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Boy- did we get it wrong sometimes!

Failure is the best teacher. So, Sam and Maia sat down in the MoneyPot Booth at Money20/20 in October and went over where they really missed the mark, and what it has taught them about what to look for in 2025.

This episode dives into the lessons learned in FinTech during 2024, exploring the unexpected challenges within the housing market, societal attitudes toward financial fraud, and the reality of AI in customer service.

• Reflecting on the surprising downturn of the housing market
• Discussing cultural shifts toward defrauding financial institutions
• Analyzing the repercussions of BaaS failures
• Critiquing the impact of AI on customer service experiences
• Considering the role of deepfakes in modern media and politics
• Addressing the stagnation of NFTs and missed opportunities for growth

Thank you for your support through the year! Connect with us on LinkedIn and Twitter to share your thoughts!

Hosts: Sam Maule & Maia Bittner

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What if you thought you found a loophole to get free money from ATMs, only to end up with a negative balance? Join us as we dissect a viral TikTok trend that had Chase Bank customers depositing fraudulent checks for quick withdrawals. Maia dives into how Chase later corrects these transactions, emphasizing the crucial role of identity verification and KYC (Know Your Customer) in online banking. We also tackle the unique challenges non-US residents face in accessing US-based bank accounts and the relentless efforts of banks to combat international fraud.

Our conversation takes a nostalgic turn as we explore the transformation of human banking behavior over the years. From amusing misconceptions about ATM and teller services to the early days of credit card usage, we highlight how technological advancements have altered our financial interactions. Discover personal anecdotes that reveal the stark contrasts between high-trust and low-trust societies, setting the stage for a deeper look into a supposed glitch at Chase ATMs.

In our final segment, we demystify the complexities of check fraud and the measures banks take to prevent it. Learn about the provisional access to funds, the stringent underwriting process, and the severe consequences of committing check fraud. We delve into how viral TikTok videos have influenced consumer behavior and the alarming rise in check fraud-related Suspicious Activity Reports since 2021. To wrap up, we explore the future of banking with AI, the concept of Net Interest Margin (NIM), and essential fintech metrics like LTV and churn rate. Tune in for an insightful discussion that spans from fraud prevention to customer acquisition strategies in the ever-evolving world of banking.

Hosts: Sam Maule & Maia Bittner

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Can financial compliance be the key to a safer global economy, or is it a labyrinthine obstacle for startups? In this episode, we unravel the intricate world of KYC (Know Your Customer), KYB (Know Your Business), and AML (Anti-Money Laundering), using the recent developments with the digital banking startup Mercury as a springboard. We dissect the complexities behind sensational headlines, exploring the foundational importance of KYC in thwarting fraud and money laundering. Discover the historical journey of the term "money laundering," from its emergence during Watergate to its critical role in Reagan's war on drugs and post-9/11 global security efforts. This segment will give you a comprehensive understanding of the global initiatives aimed at preventing financial crimes and ensuring institutions don't inadvertently assist terrorists.

Our conversation then shifts to the persistent challenges of identity verification and the inefficiencies plaguing current systems. We delve into the struggles faced by under-documented individuals and propose innovative solutions, including a startup idea leveraging gig economy workers for identity verification. Finally, we explore the KYB process and its implications for startups like Mercury, particularly the challenges of regulating international business dealings. Listen in as we share actionable insights on balancing compliance with business opportunities, emphasizing the crucial role of thorough verification processes in maintaining a robust and secure financial ecosystem.

Hosts: Sam Maule & Maia Bittner