The Fintech Visionary: Rich Wagner’s Blueprint for Revolutionizing Banking
Monday 24th March 2025 , 06:00pm
Join us for an exclusive fireside chat with Rich Wagner, CEO of Zempler Bank, a true innovator in the fintech space. Rich founded Cashplus, now Zempler Bank, in 2005, long before fintech became mainstream. His visionary approach has inspired industry leaders, including Revolut, to transform into fully licensed banks. In this event, Rich will share firsthand how he revolutionized the financial landscape with pioneering solutions, sustainable growth, and a commitment to serving underserved markets, all while being interviewed by David Parker, founder and CEO of Polymath Consulting.
Key Highlights:
Industry Leadership: Zempler Bank has achieved groundbreaking milestones, including launching the UK’s first open-loop prepaid card, developing innovative credit repair solutions for both consumers and businesses, introducing the first instant-access digital business current account, and securing a full UK banking license as an EMI.
Influence on Fintech Standards: Discover Wagner’s leadership in reshaping industry norms by enabling EMIs to market their products as “Current Accounts” and lobbying for direct access to the Bank of England.
Sustainable Success: Gain insights into Zempler Bank’s journey, including its profitability milestone of £3.3m PBT in 2024, its service to over 2 million customers, and its consistent top 5 ranking in customer service quality.
Company Impact: Explore how Zempler Bank supports over 150k UK microbusinesses, provides employment to over 300 people, and holds £600m in deposits.
Key Takeaways:
- Understanding Fintech Innovation: Gain deep insights into how pioneering business models can transform the banking sector.
- Leadership in Action: Learn actionable strategies for navigating challenges and driving sustainable growth in fintech.
- Exclusive Insights: Hear directly from Rich Wagner about his journey to becoming a top leader in fintech, and how Zempler Bank continues to innovate.
- Networking Opportunities: Connect with professionals and industry leaders passionate about reshaping the financial services landscape.
Rich Wagner, CEO Zempler Bank
Rich Wagner founded Cashplus (now Zempler Bank) in 2005 with a vision to create a technology-driven alternative to traditional banking, long before fintech became mainstream. Under his leadership, Cashplus has been at the forefront of innovation in the fintech sector, achieving numerous industry firsts. These include the launch of the UK’s first open-loop prepaid card, the development of credit repair solutions for both consumers and businesses, the introduction of the first instant-access digital business current account, and a unique credit card proposition tailored for SMEs and sole traders. Additionally, the company became an Electronic Money Institution (EMI) and secured a full UK banking license, solidifying its position as a leader in the financial services industry..
David Parker, CEO of Polymath Consulting
David Parker is the founder and CEO of Polymath Consulting, advising organizations across the Cards & Payments industry. He is an active mentor, NED, and advisor to boards including Swiipr, Hands In, and WAC, and has previously worked with Curve and 3S Money. As co-founder of KYP, he specializes in real-time third-party enterprise risk and reputational monitoring. David has worked across the entire value chain, helping banks with E-Money/Prepaid strategies, market entry analysis, and segment analysis, and advising telcos, processors, and program managers on certification and membership applications. His client assignments span Russia, South Africa, the Middle East, Europe, and Asia. A regular media commentator and LinkedIn contributor on the future of e-money and emerging payments, David chairs global conferences and events from Mumbai to Las Vegas, London to Johannesburg. He is also the Lead Ambassador to the Payments Association.
Zempler Bank
Founded in 2005, Zempler Bank has since served over 2 million customers, providing banking and lending services to underserved UK small businesses and consumers. The company currently serves over 150,000 UK microbusinesses and holds approximately £600 million in deposits. In 2024, Zempler generated £70 million in revenue and became one of the first fintech challengers to achieve and maintain profitability, reporting a £3.3 million profit before tax. Authorized as a UK bank in February 2021, Zempler ranks among the top five banks in all customer service categories in the industry service quality index. With locations in London and Liverpool, the company provides over 300 jobs in the UK.
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