Money 20/20: Advancing in real time despite headwinds
Economic uncertainty doesn't hinder flow of innovation, energy, ideas.
The 13,000 registered attendees in Las Vegas for this year’s Money 20/20 conference reflected something of a return to normalcy.
Last year’s emphasis tilted decidedly toward cryptocurrency―likely a reflection of the asset classes’ then high-flying valuations as well as ongoing travel restrictions that curtailed attendance by financial institutions. A solid digital asset presence remained in 2022 but was balanced by renewed bank and credit union engagement, leading to healthy dialogue.
Despite a recurring theme of economic uncertainty, there was no discernible slowdown in energy, ideas, or promotional spending. In fact, many investors and startup founders opined these can actually be good conditions in which to launch a business.
The first day featured America’s Got Access, a new pitch competition where early-stage fintechs focused primarily on financial inclusion barriers. The judges’ selection and winner of $100,000 was Zirtue, a Dallas-based firm (and CMFG Ventures portfolio company) creating a platform to support the extensive informal network of “friends and family” lending.
continue reading »
