Why This USA Fintech Event is Not One to Miss | FF Virtual Arena #329

Why should fintech startups make the trip across the Atlantic for Money 20/20 USA 2024?

We find out the answers to all this and more in the second part of our conversation with Scarlett Sieber and Zach Anderson Pettet from Money20/20 as they discuss how the global ecosystem is represented at the conference and the unique opportunities it offers for networking.

There’s comments on the current fintech landscape and how these times can actually be seen as fertile ground for resilient, impactful startups to emerge.

If you haven’t already, check out part one of this conversation on our website.

Why you should attend Money20/20

In the second part of our conversation with Scarlett Sieber and Zach Anderson Pettet from Money20/20, Ali Paterson shifts the focus toward the event’s global relevance and the strategic importance for international fintech companies aiming to enter the North American market. It could be said that in the past, a US focus may have deterred some from making the considerable expense to attend. He asks why companies from Europe, Asia-Pacific, and Latin America should consider attending?

In response, Anderson Pettet lets us know about the evolving global nature of Money20/20. He highlights the increasing participation from regions beyond North America, particularly Asia and Latin America, pointing out that the event is not just about the US anymore; it’s about creating a global dialogue in fintech. In fact, more regulators from Latin America will attend this year than those from the US, reflecting the growing significance of the region, something we’ve touched on before. He argues that for any startup, attending Money20/20 provides unparalleled exposure and the opportunity to test ideas in a concentrated, high-stakes environment. It’s a chance to see if a strategy to enter the US market is viable before making a significant financial commitment.

A whole host of interesting speakers

For Sieber the value of Money20/20 is as a platform for education and networking. The event offers more than just a chance to meet potential investors—it’s an opportunity to refine pitches, test ideas with a diverse audience, and forge partnerships. The US market might be challenging to crack, but the opportunities it offers, particularly at Money20/20, are unmatched and who knows where it could take your startup.

We also find out much more about the speakers and content at the event with Ali asking what excites our guests about the speakers. One thing that’s mentioned is how the content could potentially influence the direction of the global ecosystem and could have done in the past, if Money20/20 was around then. For Anderson Pettet, the most exciting moments are when startups emerge from stealth and end up being catapulted into the public consciousness, accelerating their growth.

Of course, while large stages and big-name speakers are exciting, some of the most impactful moments happen in smaller, more intimate settings. These can leave a lasting impression on the select few who experience them, showcasing the breadth and depth of the fintech community. Sieber also notes that the process of preparing speakers, especially high-profile ones, involves considerable behind-the-scenes effort to ensure that the content resonates and adds value.

What does the future of fintech look like?

We also get a broader reflection on the fintech industry’s current state, with Ali asking whether the industry should remain optimistic given the recent challenges, such as IPO speculations and venture capital shifts. Sieber remains optimistic, viewing the current reset as a necessary correction that will lead to more sustainable and impactful fintech businesses. She believes that the companies that can navigate these tough times will emerge stronger and become the new industry darlings.

And lastly, there may even be a couple of hints about things attendees can expect to see at this years event. Be sure to watch the video to find out more.