Swedish Fintech Takes Center Stage | Nordic Fintech Highlights August 2024

In this episode of Fintech Daydreaming, Pål and Ville are joined by Jani Ristimäki from BearingPoint to dive deep into one of the buzzwords of the moment—embedded finance. Spoiler alert: it’s already here, and it’s changing the game for banks, fintechs, and consumers alike. From payments baked seamlessly into apps to financial services appearing in places you’d never expect, we break down what embedded finance really means and why it’s the future. Will banks survive this shift, or are fintechs taking over the new customer touchpoints? And how does it all impact you—the everyday user who just wants to sustainably and intelligently finance your next purchase without thinking about it too much? If you find yourself sometimes wondering whether banking will become entirely invisible or if banks are going to lose touch with their customers as a result - this might be an episode for you. Tune in for a lively discussion packed with smart insights, terrible humor, and plenty of speculation about what’s next in the world of fintech. - Email us on [email protected] - Fintech Daydreaming home page - https://www.FintechDaydreaming.com - Fintech Daydreaming on Twitter - https://twitter.com/FintechDaydream - Fintech Daydreaming on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/fintech-daydreaming - Pål Krogdahl - https://www.linkedin.com/in/krogdahl/ - Ville Sointu - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ville-sointu-54682b/

We’re back with another Nordic Fintech Highlights episode, and this time it’s practically drenched in pink, thanks to Klarna's dominant presence! Pål and Ville, along with the ever-insightful Janne Salminen from Helsinki Fintech Farm, dive into the latest Nordic fintech stories making waves. First, Pål kicks off with IKEA’s intriguing foray into the second-hand market with IKEA Preowned. A marketplace for upcycled furniture? It’s sustainability meets e-commerce, with IKEA finding clever new ways to make us assemble our lives—again. Next, Janne unpacks Klarna’s big news: after years of massive spending and headline-making drama, they’ve finally turned a profit. It’s like watching a fintech unicorn finally come of age—but don’t worry, they’re still as stylish as ever. Ville wraps things up with Klarna’s latest move—offering full-on payment accounts for customers. Channeling some serious African mobile money vibes, Klarna is now aiming to go beyond “buy now, pay later” and take on the banks at their own game. But will this bold move succeed, or is it just another flex from the fintech giant? Tune in for this “fifty shades of pink” episode of Fintech Daydreaming, where we break down the Nordic fintech scene with a heavy Swedish twist. If you're into Nordic fintech and aren’t afraid of a little disruption, this one’s for you! - Email us on [email protected] - Fintech Daydreaming home page - https://www.FintechDaydreaming.com - Fintech Daydreaming on Twitter - https://twitter.com/FintechDaydream - Fintech Daydreaming on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/fintech-daydreaming - Pål Krogdahl - https://www.linkedin.com/in/krogdahl/ - Ville Sointu - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ville-sointu-54682b/

Fintech Daydreaming continues season ten with an anticipated comeback —welcoming back Chris Skinner, the legendary fintech thinker, for the first time in five years! Pål and Ville sit down with Chris to dive into his latest book, “Intelligent Money: When Money Thinks for You.” In true Skinner style, we’re exploring a future where money isn’t just a tool—it’s an intelligent partner, anticipating your needs before you even ask. From automating everyday transactions to revolutionizing global finance, programmable money could transform everything we know about how money moves. But can money really be programmable and how does all of this relate to what central banks are working on with their digital currency plans? We unpack all of this and the big ideas behind the book, diving into how intelligent networks and AI are reshaping finance, and why Chris believes the future lies in smarter, more personalized, and maybe even self-aware money. (Yes, the robots are eyeing your wallet—but don’t worry, it’s a good thing!) ‌If you’re curious about the future of finance, eager to see where fintech is headed, or just want to hear Chris Skinner drop some fintech wisdom, this episode is for you. Plug in and join us as we explore the next frontier—where money doesn’t just talk, it thinks. - Email us on [email protected] - Fintech Daydreaming home page - https://www.FintechDaydreaming.com - Fintech Daydreaming on Twitter - https://twitter.com/FintechDaydream - Fintech Daydreaming on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/fintech-daydreaming - Pål Krogdahl - https://www.linkedin.com/in/krogdahl/ - Ville Sointu - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ville-sointu-54682b/

After a well-deserved summer break, Fintech Daydreaming is back and ready to dive into the latest buzz from the Nordic fintech world! Pål and Ville, alongside our trusty guest co-host Janne Salminen from Helsinki Fintech Farm, are kicking off the new season with a roundup of stories that are making waves in the industry. First up, Pål breaks down the exciting news of Gimi partnering with Nordea. It’s like the fintech equivalent of a summer fling turning into something serious—a partnership designed to teach the next generation about financial literacy, with a side of cutting-edge tech. Janne then takes us into the world of AI with AlphaSense, who just closed a whopping $650 million investment round. With a valuation hotter than a midsummer sauna and a deal to acquire rival Tegus, this AI startup is definitely not taking a vacation from making headlines. Ville wraps things up by diving into the retro-steampunk(ish) world of biometrics in payment cards. Swedish biometrics company Fingerprints and IN Groupe have teamed up to launch a biometric payment card with a fingerprint sensor built in. Imagine paying for your morning coffee with just a tap of your thumb—no PIN, no hassle, no phone, no watch, just the card. So, dust off the sand from your shoes and tune in for this season premiere of Fintech Daydreaming. We’re back with fresh insights and a little bit of that Nordic flair to keep you ahead of the curve in the ever-evolving world of fintech. Grab your headphones, settle in, and let’s dive back into the deep end! - Email us on [email protected] - Fintech Daydreaming home page - https://www.FintechDaydreaming.com - Fintech Daydreaming on Twitter - https://twitter.com/FintechDaydream - Fintech Daydreaming on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/fintech-daydreaming - Pål Krogdahl - https://www.linkedin.com/in/krogdahl/ - Ville Sointu - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ville-sointu-54682b/

As the Nordic sun lingers in the sky, signaling the start of summer, Fintech Daydreaming brings you a season finale packed with the latest and greatest from the financial technology front. Join Pål, Ville, and our beloved guest co-host Janne Salminen from Helsinki Fintech Farm for one last hurrah before we all take a well-deserved summer break. In this episode, Pål dives into the fresh collaboration between Aktia and Swedbank in Finland. This partnership is like the unexpected summer hit of the year—potentially game-changing and with a catchy tune of enhanced financial services that might just stick in your head (or your wallet). Janne brings to the table some exciting news from Doconomy, a climate fintech startup that's making waves faster than a midsummer lake. With new funding and big plans, they're the environmental warriors of the fintech world, and Janne's got the scoop on how they're planning to green our screens. Wrapping things up, Ville tackles the intricate and often murky waters of digital currencies. With Reltime enabling merchants to accept payments in digital currencies and central bank digital currencies globally, it's time to clear the air on all the misinformation floating around. It's a bit like trying to find the truth in a sea of tourist trap reviews. So, whether you're gearing up for a summer of adventures or just some peaceful nights under the Nordic sky, tune in for this episode of Fintech Daydreaming. It's your guide to the latest fintech trends and a perfect way to cap off the season. We'll be back after the break with more tales from the fintech frontier, but until then, enjoy the sunshine and stay savvy, fintech fans! - Email us on [email protected] - Fintech Daydreaming home page - https://www.FintechDaydreaming.com - Fintech Daydreaming on Twitter - https://twitter.com/FintechDaydream - Fintech Daydreaming on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/fintech-daydreaming - Pål Krogdahl - https://www.linkedin.com/in/krogdahl/ - Ville Sointu - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ville-sointu-54682b/

Fintech enthusiasts, get ready to elevate your payments knowledge! We're joined by the brilliant Monika Liikamaa, co-CEO and co-founder of Enfuce, the company making card payments as seamless as a winter sport on ice. Get ready to explore: Monika's Transformation: Discover how she traded her corporate banking attire for a startup founder's toolkit. What sparked the change – a rogue ATM? An Excel-induced revelation? Tune in to find out! Card World Confidential: We're unwrapping the mysteries of the card payments industry. That piece of plastic in your wallet is just the tip of the iceberg! Enfuce reveals the intricate network of players and processes behind every effortless tap and swipe. The Rulebook Remix: Hold onto your hats, because we're diving into the whirlwind of payments regulations! We'll discuss if new rules offer healthy disruption or compliance headaches. Can instant payments and account-to-account transfers revolutionize the game? This episode promises a smart, insightful, and delightfully geeky (we mean that as a compliment!) look into the captivating world of payments. Join us, fintech dreamers, and let's get Enfuced! - Email us on [email protected] - Fintech Daydreaming home page - https://www.FintechDaydreaming.com - Fintech Daydreaming on Twitter - https://twitter.com/FintechDaydream - Fintech Daydreaming on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/fintech-daydreaming - Pål Krogdahl - https://www.linkedin.com/in/krogdahl/ - Ville Sointu - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ville-sointu-54682b/

Welcome back to “Fintech Daydreaming,” where we’re still decompressing from the high-octane thrill ride that was the Nordic Fintech Summit in Helsinki! Join Pål, Ville, and our special guests, Janne Salminen and Ola Sundell from Helsinki Fintech Farm, as they spill the beans on orchestrating this fintech fiesta. We start with their fresh-off-the-press impressions—what popped, what flopped, and which moments are now etched in summit lore. Then, Janne and Ola pull back the curtain on the nitty-gritty of planning such an extravaganza. Think less “smooth sailing” and more “herding cats with a chance of paperwork.” ‌Get ready for tales of close shaves and epic saves, plus a couple of gaffes that prove even the slickest events have their ‘oops’ moments - one of which might or might not include a karaoke appearance by a familiar fintech podcast co-host. We also shine a spotlight on the summit’s MVPs—the themes and speakers who left the crowd buzzing. ‌But what happens when the last PowerPoint slides away? We have a nice chat about the science of feedback gathering—because nothing says “party’s over” like a hefty stack of comment cards waiting to be analyzed. ‌To cap it off, we look ahead to what’s next for Helsinki Fintech Farm after the confetti settles. ‌So tune in, lean back, and enjoy a cheeky peek behind the scenes of the biggest fintech shindig in the Nordics. It’s like a backstage pass to the nerdiest show on earth, and you’ve got front-row seats! - Email us on [email protected] - Fintech Daydreaming home page - https://www.FintechDaydreaming.com - Fintech Daydreaming on Twitter - https://twitter.com/FintechDaydream - Fintech Daydreaming on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/fintech-daydreaming - Pål Krogdahl - https://www.linkedin.com/in/krogdahl/ - Ville Sointu - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ville-sointu-54682b/

Welcome back, fintech enthusiasts! This episode of Fintech Daydreaming takes you into the latest innovations stirring the financial fjords of the Nordics. Join Pål, Ville, and Janne as they round up some intriguing and occasionally perplexing news from the land of the midnight sun. This episode also serves as a warm-up for the upcoming Nordic Fintech Summit in Helsinki, where we look forward to meeting many of you! First, Pål unpacks the new partnership between ResultElf and Aura Cloud, which promises to bring a new spin to the lending landscape. They're rolling out a new toolkit aimed at creating more efficient lending solutions—because, it seems, money really can grow on cloud-based platforms. Next, Janne explores the exciting collaboration between Alisa Bank and Accountor, who are introducing a novel type of business bank account. This isn't just any bank account; it's designed to transform how businesses manage their finances, merging technology with convenience in ways that might even make your accountant crack a smile - all through the power of an embedded design. Wrapping up the discussion, Ville reflects on the somber news of OP Bank discontinuing their Pivo wallet. We say goodbye to a service once celebrated as a fintech favorite, now joining the ranks of discontinued digital services. We'll explore what may have led to Pivo's demise and discuss its implications for the future of digital wallets in the region. Whether these stories are game-changers or just another chapter in the Nordic fintech saga, this episode promises to unpack the innovations, disruptions, and lessons learned along the way. Tune in for a dose of insightful analysis and witty banter as we decipher whether these latest developments are truly reinventing the wheel—or merely spinning it. - Email us on [email protected] - Fintech Daydreaming home page - https://www.FintechDaydreaming.com - Fintech Daydreaming on Twitter - https://twitter.com/FintechDaydream - Fintech Daydreaming on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/fintech-daydreaming - Pål Krogdahl - https://www.linkedin.com/in/krogdahl/ - Ville Sointu - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ville-sointu-54682b/

In this very special episode of Fintech Daydreaming, Pål and Ville take a nostalgic trip down memory lane, answering the burning question that fans have pondered over countless episodes: Why did they start this podcast, and what fuels their fintech fires even after nearly four thrilling years? By popular demand, it's time to peel back the curtain on the backstory and ethos of your favorite fintech podcast. The episode kicks off with a candid reflection on the early days, the initial sparks of inspiration that led two fintech aficionados to turn their daydreams into digital dialogue. Pål and Ville share the unfiltered tales of successes and the stumbles along the way, giving listeners a rare glimpse into the behind-the-scenes world that shapes each episode. As the conversation unfolds, the mystery of the podcast's intriguing name is finally resolved. Where did "Fintech Daydreaming" come from? The answer is as whimsical as it is profound, reflecting both the aspirational and the grounded spirit that the podcast embodies. Listeners will also get an insider look at what keeps the show evolving, from the relentless pace of fintech innovation to the vibrant community of listeners and experts who contribute their insights and stories. It’s a heartwarming reminder of how a simple idea can grow into something as diverse and surprising as the fintech world itself. So, whether you're a longtime listener or just stumbled upon this fintech fest, this episode promises to enrich your understanding of the podcast and maybe even inspire you to follow your own daydreams. Tune in, relax, and let Pål and Ville guide you through the story of "Fintech Daydreaming" – because sometimes, the best adventures begin with a simple question and a bold step into the unknown. - Email us on [email protected] - Fintech Daydreaming home page - https://www.FintechDaydreaming.com - Fintech Daydreaming on Twitter - https://twitter.com/FintechDaydream - Fintech Daydreaming on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/fintech-daydreaming - Pål Krogdahl - https://www.linkedin.com/in/krogdahl/ - Ville Sointu - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ville-sointu-54682b/

Strap in for a whirlwind tour of fintech's latest Nordic novelties in another riveting episode of Fintech Daydreaming. In this month’s edition of Nordic Fintech Highlights, our fearless trio Pål, Ville, and Janne don their explorer hats to dissect a smorgasbord of financial innovation that's as diverse as a Nordic buffet—and just as intriguing. First up, Pål dives into the tech-marriage of the century between Neonomics and Bislab, heralding the dawn of the next generation of embedded finance offerings. It's the kind of partnership that makes you wonder if finance is getting too cozy with tech, or if they're just moving in together for the tax benefits. Janne then shifts gears to something that sounds like a plot twist in a Scandinavian noir—IKEA's financial arm, Ingka Investments, swooping in to take full control of Ikano Bank. Yes, you heard it right: the same folks who've mastered the art of flat-pack furniture are now assembling their financial services empire. Brace yourself for savings accounts with names you can't pronounce and interest rates as complex as their assembly instructions. Ville rounds off the discussion with a tale of German innovation as N26 rolls out instant savings accounts across 13 new markets. Because when it comes to banking, nothing says "innovation" quite like being able to stash away money with the same ease as ordering a Bratwurst in Berlin. Join us as we navigate through these financial fjords, armed with nothing but wit and a healthy dose of skepticism. Whether you're a fintech aficionado, a banking guru, or just someone who enjoys a good financial frolic, this episode of Fintech Daydreaming promises insights, laughs, and perhaps a sudden urge to invest in a Billy bookcase. Tune in, and let's decode whether these fintech developments are the northern lights of innovation or just the headlights of an oncoming regulation reindeer. Either way, it's going to be a fascinating ride. Finally, we’d like to do a post recording CORRECTION to the segment where we cover the N26 story: While Revolut flexible accounts don’t have the traditional deposit insurance of a regular savings account, they do have a private investment insurance that covers the account balances up to a limit. Please refer to terms and conditions of the products and services in question for accurate information. We apologise for this oversight in the recording. - Email us on [email protected] - Fintech Daydreaming home page - https://www.FintechDaydreaming.com - Fintech Daydreaming on Twitter - https://twitter.com/FintechDaydream - Fintech Daydreaming on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/fintech-daydreaming - Pål Krogdahl - https://www.linkedin.com/in/krogdahl/ - Ville Sointu - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ville-sointu-54682b/