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  • In this episode, hosts Alex Lawrence and Alanna Frost discuss the growing role of AI in finance - including how AI agents are now capable of managing end-to-end payment processes. They touch on the increasing interest in stablecoins among traditional banks, the rising demand for speed in payments, and how fintech is shifting towards deeper partnerships and operational efficiency. The conversation also highlights the evolving expectations of CFOs, with agility and risk management taking center stage.

    Check out the Convera Payments Pulse report for more on the shift.

    Brex CFO Imperative report for source material and inspiration.

    Disclaimer: Converge is Convera’s podcast that discusses a range of financial services topics. We want to remind our listeners that the information shared on this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Please note that the opinions expressed on Converge are solely the opinions of the host and the guests, not Convera’s.

  • In this episode of the Converge Market Update, George Vessey and Steven Dooley discuss the recent developments in financial markets, focusing on the US-China trade deal, US fiscal concerns, the performance of the US dollar, and the implications of Australia's monetary policy shift. They analyze how these factors are shaping market sentiment and investor behavior, highlighting the ongoing uncertainty and the potential for future market movements.

    Disclaimer: Converge is Convera’s podcast that discusses a range of financial services topics. We want to remind our listeners that the information shared on this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Please note that the opinions expressed on Converge are solely the opinions of the host and the guests, not Convera’s.

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  • In this episode, Bryce Deeney, CEO and founder of Equipifi, discusses the innovative approach of his company in the Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) space. He shares his unique journey from being a professional poker player to leading a fintech startup that aims to disrupt traditional banking models. The conversation delves into the challenges of launching a new financial product, the future of embedded finance, and the potential expansion into the SME market. Bryce emphasizes the importance of consumer engagement and the operational efficiencies that Equipifi brings to financial institutions.

    Disclaimer: Converge is Convera’s podcast that discusses a range of financial services topics. We want to remind our listeners that the information shared on this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Please note that the opinions expressed on Converge are solely the opinions of the host and the guests, not Convera’s.

  • In this episode of Converge, host Steven Dooley and Convera's lead APAC FX and global macro strategist, Shier Lee, discuss the significant movements in Asian currencies, particularly the Taiwanese dollar, and their implications for the broader FX market. The factors driving these changes include tariff worries, of course, but also trade and foreign equity flows, illustrating why these currencies have recently gained. The conversation also touches on the outlook for commodity currencies and the economic landscape across Asia, highlighting the interplay between currency movements and macroeconomic developments.

    Disclaimer: Converge is Convera’s podcast that discusses a range of financial services topics. We want to remind our listeners that the information shared on this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Please note that the opinions expressed on Converge are solely the opinions of the host and the guests, not Convera’s.

  • In this conversation, Raja Chakravorti discusses the transformative potential of blockchain technology, particularly through the Stellar Development Foundation. He emphasizes the importance of creating accessible financial solutions for underserved populations, the role of tokenization and stablecoins in democratizing finance, and the significance of regulatory clarity in driving innovation. The discussion also highlights Stellar's partnerships and initiatives aimed at improving cross-border payments and expanding its reach in the APAC region.

    Disclaimer: Converge is Convera’s podcast that discusses a range of financial services topics. We want to remind our listeners that the information shared on this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Please note that the opinions expressed on Converge are solely the opinions of the host and the guests, not Convera’s.

  • In this episode of Converge Market Update, George Vessey and Kevin Ford discuss the growing concerns surrounding the 'Sell America' trade, particularly in light of President Trump's threats to fire Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell unless he cuts interest rates. They explore the implications of this tension on market dynamics, the importance of Fed independence, and the potential future of the US dollar amidst ongoing economic uncertainty.

    Disclaimer: Converge is Convera’s podcast that discusses a range of financial services topics. We want to remind our listeners that the information shared on this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Please note that the opinions expressed on Converge are solely the opinions of the host and the guests, not Convera’s.

  • In this podcast, Jody Flournoy from Blockfuel talks about how blockchain is shaking things up in traditional finance, especially when it comes to cross-border payments. The conversation covers why stablecoins matter, some of the challenges with international transactions, and what a "stablecoin sandwich" actually means. Jody also touches on where digital treasuries could be heading, how crypto regulations are shaping up, and the mix between permissioned and permissionless tech in finance. It all comes back to the importance of transparency, trust and staying adaptable as the financial world keeps changing.

    Disclaimer: Converge is Convera’s podcast that discusses a range of financial services topics. We want to remind our listeners that the information shared on this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Please note that the opinions expressed on Converge are solely the opinions of the host and the guests, not Convera’s.

  • In this conversation, George Vessey and Kevin Ford discuss the recent turbulence in financial markets triggered by Trump's aggressive tariff policies. They explore the implications of these tariffs on the economy, the potential for a 'hard reset' theory suggesting a deliberate slowdown to pressure the Federal Reserve, and the challenges of balancing economic policies amidst rising inflation and market volatility. The discussion also delves into the weakening US dollar and its impact on global markets, highlighting the uncertainty and complexity of the current economic landscape.

    Note: Recorded before Trump's recent U-turn on tariffs.

    Disclaimer: Converge is Convera’s podcast that discusses a range of financial services topics. We want to remind our listeners that the information shared on this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Please note that the opinions expressed on Converge are solely the opinions of the host and the guests, not Convera’s.

  • Real estate tokenization is changing how people invest in property. In this episode, hosts Alex Lawrence and Alanna Frost speak with Jack Land, Head of Marketing and UK Growth at MetaWealth, about how blockchain - specifically Solana - enables fractional ownership of high-end real estate. They discuss the benefits of tokenization, regulatory challenges, and how ESG principles shape asset selection. The conversation also explores the broader implications of Web3 for traditional finance and how real-time tracking of rental yields builds investor trust.

    Tune in for insights from the latest Fintech Meetup and deep dive into real-world asset tokenization.

    Disclaimer: Converge is Convera’s podcast that discusses a range of financial services topics. We want to remind our listeners that the information shared on this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Please note that the opinions expressed on Converge are solely the opinions of the host and the guests, not Convera’s.

  • In this episode of the Converge Market Update, George Vessey, Lead FX & Macro Strategist, and Steven Dooley, Head of Market Insights, discuss the ongoing tariff developments and their impact on financial markets. They explore the mixed economic data trends, the responses from central banks, and the contrasting signals from consumer confidence and commodity prices. The conversation also delves into the recent movements in the FX market, highlighting the performance of various currencies amidst the prevailing uncertainty.

    Disclaimer: Converge is Convera’s podcast that discusses a range of financial services topics. We want to remind our listeners that the information shared on this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Please note that the opinions expressed on Converge are solely the opinions of the host and the guests, not Convera’s.

  • Alex Lawrence and co-host Alanna Frost sit down with fintech expert Simon Taylor from Sardine and Fintech Brainfood to talk about the "scamdemic" facing financial services and how AI is fighting back. Simon shares how his company is using AI to tackle fraud, streamline KYC, and reduce false positives. He also makes a strong case for stablecoins as a "universal layer" for payments - and why every business needs a stablecoin strategy.

    Disclaimer: Converge is Convera’s podcast that discusses a range of financial services topics. We want to remind our listeners that the information shared on this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Please note that the opinions expressed on Converge are solely the opinions of the host and the guests, not Convera’s.

  • In this episode, Steven Dooley, Head of Market Insights, and George Vessey, Lead FX and Macro Strategist, break down the market volatility sparked by President Trump's tariff policies. They talk about the impact on the US economy, the chances of a recession, and the weakening dollar. They also discuss why the euro is staying strong despite major changes in Europe. The conversation wraps up with insights into how currencies are reacting to shifting geopolitical and economic landscapes.

    Disclaimer: Converge is Convera’s podcast that discusses a range of financial services topics. We want to remind our listeners that the information shared on this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Please note that the opinions expressed on Converge are solely the opinions of the host and the guests, not Convera’s.

  • In this episode of Converge, we're joined by Nkiru Uwaje, COO and Co-Founder of MANSA, to talk about the big shifts happening in cross-border payments. She breaks down how decentralized finance (DeFi) and stablecoins are making transactions faster, cheaper, and more accessible - especially in emerging markets where getting US dollar liquidity isn't always easy.

    We get into why liquidity is such a big deal, how stablecoins cut out the middleman, and what businesses need to know about regulation. Nkiru also shares her thoughts on tokenization and how it could open up new ways to invest and move money. If you're curious about how all this impacts the future of finance, you won't want to miss this one!

    Chapters

    00:00 The Future of Finance: Decentralized Payments

    02:53 Liquidity in Cross-Border Payments

    05:55 Challenges in Emerging Markets

    08:51 The Promise of Stablecoins

    11:52 Leveraging Multi-Chain Ecosystems

    14:46 Navigating Regulatory Landscapes

    18:13 Tokenization of Real World Assets

    21:06 The Role of Stablecoins in Global Trade

    24:07 Competitive Financing Solutions

    26:53 Embracing Innovation in Financial Services

    Disclaimer: Converge is Convera’s podcast that discusses a range of financial services topics. We want to remind our listeners that the information shared on this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Please note that the opinions expressed on Converge are solely the opinions of the host and the guests, not Convera’s.

  • Markets are shifting—have we reached a turning point? This week, Steven Dooley joins us to discuss “tariff fatigue” in FX markets, the slowing US economy, and its impact on the dollar, bond yields, and equities.

    Meanwhile, Europe is showing signs of resilience, driven by stabilizing economic data, hawkish ECB signals, and lower energy costs. We also break down key FX moves, including the weakening dollar and strengthening euro, and what rising inflation means for central bank policy.

    Chapters

    00:00 Current State of the US Economy

    05:05 Market Reactions and Speculative Trends

    09:49 European Economic Recovery and Currency Impacts

    Disclaimer: Converge is Convera’s podcast that discusses a range of financial services topics. We want to remind our listeners that the information shared on this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Please note that the opinions expressed on Converge are solely the opinions of the host and the guests, not Convera’s.

  • We sat down with Jessica Chen Riolfi, co-founder and CEO of Uprise, about her journey in the fintech industry, the challenges small business owners face in financial planning, and the promising role (and pitfalls) of AI.

    We touched on Uprise's unique approach to financial advisory combining the best of human support, embedded services, and AI. We also discussed the importance of partnerships in building best-in-class embedded finance and payments experiences, and the future of diversity, inclusion, and community impact in the fintech ecosystem.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Jessica Chen Riolfi and Uprise

    05:47 AI in Financial Advisory: Overcoming Resistance

    11:53 The Future of Embedded Finance

    18:03 Diversity in FinTech and Community Impact

    For more episodes, head to: https:www.convera.com/podcast

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    Disclaimer: Converge is Convera’s podcast that discusses a range of financial services topics. We want to remind our listeners that the information shared on this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Please note that the opinions expressed on Converge are solely the opinions of the host and the guests, not Convera’s.

  • In this episode, FX and Macro Analyst George Vessey discusses the current macroeconomic landscape, focusing on inflation, tariffs, and their impact on markets.

    He highlights the persistent inflationary pressures, the evolving trade tensions under Trump's policies, and the implications for the US dollar..

    We also cover the volatility in markets due to these factors and provides insights into the Fed's stance on interest rates, concluding with key takeaways for investors.

    Chapters

    00:00 Inflation and Market Volatility

    03:12 Trade Tensions and Tariff Impacts

    05:56 The Strength of the Dollar

    10:00 Key Takeaways and Market Outlook

    Disclaimer: Converge is Convera’s podcast that discusses a range of financial services topics. We want to remind our listeners that the information shared on this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Please note that the opinions expressed on Converge are solely the opinions of the host and the guests, not Convera’s.


  • This week, we sat down with Soups Ranjan, the co-founder and CEO of AI risk management platform, Sardine, to chat about the evolution of fraud prevention technologies in the AI era. We touch on the importance of partnerships in the fintech space, and the challenges posed by AI in fraud detection - including how Sardine uses AI to detect deepfakes and improve identity verification.

    Soups' shares his belief in the need for a culture of transparency and vulnerability among businesses in sharing information about fraud incidents, and how Sardine's information-sharing consortium, Sonar, is closing the gap between banks and fintechs to combat fraud more effectively. We also cover the significance of real-time payments and the role of data in managing risk effectively.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Sardine and Recent Developments

    02:58 Partnerships and Collaborative Strategies

    05:57 Adapting to AI Threats in Fraud Prevention

    08:52 The Limitations of Reimbursement in Fraud Cases

    11:59 Sardine X: Enhancing Information Sharing

    14:46 Creating a Culture of Transparency in Fraud Prevention

    18:04 Addressing the Visibility Gap in Embedded Finance

    20:49 Real-Time Payments and Fraud Detection

    24:02 Data as the Core of Risk Management

    26:47 Looking Ahead: The Future of Fintech in 2025

    Disclaimer: Converge is Convera’s podcast that discusses a range of financial services topics. We want to remind our listeners that the information shared on this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Please note that the opinions expressed on Converge are solely the opinions of the host and the guests, not Convera’s.

  • Is the U.S. recession still on the horizon, or has resilience pushed it further out? Can Europe’s economy surprise to the upside despite the gloom? How will inflation data shape central bank policies in the coming months?

    This week, we break down the February Global FXOutlook and the market’s reaction to Trump 2.0. From the initial USD rally post-election to its sharp pullback on tariff uncertainties, we analyze key FX moves across the euro, pound, and Aussie dollar.

    Tune in for the latest from Convera Head of Market Insights, Steven Dooley.

    Disclaimer: Converge is Convera’s podcast that discusses a range of financial services topics. We want to remind our listeners that the information shared on this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Please note that the opinions expressed on Converge are solely the opinions of the host and the guests, not Convera’s.

  • LatAM is a hotbed for fintech innovation, and Colombia - LatAm’s 4th largest economy - occupies a unique position in global commerce. In this episode, we sat down with Christian Guevara Téllez and Luis Felipe Aparicio of Colombian brokerage firm, Acciones y Valores S.A., to discuss the cross-border payment landscape in Colombia. We touch on the unique regulatory challenges faced in Colombia, the importance of serving SMEs (Small-Medium Enterprises) in the economy, and how Acciones y Valores is leveraging technology, including AI, to enhance payment processes, and how Colombian businesses are looking forward and embracing the seismic changes in the cross-border payments industry.

    Disclaimer: Converge is Convera’s podcast that discusses a range of financial services topics. We want to remind our listeners that the information shared on this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Please note that the opinions expressed on Converge are solely the opinions of the host and the guests, not Convera’s.

  • The global bond sell-off continues to reverberate through markets, US economic resilience has dampened Fed rate cut bets, equities are falling, the dollar is surging and UK assets, including the pound, are tumbling – welcome to 2025.

    After a fairly turbulent 12 months, people are wondering what 2025 may hold in store. It’s that time where it’s not uncommon to see calls by analysts for the year ahead becoming obsolete.

    Join UK FX Analyst George Vessey as he breaks down this week's macroeconomic news with a focus on the GBP.

    Disclaimer: Converge is Convera’s podcast that discusses a range of financial services topics. We want to remind our listeners that the information shared on this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Please note that the opinions expressed on Converge are solely the opinions of the host and the guests, not Convera’s.