What does it take to build a fintech movement in the Middle East?
This week on FUMO, we sit down with Nameer Khan, the driving force behind MENA Fintech Association — the region’s most influential fintech network. 💥
We dive into:
How to build ecosystems from scratch 🌍
The mindset needed to unite founders, regulators, and investors 🤝
Why MENA is exploding with fintech potential 🚀
Lessons from launching multiple ventures and shaping policy at scale 🧠
Whether you're a fintech founder, investor, or just curious about how financial systems are evolving — this one’s for you.
🎧 Tune in now to get behind the scenes with one of the region’s most powerful ecosystem builders.
#Fintech #MENA #Startups #FounderJourney #FUMOPodcast #NameerKhan #MiddleEastTech
Join hosts Ronit Ghose and Gaurav Dhar as they sit down with Ahmed Al Naqbi, CEO of Emirates Development Bank — the man behind the UAE’s boldest $30 billion bet on the future.
In this episode, Ahmed reveals how EDB is rewriting the playbook on government-backed finance: zero-collateral funding, rapid approvals, and a laser focus on AI, biotech, space, and advanced manufacturing. If you’re a founder, this is your roadmap to unlocking capital in the UAE.
We get into how EDB thinks like a VC, not a traditional bank — and why Ahmed is on a mission to fund the builders of tomorrow. He shares what startups get wrong when pitching, the power of sovereign backing, and how EDB is fast becoming the Gulf’s answer to Silicon Valley Bank.
🎧 Tune in to discover how the UAE is financing its next economic leap — and why EDB might just be the most founder-friendly bank in the region.
#startups #UAE #VC #innovation #futureofwork #manufacturing #AI
🎙 Scaling Smart: Fintech Lessons from Europe to Saudi ArabiaWhat separates productive fear from paralyzing doubt when you're building at speed?How do you launch fintech propositions across borders, and make decisions with clarity under pressure?Join Ronit Ghose and Gaurav Dhar as they sit down with Sophie Guibaud, B2B fintech entrepreneur, advisor, and Co-Chair of the MENA Fintech Association (Saudi chapter), for a high-velocity episode of FUMO: Future of Money.Now based in Riyadh, Sophie shares candid, rapid-fire lessons from over 15 years in fintech, from scaling financial services across Europe to advising founders around the world. With deep experience in regulated banking, embedded finance, and Web 2.5/crypto rails, she unpacks what it really takes to build smart, fast, and with focus.🎧 In this episode:🚀 From Rocket Internet to regulated banking across borders🌍 Why Saudi Arabia is becoming fintech’s most dynamic frontier⚙️ Real-world use cases for crypto rails (beyond speculation)🤖 Gen Z vs Gen X: how different generations approach AI🧠 Founder mindset: when fear sharpens you — and when it clouds your vision📊 Prioritizing when everything screams “urgent”#ai #podcast #fintech #web3 #crypto #saudiarabia #business #entrepreneur #web3community #founder #millionaire #billions #bitcoin
Join hosts Ronit Ghose and Gaurav Dhar as they sit down with Serena from PwC—one of the sharpest voices shaping digital assets, blockchain regulation, and crypto compliance across MENA.
From stablecoins to startup strategy, she breaks down how the UAE is becoming the world’s sandbox for Web3, and why traditional finance is finally embracing tokenization, transparency, and digital innovation.
We explore:
🪙 The real impact of stablecoins & local currency-backed tokens
🏛 How regulation is accelerating digital asset adoption
🌐 Why the UAE is emerging as the global hub for Web3
🏗️ What fintech founders need to know to launch & scale
🤝 The new dynamics between banks, regulators & crypto platforms
🎧 Tune in to discover how MENA is shaping the next chapter of global finance.
From the heart of TradFi in Hong Kong to the frontier of digital assets in Abu Dhabi — meet Usman Ahmad, CEO of Zodia Markets, in our latest podcast episode!
We dive into:
💼 His rise through traditional finance powerhouses
🌐 The big pivot to crypto & digital assets
🇦🇪 Why the UAE is the next big thing for institutional crypto
🏗️ What it really takes to build a regulated digital asset platform from the ground up
If you’re into the future of finance, global markets, and bold career moves — this one’s for you.
🎧 Listen now, then drop your thoughts👇
📍Would you make the jump from TradFi to crypto?
📍Is Abu Dhabi one of the new global crypto capital?
#ZodiaMarkets #CryptoCEO #TradFiToDeFi #DigitalAssets #Fintech #UAEFinance #PodcastDrop #AbuDhabiCrypto #FutureOfFinance #Zodia #UsmanAhmad
tokenisedJoin hosts Ronit Ghose and Gaurav Dhar as they sit down with Ken Chapman, ex-U.S. military paratrooper and Head of US at XDC Network.
In this episode, Ken shares his remarkable journey—from serving in the U.S. military to working at J.P. Morgan, Bridgewater Associates, Wells Fargo, and Anchorage Digital, before making the leap into blockchain. Hear how he chose crypto over a sports car, and how his viral showdown with USAA highlighted the chilling effects of U.S. banking restrictions on digital assets.
We dive into Operation Chokepoint 2.0, crypto’s policy comeback in Washington, and the real-world impact of the CB 121 bulletin on banking. Ken also unpacks how XDC Network is quietly powering billions in tokenized assets globally — including deals involving BlackRock, Fidelity, and State Street.
🎧 Tune in to uncover the future of crypto policy, tokenisation, and why a community bank in Oklahoma might just be the most crypto-friendly in America.
Join hosts Ronit Ghose and Gaurav Dhar as they sit down with Munaf Ali, founder and CEO of Phoenix Group, the UAE’s largest homegrown crypto mining company.
In this episode, Munaf shares his unlikely journey—from a traditional banker and luxury real estate developer to a crypto pioneer mining thousands of bitcoins and building the region’s biggest data centres. Discover how a chance encounter with a 21-year-old changed the course of his career, what it takes to run a mining empire, and why Phoenix is leading the charge in Web3 infrastructure across the Middle East and beyond.Recorded shortly after Phoenix Group’s historic IPO on the Abu Dhabi Stock Exchange, this episode is a must-listen for anyone curious about crypto’s real-world potential.
🎧 Tune in to uncover the future of crypto, mining, and Web3 in the region and beyond!
#Bitcoin #Crypto #DataCentres #AI #UAE #Billions
Join host Ronit Ghose as he dives into a powerful conversation with Gaurav Dhar, CEO of Marshal FinTech Partners and one of the most prolific fintech investors in the MENA region.In this episode, Gaurav shares his journey from entrepreneur to backing 600+ fintech startups, building billions in economic value, and shaping the future of finance through AI, blockchain, and visionary investing.From scaling early-stage ventures to driving policy and innovation, this episode is packed with insights for founders, investors, and anyone passionate about the intersection of technology and finance.🎙️ In partnership with CFTE, myco.io, and MENA Fintech Association, and proudly sponsored by Aquanow and XDC Network.🔍 Tune in to discover what’s next for fintech, investing, and the digital economy!
Join hosts Ronit Ghose and Gaurav Dhar as they dive into a compelling conversation with Paolo, Global Research Lead at IBM, about the future of banking, fintech, and AI-driven financial transformation.In this episode, Paolo explores how AI is reshaping modern finance, the impact of fintech on traditional banking, and the key trends driving the next evolution of financial services. Gain valuable insights into what financial institutions must do to stay competitive in an era of digital disruption.In partnership with CFTE, myco.io & MENA Fintech Association, and sponsored by Aquanow and XDC Network.🔍 Tune in to uncover what’s next for banking, fintech, and the future of finance!
Join hosts Ronit Ghose and Gaurav Dhar as they dive into a compelling conversation with Saqr Ereiqat about the UAE’s unprecedented rise as a global business and technology hub.
In this episode, Saqr explores why Dubai and Abu Dhabi are moving faster than Silicon Valley, how the fail-fast mentality drives innovation, and how AI, Web3, and new industries are reshaping the Middle East’s economic landscape. Gain valuable insights into why entrepreneurs and investors are flocking to the UAE and what this means for the future of global business.
In partnership with CFTE, myco.io & MENA Fintech Association, and sponsored by Aquanow and SDC Network.
🔍 Tune in to uncover what’s next for business, tech, and entrepreneurship in the UAE!
Join hosts Ronit and Gaurav as they dive into a compelling conversation with Miriam Kiwan, VP, MEA at Circle, about the transformative potential of stablecoins.In this episode, Miriam explores how stablecoins like Circle's USDC are reshaping financial inclusion, revolutionising remittances, and transforming business operations in developing economies. Gain valuable insights into the blockchain ecosystem driving innovation and why stablecoins are the foundation for a transparent, decentralised financial future.In partnership with CFTE, myco.io & MENA Fintech Association and sponsored by Aquanow and SDC Network.Tune in to uncover what’s next for financial inclusion and blockchain innovation!
Join hosts Ronit Ghose and Gaurav Dhar as they sit down with Phil Sham to discuss one of the biggest shifts in crypto: institutional adoption.In this episode, Phil shares insights on why major financial players are now more bullish on crypto than retail investors, how the UAE is positioning itself as a Web3 leader, and why blockchain technology is evolving beyond speculation into real-world utility.Key topics include:📈 Why institutions—not retail investors—are driving the next phase of crypto🌍 How the UAE is shaping the global future of Web3 and blockchain🏗️ The shift from speculation to real-world infrastructure in digital assets⚡ The biggest risks and opportunities in crypto right nowIf you’re looking to understand the next wave of blockchain adoption, this conversation is a must-watch!🔔 Subscribe for more deep dives into Web3, fintech, and financial trends!#Crypto #Blockchain #Web3 #Fintech #InstitutionalAdoption #DigitalAssets #UAE #DeFi #FutureOfFinance
Join host Gaurav Dhar for an exclusive conversation with Ronit Ghose, a leading financial analyst and author of Future Money, as they explore the past, present, and future of finance, fintech, and digital economies.In this episode, Ronit shares insights from his 30-year journey in global finance, discussing:📈 London’s financial boom in the ‘90s and its parallels with Dubai’s fintech surge today🌍 The rise of fintech across India, Africa, and beyond—reshaping economies🏛️ Advising central banks & policymakers on the future of digital finance📖 Why he wrote Future Money—and how it distills decades of financial evolutionThey also dive into how AI, digital assets, and open banking are transforming financial services. Whether you're an entrepreneur, investor, or fintech enthusiast, this episode is packed with game-changing insights on where finance is headed next.🔔 Subscribe for more in-depth discussions on fintech, crypto, and financial innovation!
Join hosts Ronit Ghose and Gaurav Dhar as they dive into a fascinating discussion with Marcel Kasumovich, Senior Executive Officer of Coinbase Abu Dhabi and Deputy CIO of Coinbase Asset Management, about the future of digital assets, blockchain, and institutional DeFi.In this episode, Marcel shares insights into how On-Chain Finance is revolutionising transactions, why Bitcoin is emerging as the ultimate collateral asset, and how stablecoins are outpacing CBDCs in the race for digital dollars. Learn how tokenisation, institutional DeFi, and regulatory shifts are shaping the next era of financial markets.In partnership with CFTE, myco.io, & MENA Fintech Association and sponsored by Aquanow and XDC Network.Tune in to uncover how blockchain, regulation, and financial innovation are transforming the global economy!
Join hosts Ronit and Gaurav as they dive into a thought-provoking conversation with Ajit Tripathi, aka Chain Yoda, about the evolving world of crypto, decentralisation, and meme coins. In this episode, Ajit shares his journey from Goldman Sachs to the decentralised frontier of blockchain and crypto. Discover how the 4-year Bitcoin cycle, meme coins, and regulatory shifts are shaping the future of financial systems. Explore key insights into how 2025 could be a transformative year for blockchain adoption, mainstream integration, and regulatory advancements. In partnership with CFTE, myco.io, & MENA Fintech Association and sponsored by Aquanow and XDC Network. Tune in to uncover how decentralisation, meme culture, and regulation are driving the future of crypto and financial innovation!
Join hosts Ronit and Gaurav as they dive into a thought-provoking conversation with Suresh Ramamurthi, Chairman at NetXD, about the paradigm shift from the “tell me” economy to the “do it for me” economy. In this episode, Suresh shares his entrepreneurial journey, from pioneering innovations like VideoGuide and AirMedia to his vision for how AI is reshaping payments and enterprise processes. Discover how memory-based AI, zero-cost operations, and data precision are set to transform financial systems and empower businesses to thrive in a tech-driven world. In partnership with CFTE, myco.io, & MENA Fintech Association and sponsored by Aquanow and XDC Network. Tune in to uncover how AI is driving the future of finance, automation, and innovation!
Join hosts Ronit and Gaurav as they dive into a compelling conversation with Ramana Kumar, CEO of Magnati, about the evolving landscape of payments, technology, and financial ecosystems.
In this episode, Ramana explores how generational shifts, like a 13-year-old preferring ChatGPT over Google, are redefining tech behaviours and user expectations. Discover the future of payments, from QR codes to AI-powered personal tokens and instant cross-asset transactions. Gain valuable insights into why data is the engine of modern financial systems, helping businesses unlock credit and target customers with precision.
In partnership with CFTE, myco.io & MENA Fintech Association and sponsored by Aquanow and XDC Network.
Tune in to uncover what’s next for payments, financial behaviour, and the power of data!
Join hosts Ronit and Gaurav as they dive into a compelling conversation with Nare Vardanyan, Co-Founder and CEO of Ntropy, a leading innovator in AI-driven financial solutions.
In this episode, Nare shares her vision for the future of financial services, exploring how AI is revolutionising data organisation, customer onboarding, and fraud prevention. Gain valuable insights into how Ntropy is tackling unstructured data, fostering innovation, and empowering businesses with actionable intelligence.
Discover why the shift to AI-driven solutions is not just about cost and time savings but about reshaping the future of financial ecosystems for everyone.
In partnership with CFTE, myco.io & MENA Fintech Association and sponsored by Aquanow and XDC Network.
Tune in to uncover what’s next for the world of AI in financial services!
Join hosts Ronit and Gaurav as they dive into a compelling conversation with Supreet Kaur and Ashutosh Goel, co-founders of Xalts, a leading innovator in enterprise financial connectivity.
In this episode, Supreet and Ashutosh explore how their fintech solutions are transforming the way global corporations connect and operate. Discover how Xalts is collaborating with global banks, Fortune 500 companies, and tech leaders to redefine financial workflows and drive innovation in fintech.
Gain valuable insights into how APIs and blockchain are reshaping enterprise financial services, the biggest hurdles in financial connectivity today, and why simplifying complex workflows is key to fintech success.
In partnership with CFTE, myco.io & MENA Fintech Association and sponsored by Aquanow and XDC Network.Tune in to uncover what’s next for the world of financial connectivity and enterprise-grade solutions!
Join hosts Ronit and Gaurav as they dive into a compelling conversation with Nandan Mer, CEO of Network International, a leading enabler of digital commerce across the Middle East and Africa. In this episode, Nandan shares his vision for the future of digital payments, exploring how regions like the GCC and Africa are rapidly transforming their payment ecosystems. Gain valuable insights into how Network International is addressing infrastructure challenges, fostering innovation, and driving the shift from cash to digital. Discover the role of government-led financial infrastructure, the importance of partnerships in the payments industry, and the strategies that have helped Network International scale across 50+ markets while serving millions. In partnership with CFTE, myco.io & MENA Fintech Association and sponsored by Aquanow and XDC Network. Tune in to uncover what’s next for the world of payments and digital commerce!