3077: Wells Fargo on the Future of Venture Capital

With AI fundamentally reshaping the cloud, what does this mean for the future of security?  In this episode, Nataraj Nagaratnam, CTO of Cloud Security at IBM, joins us to dive into the evolving dynamics of cloud security in the age of AI. As organizations integrate AI into their cloud environments, the traditional lines of responsibility for security are being redrawn, raising new questions about who safeguards what and how emerging risks are addressed. Nataraj unpacks how AI-generated code is introducing unique vulnerabilities, with recent studies highlighting that nearly half of organizations are concerned about the security risks posed by AI-driven development. My guest explains how the complex, multilayered enterprise AI stack—from applications and models to data and infrastructure—requires a nuanced, data-centric approach to security. This approach includes assessing data sensitivity, managing keys, and implementing tailored controls, especially as unstructured data and machine learning models bring fresh security challenges. The shared responsibility model is also undergoing a transformation, with Nataraj outlining a shift from a simple customer-provider dynamic to one that includes AI model providers and data lineage. With industries like healthcare and finance running critical systems in the cloud, regulatory frameworks are tightening, and transparency in model development and data lineage is increasingly emphasized. Nataraj explores how IBM is working to normalize these controls across sectors, enabling compliance and resilience in a diverse range of cloud environments. Automation emerges as a cornerstone of Nataraj’s strategy, helping organizations maintain secure, compliant cloud environments in both deployment and operations. He illustrates a dual-phase approach—automation for initial secure deployments and ongoing compliance monitoring—to ensure that security remains robust as systems evolve. Finally, we discuss the future of cloud security, including the need for AI governance, third-party risk management, and transparency in model use, all critical as the AI-driven Supercycle unfolds. What will the future of cloud security look like as AI becomes an integral part of our digital infrastructure? Tune in to explore Nataraj’s vision and strategies, and join the conversation—how is your organization preparing for the new era of AI and cloud security?

Is the tech world on the verge of a new Supercycle driven by AI, or is this another phase of venture capital hype? In this episode, we’re joined by Rahul Baig, Head of Venture Capital & Growth Equity Coverage at Wells Fargo’s Technology Banking Group, to break down the dynamics reshaping the current tech VC landscape. Rahul offers a unique perspective on what’s captivating venture capitalists today and why the focus is shifting sharply towards AI-driven innovations. As Rahul explains, the landscape for tech companies is changing dramatically. Software growth has slowed, and non-AI companies are finding it tougher to secure investments and gain traction. At the same time, unicorns outside of AI are experiencing funding dry spells, underscoring a rising trend in public markets that demands growth, profitability, and fair valuations. With increased standards for IPOs and heightened investor scrutiny, the bar for tech companies to go public has never been higher. Beyond the focus on AI, Rahul highlights broader market forces, such as low volatility and rising equity markets, which are reinvigorating capital markets, albeit against a backdrop of geopolitical tensions and economic uncertainty. In an era moving away from “growth at all costs,” capital efficiency, strong fundamentals, and sustainable growth are becoming essential for tech firms looking to survive and thrive. This shift marks a “survival of the fittest” phase, where companies with strong value propositions and resilient business models are positioned to succeed. For founders and entrepreneurs, Rahul offers a roadmap to resilience in a crowded and challenging market. He stresses the need to build solutions that address real-world needs, maintain rigorous financial discipline, and focus on sustainable growth. In an environment where liquidity remains scarce and market competition is fierce, mental and physical stamina are essential for success. What does the future hold for tech VC, and how can companies prepare for long-term growth? Tune in for Rahul’s insights and join the conversation—what do you see as the defining trends in venture capital today?

How are brands adapting to an ever-evolving landscape of emerging technology, and what does it take to make innovation truly impactful? In this episode, I explore these questions with Christopher Neff, the Global Head of Emerging Experience & Technology at Anomaly, a leader in pushing the boundaries of brand engagement through technology. Christopher has been instrumental in launching groundbreaking initiatives at Anomaly, such as the Classify tech incubator, designed to help brands navigate the complex domains of GenAI, Web3, and spatial computing. From guiding luxury giants like LVMH and Diageo to co-developing the Creator Cache Web3 program with Ally Financial, Christopher’s work is reshaping the way brands leverage emerging tech to stay connected and relevant. Christopher shares his unique approach to fostering creativity and learning within tech, emphasizing hands-on experimentation as a key strategy for breaking through hype and understanding genuine capabilities. He highlights how AI, when applied thoughtfully, can enhance creativity and productivity, whether it's generating custom logos or crafting original music. His insights into tools like Runway for AI-driven animation illustrate how technology can bring imaginative ideas to life while allowing brands to move at a pace previously unachievable. He also addresses the power of metaverse platforms and gaming engines like Roblox and Fortnite, noting how these digital worlds are not just cultural phenomena but are creating new, immersive spaces for younger generations. We also delve into Christopher's advisory roles, such as his work with Million Marker, which focuses on biological testing to tackle issues like plastic contamination. This ties into his belief that sustainability and ethical considerations are paramount for brands exploring new technologies. By discussing the balancing act of innovation with environmental consciousness, Christopher provides valuable perspective on how tech can evolve responsibly. What are the biggest challenges and opportunities for brands in this rapidly advancing tech era? And how can they maintain a human-centered approach as they embrace automation and AI? Tune in for an insightful conversation that challenges conventional thinking on creativity, sustainability, and the future of brand experiences. Share your thoughts with us—how do you see emerging technology shaping the brand experience in years to come?

Are telecom operators prepared for a future where connectivity is as seamless as it is sophisticated? In this episode, we speak with Emir Aboulhosn, CEO of NetLync, who has been instrumental in transforming how operators deliver mobile services through NetLync's pioneering Entitlements-as-a-Service (EaaS) model.  Emir shares the story behind this innovative platform, which debuted earlier this year and has quickly attracted over 100 operators worldwide. This service enables mobile network operators (MNOs) and mobile virtual network operators (MVNOs) of all sizes to launch essential mobile features within weeks, slashing deployment times from traditional timelines that stretched to a year or more. The conversation explores how NetLync’s solution is democratizing access to advanced connectivity features, allowing even smaller operators to compete with larger players. Emir discusses how EaaS is breaking down barriers in an industry traditionally dominated by OEM agreements, making technologies like eSIM Quick Transfer, VoLTE, and WiFi Calling accessible to a wider range of operators. We also look into the upcoming global adoption of eSIM-only smartphones and how NetLync is positioning itself to support this shift, ensuring that operators are prepared to provide the seamless connectivity experiences customers demand. As we unpack the broader implications of EaaS, Emir dives into NetLync’s self-onboarding, developer-focused approach and how this method is simplifying integration while setting a new standard for customer experience. What does the future hold for telecom operators as eSIM technology becomes the norm and entitlements technology continues to expand? Tune in as Emir provides insights into NetLync’s vision for connectivity’s next frontier and shares valuable takeaways for an industry poised for transformation. How do you see this impacting the telecom landscape, and are operators truly ready for what’s next? Let us know your thoughts.

What does it take for organizations to stay one step ahead of cyber threats in an increasingly digital world? In this episode, I sit down with Dirk Schrader, Field CISO EMEA and VP of Security Research at Netwrix, to explore the state of cybersecurity and the findings from Netwrix’s latest annual security report. The conversation reveals a stark reality: 79% of organizations experienced a cyberattack in the past year, a rise from 68% in 2023, with ransomware remaining one of the most significant threats. Dirk offers insights into what these trends mean for organizations today, especially as cloud-based infrastructure attacks are now matching on-premise incidents. He highlights how identity compromise has become the primary attack vector, particularly for privileged identities, underscoring the importance of identity and privilege management. Throughout the episode, Dirk shares the protective measures organizations can adopt, from fostering a positive security culture that encourages reporting and proactive engagement to utilizing just-in-time privilege approaches and identity threat detection systems. We also discuss the challenges and opportunities brought by remote work and the increasing reliance on cloud services, which demand a shift in traditional security practices. Dirk advocates for a flexible but resilient approach to cyber risk management, where understanding sector-specific needs and balancing regulatory compliance play crucial roles. Lastly, we touch on the role of AI in the evolving cybersecurity landscape—both as a defense mechanism and as a potential tool for adversaries, especially with threats like deepfake voice calls and scalable persuasive phishing on the horizon. Tune in to understand how Netwrix’s research and Dirk’s expertise can help your organization anticipate risks, fortify defenses, and foster a robust security strategy in an era where cyber resilience is paramount. What cybersecurity challenges have you faced in your organization, and what steps are you taking to address them? Let us know your thoughts.

How are organizations rethinking workforce strategies to stay flexible and innovative in today’s rapidly changing landscape? This episode features a conversation with Hugo Malan, President of Kelly Science, Engineering, Technology & Telecom, where he shares insights on the shifts shaping workforce management and driving industries forward.  With a background in electronic engineering and extensive executive experience, Hugo has been instrumental in Kelly’s strategic acquisitions of Softworld and Motion Recruitment Partners. These significant moves have strengthened Kelly’s capabilities in areas like secure government talent and specialized tech staffing, introducing new thinking to their approach. Hugo discusses mixed labor strategies, blending full-time staff with temporary and project-based roles to create adaptable teams ready for evolving demands. He explains the benefits, including access to niche skills for short-term projects and the ability to adjust workforces effectively across economic cycles. Hugo also examines a recent shift in the temporary labor market, offering perspective on why the industry has seen reduced demand for temporary roles despite economic growth and what this trend may reveal about current business sentiment. For mid-career tech professionals, Hugo offers guidance on staying competitive, from upskilling to leveraging AI-driven tools that streamline workflows.

In this episode, we tackle a fresh perspective on a common cybersecurity question: What keeps a CISO awake at night? According to Michael Covington, VP of Strategy at Jamf, the real issue isn’t about external threats but rather a lack of robust security processes, especially in mobile device management. Covington shares insights on how a well-thought-out strategy can let CISOs rest easy, with their minds at ease knowing that key areas, from cyber hygiene to compliance, are under control. Our conversation dives into three primary areas that Covington believes are essential for keeping mobile device vulnerabilities at bay and ensuring secure integration within enterprise ecosystems. First, he highlights the often-overlooked importance of cyber hygiene. He notes that nearly 40% of mobile users operate devices with known vulnerabilities, a staggering figure that reveals the challenges organizations face in keeping devices up-to-date and correctly configured. Covington argues that regular updates, vigilant configuration management, and consistent patching practices are not just best practices—they’re fundamental in building a secure foundation. Second, we explore the complexities of compliance, particularly when it comes to mobile devices. Covington points out that many organizations struggle to balance security regulations with the diverse landscape of personal and work devices. He suggests that the right tools can streamline compliance, ensuring that mobile devices align with broader corporate standards without creating unnecessary friction. Lastly, Covington addresses the evolving nature of BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) policies and the intricacies of managing shared devices. Despite their long-standing presence, these device policies often present challenges, with many organizations lacking effective management strategies. Covington emphasizes the need for layered solutions that integrate into existing security frameworks without overwhelming IT teams or sacrificing the user experience. Join us as we unpack Jamf’s approach to these challenges and discuss the future of mobile security in industries from healthcare to aviation. How can organizations prepare for the next wave of AI-driven data on mobile devices? And what steps can they take now to ensure seamless, secure access for users? Listen in and share your thoughts on the balance between security, compliance, and user enablement in today’s mobile-driven world.

What does a truly decentralized communication network look like in Web3? Today’s episode explores this question with Push Protocol, a company establishing itself as “The Communication Protocol of Web3.” With over 237,000 subscribers and more than 700 integrations, Push Protocol enables secure, encrypted messaging, notifications, and video for wallet addresses across an open network, powering well-known platforms like Uniswap, Polygon, Arbitrum, and Lens, alongside integrations with MetaMask. Our conversation with Harsh Rajat Founder, Push Protocol will unpack how the platform has grown to send over 110 billion notifications for Web3 activities, like DeFi transactions and ENS domains. Harsh discusses Push V3, an upcoming launch featuring wallet-free sharing, cross-chain compatibility, and omni-chain capabilities, making it even more adaptable across multiple blockchains. We’ll also dive into Push Nodes—a new Proof of Stake Network designed to establish a decentralized, scalable communication blockchain. Harsh shares insights into the network’s unique capability to handle high-volume, real-time communication while supporting both EVM and non-EVM transaction payloads. As privacy and security remain at the forefront of Push Protocol’s mission, end-to-end encryption is key in ensuring sensitive communications are safeguarded. Push Protocol is setting its sights on becoming the foundational communication layer for successful Web3 applications, placing user privacy at the center of decentralized communication. Are we approaching a future where blockchain-based communication can offer both security and decentralization? Join us to hear Push Protocol’s vision and consider how it might transform the decentralized communication landscape. What role do you see secure communication playing in the future of Web3? Share your thoughts!

In a world increasingly dominated by digital transactions, businesses face the ever-growing challenge of navigating complex payment ecosystems. How can enterprises streamline their payment processes to ensure both customer satisfaction and operational efficiency? Today, we're exploring these questions and more with Tom Voaden, VP of Commercial at BR-DGE, who will shed light on their innovative white-label payment orchestration solution. BR-DGE, a cutting-edge payment orchestration provider, has made significant strides with its modular, white-label platform designed to seamlessly integrate various payment services under one roof. This solution not only addresses the inefficiencies of legacy systems but also combats market fragmentation, enabling businesses to improve authorization rates and optimize payment processing through dynamic routing and tokenization. Founded in Edinburgh in 2018 and having expanded its footprint globally, BR-DGE is now setting new standards in payment technology by empowering clients with customizable tech stacks that enhance their competitive edge. The conversation will delve into the specifics of BR-DGE’s offerings, such as BR-DGE Connect, which aggregates payment providers, methods, and fraud management tools, and their tokenization service that enhances transaction security. We will discuss how these services bridge the gap between traditional systems and modern fintech solutions, allowing providers to offer state-of-the-art features without overhauling their existing infrastructure. Additionally, Tom will highlight how BR-DGE's solutions foster better customer relationships through their flexible and scalable technology, facilitating businesses to expand internationally and solidify their market positions. As BR-DGE continues to grow, exploring data-driven offerings to enrich their value proposition and planning further expansion into markets like Australia, we'll examine the strategic moves that position them as a leader in the payment sector. Their commitment to easing compliance burdens and enhancing merchant retention through innovative services demonstrates a forward-thinking approach to the future of financial transactions. As we uncover the layers of payment orchestration and its impact on the global market, what are your thoughts on the future of payment technologies? How do you see these innovations influencing your daily business operations or customer interactions? Join the conversation and share your insights.

Can finding a tradesperson be as effortless as ordering a pizza? Today, we explore this question with Jambu Palaniappan, CEO of Checkatrade and former Uber executive, as he leads the digital transformation of the £59 billion UK home services industry. In this episode, Jambu shares his vision for bringing trust and efficiency to a sector that, while essential, has largely remained offline. Since its founding in 1998, Checkatrade has built a reputation as a trusted platform for connecting homeowners with vetted tradespeople, addressing a critical need that emerged after a natural disaster highlighted the risk of rogue traders. Now, Jambu is focused on evolving Checkatrade from a traditional lead-generation platform into a comprehensive, end-to-end marketplace that simplifies every step of the home services journey—from finding a qualified tradesperson to payment and review. Imagine a world where scheduling, cost estimation, and invoicing are all streamlined on one platform, giving users peace of mind and tradespeople a business management toolkit that’s intuitive and effective. Checkatrade’s digital roadmap includes innovations like a new consumer app, launched to enhance accessibility and engagement, and business tools that make quoting and invoicing seamless. But with rapid innovation comes the challenge of balancing trust and quality. Checkatrade’s rigorous 12-step vetting process remains central to its mission, and the company continues to reject potential members who don’t meet its standards—because, as Jambu puts it, “no one checks trades like Checkatrade.” Alongside technological advancements, Checkatrade is also addressing a shortage in skilled trades by partnering with over 500 schools to promote careers in the industry, making this digital transformation as inclusive as it is innovative. In our conversation, Jambu reflects on lessons from his career, including insights from Uber’s rapid growth and his gratitude toward mentors who saw his potential. With new features on the horizon and plans to transform the home services market, what does the future hold for Checkatrade’s digital journey? And will this blend of innovation and trust reshape how we navigate home improvement? Share your thoughts with us after tuning in!