics Crunch: https://bit.ly/3WI4A6E

Fraud is not new. But the scale, speed, and sophistication have changed.In this episode of Couchonomics with Arjun, Arjun is joined by Navin Gupta, CEO of Crystal Intelligence, and Nick Smart, Chief Intelligence Officer at Crystal Intelligence, to unpack the evolving world of crypto-related fraud, institutional risk, and the uncomfortable truth about financial crime in a 24/7 digital economy.From the Lazarus Group and the Bybit hack to scam compounds operating at industrial scale, this conversation moves beyond headlines and into how crypto crime actually works, why velocity of money matters, and whether regulation is finally catching up.They explore the intersection of traditional finance and digital assets, stablecoins, tokenization, AI-driven fraud, and the systemic risks emerging as crypto integrates deeper into the global financial system.🎙️ In this episode:• Why crypto fraud is industrialized, not amateur• The Lazarus Group and lessons from the Bybit incident• How blockchain transparency changes crime investigation• AI as a multiplier for scams and financial crime• Why 24/7 markets clash with 9–5 regulatory systems• Stablecoins, velocity of money, and systemic risk• Tokenization: real utility vs liquidity illusion• Regulatory arbitrage and geopolitical blind spots• Financial inclusion vs vulnerability in emerging markets• Scam Alert and how reporting fraud protects the ecosystemIf you care about the future of finance, financial inclusion, stablecoins, or institutional crypto adoption, this episode offers a clear-eyed view of where risk really sits.⏱️ CHAPTERS00:00 Fraud in the digital era and why crypto attracts it01:00 What Crystal Intelligence actually does05:00 Is crypto more opaque than traditional finance?12:00 Industrial-scale scam compounds and modern fraud16:30 The Lazarus Group and the Bybit hack21:00 Velocity of money vs cost of fraud26:00 Regulation catching up to digital assets30:00 Stablecoins, custody, and institutional adoption35:00 Exchanges, compliance, and global licensing gaps38:00 Layer 1s, liquidity, and criminal behavior44:00 AI, 24/7 markets, and systemic vulnerabilities49:00 Tokenization, real world assets, and risk52:00 Informal value transfer systems and financial inclusion56:00 Scam Alert and collective responsibilitySOCIAL LINKSArjun’s LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/arjunvirsingh/Couchonomics LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/couchonomics-with-arjun-singh/Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/couchonomics/Twitter (X) → https://twitter.com/Arjun_Vir_SinghTikTok → https://www.tiktok.com/@couchonomicsNewsletter → https://bit.ly/3WI4A6EPARTNERSCouchonomics with Arjun Season 04 is brought to you by:Adyen → https://www.adyen.com/Thunes → https://thunes.com/Mastercard → https://mastercard.com/Our website 👉 https://bit.ly/3jk7UH0Find us on our social media platforms:Arjun's LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/arjunvirsingh/CCN LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/couchonomics-with-arjun-singh/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/couchonomics/Twitter https://twitter.com/Arjun_Vir_Singh?s=20TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@couchonomicsSubscribe to Arjun's LinkedIn newsletter, Couchonomics Crunch: https://bit.ly/3WI4A6E

Is banking really changing at the core, or are we just putting better apps on old rails?In this episode of Couchonomics with Arjun, Arjun is joined in studio by Jayesh Patel, CEO of Wio Bank PJSC, to unpack what real transformation inside a bank actually looks like, how AI is reshaping operating models, and why stablecoins may compress time in money movement far more than most people realize.They break down the difference between digitizing processes and restructuring around the customer, why SME banking still has structural gaps, and how Wio is building with micro AI agents, smart offices, and long term product bets like family banking. They also dive into crypto as an investment class, regulated stablecoins in the UAE, and whether banks should issue, distribute, or build on top of digital currencies.🎙️ In this episode:• Are banks truly transforming or just digitizing bureaucracy• What customer obsession looks like beyond marketing language• Why SMEs still struggle with onboarding and credit access• AI micro agents and the shift toward a smart office model• Crypto as an investment class and real user behavior on platform• Stablecoins, regulation, and where real utility begins• Payments strategy and building in house vs partnering• Embedded banking through TAMM and platform distribution• Competition in the UAE and what the next five years could look like👉 Watch the full episode if you want a grounded view of how digital banks evolve from the inside, what stablecoins could mean for liquidity and payments, and where the real structural shifts in banking are happening.SOCIAL LINKSArjun’s LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/arjunvirsingh/Couchonomics LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/couchonomics-with-arjun-singh/Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/couchonomics/Twitter (X) → https://twitter.com/Arjun_Vir_SinghTikTok → https://www.tiktok.com/@couchonomicsNewsletter → https://bit.ly/3WI4A6EPARTNERSCouchonomics with Arjun Season 04 is brought to you by:Adyen → https://www.adyen.com/Thunes → https://thunes.com/Mastercard → https://mastercard.com/e& → https://www.eand.com/Digit9 → https://www.digitnine.com/SC Ventures → https://scventures.io/CHAPTERS:00:00 Is banking really changing or just digitizing old rails01:10 Jayesh Patel on building Wio and scaling a digital bank05:30 Customer obsession vs legacy operating models11:40 The SME banking gap and structural constraints18:20 AI micro agents and the smart office model27:30 Crypto as an investment class and user behavior35:00 Stablecoins, regulation, and real world use cases43:20 Payments strategy and in house build vs partnership49:30 Embedded banking and the TAMM collaboration54:30 Competition in the UAE and what the next five years look likeOur website 👉 https://bit.ly/3jk7UH0Find us on our social media platforms:Arjun's LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/arjunvirsingh/CCN LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/couchonomics-with-arjun-singh/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/couchonomics/Twitter https://twitter.com/Arjun_Vir_Singh?s=20TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@couchonomicsSubscribe to Arjun's LinkedIn newsletter, Couchonomics Crunch: https://bit.ly/3WI4A6E

Technology is changing what people expect from money, and stablecoins are turning that into reality.In this episode of Couchonomics with Arjun, Arjun is joined from New York by Stephen Richardson (CSO and Head of Banking at Fireblocks) to break down why digital assets are back at the center of banking strategy, what stablecoins are really unlocking, and where banks are at risk of getting disintermediated if they treat this like “just another rails upgrade.”They unpack the on-chain vs off-chain convergence, why stablecoins became the real “killer app” for blockchain UX, and why the next wave isn’t just crypto trading, but new product models: stablecoin acceptance, payouts, FX orchestration, stablecoin clearing, tokenized deposits, and tokenized assets that can move and settle with fewer constraints.🎙️ In this episode:• Why digital assets momentum is rising again in 2026• Stablecoins as the “money on-chain” unlock (and why that changed everything)• TradFi + DeFi convergence: where the customer actually feels it• Real-time payments vs 24/7 money movement: what banks still miss• What banks should do first: acceptance, payouts, FX, clearing, interoperability• Why “40 stablecoins” is a UX problem (and who solves it)• Stablecoin-as-a-Service vs Banking-as-a-Service: what gets leapfrogged• Tokenization explained: native on-chain assets vs digital twins• What’s next to tokenize: gold, treasuries, and trade foundations• What Fireblocks is building towards: commercially viable use cases, not demos👉 Watch the full episode if you want a clear, non-hype view of how stablecoins and tokenization can reshape banking operating models, and what banks and fintechs should do before the new rails become the default.SOCIAL LINKSArjun’s LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/arjunvirsingh/Couchonomics LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/couchonomics-with-arjun-singh/Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/couchonomics/Twitter (X) → https://twitter.com/Arjun_Vir_SinghTikTok → https://www.tiktok.com/@couchonomicsNewsletter → https://bit.ly/3WI4A6EPARTNERSCouchonomics with Arjun Season 04 is brought to you by:Adyen → https://www.adyen.com/Thunes → https://thunes.com/Mastercard → https://mastercard.com/e& → https://www.eand.com/Digit9 → https://www.digitnine.com/SC Ventures → https://scventures.io/CHAPTERS:00:00 Stablecoins, fintech platforms, and “money on-chain”01:00 Who Stephen Richardson is + what Fireblocks does02:10 Why digital assets now: what changed since the last cycle05:00 Stablecoins as the killer UX unlock for blockchain08:05 On-chain + off-chain convergence: where it’s heading14:40 Real-time payments vs 24/7 money: visibility, trust, orchestration17:30 What banks must shift to: platform mindset + on-chain products25:05 First moves banks can make: accept, convert, payout, FX33:45 What holds stablecoins bacOur website 👉 https://bit.ly/3jk7UH0Find us on our social media platforms:Arjun's LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/arjunvirsingh/CCN LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/couchonomics-with-arjun-singh/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/couchonomics/Twitter https://twitter.com/Arjun_Vir_Singh?s=20TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@couchonomicsSubscribe to Arjun's LinkedIn newsletter, Couchonomics Crunch: https://bit.ly/3WI4A6E

Japan is often seen as a “mature” financial market.But the real story is in what’s quietly shifting underneath.In this episode of Couchonomics with Arjun, Arjun is joined from Tokyo by Pieter Franken (Co-Founder & CEO at GFTN Japan) to unpack what’s actually changing in Japan’s fintech and digital assets landscape and what it means for founders, investors, and global players looking at the Japan opportunity.They go deep on stablecoins and why Japan may be ahead on regulation, the upcoming move to classify crypto and digital assets as financial instruments, and why payments remain fragmented despite Japan’s innovation legacy. The conversation also explores what could unlock faster adoption (from interoperability to cost structures), how Japan’s national digital ID rollout could become a foundational layer, and why Japan–MENA collaboration is still early but strategically important.🎙️ In this episode:• What’s really changed in Japan fintech over the last 12 months• Stablecoins in Japan: regulation, launches, and why it matters now• The big shift: crypto moving from “non-financial” to “financial instrument”• Why Japan’s payments ecosystem is still fragmented (and what could fix it)• Open banking, consumer adoption, and the cost problem for merchants• The digital ID layer Japan is finally accelerating (MyNumber)• Japan–MENA corridors: where collaboration is real vs. where it’s early• What to expect at GFTN Forum Japan 2026: AI, tokenization, and cross-border corridors👉 Watch the full conversation to understand what’s brewing in Japan, why regulation is setting up the next phase of digital assets and payments, and where the real opportunities could emerge next.SOCIAL LINKSArjun’s LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/arjunvirsingh/Couchonomics LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/couchonomics-with-arjun-singh/Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/couchonomics/Twitter (X) → https://twitter.com/Arjun_Vir_SinghTikTok → https://www.tiktok.com/@couchonomicsNewsletter → https://bit.ly/3WI4A6ECHAPTERS00:00 Japan fintech beyond the stereotypes01:05 Who Peter Franken is + what GFTN Japan does02:20 What shifted in Japan over the last 12 months03:10 Stablecoins: why Japan is moving early05:00 Crypto reclassification: what changes when it becomes a financial instrument08:10 Open banking reality check + what’s still missing10:10 Cash vs digital payments: Tokyo vs the rest of Japan12:20 Interoperability problem: too many silos, too many rails14:10 What could unlock faster adoption (cost, standards, stablecoins, points)16:30 Digital ID (MyNumber) as Japan’s DPI foundation22:10 Japan–MENA corridor: what’s real today, what could grow next28:40 What to expect at GFTN Forum Japan 2026 (AI, tokenization, corridors)Our website 👉 https://bit.ly/3jk7UH0Find us on our social media platforms:Arjun's LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/arjunvirsingh/CCN LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/couchonomics-with-arjun-singh/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/couchonomics/Twitter https://twitter.com/Arjun_Vir_Singh?s=20TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@couchonomicsSubscribe to Arjun's LinkedIn newsletter, Couchonomics Crunch: https://bit.ly/3WI4A6E

Payments in emerging markets are often discussed as infrastructure.But the real differentiation happens in how deeply payments are embedded into business operations.In the final episode of this special Qatar Development Bank series of Couchonomics with Arjun, Arjun sits down in Doha with Saad Ishfaq, CEO of TESS Payments, to unpack how a payments company built for Qatar is scaling by solving real operational pain, not just processing transactions.TESS Payments is a QCB-licensed payment service provider designed specifically for the Qatari market. Rather than chasing regional expansion, Saad explains why the company chose to go deep instead of wide, focusing on enterprise-grade flexibility, managed services, and bespoke integrations for large organisations across real estate, government, and critical infrastructure.The conversation explores how payments sit at the centre of SME enablement, why micro and small businesses remain underserved across the GCC, and how fintechs and banks must collaborate rather than compete. Saad also shares how TESS evolved beyond payments into CFO tooling and digital lending, including a new sandboxed lending platform addressing Qatar’s blue-collar workforce.From owning core infrastructure to navigating bank partnerships, regulatory sandboxes, and product adjacencies, this episode offers a grounded look at how fintech scale is built inside regulated markets.🎙️ In this episode:• Why TESS Payments is built for Qatar, not regional expansion• Payments as an embedded operational layer, not a commodity• Solving CFO and CTO pain through deep integrations• SME and micro-SME challenges in the GCC• Why banks and fintechs must work together to scale impact• Building proprietary payments infrastructure in a crowded market• Regulatory sandboxes as a growth enabler• Expanding from payments into digital lending• Addressing financial access for blue-collar workers• Qatar’s role as a fintech launchpad• Founder lessons from Pakistan to Qatar• Grit, resilience, and building through constraint👉 Watch the full conversation to understand how payments, regulation, and fintech innovation come together when products are built with local reality in mind.SOCIAL LINKSArjun’s LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/arjunvirsingh/Couchonomics LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/couchonomics-with-arjun-singh/Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/couchonomics/Twitter → https://twitter.com/Arjun_Vir_SinghTikTok → https://www.tiktok.com/@couchonomicsNewsletter → https://bit.ly/3WI4A6ECHAPTERS00:00 Qatar Development Bank series wrap-up01:30 Introducing TESS Payments and Saad Ishfaq04:00 Key global and regional payment trends07:00 SME and micro-SME challenges in the GCC10:30 Embedding payments into enterprise operations13:30 Proprietary infrastructure and differentiation16:00 Working with banks as acquiring Our website 👉 https://bit.ly/3jk7UH0Find us on our social media platforms:Arjun's LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/arjunvirsingh/CCN LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/couchonomics-with-arjun-singh/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/couchonomics/Twitter https://twitter.com/Arjun_Vir_Singh?s=20TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@couchonomicsSubscribe to Arjun's LinkedIn newsletter, Couchonomics Crunch: https://bit.ly/3WI4A6E

Financial innovation in the GCC is often framed around payments, licenses, and launch timelines.But the harder work happens long before a product goes live.In this special Qatar Development Bank series of Couchonomics with Arjun, Arjun sits down in Doha with Mohammed Suleiman, Co-Founder and CEO of Karty, to unpack what it really takes to build a regulated fintech company from the ground up in Qatar.Karty is not trying to out-bank banks or outscale telco wallets. Instead, it is being designed as a financial management layer that sits between spending and understanding money. A digital wallet built around insights, behaviour, and literacy rather than just transactions.Mohammed explains why Qatar’s wallet landscape still leaves a gap for mass-affluent users, how Karty is approaching savings and financial awareness as a bundled experience, and why monetisation in fintech only works when usage comes first.A grounded discussion on fintech realism, ecosystem maturity, and why building the right foundations matters more than rushing to market.🎙️ In this episode:• Why Qatar still needs independent digital wallets• The gap between telco wallets and traditional banking• Financial literacy as a bundled product, not a standalone feature• How wallets monetise without pushing lending too early• Multi-rail payments and the future of wallet infrastructure• Round-ups, savings nudges, and behaviour-led product design• Building fintech under evolving regulation in Qatar• Talent, infrastructure, and the realities of building in-house• AI in fintech, where it works and where it is overhyped• Scaling through partnerships vs direct market expansion• Why Karty sees itself as a layer after banking, not a replacement👉 Watch the full conversation to understand how fintech is actually being built in Qatar, before the headlines, before the hype, and before launch.SOCIAL LINKSArjun’s LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/arjunvirsingh/Couchonomics LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/couchonomics-with-arjun-singh/Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/couchonomics/Twitter → https://twitter.com/Arjun_Vir_SinghTikTok → https://www.tiktok.com/@couchonomicsNewsletter → https://bit.ly/3WI4A6ECHAPTERS00:00 Qatar Development Bank series and context02:00 Why Qatar needs another digital wallet05:30 The gap between telco wallets and banks09:00 Financial literacy as a product, not content13:30 Monetisation, margins, and wallet realities17:00 Multi-rail payments and infrastructure thinking21:00 Regulation, licensing, and ecosystem support25:00 Talent, tech, and building in-house in Qatar29:00 AI in fintech and practical constraints33:00 Expansion strategies and infrastructure plays37:00 Launch readiness and what comes nexOur website 👉 https://bit.ly/3jk7UH0Find us on our social media platforms:Arjun's LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/arjunvirsingh/CCN LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/couchonomics-with-arjun-singh/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/couchonomics/Twitter https://twitter.com/Arjun_Vir_Singh?s=20TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@couchonomicsSubscribe to Arjun's LinkedIn newsletter, Couchonomics Crunch: https://bit.ly/3WI4A6E

Most startup stories focus on what companies become.This one focuses on how they are built.In this special Qatar Development Bank series of Couchonomics with Arjun, Arjun sits down in Doha with Hamad Al-Hajri, Founder and CEO of Snoonu, to explore how one of Qatar’s most successful tech companies was built and why its journey matters for the region. Hamad explains why Snoonu was never meant to be just a delivery app, but a speed-led business designed for small, fragmented markets. From brand identity and culture to engineering excellence and profitability, the conversation unpacks what it really takes to scale from Qatar.The episode also covers Snoonu’s acquisition by Jahez, the role of AI in product discovery, and how platform-led expansion could shape the next phase of growth.An honest discussion on super apps, culture as infrastructure, and building globally relevant companies from the Middle East.🎙️ In this episode:• Why Snoonu was built as a speed-first business, not a delivery app• The real meaning behind the Snoonu name and brand identity• Why super apps work in smaller, fragmented markets• How Snoonu achieved profitability while others struggled• Engineering excellence and product craftsmanship as a moat• AI-powered discovery and real-world use cases• The Jahez acquisition and lessons from consolidation• Platform-as-a-service versus direct market expansion• Qatar’s evolving startup ecosystem and founder flywheel• What it takes to build global tech companies from the GCC👉 Watch the full conversation to understand how culture, technology, and long-term vision are shaping the next chapter of Middle Eastern innovation.SOCIAL LINKSArjun’s LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/arjunvirsingh/Couchonomics LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/couchonomics-with-arjun-singh/Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/couchonomics/Twitter → https://twitter.com/Arjun_Vir_SinghTikTok → https://www.tiktok.com/@couchonomicsNewsletter → https://bit.ly/3WI4A6ECHAPTERS00:00 QDB series and setting the context02:00 The story behind Snoonu’s name06:30 Why super apps work in the GCC11:00 Profitability and engineering culture16:00 AI, discovery, and product excellence22:00 The Jahez acquisition27:00 Platform-led expansion strategy33:00 Qatar’s startup ecosystem evolution39:00 Building globally from the Middle EastOur website 👉 https://bit.ly/3jk7UH0Find us on our social media platforms:Arjun's LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/arjunvirsingh/CCN LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/couchonomics-with-arjun-singh/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/couchonomics/Twitter https://twitter.com/Arjun_Vir_Singh?s=20TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@couchonomicsSubscribe to Arjun's LinkedIn newsletter, Couchonomics Crunch: https://bit.ly/3WI4A6E

Innovation ecosystems in the GCC are often judged by funding numbers and startup announcements.But the real work happens in how institutions, capital, and regulation move together.In this special Qatar Development Bank series of Couchonomics with Arjun, Arjun sits down in Doha with Mohammed Al-Emadi, Executive Director of Incubation and VC Investment at QDB, to unpack how Qatar is intentionally building its startup and venture capital ecosystem.Rather than operating as a single funding body, QDB plays a lifecycle role across incubation, acceleration, venture capital, regulation readiness, and market access. Mohammed explains how founders are supported from idea stage through to regional and global expansion, with each layer designed to reduce friction rather than add complexity.The conversation explores how Qatar’s ecosystem players collaborate closely, why talent and pilot access matter more than market size, and how capital, regulation, and infrastructure are aligned to support long-term innovation.🎙️ In this episode:• How QDB supports startups from idea to international markets• Why ecosystem coordination matters more than isolated programs• The role of incubation, acceleration, and venture capital working together• Preparing startups for regulation before entering licensing• Venture studios and fund-of-funds as ecosystem building blocks• Talent attraction, education, and retention as infrastructure• Market pilots and testing as a growth advantage• Fintech beyond payments, including insurance and Islamic finance• The role of exits in validating the ecosystem• Positioning Qatar as a regional launchpad, not just a local market👉 Watch the full conversation to understand how Qatar is building its startup and venture ecosystem quietly, deliberately, and with long-term intent.SOCIAL LINKSArjun’s LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/arjunvirsingh/Couchonomics LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/couchonomics-with-arjun-singh/Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/couchonomics/Twitter → https://twitter.com/Arjun_Vir_SinghTikTok → https://www.tiktok.com/@couchonomicsNewsletter → https://bit.ly/3WI4A6ECHAPTERS00:00 Qatar Development Bank series and context02:00 QDB’s role in the startup ecosystem05:00 Supporting founders from idea to scale08:30 Ecosystem coordination and institutional alignment12:30 Talent, education, and capability building16:30 Regulation readiness and sandbox pathways20:30 Venture capital, fund-of-funds, and studios24:30 Market pilots and testing environments28:30 Fintech focus areas beyond payments32:30 Exits, maturity, and long-term ecosystem goalsOur website 👉 https://bit.ly/3jk7UH0Find us on our social media platforms:Arjun's LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/arjunvirsingh/CCN LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/couchonomics-with-arjun-singh/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/couchonomics/Twitter https://twitter.com/Arjun_Vir_Singh?s=20TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@couchonomicsSubscribe to Arjun's LinkedIn newsletter, Couchonomics Crunch: https://bit.ly/3WI4A6E

Venture capital is often discussed through funding totals and headline deals.But the real signal sits underneath the numbers.In this episode of Couchonomics with Arjun, Arjun is joined by Philip Bahoshy, Founder and CEO of MAGNiTT, to break down what the latest venture data actually says about emerging markets and where capital is really moving.Drawing from MAGNiTT’s newest annual report, Philip unpacks the divergence across emerging markets, the growing dominance of the GCC in venture funding, and why Saudi Arabia and the UAE are increasingly shaping the region’s venture outcomes. The conversation goes beyond raw numbers to explore liquidity, exits, fund cycles, and what maturity really looks like for venture ecosystems.The episode dives deep into FinTech’s continued dominance, the realities behind mega rounds, why exits remain the biggest unlock for founders and investors, and how AI, private credit, and digital assets are reshaping capital allocation. 🎙️ In this episode:• Why venture funding in emerging markets is diverging• How Saudi Arabia and the UAE came to dominate MENA venture capital• What the data reveals about deal volume versus deal quality• Why exits, not funding rounds, define ecosystem maturity• The real state of FinTech, digital assets, and venture debt• How AI is changing venture economics beyond the hype• What founders should understand about liquidity and long-term outcomes• Where emerging markets could see the next wave of growth👉 Watch the full conversation to understand how venture capital in the Middle East is evolving, what the data is really saying beneath the headlines, and why the next phase of growth will be defined by exits, not valuations.PARTNERSCouchonomics with Arjun Season 04 is brought to you by:Adyen → https://www.adyen.com/Thunes → https://thunes.com/Mastercard → https://mastercard.com/e& → https://www.eand.com/Digit9 → https://www.digitnine.com/SC Ventures → https://scventures.io/SOCIAL LINKSArjun’s LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/arjunvirsingh/Couchonomics LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/couchonomics-with-arjun-singh/Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/couchonomics/Twitter (X) → https://twitter.com/Arjun_Vir_SinghTikTok → https://www.tiktok.com/@couchonomicsNewsletter → https://bit.ly/3WI4A6ECHAPTERS00:00 Venture capital beyond the headlines02:00 What MAGNiTT tracks and wOur website 👉 https://bit.ly/3jk7UH0Find us on our social media platforms:Arjun's LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/arjunvirsingh/CCN LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/couchonomics-with-arjun-singh/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/couchonomics/Twitter https://twitter.com/Arjun_Vir_Singh?s=20TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@couchonomicsSubscribe to Arjun's LinkedIn newsletter, Couchonomics Crunch: https://bit.ly/3WI4A6E

Startup success is often explained through geography, capital, or timing.But the real story is about people, resilience, and long-term commitment.In this episode of Couchonomics with Arjun, Arjun is joined by Allen Taylor, Managing Partner at Endeavor Catalyst, to unpack how world-class companies are being built far beyond Silicon Valley.Allen shares how Endeavor identifies and backs the top 1% of founders across emerging and underserved markets, why venture outcomes are shaped over decades not fund cycles, and how resilience and ambition matter more than location. From Latin America and Eastern Europe to the Middle East and frontier markets like Nigeria and Pakistan, the conversation explores what it really takes to build billion-dollar companies from anywhere.The episode also dives into how venture capital is evolving, why the traditional 10-year fund model no longer reflects reality, how AI is changing both startups and investing, and what creates durable entrepreneurial ecosystems over time.🎙️ In this episode:• Why billion-dollar companies can now be built from anywhere• How Endeavor identifies and supports the top 1% of founders globally• The power of role models, second-generation founders, and ecosystem flywheels• Why resilience matters more than ideas in long-term company building• How frontier markets create asymmetric venture returns• The limits of the traditional VC model and what needs to change• Where AI truly adds value in startups and venture investing• Why ambition should move from regional champions to global companies👉 Watch the full conversation to understand how global entrepreneurship is shifting, why emerging markets matter, and what the next decade of venture creation could look like.#CouchonomicsWithArjun #Entrepreneurship #VentureCapital #Endeavor #GlobalStartups #EmergingMarkets #FounderMindset #AI #FutureOfVenture #LeadershipPARTNERSCouchonomics with Arjun Season 04 is brought to you by:Adyen → https://www.adyen.com/Thunes → https://thunes.com/Mastercard → https://mastercard.com/e& → https://www.eand.com/Digit9 → https://www.digitnine.com/SC Ventures → https://scventures.io/SOCIAL LINKSArjun’s LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/arjunvirsingh/Couchonomics LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/couchonomics-with-arjun-singh/Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/couchonomics/Twitter (X) → https://twitter.com/Arjun_Vir_SinghTikTok → https://www.tiktok.com/@couchonomicsNewsletter → https://bit.ly/3WI4A6ECHAPTERS00:00 Building billion-dollar companies from anywhere02:10 What Endeavor really does and why it exists05:30 How Endeavor Catalyst invests differently09:00 The globalisation of startups beyond Silicon Valley13:30 Latin America’s rise and why it matters18:00 Europe’s overlooked innovation markets22:40 The Endeavor network and founder flywheels27:30 FrontieOur website 👉 https://bit.ly/3jk7UH0Find us on our social media platforms:Arjun's LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/arjunvirsingh/CCN LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/couchonomics-with-arjun-singh/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/couchonomics/Twitter https://twitter.com/Arjun_Vir_Singh?s=20TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@couchonomicsSubscribe to Arjun's LinkedIn newsletter, Couchonomics Crunch: https://bit.ly/3WI4A6E

Banking innovation usually gets reduced to apps and features.But the real changes are happening underneath.In this episode of Couchonomics with Arjun, Richard Davies, CEO of Allica Bank, joins the couch to talk about how challenger banks are actually rebuilding SME banking in the UK.Richard breaks down why established SMEs need a very different banking model, why go-to-market is harder than building the technology, and how value, trust, and low cost structures become the real advantage over time.The conversation moves through how digital banking has matured in the UK, what open banking really delivers today, how AI is being used inside regulated banks, and where stablecoins and tokenised money actually make sense and where they do not.An honest discussion on SME credit gaps, the limits of the super-app idea, the role of humans in an AI-led bank, and what the next decade of challenger banking could realistically look like.🎙️ In this episode:• Why challenger banks are replacing major banks for SMEs, not just competing with them• The hidden problem of fragmentation in SME finance• How Allica is building an all-in-one bank for established businesses• What open banking gets right and where it still falls short• AI inside banks: productivity, agents, and the limits of automation• Why SMEs are not ready for complexity in digital assets• The real use cases for stablecoins and cross-border payments• What creates a defensible moat in modern digital banking• How regulation helps and hinders SME lending in the UK• What the next 3 to 5 years of SME banking could look like👉 Watch the full conversation to understand how challenger banks are scaling trust, profitability, and relevance in a post-hype fintech world.#CouchonomicsWithArjun #SMEBanking #ChallengerBanks #Fintech #UKFintech #DigitalBanking #AIinBanking #FutureOfBanking #Leadership #FinancialServicesPARTNERSCouchonomics with Arjun Season 04 is brought to you by:Adyen → https://www.adyen.com/Thunes → https://thunes.com/Mastercard → https://mastercard.com/e& → https://www.eand.com/Digit9 → https://www.digitnine.com/SC Ventures → https://scventures.io/SOCIAL LINKSArjun’s LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/arjunvirsingh/Couchonomics LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/couchonomics-with-arjun-singh/Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/couchonomics/Twitter → https://twitter.com/Arjun_Vir_SinghTikTok → https://www.tiktok.com/@couchonomicsNewsletter → https://bit.ly/3WI4A6ECHAPTERS00:00 Why SME banking is being rebuilt02:40 The maturity of UK challenger banks06:30 The real SME credit gap problem10:20 Fragmentation vs all-in-one banking15:Our website 👉 https://bit.ly/3jk7UH0Find us on our social media platforms:Arjun's LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/arjunvirsingh/CCN LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/couchonomics-with-arjun-singh/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/couchonomics/Twitter https://twitter.com/Arjun_Vir_Singh?s=20TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@couchonomicsSubscribe to Arjun's LinkedIn newsletter, Couchonomics Crunch: https://bit.ly/3WI4A6E

Innovation in banking is often talked about, but rarely understood.In this episode of Couchonomics with Arjun, Giovanni Everduin, Chief Strategy and Innovation Officer and Head of Ventures at Commercial Bank International, joins the couch to unpack what innovation really looks like inside a regulated bank.From legacy systems and institutional mindsets to AI, digital assets, and on-chain finance, this conversation goes beyond buzzwords to explore where real value is being created and where the industry may be getting ahead of itself.Giovanni shares why regulation can act as a catalyst for innovation, how banks and fintechs are moving from competition to partnership, and why the future of finance will be hybrid rather than fully on-chain or off-chain.A candid discussion on tokenization, stablecoins, privacy, and why understanding the problem always matters more than chasing the latest technology.🎙️ In this episode: • What innovation actually means inside a regulated bank • Why legacy systems, data, and mindsets slow transformation • How fintechs shifted from challengers to infrastructure partners • The real opportunities and misconceptions around tokenization and stablecoins • Why privacy will be critical for institutions moving finance on-chain • How banks can experiment safely without breaking trust • Why partnership-driven innovation is becoming the dominant model • What the next 3 to 5 years of banking could realistically look like👉 Watch the full conversation to understand how banks are navigating innovation without losing trust, stability, or relevance.#CouchonomicsWithArjun #BankingInnovation #Fintech #DigitalAssets #AIinBanking #Tokenization #FutureOfBanking #UAE #Leadership #FinancialServicesPARTNERSCouchonomics with Arjun Season 04 is brought to you by:Adyen → https://www.adyen.com/Thunes → https://thunes.com/Mastercard → https://mastercard.com/e& → https://www.eand.com/Digit9 → https://www.digitnine.com/SC Ventures → https://scventures.io/Hala → https://hala.com/SOCIAL LINKSArjun’s LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/arjunvirsingh/Couchonomics LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/couchonomics-with-arjun-singh/Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/couchonomics/Twitter → https://twitter.com/Arjun_Vir_SinghTikTok → https://www.tiktok.com/@couchonomicsNewsletter → https://bit.ly/3WI4A6EOur website 👉 https://bit.ly/3jk7UH0Find us on our social media platforms:Arjun's LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/arjunvirsingh/CCN LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/couchonomics-with-arjun-singh/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/couchonomics/Twitter https://twitter.com/Arjun_Vir_Singh?s=20TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@couchonomicsSubscribe to Arjun's LinkedIn newsletter, Couchonomics Crunch: https://bit.ly/3WI4A6E

Banking in the UAE is entering a phase where digital expectations, AI, and trust are forcing banks to rethink everything from processes to culture.Arjun sits down with Dr. Bernd van Linder, CEO of Commercial Bank of Dubai, to unpack how customer experience, technology and trust are reshaping the future of banking.🎙️ In this episode:Why customer experience has become the only real competitive advantage in bankingHow digitization moved from a COVID era surprise to a baseline expectationWhy the UAE banking sector keeps evolving faster than global peersHow banks can rewire legacy systems without breaking what worksWhy fintechs are now partners, not threats, and how the best banks use themThe real impact of AI on productivity, governance and the workforceHow trust, safety and regulation shape decision making in a digital-first worldWhat the next five years of banking will look like in the region👉 Watch now to understand how customer experience, fintech partnerships, AI and trust will define the next era of banking.#CouchonomicsWithArjun #Banking #DigitalTransformation #AI #Fintech #UAE #CustomerExperience #FutureOfBanking #Leadership #InnovationPARTNERSCouchonomics with Arjun Season 04 is brought to you by:Adyen → https://www.adyen.com/Thunes → https://thunes.com/Mastercard → https://mastercard.com/E& → https://www.eand.com/Digit9 → https://www.digitnine.com/SC Ventures → https://scventures.io/Hala → https://hala.com/SOCIAL LINKSArjun’s LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/arjunvirsingh/Couchonomics LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/couchonomics-with-arjun-singh/Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/couchonomics/Twitter → https://twitter.com/Arjun_Vir_SinghTikTok → https://www.tiktok.com/@couchonomicsNewsletter → https://bit.ly/3WI4A6EChapters00:00 The new realities of customer expectations02:00 Why UAE banks are evolving faster than global peers04:00 Customer experience as the only real competitive advantage07:00 Rewiring people and processes for a digital-first world10:00 How fintech partnerships are reshaping bank capabilities14:00 The future role of branches in a digital-first banking model18:00 Moving from legacy tech to open, integrated systems22:00 The real impact of AI on productivity, risk and governance30:00 Trust, safety and how customers choose banks today36:00 What the next 3 to 5 years of banking will look likeOur website 👉 https://bit.ly/3jk7UH0Find us on our social media platforms:Arjun's LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/arjunvirsingh/CCN LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/couchonomics-with-arjun-singh/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/couchonomics/Twitter https://twitter.com/Arjun_Vir_Singh?s=20TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@couchonomicsSubscribe to Arjun's LinkedIn newsletter, Couchonomics Crunch: https://bit.ly/3WI4A6E

Core banking is no longer a back-office topic.Cloud, payments, AI and digital assets are forcing banks to rethink the foundations of how money moves.In this episode, Arjun sits down with Vishal Dalal, Global CEO of Pismo, to unpack the evolution of modern core banking, the rise of cloud-native architectures, and why migration, resilience and payments complexity are the real bottlenecks shaping the future.From a startup getting thrown out of buildings in Brazil to powering global banks across 70 plus countries, Vishal breaks down the hard truths of building critical infrastructure in a world that expects zero downtime, instant scalability and absolute safety.In this episode:• How Pismo went from a 5,000-card pilot to powering tens of millions of accounts• Why resilience, recovery and disaster readiness are now core banking table stakes• The real challenges of migrating 200 million accounts from legacy systems• Why every country building its own payment rails increases global complexity• How stablecoins, tokenized deposits and CBDCs force a rethink of the entire backend• Why digital assets and real-time settlement are pulling core banking into a new era• How AI is reshaping migrations, operations, debugging and developer speed• Why being cloud-only opens some markets and immediately disqualifies others• How leaders should balance velocity with safety in a geopolitical environment full of risk👉 Watch now to understand the next chapter of core banking.#CouchonomicsWithArjun #Banking #CoreBanking #Fintech #Payments #Cloud #AI #DigitalAssets #Stablecoins #CBDC #Migration #FutureOfFinance #InnovationPartnersCouchonomics with Arjun Season 04 is brought to you by:Adyen → https://www.adyen.com/Thunes → https://thunes.com/Mastercard → https://mastercard.com/E& → https://www.eand.com/Digit9 → https://www.digitnine.com/SC Ventures → https://scventures.io/Hala → https://hala.com/Follow us on social mediaArjun’s LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/arjunvirsingh/Couchonomics LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/couchonomics-with-arjun-singh/Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/couchonomics/Twitter → https://twitter.com/Arjun_Vir_SinghTikTok → https://www.tiktok.com/@couchonomicsNewsletter → https://bit.ly/3WI4A6EChapters00:00 The Pismo origin story and early Brazil journey02:00 Winning trust through a 5,000-card pilot04:00 Landing Itaú and scaling to millions of accounts06:00 Citi’s 76-country ledger and going global08:00 What modern core banking must deliver today12:00 The realities of migrating from legacy mainframes16:00 Payments rails, localization and rising global complexity20:00 How digital assets, stablecoins and CBDCs reshape the backend26:00 AI’s impact on migrations, operations and developer speed34:00 Why safety, resilience and governance matter more tOur website 👉 https://bit.ly/3jk7UH0Find us on our social media platforms:Arjun's LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/arjunvirsingh/CCN LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/couchonomics-with-arjun-singh/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/couchonomics/Twitter https://twitter.com/Arjun_Vir_Singh?s=20TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@couchonomicsSubscribe to Arjun's LinkedIn newsletter, Couchonomics Crunch: https://bit.ly/3WI4A6E

Fintech is entering a new phase where technology, regulation and global markets are reshaping value at a deeper level.Arjun sits down with Sandeep Patil, Partner and Head of Asia at QED Investors, to break down how fintech is evolving beneath the surface.🎙️ In this episode: -Why the global fintech reset isn’t over- How stablecoins are becoming the quiet rails of global trade- How AI will reshape underwriting and distribution- Why regulatory fluency is now essential for founders- Where real value creation will happen over the next 3–5 years👉 Watch now to understand how AI, stablecoins, global flows and regulation are writing the next chapter of fintech.Couchonomics with Arjun Season 04 is brought to you by our partners:Adyen → https://www.adyen.com/Thunes → https://thunes.com/Mastercard → https://mastercard.com/E& → https://www.eand.com/Digit9 → https://www.digitnine.com/SC Ventures → https://scventures.io/Hala → https://hala.com/Chapters00:00 Episode Teaser01:00 How global volatility is shaping fintech03:10 Are we through the fintech reset or not05:00 Where real value will emerge in the next 3 to 5 years06:30 Stablecoins and the rewiring of global trade09:00 How AI is reshaping underwriting, distribution and trust12:20 What categories are losing momentum17:00 AI washing vs real AI-led companies20:10 Why founders must understand regulation deeply31:00 The Middle East and Saudi. Rising themes and opportunitiesOur website 👉 https://bit.ly/3jk7UH0Find us on our social media platforms:Arjun's LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/arjunvirsingh/CCN LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/couchonomics-with-arjun-singh/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/couchonomics/Twitter https://twitter.com/Arjun_Vir_Singh?s=20TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@couchonomicsSubscribe to Arjun's LinkedIn newsletter, Couchonomics Crunch: https://bit.ly/3WI4A6E

What if the future of money isn’t about new currencies, but about rebuilding how value moves?Arjun sits down with Keith Grose, Senior Country Director at Coinbase UK, to explore how crypto is moving from hype to real infrastructure.They talk about the UK’s second-mover advantage in regulation, the role of stablecoins in global trade, and how Coinbase is building the bridge between traditional finance and the on-chain world.🎙️ In this episode:→ Why Coinbase’s mission is to increase economic freedom for a billion people→ How crypto complements, not replaces, real-time payment systems→ Why stablecoins are becoming the settlement layer for global trade→ What the UK’s second-mover advantage means for innovation→ How regulation can balance control with growth→ Why private stablecoins may move faster than CBDCs→ What it takes to make crypto secure, compliant, and trusted→ How on-chain transparency is reshaping user protection👉 Watch now to understand how crypto, regulation, and finance are converging into the next chapter of global money movement.Couchonomics with Arjun Season 04 is brought to you by our partners:Adyen → https://www.adyen.com/Thunes → https://thunes.com/Mastercard → https://mastercard.com/E& → https://www.eand.com/Digit9 → https://www.digitnine.com/SC Ventures → https://scventures.io/Hala → https://hala.com/Chapters00:00 Episode Teaser01:02 Introducing Keith Gross and Coinbase02:07 Coinbase's Mission and Crypto's Promise03:55 The Role of Regulation in Crypto04:14 Global Payment Systems and Crypto's Potential11:11 The Promise and Growth of Stablecoins13:48 Institutional Adoption and Tokenized Deposits18:50 The Future of Crypto Regulation in the UK25:18 Understanding Wholesale CBDC and Stable Coins25:39 The Role of Stablecoins in Government Bonds26:27 Yield and Regulatory Challenges of Stablecoins27:58 Coinbase's Offerings for Retail and Institutional Customers29:49 Defi Lending and Borrowing Innovations34:10 Security and Custody in Crypto Trading41:06 Regulatory Collaboration and Industry Standards46:53 Balancing Growth and Risk in Crypto48:57 Future Metrics and Tokenization Trends50:13 Conclusion and Future DiscussionsOur website 👉 https://bit.ly/3jk7UH0Find us on our social media platforms:Arjun's LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/arjunvirsingh/CCN LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/couchonomics-with-arjun-singh/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/couchonomics/Twitter https://twitter.com/Arjun_Vir_Singh?s=20TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@couchonomicsSubscribe to Arjun's LinkedIn newsletter, Couchonomics Crunch: https://bit.ly/3WI4A6E

What if the future of money isn’t about creating new currencies, but redefining what money really is?In this episode, Arjun sits down with Tony McLaughlin, CEO and Founder of Ubyx Inc, to talk about why he believes the bank account is dead and how the next version of money could live on public blockchains.They break down what stablecoins, tokenized deposits, and CBDCs really mean, and how they could quietly replace the systems we’ve used for decades.🎙️ In this episode: → Why blockchain is simply a “who owns what” machine → How stablecoins could become the new form of fiat → Why tokenization could replace ACH, SWIFT, and cards → How Ubyx is building a clearing system for the age of digital money → How stablecoins could transform global trade and cross-border payments → The balance between privacy, regulation, and innovation👉 Watch now to understand how the next phase of finance will be built on tokens, trust, and interoperability.Couchonomics with Arjun Season 04 is brought to you by our partners:Adyen → https://www.adyen.com/Thunes → https://thunes.com/Mastercard → https://mastercard.com/E& → https://www.eand.com/Digit9 → https://www.digitnine.com/SC Ventures → https://scventures.io/Hala → https://hala.com/Chapters 00:00 Episode Teaser 02:45 What Fintech Really Built: Layers on Legacy Rails 05:30 Blockchain as the “Who Owns What” Machine 09:15 Regulation, Policy, and the Shift to Public Blockchains 11:20 Stablecoins and the Irony of Perfecting Fiat Currency 15:00 The Death of the Bank Account and Rise of Tokens 17:10 CBDCs, Tokenized Deposits, and the Ancient IOU 23:00 How Ubyx Fits into the Global Clearing Puzzle 26:20 Why Banks Will Love Stablecoins for FX Revenue 32:00 The $300B E-commerce Stablecoin Opportunity 37:00 CBDCs vs. Stablecoins: Parallel Systems, Not Rivals 39:10 How Europe Should Respond to USD Stablecoins 41:00 Turning Regulation Fear into Opportunity 45:00 Privacy, Surveillance, and Life on the Ledger 47:40 Ubyx’s Journey from White Paper to Product 50:00 Building the Mastercard of Stablecoins 53:00 Lessons from an Older Founder and What Comes NextOur website 👉 https://bit.ly/3jk7UH0Find us on our social media platforms:Arjun's LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/arjunvirsingh/CCN LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/couchonomics-with-arjun-singh/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/couchonomics/Twitter https://twitter.com/Arjun_Vir_Singh?s=20TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@couchonomicsSubscribe to Arjun's LinkedIn newsletter, Couchonomics Crunch: https://bit.ly/3WI4A6E

What if the next decade of finance isn’t about disruption, but inclusion?In this episode, Arjun sits down with Sopnendu Mohanty, Group CEO of GFTN and Advisor to the Monetary Authority of Singapore, to explore how technology, policy, and people are shaping the future of global finance.🎙️ In this episode:→ The three pillars that defined the first wave of fintech: APIs, DPIs, and cloud→ Why inclusion remains the biggest unfinished story in finance→ How AI and tokenization could rebuild finance from the inside out→ Why collaboration, not disruption, will shape the next decade→ How the Middle East is emerging as a major hub for innovation and investment→ The growing role of regulators and public infrastructure in driving progress→ How the Global South can leapfrog through digital infrastructure👉 Watch now and see how the next chapter of finance is being built.Couchonomics with Arjun Season 04 is brought to you by our partners:Adyen → https://www.adyen.com/Thunes → https://thunes.com/Mastercard → https://mastercard.com/E& → https://www.eand.com/Digit9 → https://www.digitnine.com/SC Ventures → https://scventures.io/Hala → https://hala.com/Chapters00:00 Episode Highlights02:45 The Last Decade of Fintech: APIs, DPIs, and Cloud05:30 How Banks and Regulators Learned to Collaborate09:15 Why Inclusion Remains the Biggest Unsolved Problem13:40 The Next Wave: AI, Tokenization, and Quantum Security17:20 Stablecoins, Networks, and the Future of Money Movement22:05 Consumer Awareness and the Fight Against Scams26:10 Building the Global South’s Digital Infrastructure30:25 The Middle East and the New Role of the GCC35:10 GFTN’s Vision and the Future of Responsible FinanceOur website 👉 https://bit.ly/3jk7UH0Find us on our social media platforms:Arjun's LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/arjunvirsingh/CCN LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/couchonomics-with-arjun-singh/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/couchonomics/Twitter https://twitter.com/Arjun_Vir_Singh?s=20TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@couchonomicsSubscribe to Arjun's LinkedIn newsletter, Couchonomics Crunch: https://bit.ly/3WI4A6E

When money moves faster than ever, who really controls it? In this episode, Arjun sits down with Arik Shtilman, Founder and CEO of Rapyd, to explore how AI and stablecoins are rewriting the rules of global payments. From powering transactions across 100+ countries to building an AI-first infrastructure, Rapyd is proving that the next financial revolution is already underway.🎙️ In this episode:- Why payments companies that aren’t AI-first may not survive the next three years- How stablecoins are reshaping liquidity, cross-border trade, and working capital- Why banks and SWIFT are in a race to stay relevant- How Rapyd embedded stablecoins into every layer of its platform- The real battle between AI-powered fraud and AI-driven fraud prevention- What the rise of CBDCs means for the future of money movementThis isn’t a discussion about what’s coming.It’s a look at how the foundations of finance are being rebuilt in real time.👉 Watch now and discover how Rapyd is shaping the future of payments.#CouchonomicsWithArjun #Fintech #AI #Stablecoins #CrossBorderPayments #DigitalFinance #FutureOfMoney #financialinnovation Couchonomics with Arjun Season 04 is brought to you by our partners:Adyen https://www.adyen.com/Thunes https://thunes.com/Mastercard https://mastercard.com/E& https://www.eand.com/Digit9 https://www.digitnine.com/SC Ventures https://scventures.io/Hala https://hala.com/ Chapters:00:00 Episode Highlights03:00 AI and Stablecoins: The Twin Shifts05:00 How Regulation and Politics Changed Crypto08:00 Cross-Border Trade in Stablecoins12:00 Swift’s Future and Bank Partnerships16:00 Rapyd’s Stablecoin Strategy and Revenue Impact18:00 Compliance, Regulation, and Market Readiness25:00 CBDCs and the New Monetary Order30:00 Inside Rapyd’s AI Engine39:00 The Rapyd Story and Its EvolutionOur website 👉 https://bit.ly/3jk7UH0Find us on our social media platforms:Arjun's LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/arjunvirsingh/CCN LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/couchonomics-with-arjun-singh/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/couchonomics/Twitter https://twitter.com/Arjun_Vir_Singh?s=20TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@couchonomicsSubscribe to Arjun's LinkedIn newsletter, Couchonomics Crunch: https://bit.ly/3WI4A6E

What if AI ran your bank? 🤯In this episode, Arjun sits down with Quang Nguyen, CEO of Cake Digital Bank, Vietnam’s AI-first bank that’s redefining what digital finance looks like.With only 300 employees serving 6 million customers, Cake has become one of Southeast Asia’s most efficient and innovative financial institutions — proving that the future of banking is lean, intelligent, and fully automated.🎙️ In this episode:- How Cake uses AI to power 70% of its operations- Building trust through technology in a young, digital-first market- Why Vietnam is leading the next fintech wave- How Cake achieved profitability in just 3 years- What AI-first banking really means beyond the buzz This isn’t a story about the future of banking - it’s a look at what’s already here.👉 Watch now and see how AI is transforming finance from the inside out.#CouchonomicsWithArjun #Fintech #DigitalBanking #AI #Vietnam #FinancialInnovation #FutureOfFinanceCouchonomics with Arjun Season 04 is brought to you by our partners:Adyen https://www.adyen.com/Thunes https://thunes.com/Mastercard https://mastercard.com/E& https://www.eand.com/Digit9 https://www.digitnine.com/SC Ventures https://scventures.io/Hala https://hala.com/ Chapters:00:00 Episode Highlights02:22 Vietnam's Digital Transformation06:19 Building Trust in Digital Banking09:06 The Playful Brand: Cake11:46 Regulatory Landscape in Vietnam19:20 AI Integration in Banking23:26 Staffing and AI Integration24:21 Embracing AI in Operations25:22 Approach to Small Loans28:21 Deposit Strategies and Competitive Pricing29:42 Building Ecosystems and Partnerships33:16 Challenges and Opportunities in Embedded Banking36:34 Regulatory Compliance and AI39:03 The Story Behind the Name 'Cake'41:10 Future Plans and Regional Expansion43:18 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsOur website 👉 https://bit.ly/3jk7UH0Find us on our social media platforms:Arjun's LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/arjunvirsingh/CCN LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/couchonomics-with-arjun-singh/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/couchonomics/Twitter https://twitter.com/Arjun_Vir_Singh?s=20TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@couchonomicsSubscribe to Arjun's LinkedIn newsletter, Couchonomics Crunch: https://bit.ly/3WI4A6E

Over $80 trillion in global wealth is moving to a younger, more digital generation. But who will manage it—and how will AI, trust, and technology reshape investing?In this episode of Couchonomics with Arjun, Caesar Sengupta, Co-Founder and CEO of Arta Finance (backed by Eric Schmidt, Peak XV, and Ribbit Capital), shares how his company is democratizing wealth management—bringing institutional-grade investing to millions worldwide.Discover how AI is redefining advice, why trust matters more than ever, and how digital platforms like Arta x Wio are changing the game for banks, advisors, and investors alike.🎧 Listen now on YouTube, Spotify, or Apple Podcasts.Couchonomics with Arjun Season 04 is brought to you by our partners:Adyen https://www.adyen.com/Thunes https://thunes.com/Mastercard https://mastercard.com/E& https://www.eand.com/Digit9 https://www.digitnine.com/SC Ventures https://scventures.io/Hala https://hala.com/Chapters:00:00 Episode Highlights 01:10 Introducing Caesar Sengupta02:00 The Great Wealth Transfer03:07 Secular Forces in Wealth Creation05:38 The Myth of Democratization10:13 Retail Trading: Speculation or Wealth Building?13:33 Building Trust in Wealth Management17:25 The Role of Technology in Wealth Management24:42 Family Offices and Digital Capabilities27:57 Regulatory Challenges and Partner Expertise28:13 Designing and Offering Structured Products30:13 AI's Role in Fintech and Wealth Management33:41 AI's Impact on Wealth Strategies35:46 AI in Customer Experience and Wealth Planning42:26 Concerns and Future of AI in Wealth Management45:39 Business Strategy and Future Directions49:29 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsOur website 👉 https://bit.ly/3jk7UH0Find us on our social media platforms:Arjun's LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/arjunvirsingh/CCN LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/couchonomics-with-arjun-singh/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/couchonomics/Twitter https://twitter.com/Arjun_Vir_Singh?s=20TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@couchonomicsSubscribe to Arjun's LinkedIn newsletter, Couchonomics Crunch: https://bit.ly/3WI4A6E

Episode 150 of Couchonomics with Arjun is here — and it’s a milestone.For the very first time, we go to Latin America. My guest: Eduardo Chedid, CEO of PicPay — Brazil’s biggest super app and one of the fastest-scaling fintechs in the world.With 60M+ customers, $1B+ in revenues, profits up 7× YoY, and 4,500 employees, PicPay is rewriting the rules of digital banking in one of the most competitive markets on earth.We cover:- Brazil’s fintech revolution and the role of regulation- How PicPay scaled from wallet → super app → full-service bank- Why AI and open finance are core to growth- The future of tokenized money and cross-border paymentsThis isn’t just a Brazil story — it’s a blueprint for the future of finance.Couchonomics with Arjun Season 04 is brought to you by our partners:Adyen https://www.adyen.com/Thunes https://thunes.com/Mastercard https://mastercard.com/E& https://www.eand.com/Digit9 https://www.digitnine.com/SC Ventures https://scventures.io/Hala https://hala.com/Chapters:00:00 Episode Highlights01:11 Welcoming Eduardo Chedd03:29 Brazilian FinTech Landscape11:22 PicPay's Growth and Strategy23:52 AI Integration and Innovations28:25 Organizational Structure and Product Velocity29:23 Ownership and Cross-Functional Integration31:13 Driving Governance and Agile Practices32:36 The Role of Data in Financial Services36:55 The Evolution and Importance of Digital Wallets38:46 Tokenized Money and Future Trends41:59 Competition and Market Focus45:21 Global Insights and Future Plans50:44 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsOur website 👉 https://bit.ly/3jk7UH0Find us on our social media platforms:Arjun's LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/arjunvirsingh/CCN LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/couchonomics-with-arjun-singh/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/couchonomics/Twitter https://twitter.com/Arjun_Vir_Singh?s=20TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@couchonomicsSubscribe to Arjun's LinkedIn newsletter, Couchonomics Crunch: https://bit.ly/3WI4A6E

Turning Savings into Wealth — Inside Chip’s Fintech Playbook UK fintech is entering a new chapter. While funding slows, savers poured £103bn into ISAs — proving that trust, not downloads, is the real currency.In this episode, Arjun speaks with Alex Latham, Co-Founder & CMO of Chip, one of Europe’s fastest-growing fintechs, on:- The future of UK fintech beyond banking apps- How Chip grew from a crowdfunded startup to a wealth platform managing billions- Why trust, community, and AI will shape wealth management📺 Watch now and see how Chip is redefining the future of savings and investing.Couchonomics with Arjun Season 04 is brought to you by our partners:Adyen https://www.adyen.com/Thunes https://thunes.com/Mastercard https://mastercard.com/E& https://www.eand.com/Digit9 https://www.digitnine.com/SC Ventures https://scventures.io/Hala https://hala.com/Find us on our social media platforms:Arjun's LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/arjunvirsingh/Couchonomics LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/couchonomics-with-arjun-singh/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/couchonomics/Twitter https://twitter.com/Arjun_Vir_Singh?s=20TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@couchonomicsSubscribe to Arjun's LinkedIn newsletter, Couchonomics Crunch: https://bit.ly/3WI4A6EChapters:00:00 Episode Highlights00:56 Introduction02:09 State of UK FinTech02:34 The Rise of British FinTech04:05 Challenges and Opportunities in FinTech09:00 Chip: A Digital Wealth Manager18:12 Building Trust and Authenticity26:35 Consumer Behavior Trends29:38 Stabilizing Interest Rates and Long-Term Financial Planning30:19 Exploring Alternative Investments: Crypto and ETFs31:55 The British Saving Culture and Investment Challenges34:01 The Role of Education in Financial Literacy38:05 Marketing Strategies in FinTech43:20 Building and Engaging a Community47:43 Future Plans and Financial Advice Innovations56:17 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsOur website 👉 https://bit.ly/3jk7UH0Find us on our social media platforms:Arjun's LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/arjunvirsingh/CCN LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/couchonomics-with-arjun-singh/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/couchonomics/Twitter https://twitter.com/Arjun_Vir_Singh?s=20TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@couchonomicsSubscribe to Arjun's LinkedIn newsletter, Couchonomics Crunch: https://bit.ly/3WI4A6E

Most fintechs chased hype. Abhi chased cash flow.In this episode of Couchonomics with Arjun, we sit down with Omair Ansari, Co-Founder & CEO of Abhi, one of Pakistan’s fastest-growing fintechs.Abhi began with earned wage access, giving workers instant liquidity. Today, it has scaled into payroll financing, SME lending, and invoice factoring — and even acquired a licensed microfinance bank in Pakistan to materially lower its cost of funds.We explore:- Why profitability and cost of capital decide who survives fintech’s winter- How Abhi scaled from earned wage access into a full-stack working capital platform- Pakistan as the anchor, GCC as the growth frontier- The real potential (and limits) of tokenization & private credit- Why licences and compliance, not glossy apps, are the true moat in fintech- How embedded finance at payroll and receivables lowers costs and expands inclusionThis is more than a growth story — it’s a blueprint for building durable fintech in emerging markets.🎧 Full episode now streaming on YouTube, Spotify & Apple Podcasts.Couchonomics with Arjun Season 04 is brought to you by our partners:Adyen https://www.adyen.com/Thunes https://thunes.com/Mastercard https://mastercard.com/E& https://www.eand.com/Digit9 https://www.digitnine.com/SC Ventures https://scventures.io/Hala https://hala.com/chapters:00:00 Episode Highlights00:59 Welcome to Couchonomics02:19 FinTech Evolution and Market Dynamics06:28 Business Model Adaptations12:21 Manual Operations and Testing14:34 Credit Models and Market Realities17:24 Funding and Capital Challenges23:54 Regulatory Landscape and Innovations27:38 Navigating Regulatory Challenges29:14 The Debate on Fintech Regulation32:07 Embedded Finance: Progress and Challenges35:24 The Future of Banking and Fintech38:44 Crypto and Digital Assets in Emerging Markets43:27 Expanding into Pakistan: Opportunities and Risks46:52 Strategic Focus and Future Vision51:41 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsOur website 👉 https://bit.ly/3jk7UH0Find us on our social media platforms:Arjun's LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/arjunvirsingh/CCN LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/couchonomics-with-arjun-singh/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/couchonomics/Twitter https://twitter.com/Arjun_Vir_Singh?s=20TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@couchonomicsSubscribe to Arjun's LinkedIn newsletter, Couchonomics Crunch: https://bit.ly/3WI4A6E

Wealth management is no longer just champagne perks and 2% fees. The new generation of investors demands digital, transparent, and affordable solutions.In this episode of Couchonomics with Arjun, we’re joined by Dhruv Arora, Founder & CEO of Syfe, a digital wealth management platform managing over US$10B.We cover:- Why trust is the biggest competition in digital wealth- The difference between robo-advisors & true digital wealth platforms- How Syfe is scaling across Singapore, Hong Kong & Australia- Why inclusivity without affordability doesn’t work- The merging of saving + investing into one continuumA sharp look into the future of wealth management, fintech, and investing.🎧 Full episode now on YouTube, Spotify & Apple Podcasts.Couchonomics with Arjun Season 04 is brought to you by our partners:Adyen https://www.adyen.com/Thunes https://thunes.com/Mastercard https://mastercard.com/E& https://www.eand.com/Digit9 https://www.digitnine.com/SC Ventures https://scventures.io/Hala https://hala.com/chapters:00:00 Episode Highlights00:55 Introduction01:38 Defining Digital Wealth Management02:28 The Future of Wealth Management07:07 Challenges for Traditional Banks16:07 Trust and Transparency in Wealth Management19:56 Expansion and Growth Strategies24:42 Localization and Personalization in Wealth26:42 Exploring Syfe's Offerings27:28 Model Portfolios and Cash Management28:15 Holistic Wealth Management29:33 Deep Integration and Proprietary Technology31:49 Rule-Based Investing vs. Robo-Advisors35:08 Democratizing Access to Wealth Management41:06 Future of Wealth Management and Crypto Integration48:47 Syfe's Expansion Plans and Final ThoughtsOur website 👉 https://bit.ly/3jk7UH0Find us on our social media platforms:Arjun's LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/arjunvirsingh/CCN LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/couchonomics-with-arjun-singh/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/couchonomics/Twitter https://twitter.com/Arjun_Vir_Singh?s=20TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@couchonomicsSubscribe to Arjun's LinkedIn newsletter, Couchonomics Crunch: https://bit.ly/3WI4A6E

💡 Africa’s fintech story is no longer a local experiment — it’s a global test case for the future of inclusion, innovation, and capital flows.In this episode of Couchonomics with Arjun, we’re joined by Yustus Aribariho, Co-Founder of Furaha Financial (part of SC Ventures by Standard Chartered). Yustus is now on a mission to unlock education financing and opportunity across Sub-Saharan Africa.We unpack:💸 Why capital inflows into African fintech lag behind the opportunity📱 How mobile money became the blueprint for financial inclusion worldwide🛠 The frictions of regulation, repatriation, and cross-border flows👥 Why human capital and local talent could be Africa’s ultimate advantageFuraha isn’t just another fintech — it’s building infrastructure that bridges capital and impact in one of the world’s fastest-growing regions.🎧 Watch the full episode now on YouTube, Spotify & Apple Podcasts.Couchonomics with Arjun Season 04 is brought to you by our partners:Adyen https://www.adyen.com/Thunes https://thunes.com/Mastercard https://mastercard.com/E& https://www.eand.com/Digit9 https://www.digitnine.com/SC Ventures https://scventures.io/Hala https://hala.com/Chapters:00:00 Episode Highlights02:40 State of FinTech in Sub-Saharan Africa08:11 Challenges and Opportunities in African FinTech10:48 The Role of Mobile Money and Digital Banks15:00 Investment Dynamics and Regulatory Challenges17:57 Affordability and Financial Inclusion21:46 Alternative Financial Services in Africa27:46 High Cost of Borrowing and Risk-Based Pricing28:36 Purpose-Driven Financing33:37 Addressing the Education Financing Gap35:43 Building an Ecosystem for Education Loans37:42 Why Uganda?45:29 Future Expansion and Challenges48:04 Business Model and Partnerships52:25 Vision for the Future55:26 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsOur website 👉 https://bit.ly/3jk7UH0Find us on our social media platforms:Arjun's LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/arjunvirsingh/CCN LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/couchonomics-with-arjun-singh/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/couchonomics/Twitter https://twitter.com/Arjun_Vir_Singh?s=20TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@couchonomicsSubscribe to Arjun's LinkedIn newsletter, Couchonomics Crunch: https://bit.ly/3WI4A6E

Stablecoins are no longer on the sidelines — they’re stepping into the core of global finance.In this episode of Couchonomics with Arjun, we're joined by Dante Disparte, Chief Strategy Officer & Head of Global Policy at Circle, for his second appearance on the show. Speaking from Washington, DC, Dante brings a timely perspective on how digital finance is evolving — and why it matters now more than ever.We unpack:- Stablecoins as real financial infrastructure for payments, remittances, and cross-border flows- How smart regulation acts as a catalyst for trust, adoption, and institutional capital- CBDCs and tokenisation — separating hype from substance, and where they’ll truly reshape markets and inclusion- Why MENA is emerging as a global hub for digital assets, with the UAE leading from the frontIf you want to understand how money itself is being rebuilt — not just the apps we use, but the foundations beneath the system — this conversation with Dante is essential listening.🎧 Watch and listen now on YouTube, Spotify & Apple Podcasts.Couchonomics with Arjun Season 04 is brought to you by our partners:Adyen https://www.adyen.com/Thunes https://thunes.com/Mastercard https://mastercard.com/E& https://www.eand.com/Digit9 https://www.digitnine.com/SC Ventures https://scventures.io/Hala https://hala.com/Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Digital Assets and Policy00:54 Welcoming the Guest: Dante Disparte02:35 Stablecoins: Current State and Future Prospects03:05 Regulatory Changes and Their Impact06:21 Exploring Use Cases for Digital Assets16:29 The Role of Banks and Stablecoins24:46 Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs)28:15 The Genius Act: Opportunities and Risks29:59 The Resilience of Digital Assets30:37 The Genius Act: A Legislative Proposal31:20 Stablecoins and Market Stability31:55 The Role of Stablecoins in the Banking System32:54 Guardrails and Systemic Risk33:45 Tokenized Treasuries vs. Stablecoins35:48 Concerns About Tether38:05 The Genius Act and Global Regulatory Harmonization40:41 Corporate Stablecoins and Market Adoption49:00 Circle's IPO and Long-Term Vision53:03 Circle Payment Network (CPN) and Financial InclusionOur website 👉 https://bit.ly/3jk7UH0Find us on our social media platforms:Arjun's LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/arjunvirsingh/CCN LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/couchonomics-with-arjun-singh/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/couchonomics/Twitter https://twitter.com/Arjun_Vir_Singh?s=20TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@couchonomicsSubscribe to Arjun's LinkedIn newsletter, Couchonomics Crunch: https://bit.ly/3WI4A6E

Fraud just had its AI upgrade.It’s faster than your payments and industrialised at a global scale. Welcome to the Scamdemic — a global wave of scams and financial crime growing faster than almost any asset class.We’re joined by Simon Taylor, Head of Strategy at Sardine and Co-Founder of 11:FS. Together, we unpack how fraud has evolved, why it’s so hard to stop, and what financial institutions, fintechs, and regulators must do now.Inside the episode:- Why faster payments = faster fraud- Deepfakes, fraud-as-a-service, and industrialised scam call centres- Why liability shifts and reimbursements can fuel crime instead of stopping it- The missed open banking opportunity: building a global “fraud utility”- Stablecoins, AI agents, and the next wave of attack surfaces- How to protect customers without killing innovationWhether you work in banking, fintech, payments, or policy, this episode will change how you think about fraud prevention in the age of AI and real-time payments.🎧 Listen now and stay ahead of the Scamdemic.Couchonomics with Arjun Season 04 is brought to you by our partners:Adyen https://www.adyen.com/Thunes https://thunes.com/Mastercard https://mastercard.com/E& https://www.eand.com/Digit9 https://www.digitnine.com/SC Ventures https://scventures.io/Hala https://hala.com/Chapters:00:00 Episode Highlights02:04 The Scam Epidemic: An Overview06:33 The Impact of Fraud on Financial Institutions14:14 Introducing Sardine: AI-Powered Financial Crime Platform19:17 Global Fraud Typologies and Real-Time Payments22:47 Global Reactions to the Pandemic23:46 The Impact on Wealthy Individuals and Businesses24:43 The Need for Transparency and Best Practices25:23 Regulatory Responses and Fraud Prevention26:34 The Role of Social Media in Fraud27:38 Challenges in Fraud Prevention and Coordination29:42 Opportunities in Open Banking and Data Sharing34:31 Digital Assets and Stablecoins39:08 The Role of AI in Fraud Prevention42:10 Future of Financial Crime and ConclusionOur website 👉 https://bit.ly/3jk7UH0Find us on our social media platforms:Arjun's LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/arjunvirsingh/CCN LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/couchonomics-with-arjun-singh/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/couchonomics/Twitter https://twitter.com/Arjun_Vir_Singh?s=20TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@couchonomicsSubscribe to Arjun's LinkedIn newsletter, Couchonomics Crunch: https://bit.ly/3WI4A6E

Is today’s financial system fit for a digital-first world?Not quite — and Siddharth Shetty is here to tell us why.In this episode of Couchonomics, Arjun speaks with Finternet Labs CEO Siddharth Shetty, one of the architects behind India’s UPI and  Account Aggregator framework, to unpack the vision for Finternet — a universal financial infrastructure layer designed to empower users, build trust, and unlock global interoperability.We explore how fragmented rails, legacy systems, and a lack of verifiability are holding back progress, and how Finternet could be the solution that brings it all together.👉 What you’ll learn:- Why identity, credentials & asset control need to shift back to users- How Finternet coexists with CBDCs, stablecoins & real-time payment systems- The role of governments vs private sector in future infrastructure- Middle East leapfrogging, tokenization & AI-driven transactions🔗 Watch, learn, and join the conversation about the future of digital finance.Couchonomics with Arjun Season 04 is brought to you by our partners:Adyen https://www.adyen.com/Thunes https://thunes.com/Mastercard https://mastercard.com/E& https://www.eand.com/Digit9 https://www.digitnine.com/SC Ventures https://scventures.io/Hala https://hala.com/Discover how the Finternet is reimagining finance for a connected world. Tap the link in the show notes to learn more. 👇https://drive.google.com/file/d/1qIw8wSbw26mw8uLXIK8SohmGvvJobcPX/view?usp=sharing Explore Finternet Labs: https://finternetlab.io/Chapters:00:00 Episode Highlights01:58 Exploring Finternet Labs03:01 Understanding Financial Infrastructure05:33 The Vision of Finternet Labs13:19 Governance and Dispute Resolution25:02 Future of Financial Systems27:07 Web3 and Coexistence with Traditional Financial Systems29:15 Interoperability Challenges and Solutions31:42 Cross-Border Transactions and Emerging Technologies36:12 The Role of Digital Identity in Financial Ecosystems40:45 Centralization vs. Decentralization in Digital Identity44:13 Introduction to Finnet and Its Objectives46:34 The Finternet Labs: Structure and Goals50:21 Opportunities for the Middle East in Digital Finance53:01 Conclusion and Future EventsOur website 👉 https://bit.ly/3jk7UH0Find us on our social media platforms:Arjun's LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/arjunvirsingh/CCN LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/couchonomics-with-arjun-singh/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/couchonomics/Twitter https://twitter.com/Arjun_Vir_Singh?s=20TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@couchonomicsSubscribe to Arjun's LinkedIn newsletter, Couchonomics Crunch: https://bit.ly/3WI4A6E

The future of payments won’t be card-swiped or cash-counted — it’ll be fast, digital, and deeply integrated.In this episode of Couchonomics with Arjun, Floris de Kort, CEO of Thunes, joins to unpack what it really takes to build a global payments network across 130+ markets, from wallets to banks to mobile rails.What’s inside:- Why real-time payments still face real-world friction- How Thunes is turning compliance into a competitive edge- The rise of B2B payouts — and why corporates are driving the volume- Why MENA is now a proving ground for wallet innovation- The growing role of stablecoins in global financeIf you're building in fintech, infrastructure, or cross-border payments, this one’s essential listening.🎧 Watch or listen on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts.Couchonomics with Arjun Season 04 is brought to you by our partners:Adyen https://www.adyen.com/Thunes https://thunes.com/Mastercard https://mastercard.com/E& https://www.eand.com/Digit9 https://www.digitnine.com/SC Ventures https://scventures.io/Hala https://hala.com/Chapters:00:00 Episode Highlights00:48 Introduction01:34 State of the Payments Industry03:39 The Rise of B2B Payments05:33 Real-Time Payments and Global Trends11:26 The Role of Stablecoins in Modern Payments20:34 Regulation and the Future of Stablecoins23:27 Cost and Efficiency of Modern Payment Systems23:52 Regulatory Evolution and Market Disruption24:17 Thunes' Recent Milestones and Future Plans24:50 Challenges and Strategies in the US Market25:30 Investment and Growth Focus26:29 AI Integration in Financial Services29:41 Navigating Complex Regulatory Environments38:37 Middle East Expansion and Local Strategies42:23 Conclusion and Future OutlookOur website 👉 https://bit.ly/3jk7UH0Find us on our social media platforms:Arjun's LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/arjunvirsingh/CCN LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/couchonomics-with-arjun-singh/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/couchonomics/Twitter https://twitter.com/Arjun_Vir_Singh?s=20TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@couchonomicsSubscribe to Arjun's LinkedIn newsletter, Couchonomics Crunch: https://bit.ly/3WI4A6E

Crypto isn’t dead, it’s going institutional. In this episode of Couchonomics with Arjun, Rifad Mahasneh, CEO of OKX MENA, joins the show to unpack what real digital asset adoption looks like beyond the headlines.We explore how OKX is building for scale, trust, and regulation - especially in the UAE, where crypto is becoming infrastructure, not just innovation.🎯 What’s inside: • Post-FTX trust rebuild: custody, compliance & proof-of-reserves • Stablecoins, CBDCs & the future of programmable money • Tokenization with real-world utility • Why the UAE is leading the global charge in crypto regulationFull episode out now on YouTube, Spotify & Apple Podcasts.Couchonomics with Arjun Season 04 is brought to you by our partners:Adyen https://www.adyen.com/Thunes https://thunes.com/Mastercard https://mastercard.com/E& https://www.eand.com/Digit9 https://www.digitnine.com/SC Ventures https://scventures.io/Hala https://hala.com/Chapters:00:00 Episode Highlights00:56 Welcome to Couchonomics01:48 Exploring OKX and Crypto Basics03:29 Why the UAE for Crypto?06:34 Understanding Crypto Terminology09:37 State of Crypto in 202512:57 Institutional Adoption of Crypto17:04 Bitcoin: Proof of Value19:24 Centralized vs Decentralized Finance24:00 Regulatory Landscape and Challenges28:59 Regulatory Challenges in Blockchain31:00 Innovating in the Crypto Space32:32 Educating and Differentiating in the Market41:04 Stablecoins and Their Impact45:06 The Future of CBDCs and Stablecoins49:46 Tokenization of Real-World Assets54:50 OKX's Future Plans and Market Expansion57:45 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsOur website 👉 https://bit.ly/3jk7UH0Find us on our social media platforms:Arjun's LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/arjunvirsingh/CCN LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/couchonomics-with-arjun-singh/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/couchonomics/Twitter https://twitter.com/Arjun_Vir_Singh?s=20TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@couchonomicsSubscribe to Arjun's LinkedIn newsletter, Couchonomics Crunch: https://bit.ly/3WI4A6E

💸 What’s the real fintech miracle? Lending to SMEs — and staying alive 9 years later.In this episode of Couchonomics with Arjun, we’re joined by Nikhilesh Goel, Co-Founder & CEO of Validus, Southeast Asia’s largest SME financing platform.We unpack how Validus scaled to $5B+ in credit across the region by avoiding the hype and building disciplined, anchor-based lending models that actually work.💡 Why SME lending is a graveyard for most fintechs 💡 Why 90% of Validus' capital comes from banks, not VCs 💡 AI that serves the ops, not the pitch 💡 How they scaled across SEA without shortcuts🎧 Full episode now live on YouTube, Spotify & Apple Podcasts. Watch if you're building real fintech — not just noise.#CouchonomicsWithArjun #Validus #SMELending #Fintech #DigitalBanking #AnchorLending #SoutheastAsia #FutureOfFinanceCouchonomics with Arjun Season 04 is brought to you by our partners:Adyen https://www.adyen.com/Thunes https://thunes.com/Mastercard https://mastercard.com/E& https://www.eand.com/Digit9 https://www.digitnine.com/SC Ventures https://scventures.io/Hala https://hala.com/chapters:00:00 Episode Highlights01:05 Meet Nikhilesh, CEO of Validus01:56 The Genesis of Validus03:05 Navigating the SME Financing Landscape06:08 Challenges and Solutions in SME Lending09:00 The Role of Technology in SME Financing11:32 Supply Chain Financing Model18:57 The Future of SME Financing29:05 Building Relationships with SMEs31:13 Anchor-Based Lending 32:07 Regulatory Challenges in Indonesia and Thailand37:04 Ethical Lending Practices42:57 Competition in the FinTech Space49:40 Exportability and Future Plans51:42 Impact of Global Supply Chain Disruptions52:31 Adopting AI and Frontier Technologies56:24 Final Thoughts and Future DirectionsOur website 👉 https://bit.ly/3jk7UH0Find us on our social media platforms:Arjun's LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/arjunvirsingh/CCN LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/couchonomics-with-arjun-singh/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/couchonomics/Twitter https://twitter.com/Arjun_Vir_Singh?s=20TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@couchonomicsSubscribe to Arjun's LinkedIn newsletter, Couchonomics Crunch: https://bit.ly/3WI4A6E

AI isn’t a campaign. It’s a core banking reset.In this episode of Couchonomics with Arjun, we’re joined by Amith Rajan, CEO of Neo Ventures and Head of Digital Wholesale Banking at Mashreq, for a candid conversation on how AI, tokenization, and infrastructure transformation are reshaping the banking stack from the inside out.We unpack:- Why "rip and replace" is a myth and what real legacy evolution looks like-How Mashreq is deploying AI across KYC, onboarding, and customer insights-The role of tokenized assets, CBDCs, and smart contracts in wholesale banking- How Neo Ventures is exporting IP and scaling infrastructure beyond capital- Why culture,  not technology, is the biggest barrier to digital transformation🎧 Full episode now streaming on YouTube, Spotify & Apple Podcasts.🎧 Watch now and subscribe for more conversations on the future of finance.Couchonomics with Arjun Season 04 is brought to you by our partners:Adyen https://www.adyen.com/Thunes https://thunes.com/Mastercard https://mastercard.com/E& https://www.eand.com/Digit9 https://www.digitnine.com/SC Ventures https://scventures.io/Hala https://hala.com/Chapters:00:00 Episode Highlights00:43 Welcome to Couchonomics01:48 Aligning Dual Roles in Banking04:11 Challenges in Wholesale Banking06:51 The Role of AI in Banking11:14 FinTech and Digital Assets25:14 The Future of Tokenization27:04 CBDCs and Stablecoins: A Comparative Analysis29:14 Exploring Digital Assets in the Lab29:47 Introduction to New Ventures30:49 Venture Building and Investment Strategies35:45 Scouting and Partnerships with Fintechs39:08 Challenges and Opportunities in the VC Landscape46:17 Advice for Institutions Entering the CVC Space48:34 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsOur website 👉 https://bit.ly/3jk7UH0Find us on our social media platforms:Arjun's LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/arjunvirsingh/CCN LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/couchonomics-with-arjun-singh/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/couchonomics/Twitter https://twitter.com/Arjun_Vir_Singh?s=20TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@couchonomicsSubscribe to Arjun's LinkedIn newsletter, Couchonomics Crunch: https://bit.ly/3WI4A6E

The core of banking is broken, and duct-taping legacy systems won’t fix it.This week on Couchonomics with Arjun, I’m joined by Myles Bertrand, CEO of Tuum, the modular core banking platform built in Estonia and now scaling across Europe and the GCC.Tuum isn’t selling digital lipstick. They’re rebuilding the real plumbing of modern banking — one composable, cloud-native layer at a time.💡 In this episode:- Why full core replacement is a myth — and composability is the real unlock- How to modernize without breaking everything (or everyone)- What it takes to scale infra platforms into the GCC- Where AI fits in — and where it doesn’t- Why institutional banking might be the biggest opportunity for transformationIf you’re in banking, infra, SaaS, or scaling into MENA, this episode is required listening.#couchonomicswitharjun  #CoreBanking #BankingInfrastructure #DigitalBanking #ComposableInfra #Fintech #MENA #GCCStartups #AIinBanking #Tuum #FutureOfFinance #BankTech #SaaS #LeadershipCouchonomics with Arjun Season 04 is brought to you by our partners:Adyen https://www.adyen.com/Thunes https://thunes.com/Mastercard https://mastercard.com/E& https://www.eand.com/Digit9 https://www.digitnine.com/SC Ventures https://scventures.io/Hala https://hala.com/Find us on our social media platforms:Arjun's LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/arjunvirsingh/Couchonomics LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/couchonomics-with-arjun-singh/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/couchonomics/Twitter https://twitter.com/Arjun_Vir_Singh?s=20TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@couchonomicsSubscribe to Arjun's LinkedIn newsletter, Couchonomics Crunch: https://bit.ly/3WI4A6E00:00 Episode Highlights01:59 Myles' Journey to Estonia02:58 The Story of TOMB05:40 Challenges and Trends in Banking10:18 Cloud and Banking Infrastructure15:17 Complexity in Banking Systems20:03 Regulatory and Cultural Challenges25:38 Competitive Landscape in Core Banking26:41 Banking as a Service Evolution27:45 Challenges and Opportunities in the Market29:46 The Role of Technology Providers31:20 Core Banking and Integration Strategies40:03 AI in Banking: Potential and Challenges45:57 Cultural Shifts and Technological Adoption49:12 Regional Focus and Future Plans51:25 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsOur website 👉 https://bit.ly/3jk7UH0Find us on our social media platforms:Arjun's LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/arjunvirsingh/CCN LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/couchonomics-with-arjun-singh/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/couchonomics/Twitter https://twitter.com/Arjun_Vir_Singh?s=20TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@couchonomicsSubscribe to Arjun's LinkedIn newsletter, Couchonomics Crunch: https://bit.ly/3WI4A6E

In this episode of Couchonomics with Arjun, we sit down with Tim Levene, CEO of Augmentum Fintech, the UK’s only publicly listed fintech venture capital firm.From going public to backing infrastructure instead of hype, Tim shares what permanent capital allows that traditional VC structures don’t and why he believes the next decade of fintech will be won with discipline, not just disruption.What we cover:🛋️ Why Augmentum chose public markets over LP cycles🛋️ The real story behind growth-at-all-costs and its fallout🛋️ Why the GCC is becoming central to Augmentum’s investment strategy🛋️ What it takes to stay relevant when the hype fades🎧 Now streaming on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts.Couchonomics with Arjun Season 04 is brought to you by our partners:Adyen https://www.adyen.com/Thunes https://thunes.com/Mastercard https://mastercard.com/E& https://www.eand.com/Digit9 https://www.digitnine.com/SC Ventures https://scventures.io/Hala https://hala.com/Find us on our social media platforms:Arjun's LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/arjunvirsingh/Couchonomics LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/couchonomics-with-arjun-singh/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/couchonomics/Twitter https://twitter.com/Arjun_Vir_Singh?s=20TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@couchonomicsSubscribe to Arjun's LinkedIn newsletter, Couchonomics Crunch: https://bit.ly/3WI4A6EChapters:00:00 – Episode Highlights02:45 – Why Augmentum chose to go public06:10 – Permanent capital vs traditional VC fundraising10:25 – What LPs and public shareholders want in today’s market13:55 – How Augmentum balances patient capital with fintech agility17:20 – The post-2021 correction: resetting the fintech ecosystem21:40 – Fintech infrastructure or B2C buzz: where the real value is now25:00 – Operator-led investing and what it means for founders29:15 – What makes a good VC-founder relationship33:40 – Augmentum’s evolving interest in the Middle East37:00 – Dubai and GCC as emerging fintech investment hubs41:30 – Tim’s take on profitability vs scale in VC45:05 – Outlook for fintech in the next 3–5 years48:50 – Closing reflections and final takeawaysOur website 👉 https://bit.ly/3jk7UH0Find us on our social media platforms:Arjun's LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/arjunvirsingh/CCN LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/couchonomics-with-arjun-singh/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/couchonomics/Twitter https://twitter.com/Arjun_Vir_Singh?s=20TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@couchonomicsSubscribe to Arjun's LinkedIn newsletter, Couchonomics Crunch: https://bit.ly/3WI4A6E

The next banking stack won’t just be fast — it has to be human.In this episode of Couchonomics with Arjun, Nick Drewett, Chief Commercial Officer at Engine by Starling, joins the conversation to share what it actually takes to launch and scale a digital bank — not in theory, but in practice.Engine is the tech spinout from Starling Bank - one of the world’s first profitable digital banks - and it’s now powering next-gen banking infrastructure globally.We cover:- How Salt Bank launched in under 12 months- Why most “modern” stacks still act like legacy- Where AI adds real value in banking- Why cost-to-serve is the new frontline- What it means to localise for the GCCEngine isn’t theory — it’s the tech behind Starling Bank’s success.📍🎧 Listen now on Spotify, YouTube & Apple Podcasts.Couchonomics with Arjun Season 04 is brought to you by our partners:Adyen https://www.adyen.com/Thunes https://thunes.com/Mastercard https://mastercard.com/E& https://www.eand.com/Digit9 https://www.digitnine.com/SC Ventures https://scventures.io/Hala https://hala.com/Chapters:00:00 Episode Highlights01:07Introduction01:15 Meet Nick Drewett and Engine01:53 The Story of Starling Bank02:23 Starling Bank's Success and Customer Service05:50 Introduction to Engine08:12 Engine's Global Expansion13:40 Case Study: Salt Bank in Romania20:15 Case Study: AMP Bank in Australia21:55 The Value of Banking Relationships22:52 Competition and Mobile App Strategy24:16 Global Banking Challenges and Localization26:40 Trust and Managed Services30:15 Technology and Banking as a Service38:34 Growth and Expansion Plans41:36 Final Thoughts and Future of BankingOur website 👉 https://bit.ly/3jk7UH0Find us on our social media platforms:Arjun's LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/arjunvirsingh/CCN LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/couchonomics-with-arjun-singh/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/couchonomics/Twitter https://twitter.com/Arjun_Vir_Singh?s=20TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@couchonomicsSubscribe to Arjun's LinkedIn newsletter, Couchonomics Crunch: https://bit.ly/3WI4A6E

There’s a $260B SME financing gap in MENA, and most players are still offering copy-paste solutions.In this episode of Couchonomics with Arjun, Craig Moore, Founder and CEO of Beehive, shares how one of the region’s original fintechs is tackling real problems with real results.Since 2014, Beehive has built a lending model that combines technology, regulatory know-how, and operational depth to serve the segment banks continue to overlook.In this conversation, we explore: • What SME lending looks like on the ground in the GCC • Why Beehive shifted from peer-to-peer to institutional capital • How investor appetite is changing, from family offices to global VCs • The practical role of AI in credit decisioning • Beehive’s plans for expansion into Saudi Arabia, Oman, and more📌 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube.#CouchonomicsWithArjun #SMELending #Fintech #DigitalBanking #MiddleEastFintech #AltCredit #VentureCapital #GCCStartups #FinancialInclusion #FounderVoicesCouchonomics with Arjun Season 04 is brought to you by our partners:Adyen https://www.adyen.com/Thunes https://thunes.com/Mastercard https://mastercard.com/E& https://www.eand.com/Digit9 https://www.digitnine.com/SC Ventures https://scventures.io/Hala https://hala.com/Find us on our social media platforms:Arjun's LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/arjunvirsingh/Couchonomics LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/couchonomics-with-arjun-singh/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/couchonomics/Twitter https://twitter.com/Arjun_Vir_Singh?s=20TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@couchonomicsSubscribe to Arjun's LinkedIn newsletter, Couchonomics Crunch: https://bit.ly/3WI4A6EChapters:00:00 Episode Highlights00:50 Intro01:37 Beehive's Origin and Mission04:22 Challenges in SME Lending12:45 Technology's Role in Lending15:08 Beehive's Evolution and Strategy21:29 Competitive Landscape and Future Outlook30:11 The SME Lending Landscape30:43 Challenges and Competition in SME Lending31:42 Significant Milestones and Growth33:16 BNPL and Merchant Lending35:46 Investment and Corporate Dynamics40:53 Embracing AI and Technology44:21 Blockchain and Tokenization47:09 Regional Expansion and Market Strategies51:34 Future Vision and Focus55:40 Final ThoughtsOur website 👉 https://bit.ly/3jk7UH0Find us on our social media platforms:Arjun's LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/arjunvirsingh/CCN LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/couchonomics-with-arjun-singh/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/couchonomics/Twitter https://twitter.com/Arjun_Vir_Singh?s=20TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@couchonomicsSubscribe to Arjun's LinkedIn newsletter, Couchonomics Crunch: https://bit.ly/3WI4A6E

The Venture Model Broke. But Startups Are Still Building.In this episode, Arjun is joined by Devin Kohli, General Partner at Outward VC, for a candid conversation on what’s next for venture capital.They unpack:- Shifting VC trends in Europe, MENA, and the USA- Outward’s bets on Curve, Vauban, Bud & more- AI hype vs. real vertical value- Tokenisation, digital assets & future financial infrastructure- Emerging tech hubs across Japan, MENA, Southeast AsiaPlus, Devin shares what conviction really looks like in a post-hype market — and why MENA founders are ones to watch.No pitch decks. No jargon. Just a candid chat about cycles, conviction, and building through uncertainty.🎧 Episode now live on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts.Couchonomics with Arjun Season 04 is brought to you by our partners:Adyen https://www.adyen.com/Thunes https://thunes.com/Mastercard https://mastercard.com/E& https://www.eand.com/Digit9 https://www.digitnine.com/SC Ventures https://scventures.io/Hala https://hala.com/chapters:00:00 Episode Highlights00:51 Introduction02:01 State of the Nation: VC Insights for 2023 and Beyond02:52 Impact of Global Events on VC and Startups13:43 The Genesis and Philosophy of Outward VC22:20 Challenges and Success Stories in VC Investments30:05 Key Qualities and Red Flags in Founders31:01 Identifying Key Qualities in Founders33:26 Quantitative Aspects of Evaluating Founders34:02 Emerging Sectors and Avoiding Herd Mentality35:15 Focus on Wealth Tech and Asset Management44:07 Challenges and Opportunities in Europe and the UK51:37 Middle East as a Growing Hub for FinTech54:12 Concluding Thoughts and Future ProspectsOur website 👉 https://bit.ly/3jk7UH0Find us on our social media platforms:Arjun's LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/arjunvirsingh/CCN LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/couchonomics-with-arjun-singh/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/couchonomics/Twitter https://twitter.com/Arjun_Vir_Singh?s=20TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@couchonomicsSubscribe to Arjun's LinkedIn newsletter, Couchonomics Crunch: https://bit.ly/3WI4A6E

Phygital is the new digital.On Episode 2 of Couchonomics with Arjun Season 4, we sit down with Coenraad Jonker — Founder & Group CEO of Tyme — a digital banking pioneer who’s built real scale across emerging markets.Tyme raised $250M in Series C. Reached a $1.5B valuation. Signed up 17M+ customers across South Africa and the Philippines. All while keeping CAC at one of the lowest levels globally.This isn’t hype. This is hard-earned traction.  We break down regulation, scale, AI-native banks & why incumbents can't keep up.If you want to understand the next decade of retail banking — this is the conversation.📺 Watch the full episode now on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts.Couchonomics with Arjun Season 04 is brought to you by our partners:Adyen https://www.adyen.com/Thunes https://thunes.com/Mastercard https://mastercard.com/E& https://www.eand.com/Digit9 https://www.digitnine.com/SC Ventures https://scventures.io/Hala https://hala.com/Chapters:00:00 Episode Highlights01:00 Introduction to the Guest and Tyme Group01:46 Overview of Tyme Bank's Operations02:46 The Growth of Digital Banking04:33 Challenges and Failures in Digital Banking08:54 Secrets to Tyme Bank's Success16:28 Future Plans and Strategies22:29 The Role of Digital Banks in the Financial Ecosystem25:14 The Future of Digital Banks27:10 Investor and Regulatory Perspectives29:51 Challenges for Traditional Banks39:38 Emerging Technologies and Their Impact45:26 The Importance of Ecosystems49:15 Future Expansion PlansOur website 👉 https://bit.ly/3jk7UH0Find us on our social media platforms:Arjun's LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/arjunvirsingh/CCN LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/couchonomics-with-arjun-singh/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/couchonomics/Twitter https://twitter.com/Arjun_Vir_Singh?s=20TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@couchonomicsSubscribe to Arjun's LinkedIn newsletter, Couchonomics Crunch: https://bit.ly/3WI4A6E

Season 4 of Couchonomics with Arjun kicks off with a venture builder shaking up the system — Gautam Jain from SC Ventures by Standard Chartered.From launching digital banks in Asia to building full-stack ventures in the GCC, Gautam’s now part of a team transforming how venture-building happens inside a bank.In this episode: 🧠 Innovation culture & internal equity 🧱 Building in real, underserved sectors 💡 Regulator-respecting fintech 🇸🇦 Why the GCC is ripe for bold ideasWatch to learn why SCV isn’t your typical corporate venture arm — and how it’s building businesses that matter.🎧 Watch now on YouTube or listen on all podcasting platforms! Couchonomics with Arjun Season 04 is brought to you by our partners:Adyen https://www.adyen.com/Thunes https://thunes.com/Mastercard https://mastercard.com/E& https://www.eand.com/Digit9 https://www.digitnine.com/SC Ventures https://scventures.io/Hala https://hala.com/chapters:00:00 Episode Highlight00:49 Welcome to Season Four01:13 Introducing Gautam Jain and SC Ventures01:59 Understanding SE Ventures04:29 The Importance of Mindset Shift in Banking06:17 Challenges and Strategies in Innovation20:04 The Role of Ecosystem Collaboration24:26 Balancing Risk, Regulation, and Innovation27:10 The Importance of People in Business27:54 The Changing Landscape of Financial Services28:46 Big Disruptive Trends and Technologies30:32 Globalization and Digital Assets31:38 Sustainability and Financial Inclusion34:43 Adapting to Ambiguity and Change37:54 Global Expansion and Market Dynamics42:37 Investment Strategies and Risk Appetite49:31 Future Vision for SE Ventures52:40 Final ThoughtsOur website 👉 https://bit.ly/3jk7UH0Find us on our social media platforms:Arjun's LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/arjunvirsingh/CCN LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/couchonomics-with-arjun-singh/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/couchonomics/Twitter https://twitter.com/Arjun_Vir_Singh?s=20TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@couchonomicsSubscribe to Arjun's LinkedIn newsletter, Couchonomics Crunch: https://bit.ly/3WI4A6E

We're officially back - bigger, bolder, more diverse, and more global than ever. In Season 4, we’re asking the real questions: - What’s next for AI, digital assets, open banking, and embedded finance? - How are regulations and disruptive technologies reshaping financial services? - Are we really keeping pace with the transformation?Over 100 episodes in — and the journey’s just getting started. Tune in and join the conversation as we decode the future of finance together. Our website 👉 https://bit.ly/3jk7UH0Find us on our social media platforms:Arjun's LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/arjunvirsingh/CCN LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/couchonomics-with-arjun-singh/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/couchonomics/Twitter https://twitter.com/Arjun_Vir_Singh?s=20TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@couchonomicsSubscribe to Arjun's LinkedIn newsletter, Couchonomics Crunch: https://bit.ly/3WI4A6E

Re-architecting Finance with Blockchain - Not Just Hype, But Real-World InfrastructureWe’re wrapping up this special Tokyo series of Couchonomics, filmed at the GFTN Forum — and what better way to close than with a bold conversation on the future of financial systems?In this final episode, I’m joined by Naveen Mallela, Co-Head of Kinexys & Managing Director at JP Morgan — and we’re going beyond the buzzwords to talk about what it really takes to rewire the plumbing of global finance.It’s a fascinating conversation about the real challenges — and opportunities — in transforming the global financial infrastructure.🎧 Tune in now on YouTube, Spotify, or Apple Podcasts.Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Stable Coins and Liquidity00:20 Welcome to Couch Genomics00:52 Introducing Navin Male and Connexus01:23 The Genesis of Connexus and Onyx03:48 Exploring Digital Assets and Payments06:15 Stable Coins vs. Commercial Bank Money09:23 Connexus' Global Footprint and Innovations11:52 Regulatory Challenges and Innovations19:03 Collaborations and Future Plans21:54 Conclusion and FarewellOur website 👉 https://bit.ly/3jk7UH0Find us on our social media platforms:Arjun's LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/arjunvirsingh/CCN LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/couchonomics-with-arjun-singh/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/couchonomics/Twitter https://twitter.com/Arjun_Vir_Singh?s=20TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@couchonomicsSubscribe to Arjun's LinkedIn newsletter, Couchonomics Crunch: https://bit.ly/3WI4A6E

Redefining Microfinance — With Feet on the Ground & Fire in the BellyWhat if the future of financial inclusion wasn’t digital-first… but human-first?In this Tokyo edition of Couchonomics with Arjun, we had the chance to sit down with Taejun Shin, Founder & CEO of Gojo — a rapidly growing microfinance platform working across 13 countries and reaching millions of underserved customers throughout the Global South. As for Gojo? Many are calling it the “private sector’s answer to the World Bank” — and it’s easy to see why.Tune in to the special series of Couchonomics with Arjun, which was recorded in Tokyo with the help of the GFTN Forum Japan. Available now on YouTube and all podcasting platforms!Chapters:00:00 Introduction and Welcome01:09 Meet Tahin: A Stateless Entrepreneur03:01 Journey to Financial Inclusion05:19 Founding Go J: The Private Sector World Bank08:12 Challenges and Strategies in Microfinance10:29 Technology and Customer Acquisition14:05 Role of Regulators and Major Banks17:50 Investor Relations and Capital Structure22:46 Future Plans and Expansion24:16 Conclusion and FarewellOur website 👉 https://bit.ly/3jk7UH0Find us on our social media platforms:Arjun's LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/arjunvirsingh/CCN LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/couchonomics-with-arjun-singh/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/couchonomics/Twitter https://twitter.com/Arjun_Vir_Singh?s=20TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@couchonomicsSubscribe to Arjun's LinkedIn newsletter, Couchonomics Crunch: https://bit.ly/3WI4A6E

Rewiring fintech infrastructure — operator-led, globally scaledCouchonomics with Arjun is once again beaming in from Japan. This time, we're joined by Logan Allin, Founder & Managing Partner at Fin Capital. Logan’s journey from SoFi Ventures to building Fin Capital is rooted in one big idea — fintech doesn’t need more flashy consumer apps, it needs better infrastructure.We unpack: 💼 Why Fin Capital backs B2B fintech for banks, insurers, and asset managers 🌍 Fin Capital’s expansion into Asia — why now might be the best time to bring your fintech to Tokyo 💸 Why banks are spending billions on outdated IT systems — and the urgent need for smarter, cloud-based solutions 🧩 The challenge of replacing core banking systems without relying on middleware Band-AidsWatch the full episode now — streaming on YouTube, Spotify & Apple Podcasts 🎧Subscribe to Arjun's LinkedIn newsletter, Couchonomics Crunch: https://bit.ly/3WI4A6EChapters:00:00 Introduction00:33 Meet Logan Allen of Fin Capital01:08 Logan's Journey: From SoFi Ventures to Fin Capital01:37 Fin Capital's Unique Approach and Strategy04:58 Global Expansion and Market Focus08:21 Challenges and Trends in FinTech09:06 Core Banking Infrastructure Concerns15:12 Japanese Market Insights and Opportunities25:07 VC Industry Evolution and Final Thoughts31:39 ConclusionOur website 👉 https://bit.ly/3jk7UH0Find us on our social media platforms:Arjun's LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/arjunvirsingh/CCN LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/couchonomics-with-arjun-singh/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/couchonomics/Twitter https://twitter.com/Arjun_Vir_Singh?s=20TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@couchonomicsSubscribe to Arjun's LinkedIn newsletter, Couchonomics Crunch: https://bit.ly/3WI4A6E

Rethinking Core Banking — From the Inside Out In this special GFTN Japan edition of Couchonomics with Arjun, we welcome Mayoran Rajendra, Managing Director and Head of the Asia Innovation Center at SMBC — one of Japan’s largest financial institutions.We discuss how his team is re-engineering the core of corporate banking using generative AI, automation, and agentic infrastructure — not just adding on shiny tools, but rebuilding from within.🔍 In this episode:- How data-driven dashboards are transforming CFO decision-making- Why real innovation starts with fixing foundations, not chasing trends- The hype vs. reality of GenAI in financial services- The rise of Agentic BaaS — and what it means for the future of banking🎧 Watch the full episode now — available on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts.Chapters:00:00 Introduction00:39 Meet Mayoran from SMBC01:05 Mayoran's Background and Transition to Banking04:20 Role and Mission of the Asia Innovation Center06:49 Challenges and Successes in Innovation10:38 Asia Rising Fund: Supporting Startups13:40 Generative AI: Hype vs. Reality17:08 Limitations and Innovations in AI Models18:14 CFO Agent: Revolutionizing Financial Reviews20:12 The Rise of AgTech AI and Open Finance21:30 Agentic Workflows in Banking25:05 Challenges and Opportunities for Traditional Banks27:00 Staying Relevant with Emerging Technologies30:18 Fostering Innovation in Financial Institutions33:22 Conclusion Our website 👉 https://bit.ly/3jk7UH0Find us on our social media platforms:Arjun's LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/arjunvirsingh/CCN LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/couchonomics-with-arjun-singh/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/couchonomics/Twitter https://twitter.com/Arjun_Vir_Singh?s=20TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@couchonomicsSubscribe to Arjun's LinkedIn newsletter, Couchonomics Crunch: https://bit.ly/3WI4A6E

What happens when alternative finance moves faster than regulation?On this episode of Couchonomics with Arjun, Professor Bob Wardrop — Co-Founder of the Cambridge Centre for Alternative Finance and RegGenome — breaks down why global regulatory frameworks are struggling to keep up.We explore:Why many regulators are still stuck in a pre-2008 mindsetThe rise of machine-readable, computational regulationWhat Japan is getting right (and wrong) in the fintech raceHow to actually build innovation teams within regulatorsTune in for a sharp look at the future of regulation in a fast-changing financial world.Chapters:00:00 Introduction 01:19 Founding of Cambridge Center for Alternative Finance (CCAF)05:16 Reg Genome: A New Venture15:16 Challenges in Financial Regulation19:17 The Role of Technology in Regulation22:43 Global Regulatory Landscape23:19 Japan's Position in FinTech and Regulation27:20 Characteristics of Strong Innovation Teams32:02 Future of Financial Regulation35:20 ConclusionOur website 👉 https://bit.ly/3jk7UH0Find us on our social media platforms:Arjun's LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/arjunvirsingh/CCN LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/couchonomics-with-arjun-singh/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/couchonomics/Twitter https://twitter.com/Arjun_Vir_Singh?s=20TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@couchonomicsSubscribe to Arjun's LinkedIn newsletter, Couchonomics Crunch: https://bit.ly/3WI4A6E

Japan is regulated, conservative — and still ahead of the curve in digital assets.In this episode of Couchonomics with Arjun, recorded in Tokyo with the support of GFTN Forum Japan, we sit down with Genki Oda, Managing Executive Director at SBI Holdings and Chairman of the Japan Virtual and Crypto Assets Exchange Association (JVCEA).Genki has played a central role in shaping Japan’s digital asset landscape, and in this candid conversation, he shares sharp insights on where crypto is headed — in Japan and beyond.A sharp and timely look at the future of digital finance in one of the world’s most complex markets.#CouchonomicsWithArjun #Crypto #Web3 #DigitalAssets #JVCEA #SBIHoldings #Regulation #Innovation #Japan #Fintech #GFTNForum #Bitcoin #FutureOfFinanceFind us on our social media platforms:Arjun's LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/arjunvirsingh/Couchonomics LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/couchonomics-with-arjun-singh/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/couchonomics/Twitter https://twitter.com/Arjun_Vir_Singh?s=20TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@couchonomicsSubscribe to Arjun's LinkedIn newsletter, Couchonomics Crunch: https://bit.ly/3WI4A6EChapters:00:00 Introduction00:37 Meet Genki Oda02:04 The Evolution of Japan's Crypto Market04:42 Role of JVCEA in Crypto Regulation06:11 Japan's Position in the Global FinTech Scene11:10 SBI Holdings and Its Crypto Ventures12:45 Global Expansion of SBI Holdings13:42 Investing Outside Japan14:37 Japan's Global Market Focus15:06 Attracting Global Innovators to Japan16:39 Challenges for Foreigners in Japan18:27 Digital Assets in Japan19:32 Stablecoins and Their Adoption21:52 Future of CBDCs in Japan23:30 SBI Holdings' Future Priorities24:59 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsOur website 👉 https://bit.ly/3jk7UH0Find us on our social media platforms:Arjun's LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/arjunvirsingh/CCN LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/couchonomics-with-arjun-singh/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/couchonomics/Twitter https://twitter.com/Arjun_Vir_Singh?s=20TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@couchonomicsSubscribe to Arjun's LinkedIn newsletter, Couchonomics Crunch: https://bit.ly/3WI4A6E

Why hasn’t Japan produced more global startup giants?In this special Japan series of Couchonomics with Arjun, recorded in Tokyo and in collaboration with GFTN Forum Japan, Arjun sits down with Jordan Fisher, Venture Partner at Antler and Co-founder of Zehitomo.From the hidden inefficiencies in Japan’s service economy to the deeper structural and cultural barriers that limit growth, this conversation explores what it will take to build a more ambitious, globally competitive startup ecosystem in Japan.🎙️ This is Episode 1 of a special 7-part series recorded on location across Japan.👉 Don’t forget to follow the show to stay tuned for the rest of the Japan series.Find us on our social media platforms:Arjun's LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/arjunvirsingh/Couchonomics LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/couchonomics-with-arjun-singh/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/couchonomics/Twitter https://twitter.com/Arjun_Vir_Singh?s=20TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@couchonomicsSubscribe to Arjun's LinkedIn newsletter, Couchonomics Crunch: https://bit.ly/3WI4A6Echapters:00:00 Introduction00:46 Meet Jordan: From Finance to Entrepreneurship01:20 The Birth of Zehitomo05:52 Challenges in Japan's Startup Ecosystem13:38 The Role of Antler in the Startup Scene15:51 Building a Global Decacorn16:34 Antler's Unique Approach17:13 The Residency Program17:38 Investment and Support18:39 Success Stories and Future Plans20:59 Challenges and Opportunities in Japan24:25 The Role of Corporates and Collaboration27:16 Regulatory and Government Influence30:44 Final Thoughts Our website 👉 https://bit.ly/3jk7UH0Find us on our social media platforms:Arjun's LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/arjunvirsingh/CCN LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/couchonomics-with-arjun-singh/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/couchonomics/Twitter https://twitter.com/Arjun_Vir_Singh?s=20TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@couchonomicsSubscribe to Arjun's LinkedIn newsletter, Couchonomics Crunch: https://bit.ly/3WI4A6E