The Worlds of Retail Investing and Lending Collide | Bux and Sharegain | The Fintech Show #143

Fintech Finance Podcasts: The FF Salon

Find out how fintech is changing the retail investment space.

In this episode of the Fintech Show we’re joined by Boaz Yaari from Sharegain and Yorick Naeff from BUX for a fireside chat on the evolution of retail investing and the new revenue streams that banks can unlock.

Together, they explore the changing landscape of retail investment, predict future trends like non-purpose lending, and we find out how their companies got started.

There’s no denying the boom that retail investing has experienced in recent years, particularly in the wake of the pandemic. Now, many consumers are looking for ways to grow their wealth and take control of their savings and investment journey, rather than relying on banks to do that for them. US stock trading volumes saw an enormous spike in 2020 and 2021 due to the immense rise in retail investing. Even neobanks are adding investment products to their offering, with great interest. Monzo got 200,000 sign ups to their investment account waiting list in just two days.

It’s in this context that both Yaari and Naeff started their companies. Both CEO/co-founders here reveal the stories that led them to where they are now. Boaz traces his path from FX derivatives trading to securities lending, recognising an untapped opportunity akin to Airbnb but for securities lending. Despite skepticism from others, Yaari’s pattern recognition and determination spurred him on to pursue Sharegain.

On the other hand, Naeff’s background in financial services and tech converged when he observed the barriers hindering retail investors from entering the market. Collaborating with a colleague, they conceptualized BUX to democratize retail investing, leveraging the rise of mobile applications. Their shared vision aligned perfectly with the evolving market, particularly the increasing demand for accessible and intuitive investment platforms.

The retail investment boom

The conversation, which took place in our studio, delves into the dynamic shifts within the retail investing landscape. Our speakers emphasize the growing influence of private investors, particularly younger generations with a savings and investment-driven mindset. They predict a trend toward non-purpose lending, foreseeing a revolution in the lending space that could empower investors to leverage their portfolios for various financial needs.

Highlighting the symbiotic relationship between Fintech and traditional financial firms, Yaari and Naeff stress the advantages of agility and expertise exchange. Yaari underscores Sharegain’s unique position in securities lending, while Naeff emphasizes BUX’s collaboration with industry giants like BlackRock to tailor investment packages for retail investors.

Stick around until the end also, because they have great advice to offer aspiring founders also. That includes the importance of assembling the right team, focusing on long-term growth, and staying resilient amidst challenges.

Yaari reflects on Sharegain’s pivot towards sustainability and profitability, a testament to the team’s adaptability and perseverance. Similarly, Naeff celebrates the creation of a new market for independent agency lending, underscoring the transformative power of innovation in overcoming market barriers. It’s a really exciting area that could present new revenue streams for banks.

Tune in to find out more.