the Executives · A Dialogue with Majid
Georg Hauer- Scaling N26 & Building Fintechs in Regulated Markets
With Georg Hauer
About this episode
In this episode of “The Executives,” host Majid Mahmood interviews Georg Hauer, a seasoned fintech operator and venture builder, known for his instrumental role in scaling N26 from a $500M to a $9B valuation. Hauer, who transitioned from BCG consulting to leading his own advisory firm, Hauer Fintech Advisory, shares insights on fintech growth and strategy.
The discussion covers how N26 achieved hypergrowth across Europe, challenging the perception that compliance hinders speed. Hauer offers guidance on building globally-ready fintech platforms, leadership in rapidly evolving environments, and the future of fintech from infrastructure to tokenization.
Key takeaways include the importance of executives engaging directly with customers, adapting decision-making processes as organizations scale, and fostering robust feedback culture. Hauer shares four essential tips for building sound bank infrastructure and discusses understanding market differences for successful expansion, concluding with his ideal customer profile and advice for aspiring fintech builders.
Episode chapters
- 00:31 Georg’s Career Journey
- 10:59 The Time Machine Question
- 13:43 Georg’s Venture Building and FinTech Model
- 15:50 Working for Equity
- 17:12 Why Executives Must Talk to Customers
- 19:04 Uber Frontline Experience
- 20:56 Georg’s Story for getting into FinTech
- 26:25 Lessons from N26’s hypergrowth
- 31:12 How Decision-Making Must Change at Scale
- 36:51 Evolving Leadership Styles
- 38:29 Feedback culture in scaling organizations
- 41:03 Partnering With Future FinTech Giants
- 44:57 Compliance + product velocity
- 47:44 4 Key Bank Infrastructure Tips
- 50:57 Understanding Market Differences
- 55:57 Ideal customer profile for Hauer Advisory
- 57:40 Upcoming Fintech Trends
- 01:01:19 Final advice for aspiring fintech builders
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