Finance & Banking

Experienced individuals involved in financial services, including banking, investment, insurance, and real estate

Saugat Nayak

Saugat Nayak

Experienced Data & Business Analyst with experience in fintech, telecom, and consulting, specializing in credit risk analytics, portfolio performance monitoring, and data-driven strategy. Skilled in SQL, Python, Tableau, and predictive modeling to deliver actionable insights and optimize lending decisions.

Experienced Data & Business Analyst with experience in fintech, telecom, and consulting, specializing in credit risk analytics, portfolio performance monitoring, and data-driven strategy. Skilled in SQL, Python, Tableau, and predictive modeling to de... Show more

Hriday Gabhawalla

Hriday Gabhawalla

Hriday Gabhawalla is a rising professional in business process solutions, currently working at Deloitte in India, where he leverages his expertise to drive efficiency and innovation in operational workflows. Holding a commerce background from Narsee Monjee College of Commerce & Economics and pursuing the globally recognized ACCA qualification, Hriday combines academic excellence with hands-on industry experience.
He is also the creator of the LinkedIn newsletter The Automated Advantage, where he delivers weekly insights on practical frameworks for harnessing AI to transform business processes.
His passion for rebuilding workflows isn't just theoretical. While still a student, he was struck by how most accounting software failed to enforce fundamental financial controls, forcing users into manual bypasses. He realized this "control gap" was an architecture problem.
This led him to build "ProAcc," a full-stack MVP to prove that robust, auditable controls—like Segregation of Duties—can be embedded directly into a modern web app. For the project, he used Next.js 15, TypeScript, and Google's Genkit to build a system that enforces a "Maker-Checker" workflow and immutable audit trails from the ground up.
An engaging and forward-thinking speaker, Hriday excels at demystifying automation and its impact on finance. His talk offers a unique perspective: he doesn't just discuss theory; he provides an actionable, code-level blueprint drawn from his multifaceted journey.
Beyond the professional realm, Hriday is a dedicated HYROX athlete, having recently competed in the 2025 Mumbai event, demonstrating his commitment to holistic growth.

Hriday Gabhawalla is a rising professional in business process solutions, currently working at Deloitte in India, where he leverages his expertise to drive efficiency and innovation in operational workflows. Holding a commerce background from Narsee ... Show more

Gabriel Yomi Dabiri

Gabriel Yomi Dabiri

Gabriel Yomi Dabiri is a finance attorney based in the United States who focuses his practice on private credit and direct lending matters. He currently serves in a global leadership capacity at his law firm, advising clients on domestic and cross-border finance transactions, restructurings, and special situations. His work reflects a steady, measured approach, centered on clear communication, careful analysis, and an understanding of how legal decisions affect broader business objectives in complex, often time-sensitive financial matters.

Gabriel has developed broad experience across a wide range of financing structures, including senior, mezzanine, and subordinated debt, as well as unitranche and multi-lien arrangements. His practice also includes cash flow lending, asset-based facilities, subscription lines, distressed debt, debtor-in-possession financings, and real estate-related structures. This breadth allows him to assist lenders, sponsors, and borrowers in both routine transactions and more complex financings that require disciplined judgment and close attention to market terms.

Gabriel dedicates a significant portion of his work to expanding and strengthening a global private credit and direct lending platform. He regularly advises on intercreditor negotiations, subordination arrangements, and restructuring matters that require practical solutions rather than abstract theory. His approach is grounded in understanding client priorities and risk tolerance, allowing him to help structure outcomes that are commercially realistic while remaining legally sound in challenging and evolving market conditions.

Gabriel Yomi Dabiri brings an international perspective shaped by years of living and working across major financial centers worldwide. He is admitted to practice law in the United States and England and Wales, enabling him to advise on transactions governed by different legal systems. This dual qualification supports his work on cross-border financings and multi-jurisdictional structures, helping clients manage complexity while maintaining consistency and efficiency across jurisdictions.

Gabriel began his legal career with training at an international law firm, where he worked across several offices and developed a strong foundation in banking and finance. He later joined another global firm as an associate, where he gained deeper exposure to private credit transactions and secured his first significant client in that space during his mid-level years. He then moved to another firm to further build his private credit practice and technical expertise.

Gabriel later accepted an opportunity to establish a private credit and cross-border finance practice at a national firm, while also serving as managing partner of its New York office. During his leadership tenure, the office experienced substantial growth in personnel and operations, eventually requiring expansion into additional space. He was actively involved in planning and development efforts, reflecting his belief that strong legal practices depend on thoughtful leadership and sustainable growth.

Gabriel Yomi Dabiri holds an academic background that combines economics, political science, and law, reflecting an early interest in the interaction between financial markets and legal systems. This education supports his ability to assess transactions from both legal and economic perspectives, particularly in matters involving layered capital structures or competing stakeholder interests. His training enables him to engage thoughtfully with complex issues and provide guidance that is grounded and well-reasoned.

Gabriel is also committed to contributing beyond his legal practice through philanthropy, volunteer service, and mentorship. He has served in governance and advisory roles for organizations focused on economic empowerment and has volunteered his legal skills in support of health-related initiatives. In addition, he mentors professionals and participates in knowledge-sharing efforts within the legal community, aiming to support responsible practice and long-term professional development.

Gabriel Yomi Dabiri is a finance attorney based in the United States who focuses his practice on private credit and direct lending matters. He currently serves in a global leadership capacity at his law firm, advising clients on domestic and cross-bo... Show more

Yasir Naveed Riaz

Yasir Naveed Riaz

Yasir Naveed Riaz is a Digital Transformation and Cybersecurity specialist with 20+ years of experience leading high-impact technology programs across fintech, digital payments, public services, and enterprise modernization in the GCC.

He has delivered mission-critical initiatives in Zero Trust architecture, cloud security, AI-driven automation, citizen experience platforms, document modernization, and secure digital payment infrastructures for major banks, government entities, and large enterprises.

Yasir is also deeply focused on AI enablement for diverse audiences — including students, parents, teachers, healthcare professionals, SMEs, and organizational leaders — helping them understand, adopt, and responsibly leverage AI in their personal and professional lives.

His expertise spans: AI readiness, cybersecurity governance, digital safety, fintech protection, public-sector modernization, enterprise architecture, and next-gen workforce skills development.

Yasir speaks passionately about bridging the gap between technology and people, empowering communities to thrive in a secure and AI-enabled digital era.

Yasir Naveed Riaz is a Digital Transformation and Cybersecurity specialist with 20+ years of experience leading high-impact technology programs across fintech, digital payments, public services, and enterprise modernization in the GCC. He has deli... Show more

Matthew Schneider

Matthew Schneider

My work sits at the intersection of real estate, finance, and digital infrastructure. I’ve researched and operated in this space since 2020, though I had been tracking blockchain and digital assets closely since 2017. I first founded a company focused on tokenized investment syndication, a path that led me to explore how AI, blockchain, and IoT could bring new levels of transparency, efficiency, and liquidity to real estate.

That experience grew into Building, a company focused on turning messy real estate data into something organized, trusted, and usable. We work with developers and asset managers to streamline their information and get their properties ready for valuations, compliance, and tokenization. The aim is to make every project finance-ready from the start.

I’m extremely cross-disciplinary, juggling a wide range of fields daily: architecture, engineering, construction, operations, urban planning, sustainability, blockchain, artificial intelligence, data science, capital markets, compliance, banking, and policy.

Outside of running a startup, I travel the world speaking publicly—keynotes, panels, and roundtables—while collaborating with startups, institutions, and government officials. My work advocates for RWA tokenization, data standards, and smarter cities. Improving the built environment and all its dependencies is one of the most challenging, but rewarding, pursuits.

I also host Code & Concrete, a podcast exploring real estate, technology, and the systems that hold cities together.

My work sits at the intersection of real estate, finance, and digital infrastructure. I’ve researched and operated in this space since 2020, though I had been tracking blockchain and digital assets closely since 2017. I first founded a company focuse... Show more

James Birnie

James Birnie

James has been working on commercial software since the late 1990s, when TDD was something you studied but never did, pipelines were something that carried oil and Agile and Lean were words used to describe gymnasts. In 2006 he joined a startup and worked there for 9 years which included rewrites, cloud migration and Agile transformation.

In 2015 he started life as a consultant and worked with a variety of clients trying to effect real organisational change by focusing on code quality, culture, a belief in outcomes over processes and a drive for continuous improvement. After leaving consultancy James worked as Head of Platform in a Fintech before it was acquired for $1Bn by Visa and VP of Engineering in a startup, where he learnt how to apply his knowledge of Agile and DevOps to drive positive outcomes in Platform and Cyber Security Teams.

James now works as an independent consultant and is mainly driving transformation in Cyber Security at a major UK bank.

James has been working on commercial software since the late 1990s, when TDD was something you studied but never did, pipelines were something that carried oil and Agile and Lean were words used to describe gymnasts. In 2006 he joined a startup and w... Show more

Spyridon Amvrakidis

Spyridon Amvrakidis

My name is Spyridon Amvrakidis, a 25-year-old Cloud Operations Lead working with secure cloud and on-premise infrastructure for government and large financial enterprises. I focus on cloud security, automation, Kubernetes and hybrid architecture. I also run my own company to educate new engineers on building secure, reliable infrastructure. I believe in cloud-agnostic security and strong teams through education and open collaboration.

My name is Spyridon Amvrakidis, a 25-year-old Cloud Operations Lead working with secure cloud and on-premise infrastructure for government and large financial enterprises. I focus on cloud security, automation, Kubernetes and hybrid architecture. I a... Show more

Joao Paulo Araujo

Joao Paulo Araujo

João Paulo é Assessor no Banco do Brasil, com 25 anos de experiência e atuação estratégica na Diretoria de Controles Internos.
Especialista em governança e compliance, dedica-se há oito anos à transformação de processos críticos, conduzindo iniciativas que unem rigor regulatório, inovação e inteligência de dados.
Com certificações em Business Intelligence, Analytics e Inteligência Artificial, desenvolve soluções avançadas para otimizar processos e apoiar decisões estratégicas.
Fora do ambiente corporativo, é um aprendiz permanente de idiomas e um viajante apaixonado por novas culturas.

João Paulo é Assessor no Banco do Brasil, com 25 anos de experiência e atuação estratégica na Diretoria de Controles Internos. Especialista em governança e compliance, dedica-se há oito anos à transformação de processos críticos, conduzindo iniciati... Show more

Viv Mendes

Viv Mendes

Vivaldo Cândido é Engenheiro Informático e Especialista em Desenvolvimento de Soluções Tecnológicas, reconhecido pela sua capacidade de transformar desafios complexos em soluções digitais inovadoras. Actua como Responsável pelo Departamento de IT da Mwango Brain, onde lidera iniciativas de modernização tecnológica, integração de plataformas e transformação digital orientada a resultados.

Paralelamente, desempenha funções como Técnico de Análise e Desenvolvimento de Soluções na Unitel, contribuindo para a construção de sistemas de grande escala e processos críticos que sustentam milhões de utilizadores a nível nacional.

Scrum Master certificado e Especialista em Jira, Vivaldo domina metodologias ágeis, gestão de processos, modelação empresarial e frameworks modernas de produtividade. É igualmente formado em BPM e BPMN, reforçando a sua capacidade de alinhar tecnologia, processos e estratégia organizacional.

Recentemente, consolidou o seu posicionamento no panorama tecnológico global através da certificação Advanced Digital Transformation & AI, fortalecendo a sua competência na aplicação de inteligência artificial em projectos corporativos. Participou também no Function1, um dos eventos mais avançados de AI e inovação tecnológica realizado no Dubai, onde teve contacto direto com líderes mundiais, tendências emergentes e práticas de ponta em AI/ML.

Nos últimos anos, tem aprofundado o seu foco em componentes de Inteligência Artificial e Machine Learning, integrando estas tecnologias nos seus projectos, nos seus estudos e na sua visão de futuro para o ecossistema digital angolano.

Além da sua vertente técnica, é Educador Financeiro, Investidor e Empreendedor, dedicando-se a promover literacia financeira, autonomia económica e mentalidade de crescimento entre jovens profissionais. A sua abordagem multidisciplinar faz dele uma das vozes mais influentes na interseção entre tecnologia, inovação, negócios e desenvolvimento humano em Angola.

Vivaldo Cândido é Engenheiro Informático e Especialista em Desenvolvimento de Soluções Tecnológicas, reconhecido pela sua capacidade de transformar desafios complexos em soluções digitais inovadoras. Actua como Responsável pelo Departamento de IT da ... Show more

Tarigulu Khasizada

Tarigulu Khasizada

As a Digitalisation Expert within the Finance sector, my background spans over 6 years of dedicated experience in data analysis and visualization. Specializing in the development of user-friendly, visually engaging dashboards, my focus lies in enabling businesses to derive data-informed decisions. Proficiency extends to the utilization of essential tools like Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Power BI, and SQL, integral to my role in executing BI projects while adhering to agile and scrum methodologies. Proficiently operating both autonomously and as part of collaborative teams, my aim is to ensure optimal efficiency in project outcomes.

As a Digitalisation Expert within the Finance sector, my background spans over 6 years of dedicated experience in data analysis and visualization. Specializing in the development of user-friendly, visually engaging dashboards, my focus lies in enabli... Show more

Mauricio Dávalos

Mauricio Dávalos

With over 6 years of experience in the International Software Industry, I’ve had the privilege of working with some of the biggest Fintechs in the world, also some Y Combinator-backed startups, some of which became unicorns after I joined.

Specializing in web development, I bring ideas to life and improve products by leveraging my skills to deliver seamless, user-focused solutions that get the job done in fast-paced environments.

With over 6 years of experience in the International Software Industry, I’ve had the privilege of working with some of the biggest Fintechs in the world, also some Y Combinator-backed startups, some of which became unicorns after I joined. Specia... Show more

Ambica Dixit

Ambica Dixit

Ambica Dixit is a Principal Partner for Data, AI & Robotics at VedArc, where she leads large-scale data modernisation and AI strategy initiatives across New Zealand and Australia. She specialises in enterprise AI, modern data platforms, and agentic systems, with a strong focus on the responsible, secure, and sustainable use of AI in complex organisations. Ambica is known for guiding enterprises from early experimentation toward safe, governed, and production-grade AI adoption, ensuring strategic alignment while enabling high-quality execution across multidisciplinary teams. She works extensively with regulated sectors including energy, forestry, finance, and public service agencies, bringing together strategy, technology, and governance to deliver measurable, real-world outcomes.

Ambica Dixit is a Principal Partner for Data, AI & Robotics at VedArc, where she leads large-scale data modernisation and AI strategy initiatives across New Zealand and Australia. She specialises in enterprise AI, modern data platforms, and agentic s... Show more

Lone Gru

Lone Gru

Worked 20 years in Finance before moving to the ERP Team at an end customer.
Then implemented D365FSCM for Danish customers.

Lately worked as a Technical Specialist for Microsoft. And now working for Arineo.

Proud to be from the same country as D365FO!!!

Worked 20 years in Finance before moving to the ERP Team at an end customer. Then implemented D365FSCM for Danish customers. Lately worked as a Technical Specialist for Microsoft. And now working for Arineo. Proud to be from the same country a... Show more

Earle Martin Dominguez Vacelar

Earle Martin Dominguez Vacelar

Experienced in Data Warehousing Architecture. Dimensional modeling(Fact tables, Dimensions, SCD, Staging Area, Kimball methodology).
Experienced in ETL programming using IBM InfoSphere Information Server (Datastage), administrative task, migration of Datastage versions . IBM Cloud Pak for Data.
Data governance. DAMA.
Experienced in DB2 LUW multipartition. Physical database modeling. SQL.
Experienced in IBM Industry Models ( BDWM) M1-Banking datawarehouse model. AST-BST.
Experienced Oracle Essbase architect ASO, BSO. Process automation, application tuning and performance.
Agile product owner
Event driven architecture
Data as a product
Data mesh

Experienced in Data Warehousing Architecture. Dimensional modeling(Fact tables, Dimensions, SCD, Staging Area, Kimball methodology). Experienced in ETL programming using IBM InfoSphere Information Server (Datastage), administrative task, migration o... Show more

Aki Asahara

Aki Asahara

Aki Asahara, Ph.D., is an AI systems performance engineer and the Chief Marketing Officer at Fixstars. With a doctorate in astrophysics and more than 15 years of hands-on engineering and project management experience, he specializes in GPU performance engineering for large-scale AI training and inference workloads. His work spans autonomous driving, finance, healthcare, and industrial AI applications, with expertise in distributed training, mixed-precision optimization, and cluster-level observability on NVIDIA H100/H200/B200 architectures.

Aki serves as a Session Chair and Speaker at HPC Asia 2026 and has delivered invited talks at multiple GenAI-focused conferences in Japan. He also represents Fixstars as an exhibitor at the Supercomputing Conference (SC). He contributes to publications in AI systems performance engineering and leads industry projects that significantly improve throughput and cost efficiency.

Aki Asahara, Ph.D., is an AI systems performance engineer and the Chief Marketing Officer at Fixstars. With a doctorate in astrophysics and more than 15 years of hands-on engineering and project management experience, he specializes in GPU performanc... Show more

Lazetta Braxton

Lazetta Braxton

Lazetta Rainey Braxton, MBA, CFP® is a high-impact, solution-oriented founder with a proven track record of building successful entrepreneurial ventures, driving innovation, and navigating the complexity of cultural competency in the financial services industry.

As Founder and Principal of The Real Wealth Coterie, a financial planning and wealth management firm, and Lazetta & Associates, a speaking and business consulting firm, Lazetta equips individuals and leaders to align their finances with their vision and values and achieve sustainable wealth. She is passionate about amplifying culture, talent, life, and money, and extends her expertise through public speaking, writing, consulting, and coaching.

Lazetta was named one of Crain's New York Business Notable Black Leaders and Executives and one of the top 10 of Investopedia’s 100 Top Financial Advisors for three consecutive years. Lazetta's national media presence includes TV appearances on NBC, CNBC, and CheddarNews and mentions in the WSJ, NY Times, LA Times, and Black Enterprise.

Lazetta Rainey Braxton, MBA, CFP® is a high-impact, solution-oriented founder with a proven track record of building successful entrepreneurial ventures, driving innovation, and navigating the complexity of cultural competency in the financial servic... Show more

Jason Ghassan Barakat

Jason Ghassan Barakat

Ghassan Barakat has demonstrated a rare ability to move between sectors such as finance, law, technology, and philanthropy, applying strategy while keeping community needs at the forefront. Whether launching startups, growing multi-million-dollar platforms, or supporting charitable initiatives, he has always emphasized systems that strengthen people's lives and leave a lasting legacy.

In 2022, Jason founded Nolos Cabinet Multidisciplinaire Inc., serving as Founder & CEO. Nolos was created to integrate FinTech, InsurTech, and LegalTech under a single platform. This venture aims to democratize financial and legal services, particularly for middle-class families. The company combines a Quebec-based legal firm, a notarial study, and a national financial MGA distributing solutions from Canada's leading institutions. With his leadership, Nolos has expanded through acquisitions and new partnerships. Among these was the acquisition of Skylegal in 2022, followed by creating a charitable foundation in 2023 to help families access justice and financial protection during estate and legacy planning. More recently, Jason acquired a technology firm that builds software for public and private organizations, further enhancing the B2B reach of the Nolos platform.

Before establishing Nolos, Ghassan gained experience as a Strategic Senior Consultant, working with Chubb Insurance and other major industry players. From 2003 to 2021, he was President and Principal Officer with AMF of La Capitale Services Conseils, where he grew assets under management from $300 million to over $3 billion, serving public sector employees with specialized solutions. In 2017, he became President of La Capitale Financial Security, where he expanded national operations for disability and personal finance services, redesigned compensation structures, and created an inclusive and high-performance culture. He also served as President of SSQ Financial Group Distribution, where he modernized retirement planning, oversaw post-merger alignment, and improved client experience and compliance.

Philanthropy has been a central part of Jason Barakat's life for over two decades. He has supported the Guignolet de Saint-Vincent de Paul tradition and contributed to various charitable efforts connected to public institutions and retirement planning. In 2021, he partnered with Peartree Canada to advance philanthropic planning for organizations and families. He later launched the Nolos Foundation, which is dedicated to expanding access to Justice & Family Legacy Planning. Jason is also a volunteer leader for nonprofit boards and interfaith humanitarian initiatives.

Jason studied at Concordia University, John Molson School of Business, focusing on finance, business law, and theology. He has also completed studies in securities, investments, estate planning, insurance, venture capital, and strategic philanthropy, earning certifications in these areas.

Outside of his professional accomplishments, Ghassan Barakat is a devoted husband and father of two. His family provides daily motivation and guides his values of love, faith, and responsibility, shaping his personal and professional life. With empathy, service, and humility, he remains committed to leaving a legacy for his children, his community, and future generations.

Ghassan Barakat has demonstrated a rare ability to move between sectors such as finance, law, technology, and philanthropy, applying strategy while keeping community needs at the forefront. Whether launching startups, growing multi-million-dollar pla... Show more

Jose Pereira Cabezuelo

Jose Pereira Cabezuelo

Driven Economist 📈 with a Master in International Trade, deeply passionate about the fast-paced world of financial markets, trading, and investment banking. My experience in economy & finance education 📚, financial markets 📊, and asset management 💼 provides a strategic and well-rounded approach to navigating today's complex market conditions. I thrive on challenges 💪 and bring strong skills in team leadership 🧑‍🤝‍🧑, problem-solving 💡, and business development 💼 to every opportunity. From sales & trading📈 and real estate 🏠 to international trade 🤝, I've honed my adaptability 🔄 and time management skills ⏱️.
➡️ #Finance #InvestmentBanking #Trading #FinancialMarkets #Economics #InternationalTrade #MarketMaking #FinTech #Career #Networking #LetsConnect

Driven Economist 📈 with a Master in International Trade, deeply passionate about the fast-paced world of financial markets, trading, and investment banking. My experience in economy & finance education 📚, financial markets 📊, and asset management ... Show more

Sharon Arandia

Sharon Arandia

Sharon Arandia es Jefa de la Carrera de Ingeniería Financiera en la UPB, donde impulsa proyectos de trading algorítmico y finanzas descentralizadas. Es graduada de la UPB, con estudios en TU Chemnitz, un Máster en Big Data y otro en curso en Machine Learning en Georgia Tech. Se especializa en análisis financiero, riesgo crediticio y trading, destacando su rol como Analista de Riesgos en el BCP y asociada en Lora & Asociados. Ha impartido cursos en licenciatura, postgrado e internacionales.

Sharon Arandia es Jefa de la Carrera de Ingeniería Financiera en la UPB, donde impulsa proyectos de trading algorítmico y finanzas descentralizadas. Es graduada de la UPB, con estudios en TU Chemnitz, un Máster en Big Data y otro en curso en Machine ... Show more

Innocent Kawooya, NIM

Innocent Kawooya, NIM

I am Innocent Kawooya, NIM, the CEO of HiPipo, where, for over the last 20 years, I have championed financial inclusion, digital innovation, women empowerment, and the creative economy across Africa. Through flagship initiatives such as the Include Everyone Program, Digital Impact Awards Africa, Women in FinTech Hackathon & Summit, 40 Days 40 FinTechs, and the Middle East and Africa Digital Transformation Summit, I have worked to empower women, youth, cross-border traders, and grassroots communities.
HiPipo’s work has been strengthened and blessed with a long-term partnership with the Gates Foundation and collaborations with high-impact partners such as COMESA, helping us drive interoperability, digital public infrastructure, and inclusive trade across the region. I was honoured to receive Uganda’s National Independence Medal from His Excellency the President of Uganda and to be named FinTech CEO of the Year 2024 & 2025 (MEA Awards) for this work. Alongside finance, I am also a filmmaker and entrepreneur, committed to building Africa’s digital, cultural, and economic future. I previously served as Co-chair of the Mojaloop Community Council for two terms!

I am Innocent Kawooya, NIM, the CEO of HiPipo, where, for over the last 20 years, I have championed financial inclusion, digital innovation, women empowerment, and the creative economy across Africa. Through flagship initiatives such as the Include E... Show more

Craig Bonn

Craig Bonn

Over the course of his career, Craig Bonn has dedicated more than thirty years to developing strategies that help investors participate in opportunities outside of traditional markets. He focuses on alternative investments, private equity, and pre-IPO companies. Today, he is the Managing Partner of Harley Capital LLC, an independent broker-dealer, and the Managing Member of Edge Partners LLC, which organizes Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs) for accredited investors seeking access to late-stage private companies. His professional record includes exposure to various industries—technology, healthcare, energy, and consumer markets—and early involvement in companies such as Facebook, Databricks, and Anthropic.

Craig’s path began in New York, where he was born and raised, before pursuing his undergraduate education at the University of Hartford. Soon after completing his degree, he joined Lehman Brothers. Working at the firm placed him amid global financial activity, where he learned to evaluate risk, manage portfolios, and advise clients across diverse situations. While the environment was demanding and competitive, it also revealed to him the limitations of conventional financial instruments. He observed that not every client’s long-term goals could be met through traditional markets alone, which inspired him to look more closely at alternatives.

Guided by this insight, Craig established Harley Capital LLC. He aimed to create an independent, transparent, and long-term client service firm. Harley Capital grew into a boutique investment company, serving high-net-worth individuals, family offices, and trusts. Clients of Harley Capital benefit from carefully selected opportunities in areas such as private equity and pre-IPO investments, which are often beyond the reach of conventional investors. The firm emphasizes diversification, clear communication, and fiduciary responsibility as central to its mission.

Craig further extended his professional focus through Edge Partners LLC. At Edge Partners, he applies the SPV model to give accredited investors structured participation in pre-IPO and late-stage venture opportunities. Organized under a Delaware Series LLC, the firm is efficient and flexible while maintaining thorough due diligence. Edge Partners has prioritized investments in fields such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, robotics, and software, which are industries positioned for long-term growth. He oversees acquiring securities in private companies and holding them until liquidity events such as acquisitions or public offerings occur.

His approach to investing emphasizes three pillars: disciplined risk management, appropriate timing, and a long-term vision. Craig believes that successful outcomes require choosing companies with potential and structuring the investments to safeguard participants. His preference for SPVs reflects this philosophy, providing both access to growth and a framework that manages risk.

Beyond pre-IPO markets, Craig has been active in natural gas mineral funds, venture partnerships, hospitality REITs, and specialized financing. His involvement includes WhiteHawk Energy and investments in Outstanding Foods, Braemar Hotels and Resorts, Prospect Capital, and Urica Therapeutics. Each reflects his practice of assessing industries, market conditions, and company fundamentals before committing capital.

Craig has remained committed to philanthropy and community involvement outside his professional roles. He supports organizations such as Pink Aid and Fred’s Team, which fund cancer research and health initiatives. His contributions include both financial support and participation in awareness-building events.

Craig has lived with his wife in Westport, Connecticut, for over 25 years. He is a runner who has completed five marathons, including the New York Marathon. He also enjoys traveling and gaining perspective by engaging with different cultures and economies.

Balancing his career achievements with philanthropy and personal pursuits, Craig Bonn continues to follow a path that reflects dedication, long-term vision, and community engagement.

Over the course of his career, Craig Bonn has dedicated more than thirty years to developing strategies that help investors participate in opportunities outside of traditional markets. He focuses on alternative investments, private equity, and pre-IP... Show more

Hernan Parada

Hernan Parada

I'm Hernán. I'm 41. I’m a retired handball player, and totally into technology and cybersecurity.
I studied Computer Science, got a diploma in Cybersecurity Management, and I've been working in different areas of IT and cyber for the past 20 years.
I started out doing tech support for internet services, then worked as a systems auditor at PwC.
For 10 years, I led teams handling tech and operational risk management. My curiosity pushed me to explore other industries too — I took on cybersecurity roles, and then became IT Manager in the civil aviation sector in the public sphere, where I stayed for nearly six years.
Now I’m back to my first love — the financial world — and currently working as a CISO at a financial company.

And as a little "bonus track": I'm passionate about communication, so I went back to something I left hanging in my teens — in 2021, I graduated as a Professional Radio & TV Broadcaster from ETER School of Communication.

I'm Hernán. I'm 41. I’m a retired handball player, and totally into technology and cybersecurity. I studied Computer Science, got a diploma in Cybersecurity Management, and I've been working in different areas of IT and cyber for the past 20 years. ... Show more

Robert Nordlander, CPA, CFE

Robert Nordlander, CPA, CFE

Robert Nordlander has over 20 years of experience as a special agent with IRS-Criminal Investigation, where he chased tax evaders and money launderers around the world. He is currently the owner of a CPA firm that focuses on forensic accounting and resolving tough tax problems. He is an author of three books on criminal taxes and unpaid payroll taxes. Nordlander speaks on national stages on forensic accounting, tax resolution, and white-collar investigations.

Robert Nordlander has over 20 years of experience as a special agent with IRS-Criminal Investigation, where he chased tax evaders and money launderers around the world. He is currently the owner of a CPA firm that focuses on forensic accounting and ... Show more

Sathishkumar Palanisamy

Sathishkumar Palanisamy

With 15 years of transformative experience in the Banking, Financial Services, and Payments industries, Sathishkumar Palanisamy is an expert in shaping the future of enterprise architecture. Based in Dallas, Texas, he’s driven by a passion for leveraging advanced technologies to automate business processes, optimize workflows, and enable seamless digital transformation in the financial sector.

Sathish has successfully delivered end-to-end automation strategies across diverse markets, having worked extensively in both India and the United States. His unique global perspective empowers him to craft scalable, innovative solutions that bridge the gap between technology and business goals.
Prior to his current role, Sathish served as Senior Enterprise Architect, AVP at Citizens Financial Group, where he led enterprise-wide initiatives to integrate automation, improve operational efficiency, and enhance customer experiences. His leadership in driving strategic technology solutions resulted in significant business growth and elevated technological capabilities within the organization.

Currently, as an Expert Enterprise Architect at Discover Financial Services, Sathish is dedicated to pushing the boundaries of automation to transform banking operations. With a strong foundation in Computer Science, he specializes in creating advanced automation platforms that augment human potential, streamline complex business processes, and enable organizations to stay ahead in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.

Sathish is passionate about the future of automation, where he continues to lead industry evolution with forward-thinking technology solutions.

With 15 years of transformative experience in the Banking, Financial Services, and Payments industries, Sathishkumar Palanisamy is an expert in shaping the future of enterprise architecture. Based in Dallas, Texas, he’s driven by a passion for levera... Show more

Dominik Moser

Dominik Moser

He studied Software Engineering at the Vienna University of Technology.

Early in his career, he worked as a tutor and later as an assistant lecturer on courses such as "Software Engineering and Project Management" and "Quality Software Engineering".

In recent years, he has been serving as Backend Chapter Lead and Architect at Erste Group, where he has contributed to building George, one of Europe’s leading online banking platforms.

He studied Software Engineering at the Vienna University of Technology. Early in his career, he worked as a tutor and later as an assistant lecturer on courses such as "Software Engineering and Project Management" and "Quality Software Engineering... Show more

Alistair Corrie

Alistair Corrie

Alistair started out as a Chartered Accountant, but always felt there was a more obvious and less bureaucratic way of delivering an outcome. He came across Agile in 2017 and never looked back. Here was a way of doing things and achieving results which confirmed what he had been trying to do all his life.

In 2003 Alistair and his wife decided that every year they would a) learn a new skill, b) do something new and c) go somewhere new. They are living proof that we can reclaim the natural agility we were born with.

Alistair started out as a Chartered Accountant, but always felt there was a more obvious and less bureaucratic way of delivering an outcome. He came across Agile in 2017 and never looked back. Here was a way of doing things and achieving results whic... Show more

Maria Carrasco

Maria Carrasco

María Carrasco es doctora en Big Data y Finanzas Cuantitativas, con una sólida trayectoria en el análisis de datos financieros, estructuras algorítmicas y modelos predictivos aplicados a mercados reales. Su investigación doctoral se enfocó en el estudio empírico de las sonrisas de volatilidad en el mercado de opciones alemán (DAX) entre 2017 y 2022, utilizando herramientas como Python, Spyder y modelos de machine learning para el análisis de series temporales de alta frecuencia.

Ha trabajado integrando enfoques estructurados de datos con tecnologías modernas de inteligencia artificial y herramientas en la nube. Además, participa activamente en comunidades tecnológicas vinculadas al ecosistema cripto, blockchain y DeFi, y colabora en proyectos de innovación con impacto social en América Latina, promoviendo la participación de mujeres en STEM y liderando iniciativas de inclusión digital. Destaca su rol en COINTER, la primera cooperativa digital en blockchain, donde apoyó programas de mentoría y capacitación enfocados en la inclusión de mujeres en finanzas y tecnología.

Apasionada por traducir conceptos complejos en soluciones aplicadas, María combina la solidez académica con una visión práctica del uso de AI en entornos financieros y de datos masivos.

Cuenta también con experiencia en evaluación, sistematización y transversalización de género, apoyando procesos de capacitación, diseño de herramientas institucionales y consultorías orientadas a promover la igualdad y la equidad en políticas públicas y proyectos de desarrollo.

Reconocimientos y distinciones

•Capacitación para gerentes de cooperativas sobre Big Data y su impacto en la toma de decisiones en el sector financiero – Enfoque en cooperativas, 2025 | FACACH
Beca completa para asistir al Crypto Cities Summit, 2025 | Roatán
•Primer lugar en el programa de mentoría a COINTER, la primera cooperativa digital en blockchain, 2025 | IMPACT HUB
•Facilitadora de capacitación en Seguridad Básica en Bitcoin, 2025 | La Bitcoinera
•Facilitadora de capacitación en Aplicaciones Reales de Bitcoin en Honduras, 2025 | La Bitcoinera
•Facilitadora de capacitación en Introducción a Bitcoin y su importancia, 2025 | La Bitcoinera
•Conferencista invitada en “Building with AI”, 2025 | Google Developer Groups
•Ambassador’s Distinguished Appreciation Award, 2008 | Embajada de Estados Unidos en Tegucigalpa

María Carrasco es doctora en Big Data y Finanzas Cuantitativas, con una sólida trayectoria en el análisis de datos financieros, estructuras algorítmicas y modelos predictivos aplicados a mercados reales. Su investigación doctoral se enfocó en el estu... Show more

Justin Dragos

Justin Dragos

Justin is a complete TypeScript nerd and expert in building financial systems. He's been building finance software for over 13 years and has invented a completely new ledgering method to create systems where it's impossible to create loss.

Justin is a complete TypeScript nerd and expert in building financial systems. He's been building finance software for over 13 years and has invented a completely new ledgering method to create systems where it's impossible to create loss. Show more

Erin Sykes

Erin Sykes

Erin Sykes’ perseverance and ability to anticipate trends are what have driven her success. Erin strives to help clients reach their unique goals with discreet, individualized attention and action-orientation.

Specializing in helping clients year-round in Palm Beach, The Hamptons, New York City, and the New Jersey coast, Erin utilizes her combined background in finance and construction to take an analytical and qualitative approach to amplifying clients’ return on investment.

With a background in commercial and luxury residential construction at her family’s 120+ year-old firm and certification as a LEED AP – New Construction, Erin understands how to optimize new development and intricate renovation using sustainable and architecturally-appropriate materials and methodology.

As a business news contributor, Erin is responsible for developing and translating real estate trend data into consumer and industry insights. She reports on monthly housing starts, new developments, rate changes and general industry trends for all major news outlets.

Erin is often interviewed by Fox Business News, CNBC, TODAY, CNN, NBC Nightly News, The Real Deal, Bloomberg, Mansion Global, Forbes, TechCrunch, and Inc. She holds an MBA from Pepperdine University and a Bachelor's in Finance and International Business from Villanova University.

Erin resides between Palm Beach, NYC & Longport, NJ and is deeply involved with the Historical Society of Palm Beach County, Opportunity, Inc., and the Southampton Hospital Foundation.

Follow Erin on Instagram and Twitter @SykesStyle

Erin Sykes’ perseverance and ability to anticipate trends are what have driven her success. Erin strives to help clients reach their unique goals with discreet, individualized attention and action-orientation. Specializing in helping clients year... Show more

Warren Rocchi

Warren Rocchi

Commonly described as the boy next door (although next door to whom has never been quite defined), Warren fell in love with SQL when he was accidentally thrust into it after going to see a girl at a tech company. He liked it so he put a ring on it. That was the girl, and as for SQL and Data the affair continues. Warren consults as a Data Engineer for Moyo Business Advisory and is a volunteer Lead for Johannesburg Data Platform. In his spare time he likes Mountain biking, Ice Skating, Offroad 4x4ing and Cleaning up Rivers

Commonly described as the boy next door (although next door to whom has never been quite defined), Warren fell in love with SQL when he was accidentally thrust into it after going to see a girl at a tech company. He liked it so he put a ring on it. T... Show more

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