Fintech Insider By 11:fs

About this episode: This week we’ve got something a little different for you. David Barton-Grimley recently returned from the very first Money20/20 Middle East in Saudi Arabia - and beyond enjoying endless cups of Arabic coffee (and collecting a serious stash of swag), he was genuinely inspired by the region’s buzzing startup ecosystem. The energy, innovation, and ambition across the market were impossible to miss. This week, we’re revisiting a conversation that’s just as relevant as it was a year ago, all about what it really takes to be a startup in this region. In this episode, host Benjamin Ensor is joined by Gaia Lamperti, Ziad Mabsout, and Remo Abbondandolo to unpack the challenges and opportunities for fintechs launching in the Middle East. From navigating regulation to tapping into fast-evolving consumer demand, they share insights that remain spot-on for anyone eyeing expansion into the region. Whether you’re exploring new markets or just curious about the Middle East’s fintech story, this one’s