Why Finance Keeps Solving the Wrong Problems — And How That’s Changing

Money Travels Podcast Season 4, Episode 5
For years, the financial technology sector has operated at the bleeding edge of innovation — from embedded finance to stablecoins and AI. But product strategist and fintech thought leader Jas Shah argues that in the rush to adopt new technologies, it can be easy to lose sight of the human problems we’re trying to solve. As the founder of Bitsul and the voice behind the popular _Fintech: Under the Hood_ newsletter, Jas helps companies bridge the gap between complex code and genuine customer needs. In this episode, Jas explains how his consulting work gets him up close to the real-world friction facing small businesses and migrant workers. We discuss why the West's focus on stablecoins often misses the point, how AI should be harnessed for intent rather than hype, and why the best financial technology is the kind the user never even notices.

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Disclaimers:
Visa Direct capability is enabled through a financial institution partner. Visa Direct product availability and functionality varies by market. The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of any entities they represent. Visa neither makes any warranty or representation as to the completeness or accuracy of the information within this podcast, nor assumes any liability or responsibility that may result from reliance on such information and any information from third parties. The information contained in this podcast is not intended as investment or legal advice, and listeners are encouraged to seek the advice of a competent professional where such advice is required. All brand names, logos and/or trademarks are the property of their respective owners, and do not necessarily imply product endorsement or affiliation with Visa.

00:00 Introduction to Jas and the Technology vs. Consumer Challenge
00:32 Welcome to Money Travels: Building Finance Around Human Need
01:37 Lightning Round: Money Travels at the Speed of Light
03:29 From Code to Consulting: Jas's Journey in Fintech
05:46 The Innovation Speed Trap: Losing Focus on Real Problems
08:39 The Data Paradox: Why Banks Lost Their Competitive Advantage
10:53 Three Critical Problems: SME Lending, Financial Optimization, and Cross-Border
14:14 Cross-Border Reality Check: Beyond the Stablecoin Hype
18:07 Going Back to Basics: The First Principles Approach
22:09 AI in Product Discovery: When to Hold the Wheel
25:02 Embedded Finance: Solving for Mechanisms, Not Buzzwords
27:49 The Pincer Move: Optimism for Finance's Future

Видео Why Finance Keeps Solving the Wrong Problems — And How That’s Changing канала Money Travels