Reinventing the Wheel, Again? | Nordic Fintech Highlights April 2024

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/ --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/fintech-daydreaming/message

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/ --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/fintech-daydreaming/message

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/ --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/fintech-daydreaming/message

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/ --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/fintech-daydreaming/message

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/ --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/fintech-daydreaming/message

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/ --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/fintech-daydreaming/message

Get ready to dive headfirst into the blockchain rabbit hole with the latest episode of "Fintech Daydreaming," where the waters are murky, the regulations tangled, and the future as clear as mud. This time around, Pål and Ville are joined by none other than Erwin Voloder, who is the Head of Policy at the European Blockchain Association. EU's labyrinthine policy developments are a tall order for anyone, but who better to guide as through it all than someone with "policy" literally in his title? Together, they embark on a thrilling (and slightly dizzying) journey through the ever-evolving world of blockchain technologies and digital currencies within the EU. The conversation kicks off with the kind of policy and regulation chit-chat that could make even a seasoned bureaucrat's head spin. From the cryptic depths of blockchain regulation to the looming specter of the Digital Euro project, no stone is left unturned. Then, because why stop at confusing, our intrepid hosts delve into the murky waters of private versus public digital currencies. Spoiler alert: predicting the future of digital currencies based on today's information is like trying to solve a Rubik's Cube blindfolded—in a hurricane. But fear not, dear listener! Despite the convoluted subject matter, our hosts and their esteemed guest manage to inject a healthy dose of clear examples and perhaps a smidge of enlightenment into the discussion. If you've ever found yourself lying awake at night, pondering the fate of digital currencies or the EU's blockchain policy (and really, who hasn't?), this episode is like a lullaby sung by a choir of fintech angels. So, tune in, buckle up, and prepare to be mildly bemused, moderately enlightened, and thoroughly entertained as "Fintech Daydreaming" tackles the EU's blockchain and digital currency conundrum. It's going to be a wild ride, with more twists and turns than a blockchain ledger. - 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/ --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/fintech-daydreaming/message

Strap in for a fintech merry-go-round with the Fintech Daydreaming squad, where the latest episode cuts through the February frost with hot takes that could melt even the iciest Nordic winter. Janne, Pål, and Ville are at it again, dissecting the month's juiciest fintech drama from the comfort of their virtual studio. First, Pål waxes poetic about TUUM's latest cash infusion. Because, apparently, what the world needs is yet another cloud banking platform to save us from the tyranny of traditional banking. Then, Janne gushes over Saxo Bank cozying up to MasterCard like it's the fintech version of a royal wedding. Open banking payments for investment accounts? Groundbreaking, if you've been living under a rock for the past five years. Ville can't resist joining the hype train, flaunting Enfuce's shiny new e-money license in the UK. Move over, Beatles and fish & chips—there's a new British invasion in town, and it's all about cards - from Finland. All this boils down to a no-holds-barred brawl over the fate of physical payment cards. Are they destined for the museum, or is there life in the old dog yet? Opinions fly faster than unfriended credit cards, and consensus is as elusive as a fee-free ATM. If you love your fintech news served with a side of dry Nordic humor and aren't afraid of a little debate, this episode is your spirit animal. Tune in to witness our hosts joust over whether fintech's future is "game on" or "game over" for the humble payment card. Spoiler alert: They agree on nothing. - 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/ --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/fintech-daydreaming/message

Strap in, fintech enthusiasts! This episode of "Fintech Daydreaming" is tailored for every fintech startup wrestling with the age-old dilemma: How do we sell to banks? Whether it's peddling services, cutting-edge technology, or simply trying to get banks to sign you up as a customer, navigating the labyrinth to the decision-makers' hearts (and wallets) in banks is no small feat. Join your favorite fintech whisperers, Pål Krogdahl and Ville Sointu, as they tackle this behemoth of a question head-on. And who better to guide us through this maze than our good friend and Ville’s former colleague, Ewan MacLeod? Ewan brings to the table a treasure trove of insights, drawing from his rich experience on both sides of the fintech-banking divide. In this heart-to-heart, Ewan spills the beans on what really gets a bank's attention, the do's and don'ts of fintech pitches, and how to align your shiny fintech solution with the banks' often elusive needs. Expect stories from the trenches, laughter at the absurdities, and, most importantly, actionable wisdom that could very well be the Rosetta Stone for fintechs aiming to make their mark in the banking world. If you've ever found yourself puzzling over the secret handshake to win over banks, this episode is your not-so-secret map. Tune in, soak up the insights, and get ready to take notes - because "Banking on It" might just be the breakthrough moment your fintech has been waiting for. - 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/ --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/fintech-daydreaming/message

Buckle up, fintech aficionados! Our monthly "Nordic Fintech Highlights" episode has arrived, and it's a whirlwind tour through January's most electrifying developments in the Nordic fintech scene. Our dynamic duo, Pål Krogdahl and Ville Sointu, are joined by the ever-insightful Janne Salminen, the mastermind CEO of Helsinki Fintech Farm and purveyor of many a bad joke, to unpack the juicy details. First on our agenda, we delve into Danske Bank's latest venture with Backbase—a partnership less about romantic candlelit dinners and more about a dynamic duo set to revolutionize digital banking like never before. But the question lingers: is this a case of too little, too late? Next, we dart over to Finland, where MobilePay is making a grand re-entrance, poised to sprinkle some magic on mobile payments. It's akin to reconnecting with an old friend who's just got a fabulous new makeover—you just know things are about to get thrilling. And just when you thought our fintech feast couldn't get any richer, we explore how Januar and Fireblocks are joining forces to create a digital Fort Knox for digital assets. This is the kind of top-tier security that could make even the most skeptical crypto asset manager sleep soundly. So, if you're in the mood for a hearty serving of fintech fun with a dash of Nordic flair, you've struck gold. Tune in, crank up the volume, and let's navigate the waves of January's fintech frenzy with grins all around. - 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/ --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/fintech-daydreaming/message