Converge

What does this week's US–Iran peace deal mean for APAC FX? Shier Lee Lim breaks it down, while Ingmar Apinis dives into Payments 2026+: Liquidity in Motion — Convera’s latest report on how cross-border payments are evolving.Converge is Convera’s podcast that discusses a range of financial services topics. We want to remind our listeners that the information shared on this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Please note that the opinions expressed on Converge are solely the opinions of the host and the guests, not Convera’s.

This week we're sharing a conversation from last month's The PIE webinar featuring Convera's Head of Content Alex Lawrence and the University of Denver's Janet Burkhardt. They delve into the escalating cyber threats faced by higher education institutions, particularly focusing on the rise of sophisticated fraud tactics such as ghost students and identity theft. They also discuss the vulnerabilities in international payment systems and the importance of robust data protection strategies. They emphasize the need for comprehensive staff training, collaboration across departments, and the role of technology providers in enhancing cybersecurity measures. Lastly, the discussion highlights quick wins that institutions can implement to bolster their defenses and the critical importance of governance in creating resilient institutions.Disclaimer: Converge is Convera’s podcast that discusses a range of financial services topics. We want to remind our listeners that the information shared on this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Please note that the opinions expressed on Converge are solely the opinions of the host and the guests, not Convera’s.

To kick off 2026, host Alex Lawrence discusses the challenges ahead in navigating cross border payments and global business growth with UK-based small business leaders Colin Watton and Nalin Perera of LSP Group and Sunrise Products, Ltd. They explore the significance of FX risk for small businesses going in to the new year, the impact of geopolitical shifts on profitability, and strategies for managing currency volatility in yet another year of widespread uncertainty. Both guests share their experiences and insights on navigating international payments in these environments, emphasizing the importance of hedging and maintaining strong relationships with FX providers. If you're a new businesses entering or considering entering the global market, you won't want to miss it!Disclaimer: Converge is Convera’s podcast that discusses a range of financial services topics. We want to remind our listeners that the information shared on this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Please note that the opinions expressed on Converge are solely the opinions of the host and the guests, not Convera’s.

This conversation, hosted by Steven Dooley and featuring Kevin Ford as the speaker, explores how monetary policy is evolving, with growing attention on fiscal dominance and its impact on interest rates and foreign exchange markets. It also looks at how geopolitical tensions and shifts in central bank independence are adding new layers of complexity, making it increasingly difficult to forecast currency values in today’s fragmented global economy.Disclaimer: Converge is Convera’s podcast that discusses a range of financial services topics. We want to remind our listeners that the information shared on this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Please note that the opinions expressed on Converge are solely the opinions of the host and the guests, not Convera’s.

George Vessey and Antonio Ruggiero discuss the evolving nature of geopolitical risk, emphasizing its expansion beyond traditional armed conflict to include populism, protectionism, and anti-globalization narratives. They highlight the implications of these changes on the global economic landscape, From tariff-driven central bank dilemmas to the erosion of traditional fiscal anchors.Disclaimer: Converge is Convera’s podcast that discusses a range of financial services topics. We want to remind our listeners that the information shared on this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Please note that the opinions expressed on Converge are solely the opinions of the host and the guests, not Convera’s.

In this episode of the Converge podcast, Steven Dooley and George Vessey discuss the insights from the 'Are You Ready for 2026' research report, reflecting on the past year's market influences and looking ahead to the key themes shaping the FX landscape in 2026. They explore the impact of tariffs, monetary policy, and geopolitical factors on global growth and currency forecasting, focusing on the outlook for the British pound towards the end.Disclaimer: Converge is Convera’s podcast that discusses a range of financial services topics. We want to remind our listeners that the information shared on this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Please note that the opinions expressed on Converge are solely the opinions of the host and the guests, not Convera’s.

This week, Frances Zelazny, CEO of Anonybit, sat down to discuss all things authentication in financial services, including how biometrics are revolutionizing identity verification, tackling fraud, and enhancing security. Frances shares her expertise on the challenges faced by small banks and the transformative power of privacy-preserving technologies. We cover the future of digital identity and the role of biometrics in creating a safer financial ecosystem.Disclaimer: Converge is Convera’s podcast that discusses a range of financial services topics. We want to remind our listeners that the information shared on this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Please note that the opinions expressed on Converge are solely the opinions of the host and the guests, not Convera’s.