- Dominic Frisby: The Future of Work and Money
- Leda Glyptis: Driving Client Success
- Chris Skinner: The Past, Present, and Future of Banking, Finance, and Technology
- Lyn Alden vs Alex De Vries: Debate – Crypto’s Environmental Impact
- Tim Harford: How Frustration Can Make Us More Creative
- Robin Hanson: Prediction Markets, the Future of Civilization, and Polymathy
- Desiree Fixler: Should Environmental, Social and Governance Influence Investment Decisions?
In the ever-evolving world of FinTech, the UK stands at the forefront, boasting a wealth of talent and innovation. Among the many ways this expertise is shared, keynote speeches offer a unique insight into the minds shaping the future of finance.
From groundbreaking technological advancements to insights on the latest industry trends, the best FinTech speakers in the UK captivate audiences with their vision and experience.
In this article, we’ll highlight some of the most impactful keynote speeches delivered by leading FinTech experts, either in the UK or by UK-based speakers, showcasing the ideas that are driving the industry forward.
The Influence of Keynote Speeches in FinTech
Keynote speeches hold a unique position in the FinTech industry, serving as powerful platforms for thought leadership and innovation.
These speeches, often delivered by industry pioneers, thought leaders and visionaries, do more than just share knowledge; they inspire action and set the tone for future developments.
By addressing current challenges, emerging trends, and potential disruptions, keynote speakers can influence the direction of FinTech on a global scale. Their insights often spark new ideas, drive collaboration, and motivate startups and established companies alike to push the boundaries of what’s possible in finance.
In the rapidly evolving world of FinTech, these speeches provide a much-needed pulse check, offering clarity and direction in an otherwise complex landscape where change is constant.
The Top FinTech Keynote Speeches & Talks
Dominic Frisby: The Future of Work and Money
Dominic Frisby is a British financial author, comedian, and presenter known for his work on economics, finance, and taxation. He has written several books on financial topics, with a focus on money, taxation, and the history of economic systems.
One of his most notable books is “Bitcoin: The Future of Money?” where he explores the rise of Bitcoin and its potential impact on the financial system. Another significant work is “Daylight Robbery: How Tax Shaped Our Past and Will Change Our Future,” in which Frisby examines the history of taxation and its influence on society, economics, and politics.
Frisby is also known for his engaging and accessible writing style, making complex financial topics understandable to a broader audience.
In addition to his work as an author, he has appeared in various media outlets, giving talks and hosting podcasts on related subjects. With his signature flair and humour, Dominic Frisby brings the same engaging style to both stage and screen, a reflection of his roots in stand-up comedy.
He seamlessly blends financial topics with his comedic craft, having collaborated with renowned comedians like Jimmy Carr, Henning Wehn, Al Murray, Arthur Smith, and Shazia Mirza to explore the economics behind the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. Frisby also co-hosted the crowdfunding show Money Pit alongside Jason Manford.
In the below speech, Dominic Frisby discusses the future of Cryptocurrency and how it will impact the way we work, the way we use our money, and the general financial space.
Leda Glyptis: Driving Client Success, FinTech Week, London, 2022
Leda Glyptis is a well-known thought leader in the FinTech industry. Recognised for her extensive experience and innovation in banking and technology, she is a popular keynote speaker who covers everything to do with FinTech.
Leda has held various senior roles in the financial services sector, including positions focused on digital transformation, innovation, and strategy.
She is also a frequent keynote speaker at FinTech conferences, where she shares her insights on the future of banking, the role of technology in financial services, and the challenges of digital transformation.
In addition to her work in the industry, Leda Glyptis is known for her engaging writing, including her book Bankers Like Us, and contributions to various FinTech publications. Her perspectives are highly valued for their depth and practical relevance, making her a respected voice in the FinTech community. Leda also drives and encourages women in FinTech.
Leda Glyptis, a graduate of King’s College, Cambridge, with an MSc and PhD from the London School of Economics and Political Science, combines her deep academic background with extensive practical experience to provide expert advice and deliver impactful speeches in the ever-changing FinTech landscape.
In the below video, which took place during FinTech week in London, Leda Glyptis discusses the importance of driving client success, covering topics such as business development, client delivery and growth, financial innovation, partnerships, marketing and communications.
Chris Skinner: The Past, Present, and Future of Banking, Finance, and Technology, FinTech Moldova Conference, 2023
Chris Skinner is a prominent figure in the FinTech industry, often referred to as a FinTech Guru due to his deep expertise and influential role in the sector. He is a widely recognised author, speaker, and commentator on financial markets and FinTech.
Chris is perhaps best known for his blog, “The Finanser,” where he regularly shares insights on the intersection of finance and technology.
In addition to his blog, Chris Skinner has authored several influential books on FinTech, including Digital Bank, ValueWeb, and Digital Human.
These works explore the impact of digital transformation on banking, the rise of the FinTech industry, and the broader implications of technology on society. His writings are widely regarded as essential reading for anyone interested in the future of finance.
Chris Skinner is also a frequent keynote speaker at major conferences around the world, where he discusses topics such as the future of banking, the role of FinTech in reshaping financial services, and the importance of innovation in the industry.
His thought leadership has made him a respected authority in FinTech, and he continues to influence the direction of the industry through his work.
In addition to his corporate career, Skinner is a visiting lecturer on FinTech at Cambridge University, where he earned his degree in mathematics. He is also frequently invited to speak on FinTech by prestigious academic institutions worldwide.
Outside of FinTech, Skinner is a children’s author and co-founder of The Portrait Foundation, alongside Basia Hamilton, advocating for arts education among young people.
In the below speech, Skinner provided a comprehensive analysis of the global FinTech landscape, outlining four key trends shaping the industry. He emphasised the paradigm shift driven by digital transformation, spurred by changing customer expectations, increased competition, and evolving regulatory frameworks.
Open banking, powered by APIs, standards, and regulations, was highlighted for its role in promoting collaboration and innovation.
He also explored the rise of decentralised finance (DeFi), which, through peer-to-peer blockchain-based solutions like cryptocurrencies, stablecoins, and smart contracts, is disrupting traditional financial intermediaries and institutions.
Lyn Alden vs Alex De Vries: Debate – Crypto’s Environmental Impact, Intelligence Squared, 2023
Lyn Alden is a prominent financial analyst, author, and investment strategist. She is well-known for her expertise in macroeconomics, value investing, and long-term financial planning. Lyn Alden runs the investment research service Lyn Alden Investment Strategy, where she provides insights on various financial markets, including equities, bonds, commodities, and cryptocurrencies.
Her work is widely respected in the financial community, and she often provides in-depth analysis of global economic trends, monetary policy, and investment strategies. Lyn Alden’s research is highly regarded for its thoroughness, clarity, and focus on long-term wealth building. She is also frequently featured in financial media and has a strong following on social media platforms.
Alex de Vries is an economist and researcher best known for his work on the environmental impact of cryptocurrencies, particularly Bitcoin. He is the founder of Digiconomist, a platform that tracks and analyses the energy consumption and carbon footprint of blockchain technology.
De Vries gained attention for highlighting the significant energy demands associated with Bitcoin mining, bringing to light concerns about its sustainability and environmental consequences.
His research often focuses on the intersection of technology, economics, and environmental science, with a particular emphasis on the broader implications of digital currencies. His work is frequently cited in discussions about the environmental impact of cryptocurrencies.
In this compelling debate, experts Lyn Alden and Alex De Vries explore the contentious issue of cryptocurrency’s environmental impact, particularly focusing on Bitcoin.
They examine critical topics such as Bitcoin’s energy consumption, the shift from proof of work to proof of stake, and the potential consequences for developing countries.
This insightful discussion delves into both sides of the Crypto vs. Environment debate, offering a deeper understanding of the intricate relationship between cryptocurrency, sustainability, and global energy usage.
Tim Harford: How Frustration Can Make Us More Creative, TED, 2016
Tim Harford is a well-known British economist, journalist, and broadcaster. He is best recognised for his ability to explain complex economic concepts in an accessible and engaging manner.
Tim Harford is the author of several bestselling books, including The Undercover Economist, Adapt: Why Success Always Starts with Failure, and The Logic of Life. His writing often explores the unexpected ways in which economics influences everyday life.
In addition to his books, Tim Harford is a regular columnist for the Financial Times, where he writes the “Undercover Economist” column.
He has also hosted several popular radio and podcast series, such as BBC Radio 4’s More or Less, which examines the numbers behind news stories, and Cautionary Tales, a podcast that explores historical mishaps and what they can teach us.
Tim Harford is celebrated for his storytelling ability and his talent for making economics both entertaining and informative. His work has earned him a broad audience beyond academia, making him one of the most influential voices in economics today.
As a keynote speaker, Tim Harford skillfully explores a range of topics, from the hidden economics behind everyday items like coffee prices to the complexities of systems such as US healthcare.
He illustrates how economic principles can help navigate daily challenges, addresses the role of popular economics in a politically charged world, and unpacks the polarising debates around issues like Brexit. Renowned for his engaging delivery, Harford offers a thought-provoking and dynamic exploration of the ever-important realm of macroeconomics.
Robin Hanson: Prediction Markets, the Future of Civilization, and Polymathy, Manifold #66
Robin Hanson is an American economist and associate professor at George Mason University.
He is also a research associate at the Future of Humanity Institute at Oxford University. Robin Hanson is known for his work in a variety of fields, including economics, decision theory, and the future of technology.
He has a background in physics, philosophy, and artificial intelligence, which contributes to his interdisciplinary approach to research.
Hanson is perhaps best known for his work on prediction markets, where he has been a leading advocate and researcher. Prediction markets are speculative markets created to make predictions, and they have been used in various domains, from politics to economics, to aggregate information and forecast outcomes.
In addition to his academic work, Robin Hanson has authored books that explore unconventional ideas and challenge common perspectives. One of his most notable books is The Age of Em (2016), which discusses a future scenario in which human minds are uploaded and run on computers.
Another is The Elephant in the Brain (2018), co-authored with Kevin Simler, which explores hidden motives in everyday life, arguing that much of human behaviour is driven by subconscious self-interest.
Hanson is known for his provocative and often controversial ideas, particularly in areas related to the future of humanity, artificial intelligence, and the social sciences.
He is also an active blogger, where he shares his thoughts on a wide range of topics, continuing to influence discussions in both academic and public spheres.
In the below talk, Hanson discusses the future of the markets, the challenges and potential solutions, cultural changes and modern-day concerns, and the future of AI and Machine Learning.
Desiree Fixler: Should Environmental, Social and Governance Influence Investment Decisions?
Desiree Fixler is a well-known figure in the finance and investment industry, particularly in the areas of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) investing and sustainability. A FinTech leader, she gained significant attention in 2021 when she was the Chief Sustainability Officer at DWS Group, the asset management arm of Deutsche Bank.
Desiree Fixler became widely recognised for her whistleblower role in exposing what she alleged to be misleading claims by DWS Group regarding its ESG investment practices.
She claimed that the firm was not as committed to sustainability and ESG criteria as it publicly stated, which led to investigations by regulatory authorities in the U.S. and Germany. This controversy highlighted the growing scrutiny on how financial institutions report and manage ESG factors.
Her actions and subsequent investigations have significantly impacted the ESG investment landscape, raising awareness about the importance of transparency and accountability in sustainability claims.
Fixler is regarded as an advocate for integrity in ESG investing, and her story has become a key example in discussions about greenwashing and the challenges of implementing effective ESG strategies in the finance industry.
Desiree Fixler holds a BSc in Economics (Hons) from the London School of Economics. She serves on the CFA’s ESG Technical Committee, is a member of the LSE’s Entrepreneurship Advisory Group, and sits on the World Economic Forum’s Global Future Council on Responsible Investing.
In the below discussion, Desiree, alongside other prominent speakers, covers environmental, social and governance, as well as key sustainable business practices.
How To Book Keynote Speakers in the UK
At CWG Speakers, we make booking prominent figures and thought leaders around the world easy. As a speaker agency and expert network, we have connections to some of the most sought-after keynote speakers in the world.
With leaders from a range of backgrounds including FinTech, Academia, Business, Sport, and Entertainment, we have the tools to find exactly what you need for your event or conference.
Many clients tend to be financial institutions, businesses, and industry groups seeking innovative and popular industry leaders and academics.
We are also a strategic partner of Ashbury Communications (recently named Financial Services PR Consultancy of the Year for 2023 by PRovoke Media) and work together to offer an integrated suite of advisory services enabling you to deliver high-impact events that resonate with your audience, including:
- Conference concept and design
- Agenda development
- Speaker research and identification
- Topic research and session content development
- Executive speeches
- Event content: videos, editorial on key themes, marketing materials, social posts, visual assets
- Media engagement
For those hosting important conferences and events in the UK, booking a speaker through a speaker agency such as ourselves is the most reliable and seamless method of connecting with FinTech thought leaders.
Final Thoughts
The best keynote speeches by FinTech speakers in the UK not only highlight the transformative power of financial technology but also inspire audiences to think critically about the future of finance.
These speakers, with their deep expertise and visionary insights, are shaping the industry’s landscape and driving innovation forward.
Whether you’re a startup founder, a seasoned executive, or simply passionate about FinTech, attending these keynote sessions offers invaluable knowledge and inspiration that can propel you to the next level. Keep an eye on the FinTech scene in the UK—it’s where the future of finance is being forged.
If you’re looking to connect with experts and thought leaders across the world, reach out to us at CWG Speakers. We’ll help you find exactly what you need for your event and make the connections you need.