Convera with Patrick Gauthier | E353

A modern payment systems for modern needs

The podcast features an interview with Patrick Gauthier, CEO of Convera Holdings, who discusses the organization's innovative approaches in the financial technology sector, focusing on cross-border commercial payments. Gauthier highlights the transformation and modernization efforts at Convera post-its acquisition from Western Union, emphasizing the challenges and opportunities embedded in this transition. The conversation revolves around the use of cloud technology, AI, and a significant focus on rendering advanced payment solutions in several market segments. Additionally, the episode explores the strategic direction of the company, underlining the critical importance of cooperation with financial institutions and the adoption of real-time payment systems.

Episode Highlights:

  • 00:10: Introduction to the podcast and guest Patrick Gauthier, CEO of Convera Holdings.

  • 00:29: Patrick Gauthier expresses gratitude for being on the show.

  • 00:34: Overview of Convera, a large cross-border commercial payment network.

  • 01:46: Explanation of Convera’s core business value and services offered.

  • 01:51: Historical context on how Convera Holdings was formed from Western Union assets.

  • 03:19: Efforts and challenges in transforming Convera post-acquisition.

  • 03:38: The complexities involved in separating from Western Union.

  • 05:04: Details on modernizing the company with cloud technologies.

  • 06:36: How the company is balancing current services with future innovations.

  • 08:28: Adaptation to cloud telephony for better client services.

  • 10:00: Advantages realized from adopting new technologies.

  • 13:16: Collaboration and competition dynamics within financial services.

  • 15:17: The segmentation strategy in targeting market segments.

  • 19:00: Technological advancements enabling better customer experiences.

  • 21:15: The wish for simplified global payment rail infrastructures.

  • 28:05: Major challenges faced during company extraction from Western Union.

  • 30:00: Motivations behind Patrick’s continued efforts in fintech innovation.

  • 32:01: Conclusion and podcast closing remarks.

Key Points:

  • Convera Holdings is leveraging cloud technology and AI to provide innovative cross-border payment solutions.

  • The company has transitioned from Western Union into a separate entity, marking a significant milestone in its growth.

  • Real-time payment systems are seen as a future transformative force in financial transactions.

  • There is ongoing innovation in the fintech sector to enhance user experiences for commercial and consumer payments.

Tweetable Quotes:

  • "With the proper level of investments in modernization, we really see an opportunity to better serve our clients."

  • "In many ways, I think there is a need to simplify some of the underlying infrastructure."

  • "We have an opportunity to totally transform how services like ours are delivered."

Resources Mentioned:

Fintech ImpactJason PereiraFintech