FinTech in developing countries is generally presumed to be pro-poor, while in wealthier countries there is more skepticism that digital innovations will advance inclusion for the poorest in society. Why is that? What are appropriate expectations of FinTech innovation? Should we be more skeptical of FinTech in countries with large inclusion gaps? Should we be less skeptical of new business models and tech-enabled services in wealthy countries? Join Tim Ogden, Managing Director of the Financial Access Initiative, as we discuss the expectations and potential of FinTech to increase inclusion with an expert panel from around the world.
Featuring:
Lois Bruu, Vice President, Humanitarian & Development at MasterCard
Olayinka David-West, Associate Dean and Professor of Information Systems, Lagos Business School
Timothy Flacke, Executive Director, Commonwealth
Barbara Magnoni, President, EAC Global
Tavneet Suri, Professor of Applied Economics, MIT

Editor’s Note: I’m going to assume that you are seeing plenty of AI content (news and papers, not AI slop, though I’m sure you’re getting plenty of that too) from other sources, so I’m trying to think hard about the marginal value that the faiV can provide. As far as I’ve gotten so far: a) make sure that directly AI-related content does not take up more than 2 of the 5 items, and b) try to focus specifically on the cybersecurity issue for financial inclusion. Beyond that, I’m open to feedback on the value you get from the faiV in relation to AI to help guide us in the future. On a different note, I’ll be making a brief cameo appearance at the e-MFP Inclusive Finance Conference to moderate the opening plenary. If you haven’t registered, do so and I hope to see you there! - Tim Ogden