Fintech Files: Insights on TECH by BCG Platinion

How can the financial sector lead the way in global decarbonization efforts? In this episode, we sit down with Mustafa Bosca, Co-Founder and Chief Decarbonization Officer at CarbonSifr, to explore the pivotal role financial services play in combating climate change. We delve into how Mustafa helps banks and organizations measure, reduce, and remove their carbon footprints, leveraging data to drive impactful change. Mustafa also shares his journey from being a BCG consultant to becoming a climate tech entrepreneur. Discussion Highlights: * The Financial Sector's Role in Decarbonization: Mustafa explains how financial services are embedded in every aspect of our lives and how banks can enable decarbonization by financing sustainable projects. Mustafa highlights that decarbonization is not a zero-sum game. By investing in sustainable practices, businesses can increase efficiency, reach new customer segments, and engage customers in innovative ways.  * Real-World Applications and Partnerships: Mustafa shares examples of how CarbonSifr works with clients to decarbonize their operations. One case involves a "dark kitchen" where they identified that beef sourced from Brazil contributed significantly to the company's carbon footprint. By reorganizing the supply chain and working with climate tech partners, they helped reduce emissions. * Partnership with Careem: Mustafa elaborates on their collaboration with Careem, a ride-sharing app. They created an eco-friendly ride option where customers can choose a ride that offsets its carbon emissions. This involves calculating the carbon footprint of each ride and investing in nature-based carbon removal projects, engaging consumers directly in sustainability efforts. * Challenges of Building a Climate Tech Startup: Mustafa shares his experiences transitioning from consulting to entrepreneurship. He talks about the challenges of getting into the technical details, working with programmers, and balancing immediate tasks with long-term goals while managing scarce resources.  He also acknowledges that consulting skills learned during his time at BCG that help him in this entrepreneurial journey.  * The Path to Net Zero by 2050: Looking ahead, Mustafa discusses the critical steps the financial services industry must take to reach net zero. He stresses the importance of awareness in the sector's role, balancing risks and returns, and the necessity for banks and asset managers to actively participate in climate action to mitigate future risks and capitalize on opportunities. About Fintech Files: Join us on Fintech Files from BCG Platinion as we explore the cutting-edge trends disrupting Fintech today. From NeoBanks to Digital Banking, we delve into the dynamic landscape of financial technology through insightful conversations with global disruptors. We’ll uncover the most groundbreaking trends shaping the future of Fintech and examine their impact on the financial world. Our episodes break down complex topics, with guests explaining everything in a way even their grandmas could understand. We focus on real-world examples, making financial technology relatable and accessible to both Fintech enthusiasts and professionals alike. Meet the Hosts: Hosted by Nora Hocke [https://www.linkedin.com/in/norahocke/], a manager at BCG Platinion in Munich, and Annika Melchert [https://www.linkedin.com/in/annika-melchert/], a principal currently based in the Middle East, our hosts bring expertise in tech transformations, platform architecture, and digital innovation. With a wealth of experience working with leading Fintechs, they offer unique insights into the evolving financial landscape. Joining them is Bianca Lopes [https://www.linkedin.com/in/biasmlopes/], an entrepreneur and economist from Brazil, now based in Denmark, with a background in digital identity and biometrics. Having supported over 40 financial institutions and 8 governments, Bianca’s work reshapes technology, reimagines identity, and drives innovation. We Want to Hear from You! Reach out to us at fintech-podcast@bcgplatinion.com with your questions, guest suggestions, or topics you'd like us to explore. Or just drop in to say hi! Visit our website at https://bcgplatinion.com/insights/podcast-fi/ [https://bcgplatinion.com/insights/podcast-fi/] and follow us on social media for updates and additional content. The digital future is now.

How can technology make homeownership more accessible while supporting Europe's climate goals? In this episode, we sit down with Geert Van Kerckhoven, co-founder of Oper, to explore the challenges of housing affordability in Europe and the impact of the EU Green Deal on mortgages. Geert discusses how technology can empower banks and loan advisors to better serve clients, helping more people navigate the complex process of buying a home while promoting energy-efficient renovations. Discussion Highlights: * The Emotional Journey of Buying a Home: Geert discusses the anxiety and complexity involved in the mortgage process, even for industry experts. He shares personal stories about how daunting it can be to understand all the terms and ensure affordability when purchasing a property. * Housing Affordability Challenges: With rising interest rates and stricter regulations following the financial crisis, first-time homebuyers are finding it increasingly difficult to afford homes. Geert highlights how affordability issues are impacting lower and middle-class families across Europe, emphasizing the need for both public and private sector solutions. * Impact of the EU Green Deal on Housing: The EU's ambitious climate targets under the Green Deal require significant reductions in carbon emissions, which means renovating millions of homes to be more energy-efficient. Geert explains how this adds additional costs for homebuyers, as some banks won't approve mortgages unless buyers commit to costly renovations, further complicating affordability. * Combining Mortgages with Energy Efficiency Improvements: Geert discusses how financing energy-efficient renovations alongside mortgages can help reduce long-term costs for homeowners. By investing in improvements like heat pumps or solar panels, borrowers can lower their energy expenses and increase property values, aligning financial and environmental goals. * The Role of Financial Education: Emphasizing the importance of financial literacy, Geert talks about how understanding concepts like compound interest and long-term planning can empower individuals to make better decisions regarding homeownership and wealth building. He highlights the need for better financial education to help people navigate the complexities of mortgages and investments. About Fintech Files: Join us on Fintech Files from BCG Platinion as we explore the cutting-edge trends disrupting Fintech today. From NeoBanks to Digital Banking, we delve into the dynamic landscape of financial technology through insightful conversations with global disruptors. We’ll uncover the most groundbreaking trends shaping the future of Fintech and examine their impact on the financial world. Our episodes break down complex topics, with guests explaining everything in a way even their grandmas could understand. We focus on real-world examples, making financial technology relatable and accessible to both Fintech enthusiasts and professionals alike. Meet the Hosts: Hosted by Nora Hocke [https://www.linkedin.com/in/norahocke/], a manager at BCG Platinion in Munich, and Annika Melchert [https://www.linkedin.com/in/annika-melchert/], a principal currently based in the Middle East, our hosts bring expertise in tech transformations, platform architecture, and digital innovation. With a wealth of experience working with leading Fintechs, they offer unique insights into the evolving financial landscape. Joining them is Bianca Lopes [https://www.linkedin.com/in/biasmlopes/], an entrepreneur and economist from Brazil, now based in Denmark, with a background in digital identity and biometrics. Having supported over 40 financial institutions and 8 governments, Bianca’s work reshapes technology, reimagines identity, and drives innovation. We Want to Hear from You! Reach out to us at fintech-podcast@bcgplatinion.com with your questions, guest suggestions, or topics you'd like us to explore. Or just drop in to say hi! Visit our website at https://bcgplatinion.com/insights/podcast-fi/ [https://bcgplatinion.com/insights/podcast-fi/] and follow us on social media for updates and additional content. The digital future is now.

How can we create credit histories for unbanked people? In this episode, we sit down with Rajat Dayal, CEO and Founder of YabX, to explore how his company is revolutionizing credit access in emerging markets. About 1.5 billion individuals and businesses have no access to credit or any other financial product. Rajat shares insights on leveraging alternative data, like mobile wallet activity, to create credit histories for those overlooked by traditional banking systems. We delve into the challenges of non-traditional credit scoring, the impact on local economies, and how purpose-driven loans can foster financial inclusion. Discussion Highlights: * Financial Inclusion and the Credit Gap: Rajat discusses the massive challenge of providing financial services to the 1.5 billion individuals and businesses without access to credit. Traditional banks often overlook this segment due to the lack of credit histories, creating a chicken-and-egg problem where people can't get credit because they have no credit history, and vice versa. * Leveraging Mobile Wallets and Alternative Data: In regions like Africa, mobile wallets such as M-Pesa have transformed how people transact. Rajat explains how YabX utilizes mobile wallet data and other alternative data sources—like utility payments and telecom data—to assess creditworthiness. This approach helps create credit scores for individuals who previously had no formal financial footprints. * Challenges with Non-Traditional Credit Scoring: Traditional banks often hesitate to trust alternative credit scoring methods. Rajat shares how YabX builds trust with banking partners by demonstrating the efficacy of their models through back-testing and pilot programs. He emphasizes the importance of proving that these non-traditional methods can predict repayment behavior accurately. * Purpose-Driven Loans: YabX focuses on offering loans for specific purposes, such as purchasing handsets or paying school fees. Rajat explains how purpose-driven loans increase the likelihood of repayment because the funds are used for essential needs, aligning the interests of both the lender and the borrower. * Impact on Local Economies: By providing access to credit, YabX empowers small businesses and individuals in rural and underserved areas. This not only helps these businesses grow but also contributes to job creation and economic development in local communities. Rajat highlights how digital lending platforms can reach areas traditional banks can't, fostering broader economic digitization. About Fintech Files: Join us on Fintech Files from BCG Platinion as we explore the cutting-edge trends disrupting Fintech today. From NeoBanks to Digital Banking, we delve into the dynamic landscape of financial technology through insightful conversations with global disruptors. We’ll uncover the most groundbreaking trends shaping the future of Fintech and examine their impact on the financial world. Our episodes break down complex topics, with guests explaining everything in a way even their grandmas could understand. We focus on real-world examples, making financial technology relatable and accessible to both Fintech enthusiasts and professionals alike. Meet the Hosts: Hosted by Nora Hocke [https://www.linkedin.com/in/norahocke/], a manager at BCG Platinion in Munich, and Annika Melchert [https://www.linkedin.com/in/annika-melchert/], a principal currently based in the Middle East, our hosts bring expertise in tech transformations, platform architecture, and digital innovation. With a wealth of experience working with leading Fintechs, they offer unique insights into the evolving financial landscape. Joining them is Bianca Lopes [https://www.linkedin.com/in/biasmlopes/], an entrepreneur and economist from Brazil, now based in Denmark, with a background in digital identity and biometrics. Having supported over 40 financial institutions and 8 governments, Bianca’s work reshapes technology, reimagines identity, and drives innovation. We Want to Hear from You! Reach out to us at fintech-podcast@bcgplatinion.com with your questions, guest suggestions, or topics you'd like us to explore. Or just drop in to say hi! Visit our website at https://bcgplatinion.com/insights/podcast-fi/ [https://bcgplatinion.com/insights/podcast-fi/] and follow us on social media for updates and additional content. The digital future is now.

How can financial institutions drive sustainability and responsible AI practices? In this episode, we sit down with Anne Kleppe, a leading expert in sustainability and responsible AI at BCG. Anne shares her insights on how banks and financial institutions can leverage their influence to promote sustainable practices, reduce their carbon footprints, and use AI responsibly. We explore the challenges of measuring financed emissions, how AI can contribute to a more sustainable world, and explore real world examples of banking more sustainably in action. Discussion Highlights: * Finance as a Force for Good: Anne discusses the unique position of financial institutions to drive positive change. By directing capital flows into sustainable activities, banks can significantly impact the economy and promote environmentally and socially responsible practices. * Measuring Financed Emissions: Banks have a complex task—measuring the emissions of the businesses they finance. Anne explains how financial institutions can navigate the challenge of measuring financed emissions using advanced modeling tools and data sources, offering transparency and enabling banks to make more informed lending decisions.  For example, tools like CO2 FI [https://www.bcg.com/x/product-library/co2fi-net-zero-for-financial-institutions] help streamline this process.  * AI and Sustainability: AI has the potential to help banks and industries reduce their environmental impact by analyzing vast amounts of data, predicting outcomes, and providing actionable insights that contribute to greener business practices. However, Anne also highlights the need to balance this with the fact that AI is energy-intensive and can significantly increase carbon emissions. To truly drive sustainability, institutions must ensure that the environmental benefits of AI outweigh its energy demands, finding ways to optimize both technology and resource use. * The Role of Responsible AI: Anne discusses the importance of responsible AI in financial services, emphasizing the need for it to be secure, equitable, and fit for purpose. While AI can offer valuable support in decision-making and drive efficiency, Anne also underscores the need to carefully manage the associated risks, such as bias and data security. Balancing the benefits of AI with ethical considerations is key to its responsible deployment in the industry. * Real-World Examples of Navigating Sustainability: Anne provides examples of how financial institutions are grappling with sustainability in their lending practices. In one instance, a bank identified that a significant portion of its financed emissions came from a coal power plant, prompting them to reconsider their involvement. Another example highlights efforts in the agricultural sector, where banks are supporting farmers in adopting greener practices, like improving soil health, which can enhance productivity.  About Fintech Files: Join us on Fintech Files from BCG Platinion as we explore the cutting-edge trends disrupting Fintech today. From NeoBanks to Digital Banking, we delve into the dynamic landscape of financial technology through insightful conversations with global disruptors. We’ll uncover the most groundbreaking trends shaping the future of Fintech and examine their impact on the financial world. Our episodes break down complex topics, with guests explaining everything in a way even their grandmas could understand. We focus on real-world examples, making financial technology relatable and accessible to both Fintech enthusiasts and professionals alike. Meet the Hosts: Hosted by Nora Hocke [https://www.linkedin.com/in/norahocke/], a manager at BCG Platinion in Munich, and Annika Melchert [https://www.linkedin.com/in/annika-melchert/], a principal currently based in the Middle East, our hosts bring expertise in tech transformations, platform architecture, and digital innovation. With a wealth of experience working with leading Fintechs, they offer unique insights into the evolving financial landscape. Joining them is Bianca Lopes [https://www.linkedin.com/in/biasmlopes/], an entrepreneur and economist from Brazil, now based in Denmark, with a background in digital identity and biometrics. Having supported over 40 financial institutions and 8 governments, Bianca’s work reshapes technology, reimagines identity, and drives innovation. We Want to Hear from You! Reach out to us at fintech-podcast@bcgplatinion.com with your questions, guest suggestions, or topics you'd like us to explore. Or just drop in to say hi! Visit our website at https://bcgplatinion.com/insights/podcast-fi/ [https://bcgplatinion.com/insights/podcast-fi/] and follow us on social media for updates and additional content. The digital future is now.

What trends do we see in wealth management as the GenAI Era Unfolds? Akin Soysal is a global expert on digital investing and part of our BCG X leadership team in Europe, the Middle East and South America. Akin dives into the biggest topics disrupting financial management across the globe. How does Gen Z leverage retail investing for saving for retirement?  Can AI be an effective financial advisor? How are millionaires migrating around the globe?  We’ll explore these topics and more in our conversation with Akin.  Discussion Highlights:  * The GenAI Era Unfolds [https://www.bcg.com/publications/2024/global-wealth-report-the-gen-ai-era-unfolds]: Global Wealth Report 2024: The BCG annual wealth management report calculates how much wealth there is in the world. It gets broken down into regions and essentially allows you to draw conclusions about who got richer and who got poorer. This year's report touches on the impact of AI, how wealth is distributed, and trends disrupting the financial services industry.  * Income Generation vs. Wealth Management: Akin discusses how income is tangible and immediate, whereas wealth management and investing are not. This often causes people to overlook the importance and impact of investing on their overall wealth. Financial literacy can play a big role in shifting this mindset, helping people to better understand and plan for their future.  * Retail Investing with Gen Z: We explore the growing popularity of retail investing, especially with Gen Z.  Retail investing is where people take advantage of investing on their own rather than relying on financial institutions to manage their portfolios. AI is helping to support this trend, with easy to access financial advice being so readily available.  * Cross-Border Wealth Flows: Akin delves into the dynamics of what he calls cross-border wealth flows. High net worth individuals are increasingly mobile, moving their assets to financially favorable regions like Dubai and Singapore. As wealth is moving globally certain regions are looking to attract millionaires.  * Regulatory Pressures and Financial Literacy: Akin shares how regulatory frameworks shape the accessibility of financial knowledge and tools. This can sometimes make it challenging for people to gain financial literacy. He discusses the balance between protecting investors and maintaining open access to financial advice. * The Say-Do Gap in Finance: Akin discusses the emotional aspect of finance, highlighting how people often behave differently than the way they say they will. Financial management is so emotional, and balancing that side of it is key to overall financial health.  * Impact of AI on Financial Advice: Generative AI is disrupting the wealth management industry by providing sophisticated, scalable investment advice to the masses. This is transforming how people engage with financial markets and has the potential to democratize financial advice for people who otherwise would not have access to it.  About Fintech Files: Join us on Fintech Files from BCG Platinion as we explore the cutting-edge trends disrupting Fintech today. From NeoBanks to Digital Banking, we delve into the dynamic landscape of financial technology through insightful conversations with global disruptors. We’ll uncover the most groundbreaking trends shaping the future of Fintech and examine their impact on the financial world. Our episodes break down complex topics, with guests explaining everything in a way even their grandmas could understand. We focus on real-world examples, making financial technology relatable and accessible to both Fintech enthusiasts and professionals alike. Meet the Hosts: Hosted by Nora Hocke [https://www.linkedin.com/in/norahocke/], a manager at BCG Platinion in Munich, and Annika Melchert [https://www.linkedin.com/in/annika-melchert/], a principal currently based in the Middle East, our hosts bring expertise in tech transformations, platform architecture, and digital innovation. With a wealth of experience working with leading Fintechs, they offer unique insights into the evolving financial landscape. Joining them is Bianca Lopes [https://www.linkedin.com/in/biasmlopes/], an entrepreneur and economist from Brazil, now based in Denmark, with a background in digital identity and biometrics. Having supported over 40 financial institutions and 8 governments, Bianca’s work reshapes technology, reimagines identity, and drives innovation. We Want to Hear from You! Reach out to us at fintech-podcast@bcgplatinion.com with your questions, guest suggestions, or topics you'd like us to explore. Or just drop in to say hi! Visit our website at https://bcgplatinion.com/insights/podcast-fi/ [https://bcgplatinion.com/insights/podcast-fi/] and follow us on social media for updates and additional content. The digital future is now.