Hi {{first name | there}},

The July summer is one of the most productive times of year for me and my time. We are increasingly preparing for the Emerald Summit this September. At the same time, I’ve been developing more assets for my AI Revenue Engine (AIRE) program. 

👉 It’s an exciting time to be at the forefront of technology, governance, and fintech. 

In this issue, I delve into startup growth playbooks from two amazing founders . I also touch on how you can turn being invisible into a competitive advantage in your company, valuable insights into measuring AI effectiveness, and current agentic AI trends across industries. 

Send this to a friend or colleague who is looking to implement AI in their operations but isn’t sure where to start. They’ll thank you for it. 🙂

Upcoming Events

Don’t Forget: Emerald Summit Early Bird Discount (Sept 18)

The Emerald Summit is Wallet Max's flagship Climate Week NYC event and you can join us this year on September 18 in New York. The summit sits at the intersection of NYC Climate Week, the UN General Assembly, and NYC Fashion Week, drawing startup founders, impact investors, corporate executives, policymakers, and media focused on climate, fintech, and AI.

The day runs from 9:00 AM registration and breakfast through a full agenda of keynotes, panels, and fireside chats covering topics like climate finance, the circular economy, climate resilience, renewable energy policy, and unlocking capital flows for climate solutions. Attendees will also enjoy a Startup Pitch Competition and our award ceremony.

Great news: Early Bird pricing for the Emerald Summit is available through July 31st.

👉 TODAY is your best shot at locking in the lowest rates before they're gone.

When you participate in Emerald Summit, you’ll get a chance to network with investment leads and talented founders like:

• Betsy Fore, Velveteen Ventures

• Bhuva Shakti, Wallet Max

• Blair Carl Smith, Milken Institute Financial Markets

• Cody Ley, Hemp for Humanity

• David Chan, Homestead Capital

• Elana Margulies-Snyderman, EisnerAmper

• Enes Karakullukcu, Klaris Capital

• Marc Robert, Water Asset Management

• Ophir Bruck, CDP

• Parichat Wrolstad, University of Exeter

• Sacha Awwa, SAMG Marketing Group

• Scott Ryan, Investature

• Sonam Velani, Streetlife Ventures

• Will Hogan, Umergence

🎟️ There are many ways to join us in September. Pick your preferred ticket:

• Early Bird – Summit Only: Full-day access to the Emerald Summit (speakers, keynotes, panels, pitch competition, startup awards, breakfast, lunch, refreshments, networking). Limited to 50.

• Early Bird – Dinner Only: Evening-only access to the VIP Dinner (mocktails/drinks, hors d'oeuvres, 3-course family-style dinner). Limited to 10.

• Summit & Dinner (Best Deal): Combines full-day Summit access with the VIP Dinner. Limited to 40.

Save your seat today: luma.com/EmeraldSummitWM26

Past Event Highlights

Dive into key learnings from the past few weeks of in-person/virtual community events.

Design AI Workflows That Deliver Business Results

Organizations rarely fail because AI technology fails. They fail because workflows, accountability structures, and operating models don't evolve alongside it. Implementation is often the easy part; capturing value is harder.

Companies frequently spend more time selecting vendors than redesigning how decisions and responsibilities will actually change.

But organizations across industries can tap into showing gains such as improved adoption rates, reduced downtime, and faster cycle times once workflows are redesigned before or alongside AI rollout.

The AI Revenue Engine (AIRE) methodology has three pillars: Revenue Growth, Smart Operations, and Business Agility. These act as the lens for evaluating whether AI initiatives connect to real business outcomes rather than technology for its own sake. 

➡️ Watch this → full masterclass

Build AI Capabilities That Scale With Your Business

Why do successful AI pilots so rarely scale? 

Pilots validate technology, but scale validates the organization. There are five capabilities that separate companies that scale AI from those stuck in permanent pilot mode: leadership, operations, data, governance, and workforce readiness.

The throughline: AI doesn't fail because the technology breaks. It fails because organizations haven't built the accountability, governance, and operating discipline to sustain it past the demo stage. In this masterclass, I walk through real examples where standardizing operating models and strengthening executive sponsorship turned stalled rollouts into enterprise-wide wins, often without any additional technology spend.

This session ties together the full AIRE framework, Revenue Growth, Smart Operations, and Business Agility, into a practical roadmap for building lasting AI capability, not just isolated wins. 

➡️ Watch this → full masterclass

Measure AI Success Beyond Technology Metrics

Activity metrics like adoption rates, model accuracy, and usage volume measure what happened, while business metrics measure what mattered. Companies can hit 90%+ adoption and still see stagnant revenue or rising costs if leadership is tracking the wrong things.

In this AIRE Masterclass, I lay out a five-category executive scorecard, revenue, productivity, customer outcomes, risk, and people, paired with both leading and lagging indicators. I argue that dashboards should stay simple: 5-10 metrics that drive decisions, not 100 that bury them. I also reframe AI ROI as a capital allocation discipline, not a one-off tech expense, urging leaders to fund what demonstrably works and cut what doesn't.

Consider this question: If you stripped every technology metric off your dashboard tomorrow, would you still know whether AI is improving your business? If not, you're measuring the wrong things. 

➡️ Watch this → full masterclass

Stop Funding AI That Doesn't Deliver

Organizations are investing heavily in AI, pilots are expanding, budgets are increasing. But not every AI initiative deserves more investment.

One of the hardest decisions leaders face is knowing when to continue, when to redesign, and when to stop funding an AI initiative that is not delivering measurable business results.

The challenge is not simply measuring AI performance.

In this session, I explore how leaders can evaluate AI initiatives, identify where business value is being created, and redirect resources toward opportunities that deliver stronger returns.

Learn how to evaluate AI initiatives, identify early signs of low-value AI investments, and more in this recent masterclass.

Get all the details in the replay 👇

Startup Growth Playbook: LIVE Interviews

How AI is transforming banking intelligence

In this episode of Startup Growth Playbook, I interview Adnan Haider, co-founder of Quantuma, a deal intelligence platform helping commercial banks uncover revenue opportunities across their client base. Adnan previously served as SVP of Analytics at fintech unicorn Zafin and led advanced analytics at IBM Canada, and now teaches product management at the University of Toronto.

Adnan traces Quantuma's origin to a gap he saw firsthand: relationship managers at commercial banks juggle hundreds of client relationships using fragmented internal systems and almost no external data, leaving all but their top clients underserved. Quantuma's "deep reasoning AI" layers on top of traditional analytics, synthesizing transaction data, regulatory filings, and CRM history to surface which clients need which financial products and when.

He reflects candidly on the jump from corporate leadership to founder ("everything becomes your problem"), the importance of locking in design partnerships early, and why, in regulated industries like banking, trust and relationships outweigh technology or metrics when closing deals. He also predicts that AI won't replace relationship managers but will raise the bar for what "doing the job well" means, making human relationships more valuable, not less.

Asked about what's driving his current approach, Adnan pointed to staying close to the work itself:

"It just makes a lot of sense to be hands-on right now... it's possible to do so much more than what was possible last year or definitely two years back, but all of it requires being hands-on and not being a manager... there's a lot of satisfaction and impact that comes with being hands-on and almost being an individual contributor again."

Don’t miss this engaging interview with real-world tips. You can see the full Playbook episode below 👇

How Agentic AI is Transforming the Nutrition Industry

In this episode, Pallavi Jain, technical co-founder of Mood Eater, breaks down how her agentic fulfillment platform replaces menu-browsing and chatbot prompting with automated, biology-aware meal recommendations. Pallavi's background spans life sciences, econometrics, and consulting, where she learned the clinical rigor of food-drug interactions and the discipline of validating data at scale.

Her motivation is deeply personal: raised in a Jain household with strict food-pairing traditions, and shaped by losing her father as a child, she built Mood Eater as both a practical tool and a mission: to promote mindful, plant-forward eating and reduce animal suffering. 

The app onboards users through a quick "mini-game" capturing health goals, allergies, medications, and wearable data, then surfaces pre-vetted, swipe-based meal picks, no prompting required, sourced only from A-rated restaurants and reviewed by a human doctor in the loop, since she believes current AI still can't reliably access or synthesize deep medical research on its own.

Asked what sets Mood Eater apart from convenience-first apps like DoorDash, Pallavi described her secret sauce:

"I think the biggest use case for AI is actually hyper-personalization. I think all of us have been fooled by just using AI through a chat interface. I do not think chatting is the best use case of AI... Why do I have to browse so many websites or read so many novels? Why can't you just hyper-personalize my specific context for me to move ahead faster? That's where I think the power of AI lies."

Tap into all the insights in the replay below 👇

AI Trends Worth Watching: What Matters Now

Many businesses are facing a core question: “Should we adopt AI.” But the organizations pulling ahead are the ones that built the operating model, the data foundation, and the governance rhythm before scaling the tools. Not after.

Take banking, for example. Banking is graduating from chatbots to agentic operations. The conversation has shifted from whether to use AI to whether institutions can operationalize it faster and more safely than competitors. Banks are moving past employee copilots into agentic AI that can plan and execute multi-step workflows, update records, and escalate decisions.

That operating-model shift isn't hypothetical but structural. At Data Summit 2026, Airo Digital Labs' Michael Vasicek argued the operating model itself is changing: fewer levels, with every employee both assigning and receiving tasks from AI agents, and taking responsibility for auditing agent results and correcting "agentic drift". Governance has shifted from a side conversation to a job description.

Manufacturing shows what happens when governance is skipped. Four in five U.S. manufacturing facilities still operate with zero automation. Facilities without clean, structured data and secured operational networks can't reliably deploy modern automation, no matter what the vendor promises. I say this constantly: readiness comes before rollout, not after.

On the vision and robotics side, the same story repeats. One of the biggest roadblocks to AI adoption has been complexity and risk, and platforms are now emerging to simplify multi-camera, real-time inspection deployments with built-in security and clearer ROI. And AI's power in classification and defect detection only shows up when it's paired with expert system design tailored to the specific manufacturing context.

And the market is already pricing in who's ready. JLL's new research is the clearest signal yet: markets most exposed to AI-driven job displacement are also seeing the strongest real estate demand from AI companies, with San Francisco alone drawing nearly 30% of total leasing from AI firms since 2025 despite carrying among the highest displacement-risk profiles in the country. 

The takeaway echoes what I tell clients: a market's or company's capacity to adapt matters more than its exposure to disruption.

If your leadership team is sitting on AI pilots without a clear path to measurable revenue or operational results, that's precisely the gap AIRE™ was built to close.

👉 Happy to talk it through → bhuva.biz/aire

The BIG Blog Digest

Still time for some reading? Here are some articles of interest this month.

How to Translate AI Adoption into Measurable Business Results

AI adoption fails to deliver business results when organizations implement new technology without redesigning the underlying workflows, accountability structures, and processes it operates within. Real transformation, and measurable outcomes like revenue growth, operational efficiency, and agility, comes from redesigning how work gets done, not just deploying AI tools. Read this full blog here.

AI adoption succeeds when business goals, workflows, and accountability move together

AI initiatives often achieve strong technical implementation but fail to deliver business results when strategy, priorities, and accountability aren't aligned across leadership and functional teams. Sustainable value comes not from better AI tools but from aligning business goals, workflows, and ownership before and during deployment. Read this full blog here.

AI’s Energy Demand Is Surging. Are Our Systems Ready?

AI's rapidly growing energy demand, potentially doubling US electricity use by 2028, risks straining power grids and disproportionately harming vulnerable communities, schools, and families unless infrastructure and equity planning keep pace with innovation. Emerald Climate Summit during NYC Climate Week in September to bring together AI builders, energy funders, and policymakers to address this challenge collaboratively. Read this full blog here.

Risk Lesson: Systems Reward Those They Resemble

One of the hardest lessons I had to internalize, especially on Wall Street. was that competence doesn’t always speak for itself. Systems tend to reward familiarity. They reward what they recognize. And more often than not, that recognition is shaped by legacy patterns: who’s been in the room before, who speaks the dominant dialect, who fits the profile of “safe.”

That’s not meritocracy. That’s mimicry.

In the early years of my Wall Street career, I would walk into rooms where my presence was both novel, and at times, invisible. I remember one particular meeting where I was asked to present a risk mitigation plan I had architected over several weeks. As I began, a senior leader interrupted me and asked when the “real project lead” would be arriving. I was the real project lead.

I didn’t react emotionally. I responded with data, diagrams, and solutions. And by the end of the meeting, that same person asked me to join a follow-up strategy session. But I didn’t celebrate it. Because I knew what I had earned wasn’t inclusion but an exception. And exceptions are not system changes.

What kept me grounded was the recognition that my difference wasn’t a deficit. It was a diagnostic tool. I saw things others missed, not because I was smarter, but because I was outside the assumed norm. I could identify hidden risks, overlooked biases, and broken processes.

This is why representation matters. It’s not about optics. It’s about outcomes. Systems don’t evolve through sameness. They evolve through dissent, through divergence, through the courage to say, “What if we built it differently?”

In my book, Everyday Risk Wisdom: Your Risk Management Guide to Thrive in a Complex World as an Overlooked Business Leader, discover how I work towards changing the system and action steps for reframing differences as advantages.

Explore my book website below and get notified when this lesson is available for free!

The BIG Reflection Quiz

There are multiple ways to deal with being “the other” in a broken system. Which mindset do you employ when trying to change the system?

• I reframe the difference as an advantage.

• I mentor others who are “invisible” to the system. 

• I use my seat at the table to include more people from outside the system.

• All of the above.

• I’d do something else…(shoot me a message and let me know)

Read the lesson for my “Systems Reward Those They Resemble” action steps. Explore my book website below and get notified when this framework is available for free!

Join me in September

While I continue to assist founders and organizations with AI through AIRE, Emerald Summit is approaching rapidly. 

I’d love to have you there, and there are many roles open beyond simply attending. I and the Wallet Max team are looking for sponsors, startups, and volunteers. If you’re looking for a way to get involved, this is the call!

And if you’ve already got too much on your plate but you still want to attend Emerald Summit and the Wallet Max Bold World Awards, don’t forget to pick up your early bird tickets before July 31st.

Until next time, I wish you a successful month building your planet-positive business!

Thank you for reading so far, and we look forward to having you on the journey.

Onward and upward,

Bhuva Shakti, Founder of Wallet Max and Bhuva’s Impact Global.

Let’s collaborate, send me your ideas! www.bhuvas-impact.global/bhuva

Hi {{first name | there}},

It’s no secret that AI isn’t going away. It’s expanding. And it’s becoming more important for both businesses and individuals alike. While there’s real concerns about the environmental impact, emerging reports highlight how we don’t have to boil the ocean to transform our work.

Today, we have more knowledge than before on how AI works and affects our world. It’s possible to find ways to start small and build on quick wins with technology without disruption.

This is what AI Revenue Engine (AIRE™) is all about. AIRE is a practical framework for implementing AI successfully, and it’s built on the personal experience and industry knowledge I’ll be discussing for the rest of this newsletter.

This edition is all about AI implementation as a bigger picture organizational move. If you have a friend or colleague interested in implementing AI ethically without slowing down their business: Share it with them today.

Upcoming Events

Your Next Customer, Investor, or Partner Might Be at This Summit (Sept 18)

The Wallet Max Emerald Summit & Awards is coming to New York City on September 18th as part of Climate Week NYC 2026, and it’s one of my favorite networking opportunities of the year for founders and small business owners at the intersection of sustainability and innovation.

This isn't a generic conference. The summit is designed to put startups and small businesses in the same room as the people who can actually move the needle for your company, such as angels, VCs, family offices, corporate executives, policymakers, and press.

Here's what that looks like in practice:

• Potential customers - C-suite leaders and executives from healthcare, food, fashion, fintech, and AI attend specifically because climate intersects with their industries. These are decision-makers who buy.

• Investors - From pre-seed angels to Series B+ venture capital and private equity, the summit draws funders actively looking for their next investment.

• Partners - With 50+ speakers and a community of 2,000+ innovators, you'll find collaborators, co-founders, and strategic allies across sectors.

• Local advisors - NYC-based policymakers, Wall Street professionals, and city/state officials are part of the mix, offering the kind of on-the-ground guidance that's hard to find anywhere else.

The afternoon Pitch Competition & Startup Awards gives early-stage founders a direct shot at visibility, and the day wraps with an Exclusive VIP Dinner where the real conversations happen.

If you're a founder or small business owner ready to grow your network, find capital, and get in front of the right people - don't sit this one out.

​Limited early bird tickets are available, save your seat today: luma.com/EmeraldSummitWM26

Past Event Highlights

Dive into key learnings from the past few weeks of in-person/virtual community events.

What is the AI Revenue Engine?

Last month, I held virtual webinars introducing the AI Revenue Engine (AIRE™) framework to help organizations move beyond AI experimentation and into real, measurable business results. And over the last 30 days, I've been applying it with clients across sectors, and quietly testing it within my own operations at Bhuva's Impact Global and Wallet Max.

One of the most common things I encountered this month: teams that had early AI wins but couldn't replicate them across the organization. No shared KPIs. No ownership. No operating model designed for scale. Through operations governance work like building accountability frameworks and executive reporting rhythms, we gave those teams a structure to grow into.

If your organization is investing in AI but still asking "why aren't we seeing results?", that's exactly the conversation I'm built for.

➡️ Learn more about AIRE → bhuva.biz/aire

How to Turn AI Investments Into Business Results

The initial business results for early AI implementations are in. And the results are mixed. Technology evolves and improves rapidly but this alone does not create value.

Artificial intelligence is not a technology problem but an organizational one. Organizations must address adoption, execution, governance, process design, leadership alignment, and change management for a successful AI implementation.

In my recent LinkedIn masterclass on How to Turn AI Investments Into Business Results, I discuss:

➡️ Why AI initiatives stall
➡️ Common adoption and execution challenges
➡️ How leaders evaluate AI investments
➡️ The role of governance and process design
➡️ Practical ways to improve business outcomes

Get all the details in the replay 👇

Startup Growth Playbook: LIVE Interviews

Anna Raafat: How AI Agents Are Reshaping Revenue

Anna Raafat is the Co-founder and COO of inncivio, an agentic revenue layer for fintech and financial services. An economist by education, she previously worked at the Swiss National Bank and Deloitte, specializing in macroeconomics and strategy consulting for the banking sector. After identifying critical knowledge gaps in the fintech industry, she co-founded inncivio to solve them.

Agentic AI is a whole new playing field for most organizations. Many organizations are just getting used to AI, let alone individual, automatized agents. In the finance industry, this rapid technological evolution is a double-edged sword.

“I think progress in technology is so fast right now and there’s so much innovation happening,” notes Anna. “The progress is exciting. But this comes with accountability, too. Users have to understand what this technology is, how they are using it, and what it is exposed to.”

That’s why in this Startup Growth Playbook LIVE session, Anna shares key insights on:

​✅ How agentic AI changes user behavior and revenue generation
​✅ Building trust in AI-driven financial systems
​✅ The intersection of fintech, education, and conversion
​✅ What scalable engagement infrastructure looks like in financial services

Don’t miss this engaging interview with real-world tips from Anna. You can see the full Playbook episode below 👇

Shivam Goyal: How AI Is Reshaping Consumer Lending

Shivam Goyal is a serial fintech founder building at the intersection of consumer lending and AI. He previously founded Change for Change (Stripe for Donations) and was Head of Product at Tellus, a Series-A neobank. His work on financial inclusion has been recognized by Forbes and the World Economic Forum.

And he’s helping to solve a critical problem with consumer lending with Merble.

Here’s the issue: ​By the time someone applies for a loan, financial stress has often already escalated. Applicants need help and guidance earlier, before decisions become emergencies.

This is where Merble comes in. Merble is an AI loan officer that helps banks win borrowers before an application starts.

“Each consumer juggles multiple financial journeys depending where they are in life,” describes Shivam. “The bank needs to know what the consumer’s financial needs are and how to match them with the right solution. The application is a byproduct of all of this.”

This Startup Growth Playbook LIVE session focuses on:

​✅ How AI is changing customer acquisition in lending
​✅ Moving from reactive banking to proactive financial guidance
​✅ Building trust in AI-driven financial systems
​✅ Scaling fintech products within regulated institutions.

Watch the replay below 👇

AI Trends Worth Watching: What Matters Now

Nothing about AI is clearcut. As Yolanda Gil and Raymond Perrault describe in Stanford University’s 2026 AI Index Report, “The data does not point in a single direction. It reveals a field that is scaling faster than the systems around it can adapt.”

Artificial intelligence is developing faster than the governance required to successfully manage it. Organizational adoption reached 88% according to the same report, and the U.S.-China AI model performance gap is negligible.

At the same time, AI models cannot do everything. Gemini Deep Think earned a gold medal at the International Mathematical Olympiad but only reads an analog clock correctly half of the time. No better than a coin toss.

And it’s not just AI. Microsoft’s quantum chip, Majorana 1, is sparking discussions in the tech space around the path to supercomputers and the potential new breakthroughs across industries.

But governance and safeguards need to catch up before we reach that evolution. And that’s something I cover in my AIRE program.

What matters today isn’t all the capabilities for each AI model of the dawn of early quantum computing. Instead, it’s critical to stop and refocus on the human element and how we can use these technologies safely and efficiently. In this new world, we need to know more than the tech stack. We need to picture how that tech stack will make our lives and work better than before with minimal risk.

The BIG Blog Digest

Still time for some reading? Here are some articles of interest this month.

Biggest Barriers to AI Success

Many organizations assume AI adoption is primarily a technology initiative. But AI adoption success is less about technology and more about alignment. It is an organizational initiative. Organizations that recognize this early and ask these key questions are more likely to implement AI successfully. In particular, I discuss 5 essential questions I use in my AIRE framework to help organizations boost revenue growth, develop smart operations, and streamline business agility. Learn how to begin turning your AI investments into business results. Read this full blog here.

Global AI Shift Redefining Value Risk and Economic Power

AI is reshaping global markets by enabling decisions at speeds that outpace human oversight, but this creates systemic fragility. When algorithms are trained on the same data, volatility synchronizes, bias scales, and value narrows toward what's merely predictable. The leaders who thrive won't be the ones who automate fastest, but those who stay in the loop. Read this full blog here.

The Risk of One-Sided AI: Why Negotiation Still Wins

AI thrives on predictability, but negotiation thrives on discovery. When we automate away that tension, we lose the muscle that protects equity, creativity, and shared growth. The future belongs not to those who avoid negotiation, but to those who can transform disagreement into design and keep the human in every intelligent system. Read this full blog here.

Risk Lesson: Learn Skills Before They Are Cool

In the 1980s, when I was still in my early schooling years, no one would have described me as someone with a plan. What I had was curiosity, and that was enough.

Back then, few people thought about “future-proof” skills or emerging trends. Most of the girls and boys in my classrooms were simply trying to pass exams, fit in, and do what was expected. But I couldn’t stop asking questions.

One early moment changed everything. In second grade, my teacher nominated me for an English essay competition. I was terrified. How could I complete a language I was still learning? But I said yes, and then I got to work. I read every English storybook and poem I could find. I practiced until well after dark. And when I won that competition, it shifted something inside me. I didn’t need to wait for someone to tell me I was ready. I could start before the world noticed, and the skills I build in those quiet hours would open doors for decades to come.

That mindset carried through everything I did next. Learning before something is cool means you stop waiting for permission. If I had waited to be discovered, I would still be waiting. Instead, I learned to choose myself. That choice built momentum - each risk stacking into a bigger opportunity.

In my book, Everyday Risk Wisdom: Your Risk Management Guide to Thrive in a Complex World as an Overlooked Business Leader, I delve deep into the dynamics between learning and becoming, including action steps to strategically build your skillset.

Explore my book website below and get notified when this lesson is available for free!

The BIG Reflection Quiz

Learning skills before they are cool is not always easy or straightforward. Most of us can’t accurately predict which technologies or skillsets will be in demand in the next 5 or 10 years. The rapid evolution of technology and markets has made that more challenging.

However, most of us gravitate towards specific skillsets. In some cases, you may come across a limited opportunity that feels out of your depth but can offer significant personal growth.

In this reflection quiz, take a moment to consider how you identify these learning opportunities:

• I look at emerging trends and try to find skills that match my current or ideal work situation.

• I like to commit to micro-experiments with different skills and I stick with what feels right or interesting.

• I look for skills that are the opposite of my career tasks to create variety.

• I have a backlog of skills I’m interested in, and create curriculums based on current interests.

• I like to keep my ear to the ground and listen to what other professionals are doing.

• I’d do something else…(shoot me a message and let me know)

Read the lesson for my “Learn Skills Before They Are Cool” action steps. Explore my book website below and get notified when this framework is available for free!

Be There On September 18th

AI is changing things. But, as I’ve hinted at many times in this newsletter, technology is a tool, not an organization. People are what make a better world possible. Emerald Summit is one community in that ecosystem of changemakers.

Whether you are a volunteer, investor, startup, executive, or simply a curious attendee, you’ll find a warm welcome at Emerald Summit and the Wallet Max Bold World Awards. At our in-person event in NYC on September 18th, you’ll be able to meet with like-minded individuals eager to improve the lives of others without sacrificing the planet.

I hope to meet you there and learn about what drives you in making a positive difference.

• Sign up and join us today with our early bird discounts: luma.com/EmeraldSummitWM26

Thank you for reading so far, and we look forward to having you on the journey.

Onward and upward,

Bhuva Shakti, Founder of Wallet Max and Bhuva’s Impact Global.

Let’s collaborate, send me your ideas! www.bhuvas-impact.global/bhuva

Hi {{first name | there}},

April is always a busy month, being Earth Month, but I am grateful for how many activities I was able to participate in. From speaking at multiple universities on business development and capital allocation to fractional c-suite panels, the topics ran the gambit of my experience.

But the best part of sharing knowledge isn’t in the information relay. While I hope my experience was valuable for students, I learned quite a bit from them. The younger generation thinks future-forward. They see long-term value over short-term gains. And it’s so inspiring how many young people balance people and the planet with creating profitable businesses.

So, if the news has looked a little gloomy, this is a great issue to bolster confidence in the world. You’ll want to send this to friends with a deep interest in AI and product development.

Without further ado, let’s jump in.

Upcoming Events

Don’t Miss This: Deep Tech/AI Startup Pitches and Investor Panels at #NYTechWeek (June 1st)

Kick off New York Tech Week 2026 with one of its most compelling opening events – our Deep Tech/AI Startup Pitch Competition on June 1st. Hosted by Wallet Max, this evening brings together founders, investors, and executives for a live startup pitch competition spotlighting the best in Deep Tech and AI, followed by a high-signal investor panel and winners announcement.

The agenda moves fast: network and grab bites from 5–5:30 PM, watch curated startup pitches from 5:30–7:30 PM, then join the panel discussion and celebration through 9 PM.

We have an amazing lineup of startups, investors, and executives confirmed, including:

1. Geek Ventures - Sarah Romanko

2. New York Ventures - Eileen Kim

3. Upstart Co-Lab - Aparna Bagade

4. Datanto - Lorenzo Mazzara

5. Minds & Models - Ondrej Santora

6. MoodEater - Pallavi Jain

7. Robbit - Pavan Gadiraju

8. Sly - Diego Garcia

9. Solvrays - Bobbie Shrivastav

10. Surfeel - Miguel Morin

11. Swyft - Elise Adreon

12. Trinitite - Dustin Allen

13. WombWatch - Nash Kavassery

14. <more to be announced>

Whether you're a founder looking for early visibility, an investor hunting deal flow before the crowd arrives, or an executive tracking what's next on the horizon – this room is built for you. Wallet Max's network of 2,000+ innovators and 60 partners create the kind of warm introductions that actually move the needle.

This is more than a pitch night. It's a community of ecosystem builders committed to inclusive, high-growth innovation across AI, fintech, and climate tech.

​Seats are limited, register today 👇

Eventbrite.com/e/deep-techai-startup-pitches-and-investor-panels-nytechweek-event-registration-1987307425005

Join the Next Fundraising Mastermind Cohort Before Time Runs Out (May 20th)

Fundraising is hard. Doing it without structure or community makes it harder. The Wallet Max Fundraising Mastermind is a 12-week sprint designed to turn your early traction into real investor confidence.

Each sprint provides:​

• ​A clear weekly fundraising plan so you always know exactly what to work on

• ​Live group coaching to troubleshoot challenges and refine your approach

• ​Weekly Q&A time for real-time feedback on outreach, pitches, and investor conversations

• ​A mastermind of like-minded peers who hold each other accountable and share progress week to week

Each weekly session covers what actually moves the needle: building an investor-ready deck, crafting outreach emails that get responses, running a systematic pipeline, navigating due diligence, and developing the mental resilience of fundraising demands.

You'll work in a small accountability group, get access to guest speakers with deep VC networks, and follow a step-by-step plan for a flat launch price. No equity taken. No vague advice.

This is built for startup founders raising for the first or second time. You'll need an MVP and early traction. Revenue isn't required, but momentum is.

Most founders complete their raise in 2–3 sprints. The next cohort starts May 20th – so save your seat today.

If you’re ready to optimize your fundraising efforts for the 2026 market, get more details on the Wallet Max website and sign up today! You can also email the Wallet Max team at hello@walletmax.app for more information.

Fundraising Mastermind: 12-Week Sprints for Tech Founders · Zoom · Luma

Fundraising Fast-Track: Tech Founder’s Sprint for Investor-Ready Growth Wednesdays 9-10 AM PT / 12-1 PM ET (May 20th to August 5th, 2026) Fundraising is rarely…

luma.com/fblfundmastermind

Past Event Highlights

Dive into key learnings from the past few weeks of in-person/virtual community events.

The New School Lecture: Successful Entrepreneurship

Recently, I lectured at The New School on “Successful Entrepreneurship." I keyed in on topics like business structure, product development, and pricing strategies.

We went over the 4 Ps (product, price, place, and promotion), product go-to-market, and product strategy. But it wasn’t just basic level stuff. With examples and in-depth reviews, participants left the workshop with robust information on creating a competitive product, business models, and branding.

Columbia University Lecture: De-risking AI for Driving Transformation

I also taught a workshop at Columbia University in a series on Boardroom and C-Suite Leadership. Here, I shared key insights on de-risking AI in an enterprise setting. Responsible AI use requires understanding of bias, governance, accountability, and transparency. But attendees also require knowledge of how to allocate capital for uncertain but innovative technology.

Founders & Fractionals

On April 30th, I attended a Founders & Fractional event in New York City hosted by Daring Ventures and Reitler Kailas & Rosenblatt LLP. Katie Noble at Innovatemap, a fractional Chief Product & GTM agency, and their client, Frank Pica, CEO of Native AI, shared how they found each other, what their working relationship looked like, and what they’d do differently.

Fractional advisors are becoming more and more popular for founders who require support but don’t have the funding for a full-time executive. Factional enables startups to scale quickly with fractional advisors that become more valuable the longer they work together.

In short: These events are never just coffee or friendly mingling. It’s an act of moving forward.

Startup Growth Playbook: LIVE Interviews

AI-Driven Museum Transformation with Helene Alonso

With 20+ years across design, technology, and storytelling, Helene has led the creation of 400+ interactive experiences, reaching over 30 million visitors globally, including her leadership at the American Museum of Natural History.

Today, through WonderWay AI, she is transforming how people engage with museums using voice-first, AI-driven conversations that scale without hardware or app downloads.

“My career has been a combination of heritage sites, museums, and technology” says Helene. “And now we have agents that can do things for you behind the scenes. We can use the multiple modalities agents in creating the future of experiences.”

In this Startup Growth Playbook LIVE, we explored:

✅ Turning AI experiences into scalable, revenue-generating platforms
✅ Replacing static products with dynamic, data-rich interactions
✅ Enterprise adoption in cultural and institutional markets
✅ Monetization models that align user experience with growth

Don’t miss this engaging interview with real-world tips from Helene. You can see the full Playbook episode below 👇

Smart Risk Transfer for Students with Kristina Fahl

Kristina Fahl (Founder & CEO of Shuttlebee) built Shuttlebee after seeing safe, high-quality operators get priced out by insurance models that failed to reflect real performance.

With experience scaling large operator networks at Bus.com and managing complex logistics across North America, Kristina is now building a platform that coordinates smarter risk transfer for student transportation.

“The problem with transportation insurance is that it penalizes the operator,” notes Kristina. “Small operators are rated against the worst actor in their class. They don’t get credit for investing in things like driver vetting and driver training because their premium volume is small.”

These problems make it challenging for operators to stay in business, creating a transportation gap in the industry.

In this Startup Growth Playbook LIVE, we looked at:

✅ Where traditional risk models fail and why it matters
✅ Turning operational data into pricing advantage
✅ Building trust across operators, insurers, and institutions
✅ Scaling infrastructure in regulated, high-liability markets

If you’re building in the education, insurance, or people-driven products, this session will be practical and relevant. Watch the replay below:

In Case You Missed It – The BIG News Highlights

Risk is everywhere, but in understanding potential threats, we can mitigate them. Below is one BIG story that shows the connections between technology, science, and business.

AI Usage in Banking and Financial Services

Artificial intelligence has moved well beyond the pilot stage in financial services. What began as a collection of experimental tools is now woven into the operational fabric of banks, fintechs, and wealth managers, reshaping everything from back-office forecasting to the very concept of financial intermediation.

AI usage among finance leaders has roughly doubled in a single year, with nearly three-quarters of organizations now deploying AI tools in some capacity, up from about a third the year before. In FP&A departments specifically, the technology is most commonly applied to data analysis, predictive modeling, and automated reporting narratives. Tasks that once consumed entire teams are now handled in minutes.

Fraud detection has been one of the clearest early wins. The pattern-recognition capabilities that make AI so effective at spotting anomalous transactions are the same capabilities now being applied to risk modeling, compliance automation, and treasury operations.

At the same time, some believe that implementing AI has made banking harder. Automation hollows out the workload, meaning that getting an entry-level position provides more of a challenge. In addition, AI only handles the simple problems. Remaining staff must focus on complex cases, which can create more stress as these workers are compared to AI agents. In other words, humans solving difficult problems will have better performance compared to machines doing simple tasks.

The focus of automation in finance must shift towards ethical and reasonable use of AI in job creation. We must still maintain professional pathways to ensure economic stability and career fulfillment. How that works with AI will likely look different than the last decade – but that doesn’t have to be a bad thing.

The BIG Blog Digest

Still time for some reading? Here are some articles of interest this month.

How the C-Suite decides which AI risks get funded

AI capability alone is no longer enough. In volatile markets, capital moves toward AI systems leaders can explain, govern, and defend under pressure. I have seen organizations pause large AI rollouts even after strong pilot results because leaders could not fully explain how the system would behave at scale. And I have seen more modest systems receive funding quickly because risks were clearly defined, monitored, and controlled. Read this full blog here.

The risk of automation before understanding the Problem

Rushing to automate without clarity doesn't save time – it buries it. Every shortcut taken without clarity multiplies risk of wasted energy, wrong metrics, and misplaced trust. The cure is a simple three-step discipline: define the problem in one sentence, pilot it manually before adding tools, then scale only after building feedback loops that surface failure early. Read this full blog here.

AI in healthcare is driving change and saving lives

The global AI in healthcare market is projected to reach $200 billion by 2030. The opportunity is too big to ignore. AI reduces diagnostic errors by up to 40%, enables early detection and personalized treatments, and cuts costs through operational efficiencies. Read this full blog here.

Risk Lesson: Code for Care, Not Just Scale

Scale is captivating. It promises growth, efficiency, and speed. But code without care creates harm. I’ve seen it first hand.

For example, a startup I advised in 2022 launched a platform that optimized customer reach, but it hadn’t considered accessibility for differently abled users. Growth was celebrated until backlash exposed how exclusion had been baked into the system. Redesigning for care costs more than coding it from the start.

But care isn’t limited to code, either. Outside of technology, care looks like ensuring a new hire is properly introduced, ensuring a meeting doesn’t run over into someone’s family commitment, and building in recovery time.

In my book, Everyday Risk Wisdom: Your Risk Management Guide to Thrive in a Complex World as an Overlooked Business Leader, I offer actionable steps on how care, at its core, is about dignity.

Explore my book website below and get notified when this lesson is available for free!

The BIG Reflection Quiz

Let’s reflect on the idea of care. In this scenario, you have a tight deadline to launch the first version of your digital fitness product to customers. Your ideal consumer is training for a marathon.

Which approach takes the most logical steps to include care:

• Time is money and the longer you wait for launch, the more you may lose out. The app is simple and the main demographic is unlikely to require many accessibility options. You ask the developer to include a text-to-speech reader and the designer to ensure the visuals are good for color-blindness. That should cover most of the accessibility issues.

• You stop to consider what accessibility means in a fitness context. Not all users will be “fit”. You delay product launch and pause design until you can commit to more robust research about common customer disabilities.

• You pay minimal fees and present your product to an accessibility consultant. They pinpoint ten problems with accessibility in your app that may require further work. Some of the redesigning will take months. After your session, you meet with the developers and designers to create a roadmap for implementing these accessibility fixes – ensuring all will be made within one-year of launch.

• I’d do something else…(shoot me a message and let me know)

Read the lesson for my “Code for Care, Not Just Scale” action steps. Explore my book website below and get notified when this framework is available for free!

Don’t forget these key events

I know there was a lot in this issue, which is why I wanted to highlight the two events with the closest deadlines:

• The next fundraising mastermind kicks off on May 20th.

• The upcoming pitch competition is on June 1st – register to attend before then!

Otherwise, I am excited to have shared with you all the amazing events and discussions. From fractional work to product development, April was an impactful month.

As May comes to a close, I’m looking forward to a startup summer.

Thank you for reading so far, and we look forward to having you on the journey.

Onward and upward,

Bhuva Shakti, Founder of Wallet Max and Bhuva’s Impact Global.

Let’s collaborate, send me your ideas! www.bhuvas-impact.global/bhuva

Hi {{first name | there}},

I know this newsletter is later than usual. And that really highlights how active this spring is.

March was a whirlwind of events as Women’s History Month coincided with many internal events, such as Wallet Max’s Fundraising Mastermind. The momentum only grew in April.

As we close this Earth Month in April today, we saw a number of exciting breakthroughs and milestones, such as the Artemis launch and journey home. Seeing a recent, high-resolution photograph of our planet was a stark reminder that we have just one Earth. There is no planet B.

And that can be a challenging revelation as we struggle here on the ground with war, legacy energy sources, and water scarcity. We need more clean energy, especially for technological advancements like AI data centers. But it also has to make sense for people: meaning we need profitable and innovative solutions.

Today’s issue is great for friends and colleagues interested in fintech sustainability that keeps being human at its heart.

On top of upcoming and past events, we’ll talk about applying technology to legacy planning and comedy, global fintech innovation, and how to unlearn survival habits that are stunting your career.

Upcoming Events

Deep Tech/AI Startup Pitches and Investor Panels (Jun 01)

On Monday, June 1st, I will be hosting a curated fundraising event in Deep Tech/AI during New York Tech Week. Every year this event brings together startup founders, investors, and corporate ecosystem builders for an engaging night of networking, investing, and learning.

Save your seat to:

• ​Connect with startup leaders, impact investors, and corporate executives.

• Discover how to enhance sustainable and inclusive practices, and grow your business.

• Join a community of ecosystem partners and service providers in Deep Tech/AI.

​If you are a tech-enabled startup in any industry, or a tech investor/operator, submit your interest today to pitch or judge or speak at our Pitches & Panels event 👇

Deadline for all submissions is May 8th, 2026 ➡️ getwalletmax.com/contact

The Next Fundraising Mastermind Cohort (May 20)

I’m very excited to announce that the next 12-week sprint for the Wallet Max’s Fundraising Mastermind will begin on May 20th. This cohort will run from May 20th to July 5th, with LIVE workshops & activities, every Wednesday from 9-10 AM PT/12-1 PM ET.

Each sprint provides:​

• ​A clear weekly fundraising plan so you always know exactly what to work on

• ​Live group coaching to troubleshoot challenges and refine your approach

• ​Weekly Q&A time for real-time feedback on outreach, pitches, and investor conversations

• ​A mastermind of like-minded peers who hold each other accountable and share progress week to week

This isn’t just a three-month sit-there-and-learn course. It’s active. And as many founders know, every sprint builds momentum, helping you stay consistent and supported throughout the 6–9 month fundraising process. Bonus: You get 2 coaches for the 12-week duration.

If you’re ready to optimize your fundraising efforts for the 2026 market, get more details on the Wallet Max website and sign up today! You can also email the Wallet Max team at hello@walletmax.app for more information.

Fundraising Mastermind: 12-Week Sprints for Tech Founders · Zoom · Luma

Fundraising Fast-Track: Tech Founder’s Sprint for Investor-Ready Growth Wednesdays 9-10 AM PT / 12-1 PM ET (May 20th to July 5th, 2026) Fundraising is rarely a…

luma.com/fblfundmastermind

Past Event Highlights

Dive into key learnings from the past few weeks of in-person/virtual community events.

Sustainable by Design: Women Founders and Funders Reimagining Growth

This spring, I celebrated Women's History Month and I co-hosted an event on how female founders and investors are reimagining growth through a sustainable lens on March 5th at Columbia University’s Career Design Lab. Participants learned so much about sustainable growth and building for long-term value creation from amazing investors, founders, and operators like: Tess Mateo (Senior Advisor to the United Nations on Gender & Environment, and Managing Director at CXCatalysts), Christina Castle (Senior Manager of Impact & Product Sustainability at Dôen), Yael Shemer (Co-Founder & CCO of TULU, rethinking urban access and circular living).

Creator Economy x Fractional Model: The Crossover

On March 6th, Brand Curators, F3, and Brainstation hosted an event in New York where I was able to meet with other creators and fractional professionals, and I shared my list of consulting services that I provide for startup founders in product expansion, financial growth, and business operations as a Fractional CPO/COO. One of the best parts was learning from and mingling with the many experts who spoke at the event, like: Tish Dignam, ​Nelly Yusupova, ​Lauren Pearl, ​Shanae Brown, Tameka Bazile, Brandon Smithwrick, Terry Oppong, ​and Christina Westley.

Business Finance: Master Cash Flow, Break Even, Pricing

Finally, another fantastic event I presented in last month was a webinar at NJSBDC (NJ Small Business Development Center) aimed for startups and small businesses. In particular, I covered essential financial concepts including cash flow tracking, break-even analysis, pricing diagnostics, and monthly financial reviews that every founder and small business owner needs to know.

These skills are part of my signature WealthReset™ Framework, a 1-on-1 coaching program that helps professionals, founders, and leaders navigate meaningful financial or career decisions.

You can watch the full presentation replay for free for all the key details.

Love what you see and want to take it a step further? Check out how my WealthReset™ Framework and coaching for individuals/businesses can transform your profession.

In short: These events are never just coffee or friendly mingling. It’s an act of moving forward.

Startup Growth Playbook: LIVE Interviews

Caregiving and the Invisible Economy with Paul H Richardson Jr

63 million Americans are navigating aging parents, raising children, and managing careers, often at the same time. Paul H. Richardson, Jr., MA. knows how challenging it is for families to coordinate and orchestrate end-of-life arrangements remotely and around the clock.

That’s why he co-founded Tumbleweed, an AI-powered end-of-life-planning solution.

“A pivotal moment was in 2022, I took about a four-month road trip across the US,” says Paul. “I realized I was holding on to some grief with my grandparents. And what I kept coming back to was not only their passing, but really the experience leading up to death. I started thinking about legacy and aging, and that turned into what eventually became Tumbleweed.”

Paul is building a digital legacy and caregiving platform that helps families organize records, capture wishes, and make complex decisions easier, before and after loss. With 20+ years in healthcare and technology, he’s scaling human-centered AI in one of the most emotionally sensitive markets.

“For me, legacy, to your point, is not just financial. My grandparents worked very hard. They did not have financial things to leave to our family,” describes Paul. “They just didn't and a lot of folks don't. We try to remind people that it's far beyond that. It’s about memories, photos, and words of wisdom.”

If you care about healthtech, insurtech, enterprise partnerships, or building mission-aligned companies that scale, this session is for you.

Don’t miss this engaging interview with real-world tips from Paul. You can see the full Playbook episode below 👇

Scaling with Community with Adam Malev

Some of the most scalable platforms start with one person. They start small, and then scale with the community.

Adam Malev, Founder & CEO of Comediq, is building a platform used by 1,600+ NYC comedians to find 500+ open mics and shows every week; and now expanding into tools for content, performance tracking, and growth.

“Before Comediq, I used to work at EY doing financial risk consulting,” notes Adam. “And at night after work, I would go to standup comedy clubs. I noticed there was this gap for scheduling. Open mics would get canceled with five minutes warning, and that’s hard for the venue and the comedians. I wanted to approach it systemically.”

Over time, Adam developed a better and easier way for comedians and fans to discover open mics. Much of his journey involved growing his community of other performers, venues, and comedy enthusiasts.

“Being authentic is important, but building a community long before you want to launch is even more important,” says Adam. “When people know you, they can trust you. Even if they don't know you really well.”

If you’re building in the creator economy, SaaS, or community-driven products, this session will be practical and relevant. Watch the replay below:

In Case You Missed It – The BIG News Highlights

Risk is everywhere, but in understanding potential threats, we can mitigate them. Below is one BIG story that shows the connections between technology, science, and business.

Technology Development with Innovation & Regulation

The United States and China are leaders in developing AI innovation. Yet, they aren’t the only stalwarts making strides. Switzerland, in particular, is leading AI global research despite holding its first Fintech Week this June. The Americas have 58 events planned for 2026 alone.

The first Swiss Fintech Week will be held at the Kongresshaus Zurich between 19-25 June 2026. Organized by Tenity and FuW Forum in collaboration with the Global Finance and Technology Network (GFTN), attendees will have access to 8 internal events that include hackathons, innovation tours, multiple forums, VIP dinners, and more.

And Switzerland has much to share with the global fintech community. Switzerland holds the fifth highest concentration of AI talent among LinkedIn members, with a 1.25% share and has a significant AI adoption rate of 4.8%. When it comes to consumer views of AI in Switzerland, many still delegate the technology to entertainment or general productivity upgrades, while almost a third see it as a benefit to the economy.

Technology development and regulation works best when there are more users and innovators in the space. I, for one, am very excited to see what will come out of this conference in Zurich.

The BIG Blog Digest

Still time for some reading? Here are some articles of interest this month.

The risk of one-sided AI and the power of human negotiation

Whether you’re an executive aligning teams, a founder raising capital, or a professional navigating pay and priorities, the risk of not negotiating is the same. You accept defaults someone else designed. AI can optimize efficiency, but it can’t read nuance, context, or emotion. Read this full blog here.

We need good jobs, not just clean tech

More than 60% of U.S. workers say they don’t feel supported or secure in their roles. Globally, the picture is even more fragmented. Good jobs translate into living wages, job security, inclusion, and dignity. When we talk about sustainability, this is what we mean: A robust system that supports both people and the planet. Read this full blog here.

Climate risk is making the American Dream uninsurable

About 25% of all properties in the United States face soaring premium or canceled policies due to extreme weather risk. When homes cannot be insured, they cannot be financed, and wealth creation becomes limited. We need real collaboration among regulators, insurers, innovators, communities on the ground. Read this full blog here.

Risk Lesson: Unlearn Smallness

Smallness isn’t natural. It’s a habit, shaped by years of messages about what we can ask for, how we can show up, and where we “belong.” For women, and especially women of color, these messages start early: Be agreeable, wait your turn, don’t make people uncomfortable.

I often saw this play out in boardrooms. I would present an analysis and it would land flat. Then, only minutes later, a male colleague would repeat my point and it was treated as a revelation. Keeping myself small felt like survival, but that survival prevented me from growing into leadership roles.

The good news? It can be unlearned.

In my book, Everyday Risk Wisdom: Your Risk Management Guide to Thrive in a Complex World as an Overlooked Business Leader, I cover the safety of smallness and how it evolves into a long-term liability. I also offer actionable steps for identifying signs of learned smallness, and how to break the cycle.

Explore my book website below and get notified when this lesson is available for free!

The BIG Reflection Quiz

Are you self-silencing and making yourself small? Seeking approval, compromising for comfort, and assuming rejection are all signs.

But are you asking yourself the right questions to interpret? What questions would you ask yourself:

• Am I challenging my self-limiting habits (and if so, how have I challenged myself this week?)

• Am I scaling down strategies and analysis out of comfort or fear?

• Am I tracking patterns for who interrupts me, repeats my points, and responds appropriately?

• All of these

• I ask myself other questions…(shoot me a message and let me know)

All of these strategies work, and are even better when combined.

Read the lesson for my “Unlearn Smallness” action steps. Explore my book website below and get notified when this framework is available for free!

Before You Go

April was a fruitful month, but as spring turns into summer, I’m starting to see momentum. In particular, there’s a lot to be said about preparing for Tech Week in June and kickstarting my next cohort for Fundraising Mastermind in May. I hope that you will join me in these activities. There is room for everyone as an attendee, judge, sponsor, competitor, or participant.

After all, it’s in working together to solve challenges between climate and AI and finance that we can really make a positive difference.

Thank you for reading so far, and we look forward to having you on the journey.

Onward and upward,

Bhuva Shakti, Founder of Wallet Max and Bhuva’s Impact Global.

Let’s collaborate, send me your ideas! www.bhuvas-impact.global/bhuva

Hi {{first name | there}},

Looking back at Women’s History Month, it’s clear how far we’ve come and how far we have yet to go. Learning with women founders like Maria Chiancola of Tipsy Rose Wines or operators like Christina Castle of Dôen and several of the panelists at a local fashion sustainability event highlights the many ways women influence business and entrepreneurship.

In UN Women’s round up on gender equality, the roadmap is clear:

“Investing in women could lift hundreds of millions out of extreme poverty and add $4 trillion to the global economy by 2030.”

Improving the lives of women worldwide is possible, but it requires action from women and male allies. And these changes benefit men, too. According to 15 years of International Men and Gender Equality Survey (IMAGES) data, men who live and believe in gender equality are healthier and happier than men with restrictive gender attitudes.

As the month comes to a close, it’s important to consider how often technology, business, and climate factors intersect with gender equality. In this issue, I’ll be highlighting sustainable events, how changemakers like Francois Servranckx are positively influencing consumer behavior, and how to lead with AI. I delve into a new risk lesson, on being an outsider, something many women in the corporate world will understand.

This is a great round-up to send the leaders you admire, including friends, colleagues, and mentors.

Upcoming Events

Fintech/AI Startups Pitch Competition (April 20)

We’re almost there! I will be hosting the Fintech/AI Startups Pitch Competition and Investors/Experts Panel Discussion at the New York Fintech Week on April 20th. Together with the Wallet Max team, we have finalized the judges and startups.

Attendees will have a chance to meet with key judges, speakers, and contestants (and pick their brains). Our amazing lineup of experts includes:

• ​Jessie Lam - AiiM Partners

• ​Sherrise Pond - Anthemis

• ​Haroon Chohan - ARC Capital

• ​Heather Blake - Encompass Corporation

• ​Tiffany Pek - Reframe Partners

• ​Bhuva Shakti - Wallet Max

Sign up today and save your seat! Attendees can learn from the competing founders, too, such as:

• Artemis - Arthur Silva Maciel Tonaco

• ​Finori - Alex Voronovich

• ​Inncivio - Ghassen Benhadjsalah

• ​Merble - Shivam Goyal

• ​PlayMind Labs - Shay Bouchles

• ​Quantuma - Adnan Haider

Tickets will go fast, buy yours now ➡️ luma.com/FintechPitchWM26

Fundraising Mastermind: Join the Next Cohort (May 20)

The next cohort of my Fundraising Mastermind begins on May 20th. Hosted by Wallet Max and Funding Breakthrough Lab, these cohorts are a comprehensive, execution-focused 12-week sprint to help founders capture more funds.

Each sprint provides:​

• ​A clear weekly fundraising plan so you always know exactly what to work on

• ​Live group coaching to troubleshoot challenges and refine your approach

• ​Weekly Q&A time for real-time feedback on outreach, pitches, and investor conversations

• ​A mastermind of like-minded peers who hold each other accountable and share progress week to week

This mastermind takes about 6-8 hours a week, most of it spent on key activities to improve your outreach. Two hours are allotted for mastermind meetings, and 4-6 hours are recommended for preparing fundraising materials and investor outreach. Bonus: You get 2 coaches for the 12-week duration.

If you’re ready to optimize your fundraising efforts for the 2026 market, get more details on the Wallet Max website and sign up today! You can also email the Wallet Max team at hello@walletmax.app for more information.

Fundraising Mastermind: 12-Week Sprints for Tech Founders · Zoom · Luma

Fundraising Fast-Track: Tech Founder’s Sprint for Investor-Ready Growth Wednesdays 9-10 AM PT / 12-1 PM ET (May 20th to July 5th, 2026) Fundraising is rarely a…

luma.com/fblfundmastermind

Past Event Highlights

Dive into key learnings from the past few weeks of in-person and virtual events.

A Smarter Sip: Women-led Stories, Wine & Community

Last month, I had the pleasure of supporting a small business, Tipsy Rose Wines winemaker and learning not just about wine, but about founder Maria Chiancola. In 2012, Maria decided to “retire” from teaching college English Literature and focus on her hobby: Retail wine. Named after her grandmother, Tipsy Rose Wines, Maria went full-in on exploring the complex industry of wine-making, learning from her relationships with experienced vintners.

Maria shared her journey with myself and other attendees during the interactive wine-tasting experience. There were so many lessons from her experiences in building the business from scratch. Risks can be opportunities, mistakes can create success, and our passions can build sustainable businesses.

Heels on the Ground: a Look at Fashion and Sustainability's Future

In February, I attended a sustainable fashion event at The New School and participated in deep conversions about sustainability in the fashion industry. The program’s key speakers discussed an array of topics such as actionable steps towards sustainability and leveraging in AI. Moderated by Tiffany Pek, Parsons faculty member, and Devon Rufo, co-founder of Reframe Partners, the panel of speakers included:

• Christina Castle of Dôen

• Claire Sullivan of Miss Claire Sullivan

• Whitney McGuire of Parsons

• Kate Carlucci of Ned Graphics

Wallet Max’s Fundraising Mastermind Launch

The first cohort of Fundraising Mastermind kicked off on February 25th. As of writing, they have already covered whether they are ready to raise funds, nonverbal communication, deck building, and resilience. Now they will begin focusing on what investor expectations and designing a systemic approach to investor outreach. But it’s not just on-demand tutorials. It’s an execution-based program where founders can leverage peer and mentor support.

You can learn more about the program here.

Crowdfunding Strategies to Raise Capital, Validate Demand, and Convert Early Customers

I gave a virtual talk for NJ Small Business Development Center (NJSBDC) in February. While I often focus on fundraising, I took a broader view and included actionable tips on customer acquisition, product validation, and organic revenue generation.

Virtual events are always a delight, and they tap into something I already do on a one-on-one level with entrepreneurs. I offer consulting and coaching sessions on overall business finances and operations.

Learn more about these sessions here.

In short: These events are never just coffee or friendly mingling. It’s an act of moving forward.

Startup Growth Playbook: LIVE Interviews

Profitable and Responsible Small Business Communities with Francois Servranckx

On February 18th, I had the pleasure of interviewing Francois Servranckx, Founder of Green Gooding, New York City's first circular economy on-demand small appliances system, on my Startup Growth Playbook Series.

Francois works at the intersection of sustainability strategy and enterprise transformation. Before founding Green Gooding, he has shown leadership in several critical roles, such as spearheading Guardian Life’s ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) initiatives, worked as the Head of Communications for the Global Business Coalition for Education, and overseeing UNICEF campaigns as its Strategic Communication & Public Advocacy Director.

In this interview, Francois brings a product, operations, and fundraising lens to unpacking what investors actually look for when evaluating climate and ESG-driven companies.

“We have a unique challenge. We must explain the benefits of renting appliances over buying to shift behavior without spending on marketing,” notes Francois. “We run a lean business model…And when it comes to fundraising and attracting investors, especially if you don’t have an AI product, it’s important to show traction.”

Increased competition for funding is an opportunity for founders to stand out. But venture or angel capital aren’t the only options when creating high-impact, sustainable businesses.

✅ Customer loyalty and acquisition can stem from a strong network, too.
✅ Community and building a network are also just as important for success.

Don’t miss this engaging interview with real-world tips from Francois. You can see the full Playbook episode below 👇

In Case You Missed It – The BIG News Highlights

Risk is everywhere, but in understanding potential threats, we can mitigate them. Below is one BIG story that shows the connections between technology, science, and business.

Leading Through AI And Digital Transformation

Innovation in technology has outpaced governance capacity, placing leaders in a bind. CFOs, CTOs, and other c-suite roles aim to deliver strategic pivots in a rapidly shifting industry landscape and artificial intelligence (AI) seems like a winner. But resistance is mounting between both employees and customers.

A McKinsey study states that 88% of companies claim they use AI. But another survey from Section found that less than 3% of the workforce functionally use AI. Furthermore, 48% of CFOs claimed that a significant challenge to AI adoption is employee resistance.

At the same time, half of consumers stated in a Gartner report that they don’t want brands to use Generative AI.

What does this mean for leadership that wants to leverage AI technology?

One solution is strictly human: Communication. Improved and empathic discussions with employees can reduce friction.

Most workers are concerned about job security, not the technology itself. Leadership and governance around AI initiatives includes strategies such as including employees in operational changes, providing AI training, and explaining the benefits of AI. Incorporating AI into high-level, c-suite workflows and modeling successful tool use can also improve morale and confidence.

The most important thing: Listen to your workforce and directly answer their concerns. Listening to contrary voices may offer insight on reducing risk during implementation and discovering new innovative ways to apply AI without sacrificing worker autonomy. Clear communication and transparency is the best way forward to build long-term trust and loyalty with your workforce, whether it’s about AI or not.

The BIG Blog Digest

Still time for some reading? Here are some articles of interest this month.

11 ways to get fintech funding

Securing the right type of funding is not just a checkbox for immediate growth: It’s the cornerstone of scalability and long-term success. While many founders will often self-fund early developments, founders can also look to angel investors, venture capital, government grants, and more. In this article, I cover 11 different funding sources and offer top tips to boost successful pitching. Read this full blog here.

How to fund your AI business

As AI is an emerging technology, someone branding themselves as an AI business may find themselves limited when it comes to funding sources. Individual investors are skeptical and banks can consider these startups too high risk. For many, it comes to incubators, accelerators, government funding, and venture capital. Here’s what you need to know about AI-funding. Read this full blog here.

50 weeks of AI risk analysis: The key is governance

For fifty weeks, I have written about AI, risk, leadership, and governance from a systems perspective. In this article, I review 5 key learnings about AI and risk, such as the importance of structure and trust in a murky information market. Furthermore, I detail my 30-minute AI Governance Alignment Review to help investors, founders, and experts improve their AI use. Read this full blog here.

Risk Lesson: Policies Are Not Protection

On paper, I was protected. There were corporate policies for diversity. Governance protocols. Risk checklists. Inclusion pledges. But when I raised actual issues, such as a flaw in the way credit data was being migrated in a new system, I was told to “be careful.” No one wanted to be associated with dissent.

I didn’t silence myself. But I learned that while policies are structure, safety is culture. Policies without real enforcement or inclusion are performance, not protection.

Ultimately, policies are a floor, not a ceiling. It’s important to build your own safeguards: Document issues, cultivate allies, and know escalation paths. Your voice and evidence may be the only shield you have when a policy fails in practice.

In my book, Everyday Risk Wisdom: Your Risk Management Guide to Thrive in a Complex World as an Overlooked Business Leader, I delve into action steps to protect yourself when policy fails in practice.

Explore my book website below and get notified when this lesson is available for free!

The BIG Reflection Quiz

Many in my network are outsiders, high-achieving professionals that must balance voice with participation to avoid being penalized. But what does it look like to be proactive in safeguarding your voice?

That’s what this reflection quiz is about. Consider the following strategies. Which one do you believe is most useful in your experience for protecting your voice?

• I always watch patterns. Politics are a baseline. Culture reveals the effectiveness of policy. I focus on whether actions align with stated rules and document every interaction meticulously.

• I lean on my network. It helps to have another person to affirm your experiences. I build trust with colleagues that put a premium on integrity.

• I don’t confuse optics with ownership. People who follow through, especially when stakes are high, reveal organizational values. People who take responsibility show me who I can trust.

• I pick my battles. My voice matters, but I don’t feel that I can protect every cause. I try to support my allies and ensure I have significant evidence and stakes to present before using my voice.

All of these strategies work, and are even better when combined. Documentation, policy-awareness, allies, and identifying ownership all help safeguard “outsider” voices in the company.

Read the lesson for my “Policies Are Not Protection” action steps. Explore my book website below and get notified when this framework is available for free!

Keep Moving Forward

As we move into April, one of the best things you can do for your business is act. Whether that’s using your voice to create change within a system, attending a community-building event, or joining a mastermind, one simple step can propel you towards success.

We rarely get to the top quickly or alone. In the journey, we meet mentors, colleagues, and allies to help us develop new strategies around road blocks. Failure to raise capital can mean discovering a newer, more cost-effective solution.

Thank you for reading so far, and we look forward to having you on the journey.

Onward and upward,

Bhuva Shakti, Founder of Wallet Max and Bhuva’s Impact Global.

Let’s collaborate, send me your ideas! www.bhuvas-impact.global/bhuva

Hi {{first name | there}},

February is the shortest month in the calendar, and often used to look ahead. In March 2026, I’ll be celebrating International Women’s Day (IWD) with virtual and local New York City events through Wallet Max and several investor/startup organizations. I usually post about these on my LinkedIn page, and you’ll see some similar events listed in this newsletter from the last month.

But in the meantime, I have been working building a stronger resource base with the community. Together with the Wallet Max team and our partners, I am launching new hands-on workshops like Fundraising Mastermind and preparing for the next Fintech/AI Startups Pitch Competition. I’ve also interviewed tech-conscious entrepreneurs Brandi DeCarli of Farm from a Box and Bobbie Shrivastav of Solvrays.

And before I forget: Share this newsletter with your founder friends and colleagues looking to boost their fundraising efforts in 2026.

Outside of networking and resource building, I have been intensively reading numerous 2026 reports, as many investors and entrepreneurs are. Here, I’ll review key AI risks from the World Economic Forum (WEF) and where ethical AI might be the ideal agent to counteract potential tech risks to the economy.

Of course, that’s just a summary of main points. Keep reading for a full roster of news, insights, and reflections.

Upcoming Events

Join the Launch: Fundraising Mastermind (February 18)

Over the past few years, I have mentored hundreds of entrepreneurs and executives in a 12-step program to fast-track fundraising efforts. Starting on February 18th, I am launching a 12-week mastermind sprint to help founders work through every step. Our goal is timeboxed and accelerated fundraising.

Rather than pay $300 or more per hour for a consultant, founders can join our Fundraising Mastermind. Each week for 3 months, founders can expect a 1-hour group session plus dedicated time with your mastermind group. Bonus: You get 2 dedicated coaches every week. The primary requirement is time: You will need to invest 6-8 hours weekly toward your fundraising goals.

The weekly breakdown is simple 👇

1. Launch & Goal Setting

2. Fundraising Readiness & Foundations

3. Credibility Code

4. Investor-Ready Story & Deck Architecture

5. Overcoming Rejection

6. Fundraising Checklist, Metrics & Traction

7. Crafting Investor Emails That Get Responses

8. Outreach Systems & Investor Pipeline

9. Due Diligence Tooling

10. Diligence, Decisioning & Closing

11. Storytelling Mastery

12. Long-Term Capital Strategy & Positioning

If you’re ready to optimize your fundraising efforts for the 2026 market, sign up today or get more details on the Wallet Max website. You can also email the Wallet Max team at hello@walletmax.app for more information.

Fundraising Mastermind

Join our 12-week fundraising sprints. A structured approach to keep yourself accountable.

www.getwalletmax.com/mastermind

Fintech/AI Startups Pitch Competition (April 20)

One of my favorite events of the year is New York Fintech Week. And what better place is there to host a startup pitch competition?

While pitches take center stage, this event also features an informative panel. Judges and industry experts weigh in on connecting with impact investors and corporate executives while enhancing sustainable and inclusive practices at your startup or firm. This section is often filled with practical, lived advice that benefits the entire startup-investment ecosystem and demystifies the AI hype.

You may be asking, who will be attending? Let me share some of our investors and industry experts as the judges and panelists for 2026 (more to come):

• Sherrise Pond, Investment Principal at Anthemis Group: has over 15 years of experience in finance, spanning investment banking, mergers and acquisitions, and credit analysis.

• Jessie Lam, Venture Partner at AiiM Partners: has 20 years of experience in investments, operations and finance, with a career that brought her around the world and spanned multiple asset classes.

• Haroon Chohan, Managing Partner at ARC Capital Management: is a startups advisor at Cornell University, with decades of capital allocation experience and scaling product-market fit across diverse business models.

We are also proud to highlight some of our startup contestants (more to come):

• Adnan Haider, Co-Founder of Quantuma

• Ghassen Benhadjsala, Co-Founder of Inncivio

• Shivam Goyal, Co-Founder of Merble

We still have space for a few more judges/speakers and pitching startup spots. Deadline for startups to submit interest for pitching LIVE is February 28th.

Don’t wait: Sign up today 👇

Fintech Startups Pitch Competition by Wallet Max · Luma

➡️ Join us as we kick off the New York Fintech Week 2026 📍Fintech Pitch Competition & Investor Panels 📅 April 20th @ 5-9 PM ET 🎤 Pitch, judge, speak, or…

luma.com/FintechPitchWM26

Past Event Highlights

Dive into key learnings from the past few weeks of in-person and virtual events.

Fundraising Fast-Track: Tech Founder’s Sprint for Investor-Ready Growth

Earlier this month, I hosted a workshop with The Fourth Effect, a startup ecosystem that connects founders and investors. I provided tech founders a step-by-step system to run a focused fundraising sprint. This 12-week plan makes it easier for founders to organize outreach, build momentum with updates, and use real investor benchmarks to measure progress.

Ultimately, attendees left the session with a practical fundraising readiness toolkit with sprint plans, pitch checklists, and my proprietary simple framework for aligning story, numbers, and next steps.

This is one of my key online offerings for new founders, which means I’ll be offering this training again soon. Any founder in pre-seed, seed, or Series-A/B can benefit from my 12-week sprint driven fundraising - either new rounds, first time fundraise, or expansion to late-stage fundraising, or even bridge rounds.

Mentorship at Entrepreneurs Roundtable Accelerator

Over the last couple of months, I was thankful to attend the Entrepreneur Roundtable Accelerator (ERA) as both a mentor and advisor to startups pitching to investors and demoing their solution. The ERA is New York City’s premier and longest-running program that brings together founders, investors, and ecosystem leaders.

I also separately met with and mentored 14 startup founders and their team members across 6 startups, and advised on the state of fundraising in the US and how investors are evaluating their next investments, be it angels or VCs.

So much about my current work centers on mentorship and community building. I am lucky: This is the time to build in-person. Professional networks are expanding beyond Manhattan as founders, investors, and policy makers look to expand. Our New Jersey mentor meetups are one example of startups/VCs thinking beyond traditional geography.

VC/LP Gallery: NYC Powered by AngelList

Similar to my work with ERA, I attended the Venture Capital / Limited Partners gathering last month an angel and LP investor, and a fundraising advisor. Unlike the ERA, this event focused on late-stage startups along with a private art tour of the gallery by the owner.

While it’s a fun night-out, much of the discussions center on work: Fundraising and supporting new innovation, especially in technology, AI, fintech, and sustainable ventures.

In short: These events are never just coffee or friendly mingling. It’s an act of moving forward.

Building Intimate and Intentional Communities!

Startup Growth Playbook: LIVE Interviews

How Climate Infrastructure Startups Actually Scale with Brandi DeCarli

Founder and CEO of Farm from A Box, Brandi DeCarli is building climate-resilient food systems using clean infrastructure, digital tools, and innovative financing - while proving that impact and profitability can scale together.

In our recent Startup Growth Playbook discussion, we covered:

✅ What real traction looks like beyond pilots and press
✅ How to align impact, operations, and revenue
✅ How founders should communicate momentum to investors

Traction and impact alignment mirror each other. If you build a product that properly addresses customer problems, you’re likely to see interest snowball. Brandi leveraged this traction when growing Farm from a Box and scaling its climate-focused infrastructure.

“Farming is one of the most under-digitized areas. But it can’t just be ‘teched up.’ It has to give real value to the farmers,” said Brandi. “But we have used AI and technology strategically. A part of scalability is learning how we could serve our farms.”

Technology or not, the network is critical to success for any founder.

“Activate your network. If you don’t have a network, go activate it. You have no idea who could make an introduction, who could be an investor, or who could be an advisor,” notes Brandi. “And be real.”

Don’t miss this engaging interview with real-world tips from Brandi. You see the full Playbook episode below 👇

How Customer Delight Drives Revenue Expansion with Bobbie Shrivastav

In this Playbook episode, I spoke with CEO and Co-Founder of Solvrays, Bobbie Shrivastav about scaling AI-native startups inside legacy industries. With eight years of insurtech experience and two decades of technology experience under her belt, Bobbie is overcoming legacy insurance challenges with AI innovation.

We covered a number of essential topics, including:

✅ What traction looks like in regulated, legacy-heavy markets
✅ Turning operational efficiency into scalable growth
✅ Building trust with customers and investors in AI-driven businesses

The secret to success in traction and entrepreneurship is building an authentic community network that gives as much as it takes. Being present is the first step to developing trust with investors and customers.

“Entrepreneurship is for everyone,” notes Bobbie. “The key is that you don’t need permission to do what you want to do. What you need is clarity, consistency, and community.”

Bobbie dives deep into her journey in insurtech, building trust with customer and key stakeholders, and more. Watch the full replay below 👇

In Case You Missed It – The BIG News Highlights

Risk is everywhere, but in understanding potential threats, we can mitigate them. Below is one BIG story that shows the connections between technology, economics, and climate.

AI Risks, Trends, Workforce, and Leadership in 2026

Artificial intelligence (AI) is risky. In The World Economic Forum’s Global Risks Report for 2026, business and policy leaders said adverse AI outcomes will be one of the top global risks within the next 10 years. The report states that there are three primary AI technology risks:

1. There’s a potential for negative labor market influences with mass unemployment straining social structures.

2. Uncertainty regarding AI application: Will it incite creativity or contribute to social decay?

3. Unethical or incorrect use of AI technologies can lead to harm.

Despite these potential threats, BDO’s Tectonic States report found that 55% of business leaders believe their organization’s leadership clearly understands risks associated with AI.

Indeed, this is a significant issue that requires more than technical understanding. We are dealing with the transformation of not only economies but of purpose.

Wharton’s and Accenture’s AI-Skills Index Report highlights the rising disparity between job descriptions and skillsets. Artificial intelligence is changing the way we think about skillsets and productivity. This addresses, in part, the economic concerns about AI. Instead of focusing on job depletion, it may be beneficial to view AI and the future of work as reshaping skills.

The answer to the current and rising market-skill mismatch is realignment. Determining what skills are intrinsically human should develop a new economic structure focused on high-level thinking, not repetitive work.

But there are ethical considerations, too. BDO’s Key Trends in Artificial Intelligence for 2026 names several shifts in AI use, including ethical AI. privacy. One of the primary considerations is data-usage for AI-training. Organizations must verify that when AI has access to personal information and other sensitive data. They must review security protocols and ensure that only authorized users can access it. These considerations are not just good faith practices. Ethical AI use is about reducing risk exposure, such as avoiding copyright lawsuits or cybersecurity breaches.

In the future applications of AI, we see the intersections of risk, finance, and economy. There are potential routes that can lead to compounding economic and financial strain.

Likewise, with forethought around AI culture and application, it’s possible to design a world where workers are not shaped by job descriptions but let their skillset shine. Future technology does not have to be a liability, but an asset. Risks become real when we do not prepare for them, and the time for that preparation is now.

The BIG Blog Digest

Still time for some reading? Here are some articles of interest this month.

3 ways to apply machine learning to risk management

Increasing international and local regulations regarding climate, business operations, and financial risks bring additional pressures Artificial intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) tools offer organizations and governments the ability to assess risks rapidly. Institutions can leverage AI for risk assessments, predictive analysis, and fraud detection, but they must consider ethical use before implementation. Read this full blog here.

How fintech startups can secure funding

While some fintech startups have successfully bootstrapped their way to success, leveraging personal funds or reinvested profits for growth, this path is fraught with limitations, especially in a capital-intensive industry like fintech. A solid business model and a clear regulatory compliance strategy are non-negotiable for fintech startups aspiring to secure funding. And for most of our listed 11 funding options, awareness of compliance can make the difference. Read this full blog here.

Turning WEF risk insights into practical AI decisions

Major risks gleaned from discussions at the World Economic Forum (WEF) are that AI is scaling faster than oversight while the global economy is fragmenting and trust is in short supply. And in a fragmented world, AI does not create new problems. It magnifies existing ones. Leaders can repel risk when applying discipline and clarity to AI decision-making. My 15-minute Davos Reality Check reflection for business leaders is a great way to jumpstart the process. Read this full blog here.

Giving Back to Empower the Next Generation!

Risk Lesson: Movement is Expansion

In the modern world, we are often conditioned to seek recognition. Likes, titles, promotions. But some of the most meaningful progress happens when no one is clapping. It happens in the small, often unseen decisions like choosing to stay up late to study, listening deeply in a discussion when you don’t understand everything yet, building up the strength to walk into the room again tomorrow.

For many years, I felt invisible, first as a girl in rural India, later as an immigrant in America. But I came to realize that just because something is invisible doesn’t mean it’s insignificant. Invisible work is not wasted effort.

But it’s easy to lean into the comfort of being invisible, of being “safe.” That is a mistake. It’s better to train yourself to take risks, to move when it feels easier to stay.

In my book, Everyday Risk Wisdom: Your Risk Management Guide to Thrive in a Complex World as an Overlooked Business Leader, I have a lesson fully devoted to help you better associate risk with growth.

Explore my book website below and get notified when this lesson is available for free!

The BIG Reflection Quiz

You know by now that I love repeatable frameworks and introspection. Reflection enables us to be more intentional with our reactions and decisions. That’s why I’ll be adding a reflection question, like this one, at the end of every email, to guide the process.

What am I expanding into? Imagine you receive two funding options for your dream startup. One offers full-funding, but has extensive requirements and ambitious benchmarks. The second provides only 40% of funding, but is more lax and allows you to retain better control over reporting.

Next, review the insights from the Movement lesson. Would you change your answers if you were focused on growth rather than risk?

Read the lesson for my “Movement is Expansion” action steps. Explore my book website below and get notified when this framework is available for free!

Power Your Network Today

Staying still is a risk. One of the best ways to counteract risk is to move and grow. This includes your network. But it must be intentional.

I strive to include free, quality resources and insights in every issue. Yet, knowledge is the first step to action. For founders, investors, or business executives ready to take the next step, I heavily recommend signing up for our Startup Fintech Competition as a contestant, judge, or sponsor. Founders, specifically, also have much to gain from structured mentorship in the Wallet Max Fundraising Mastermind.

Next month, Women’s History Month, I will be hosting a number of events and webinars. Among them with the Sustainable by Design: Women Founders and Funders Reimagining Growth on March 5th. Join me, the Columbia Alumni Global Sustainability Network, and Wallet Max to explore how female founders and investors are reimagining growth through a sustainable lens.

All of these events have many benefits. One of the most important of them is nurturing connections.

The connections we make help us to discover ethical and profitable ways to grow our businesses while creating a positive impact. I’m always grateful for the mentors, advisors, and partnerships I’ve gained along the way. I hope that these opportunities will be just as fruitful for you.

Onward and upward,

Bhuva Shakti, Founder of Wallet Max and Bhuva’s Impact Global.

Let’s collaborate, send me your ideas! www.bhuvas-impact.global/bhuva

Hi {{first name | there}},

Happy February! I hope you had a restive January and a great start of the year. It feels bizarre to be working in a 2026 calendar, but life flies when you’re making things happen. Despite the many hurdles to progress, such as funding or handling others’ uncertainty, we have an array of tools to move forward.

In the last issue, we discussed community at length. That continues to be an underlying factor, and paying it forward ensures communities achieve longevity. In my work as a judge for Bard MBA’s sustainable startup pitch competition and through my role as Women in AI’s Global Ethics and Culture Officer, I’ve had the pleasure of assisting the next generation of entrepreneurs in designing ethical, cultural, and sustainable systems.

Before we get into the nuts and bolts of this newsletter, forward this edition to a colleague interested in fintech solutions for accessible funding.

With the news in a negative feedback loop, I hope this issue will provide much to look forward to. In addition to upcoming events, last month’s highlights, and founder interviews, I take a look at the evolution of risk-based lending and its benefits during this period of economic uncertainty. With funding sources drying up and higher competition for investments, data-enhanced lending offers a new way for founders and individuals to tap into credit.

I’ve also included a free chapter from my upcoming book on risk management. In particular, I’ll talk about how to dismiss doubt and trust yourself.

Building Intimate and Intentional Communities!

Upcoming Events

Fintech/AI Pitch Competition & Panels (Apr 20, 2026)

I will be hosting a curated fundraising event, including startups pitch competition and investors/executives panel as part of Wallet Max community gathering on April 20th at New York Fintech Week.

Not only will attendees develop their networks and exchange resources, they will:

✅ Connect with startup leaders, impact investors, and corporate executives,
​​​✅ Discover how to enhance sustainable and inclusive practices, and grow your business, and
​​​✅ Join a community of ecosystem partners and service providers in FinTech and AI.

There’s still time to sign up as a contestant or a sponsor. Don’t wait, reserve your seat today. Sign up now 👇

Fintech Startups Pitch Competition by Wallet Max · Luma

➡️ Join us as we kick off the New York Fintech Week 2026 📍Fintech Pitch Competition & Investor Panels 📅 April 20th @ 5-9 PM ET 🎤 Pitch, judge, speak, or…

luma.com/FintechPitchWM26

Past Event Highlights

Dive into key learnings from the past few weeks of in-person and virtual events.

Women In Financial Markets Celebration

Throughout 2025, I served as a Wolfpack member as part of the Women In Financial Markets (WFM) community mentorship. And I celebrate a year of success and learning from my peers through our year-end celebration and networking event in December 2025.

“What I love about nights like this is simple: when you put committed people in a room, the conversations turn into actual opportunities,” wrote Entrepreneur and Investor Anna Mellon on LinkedIn.

And I agree completely. One of the best parts of working in this industry isn’t just the work itself, but the people you meet, the mentors that help you navigate the complex world of finance, and the professionals you guide along the way.

I’m a believer of reverse mentorship and inter-generational mentorship, along with traditional mentorship models. Both being a mentee and a mentor has enriched my life. It’s a topic I cover in my upcoming book: Everyone has something to learn and something to offer.

Real Human Connections to Solve Problems!

Angel Squad x AngelFamilia Coffee Connections

I had an amazing time reconnecting with friends and meeting new ones at the annual Year-End Community Coffee event from Angel Squad and AngelFamilia in New York City.

For those unfamiliar with these stellar organizations:

⚡Angel Squad is a vetted community of angel investors, who get radical access to Hustle Fund's deals and investor education.

⚡AngelFamilia is a community for active Latine angel investors investing in the United States.

Co-hosted events between these organizations, and others like them, provide an opportunity for investors to collaborate rather than compete. A trusted group of like-minded individuals matters allows us to build together rather than in isolation. It’s also a matter of mirroring self-trust and investing in relationships that support your vision.

In short: These events are never just coffee or friendly mingling. It’s an act of moving forward.

Building an Inclusive Business Community

Serving as a Bard MBA Judge

In December 2025, I wrapped up my responsibility as a judge for Bard college #1 ranked MBA program in sustainability bringing together startups pitch competition and winter awards ceremony. This was an opportunity I am forever grateful for. I evaluated pitches and guided entrepreneurs on everything - from business growth to fundraising and more.

As I write in my book, I believe that building a legacy means paying it forward. There are many ways to create an impact, and this program enabled me to assist the next generation in designing profitable solutions that benefit people and the planet.

Out of the almost 30 teams, two received awards for innovation and likelihood of success:

🏆Thrive Award, for most likely to succeed: Roots a wealth transfer consulting firm that focuses on historical equity and fairness in land acquisition and ownership.

🏆Catalyze Award, for most likely to have impact at scale: Common Ground Community, a housing development company where renters develop equity over time.

It was a pleasure to discover new talent and ideas at Bard, and I hope to continue being involved with their fantastic MBA program’s entrepreneurship ecosystem.

Startup Growth Playbook: LIVE Interviews

Getting Traction: Tiya Gordon, CEO of it’s electric

In our most recent LIVE session of the Startup Growth Playbook on January 7th, I interviewed Tiya Gordon, Co-Founder & CEO of it’s electric. With 20 years of design, leadership, and operations experience under her belt, Tiya offers a unique perspective to solve the climate crisis. Tiya’s non-traditional skillset provides fresh insight into practical solutions that lead to fast adaption of sustainable technology.

In this interview, Tiya delves into insights into how founders can:

✅ Translate customer signals into credible traction
✅ Use storytelling frameworks that de-stress delivery
✅ Turn pitch feedback into a stronger fundraising strategy

In particular, Tiya highlights the fast-paced nature of startup culture and the reality of creating new and innovative products.

“I know the founder's expression is to fail fast, but it’s not failing fast,” says Tiya. “It’s learning quickly what’s working, and focusing on what’s working.”

One of the most challenging things about traction and building momentum is balance. For startup founders like Tiya, this can look like how to juggle multiple hats and knowing when to delegate or outsource tasks.

“I can spend time learning new skills,” notes Tiya. “But sometimes it’s better to hire an expert to make sure things get done in a timely way.”

Watch the entire interview below for more strategic insights and real experiences from Tiya.

Next Up: Brandi DeCarli, CEO of Farm from a Box

In my January 28th interview, learn how impact-driven companies can scale with Brandi Decarli, Co-Founder & CEO of Farm from a Box. Brandi is driving a future where regenerative, nutritious food is accessible to all, and where farmers earn a living income through sustainable production.

Farm from a Box builds local food independence with clean technology and digital tools that power regenerative, climate-resilient supply chains. We spoke about:

✅ Real traction signals beyond pilots and press
✅ Aligning impact, profitability, and scale
✅ Communicating momentum to investors with clarity

Startup Growth Playbook Interview: Bhuva Shakti and Brandi DeCarli · Luma

Ask Me Anything: Bhuva Shakti Product, Operations, Fundraising Advisor 📍 Session #21 of the Startup Growth Playbook 🔗 Register on this luma page to join us…

luma.com/BusinessGrowthJAN28

In Case You Missed It – The BIG News Highlights

Risk is everywhere, but in understanding potential threats, we can mitigate them. Below is one BIG story that shows the connections between technology, economics, and climate.

Fintech transforms risk-based lending

Access to capital dictates success. Financing provides the opportunity to start a business, buy a house, or invest in green upgrades. Both businesses and consumers can leverage financing and loans for growth, but the modern industry faces several challenges.

Outdated lending infrastructure, poor credit visibility, manual processing, and murky risk assessments based on incomplete data all contributed to higher risk. Fintech solutions are changing the game.

Lenders used to rely on historical data to determine risk-based assessments and creditworthiness. This early approach to risk-based lending often led to locking creditworthy individuals out of the market.

Today’s landscape is different, with risk-based financing taking cues from more than FICO scores and payment history. Alternative data, such as behavioral patterns and educational background, offer lenders greater insight into creditworthiness.

Improved alignment benefits both lenders and consumers. Lenders improve their profitability and lower defaults, while more borrowers can access capital at tailored interest rates.

Unit21 is one example of how a fintech lending solution is transforming the industry. Using automation, Unit 21 monitors transactions, case management files, regulatory filings, and device intelligence to reduce bottlenecks and safely eliminate friction.

Artificial intelligence has been a leading tool in the fintech lending space. Unit21, Accelitas, and Lendflow are just a snapshot of the market tools available to make capital more accessible.

The BIG Blog Digest

Still time for some reading? Here are some articles of interest this month.

Opportunities and challenges for quantum computing

Software breakthroughs in quantum computing highlight possible applications. Venture capital firms can tap into these early-stage gains and invest in startups using quantum computing for tasks like drug discovery and logistics optimization. There are drawbacks, too, as with investing in any cutting-edge technology, such as a longer wait time for ROI. Read this full blog here.

Unlock global profits with authenticity

In the early 2000s, I worked with a bank that was clearly going bankrupt. Instead of appeasing the team and matching the hope that we wouldn’t default (the future was clear), I stuck to what I thought was right. The credit data was plain and the only path forward was to work through the losses and communicate with shareholders the right way. Being honest turned into an advantage, for myself and the company. Read this full blog here.

Preventing AI misalignment

The risk is not failing to adopt AI. It is assuming that what worked last year will still hold in a year. Instead, leaders must focus on recalibration in 2026 and set a sustainable pace for AI adoption. Clarifying criteria for making high-level decisions can mitigate the risk of overspend and misalignment. Read this full blog here.

Giving Back to Empower the Next Generation!

Risk Lesson: Doubt is Not Your Weakness

Many people doubted me before they knew me. Communities like mine, rural Indian towns in the 1970s, didn’t expect much from women. Ambition was too often met with ridicule or disdain, not support.

Their doubt was not a reflection of my ability. Yet, it is easy to believe that another person’s disbelief is realism.

It is not.

You do not need to shout-over other people’s fears. Separating your identity from the uncertainty of others is key to moving forward, even if you’re taking the first step alone.

Doubt is such an easy confidence killer, but it doesn’t have to be. In my upcoming book on risk, Everyday Risk Wisdom: Your Risk Management Guide to Thrive in a Complex World as an Overlooked Business Leader, I describe how you can break away from the doubt trap.

Explore my book website below and get notified when this lesson is available for free!

The BIG Reflection Quiz

You know by now that I love repeatable frameworks and introspection. Reflection enables us to be more intentional with our reactions and decisions. That’s why I’ll be adding a reflection question, like this one, at the end of every email, to guide the process.

Read the lesson for my “Deal with Doubt” action steps. Explore my book website below and get notified when this framework is available for free!

Starting out strong in 2026

The last year was a whirlwind. And I think I can speak for not just myself, but many of my readers, when I say that I hope that 2026 will be better, stronger, and full of joy.

Progress is challenging, the startup world is fast, and we regularly must face challenging truths in the news and in our work. But when we focus on mitigating risk, create community, and bet on ourselves, we can also be part of building a better world.

Ethics and culture help us to create this positive change. And they are more important than ever. Technology is not neutral, as we are learning in this age of AI, which scales both our work and our biases.

There are many ways to integrate ethics and culture into our work. I know from experience. I’ve been leading initiatives globally at Women in AI non-profit, and as their Chief Ethics & Culture Officer for the 7th year in a row, it amazes me how much is possible when we invest in ourselves.

The key to coming together for a common good is communication. And it’s worth investing in.

Let me know, what communities have lifted you up over the past year?

Thank you for being part of this community. I look forward to our next connection, whether through this newsletter or at the upcoming events.

Onward and upward,

Bhuva Shakti, Founder of Wallet Max and Bhuva’s Impact Global.

Let’s collaborate, send me your ideas! www.bhuvas-impact.global/bhuva

Hi {{first name | there}},

November flew by, but it brought me so much. In an era of digital-first workplaces, it’s easy to forget what business is about: Community.

From attending an investor brunch to my time on the Advisory Board for Columbia Venture Capital & Entrepreneurship Group (VECE), I’m so thankful for being able to learn and collaborate with family, friends, and colleagues. It’s given me the chance to give back to the next generation, increase inclusivity, and add to the field.

Working together is about more than creating a team. It’s also being more inclusive and equitable, and building a better future.

In this month’s newsletter, there’s a lot to share about AI and the environment. Still, I’ve tried a bit more to include the people and communities who make a better future possible.

Before we get into it, you’ll want to share this issue with your friend or coworker tracking ethical AI.

Building Intimate and Intentional Communities!

Upcoming Events

Funding Lab Workshop (Dec 17, 2025)

I’m very excited to be giving an open webinar at the Funding Breakthrough Lab on Wednesday, December 17th between 3-4:30 PM, EST.

Come join us for the Fundraising Fast-Track: Tech Founder’s Sprint for Investor-Ready Growth and learn how to map a 12-week plan that uses real investor benchmarks to measure business progress. This is a great chance to learn how you can refine your 10-slide deck for 2026 and walk away with a practical fundraising readiness toolkit and growth checklist. Register below and join us for this free virtual workshop 👇

Fundraising Fast-Track: Tech Founder’s Sprint for Investor-Ready Growth · Zoom · Luma

Fundraising Fast-Track: Tech Founder’s Sprint for Investor-Ready Growth Successful fundraising starts with structure. This workshop, from Bhuva Shakti, Tech…

luma.com/fblreadiness

Past Event Highlights

Dive into key learnings from the last month’s in-person and virtual events.

Hustle Fund’s Angel Squad Brunch

Nothing beats IRL discussions, especially about investing, global trends, and startup ecosystems. After years of being a long-term impact investor at Angel Squad, an in-person meeting finally aligned with my schedule. I had a wonderful time speaking with friends and colleagues at our New York City Brunch before Thanksgiving weekend.

Human connection is still at the heart of all we do, even in the digital space.

Real Human Connections to Solve Problems!

Startup Growth Playbook: Pitches and Pricing

In my most recent LinkedIn LIVEs, I focused on two key topics that many startups stumble over: Pitching and Product Pricing. Definitely watch the replays. But if you only have a few minutes, here’s a summary.

Key Takeaways:

✅ When it comes to pitching, leverage storytelling to communicate momentum and provide a clear narrative.

✅ Use customer and investor feedback to strengthen your fundraising strategy.

✅ Remember that pricing isn’t a number. Compare revenue models with customer behavior to find your fit.

✅ Take the time to design a few quick tests to discover what customers are willing to pay.

Watch Replays:

• Test 3 Revenue Models to Find Your Product Pricing → Dec 03 Replay

• Pitch Mastery for Founders Who Hate Pitching → Dec 10 Replay

In Case You Missed It – The BIG News Highlights

Risk is everywhere, but in understanding potential threats, we can mitigate them. Below is one BIG story that shows the connections between technology, economics, and climate.

Tracking AI’s effect on hardware

Artificial Intelligence’s influence is beyond productivity use cases. The rapid growth of data centers has turned memory chip production into a risk and an opportunity.

ChatGPT’s initial release in 2022 started an AI frenzy, and we are now beginning to see the consequences. Samsung and SK Hynix will need to double their manufacturing to meet OpenAI’s order request, highlighting the drastic increase in demand. Companies are racing to fill orders, with major providers already sold out for 2026.

At the same time, investors are asking more questions about the technology. The increased volatility mirrors past bubble behavior. Rising concerns around the negative environmental impacts of AI are a cause for caution.

If investors reduce commitments to AI projects, this will cause a problem for chip manufacturers that are racing to expand their production capacity.

For business leaders, innovators, and investors, the responsibility of thorough vetting and careful implementation matter more than ever. Our decisions today can affect not only the memory chip and AI industries, but the climate as well.

The AI frenzy is driving a memory chip supply crisis

An acute global shortage of memory chips is forcing artificial intelligence and consumer-electronics companies to fight for dwindling supplies, as prices soar for the unglamorous but essential components that allow devices to store data.

www.reuters.com/world/china/ai-frenzy-is-driving-new-global-supply-chain-crisis-2025-12-03

The BIG Blog Digest

Still time for some reading? Here are some articles of interest this month.

Mitigating AI risk economic shifts

Tomorrow’s leaders leveraging AI tech aren’t automating the fastest. Intentional AI use that emphasizes digital resilience over blind returns has the most to gain. An AI-Economy Self-Check can help you slow down and ensure each implementation matters. Read this full blog here.

What to do about data center surges

Legacy systems are not equipped to handle the energy needs of the modern AI data center. What does this new risk look like, and how do we work together to solve it? Joining inclusive communities, such as Wallet Max or Emerald Summit, can foster collaboration and drive solutions. Read this full blog here.

Leaders should set the pace. Not AI.

Developers built AI to end friction and lag times. But moving too fast is a risk, too. Leaders can and should implement AI on a value-first approach, with speed and volume as beneficial byproducts, not the main attraction. Committing to a 10-minute AI-Pace Audit can help to mitigate risk and grow your impact. Read this full blog here.

Giving Back to Empower the Next Generation!

What’s the Risk?

From rural India to wolfish Wall Street, risk is everywhere. Growing up in an era where educating women was seen as frivolous, a waste, a risk—I decided to bet on myself. And it paid off.

As an immigrant with a three decade career on Wall Street and Global Markets under my belt, I’ve seen just about everything. Now, I’m sharing it with you in my upcoming book, Everyday Risk Wisdom: Your Risk Management Guide to Thrive in a Complex World as an Overlooked Business Leader.

My goal is to accelerate access for corporate professionals and future leaders. That’s why I wrote my book—to share the experiences that informed my journey and support the next generation of business leaders.

Watch the book preview discussion for more on balancing profits, people, and planet.

Last month's reactions to the BIG question

Last month you were numerous to answer the BIG question:

What is the biggest barrier founders face when trying to grow both impact and profit?

The top answer: Access to Funding

One thing is clear: The funding gap is not closing fast enough.

I know from experience. After spending several years in the Investment Banking and Capital Markets ecosystem, I decided to focus on educating investors on high-impact investment options.

Then I graduated to taking direct action: Investing in promising solutions and founding Wallet Max, an inclusive global community of corporate executives and venture capitalists with a mission to expand fundraising access for high-growth startups in the technology, AI, fintech, and climate sustainability sectors.

Finding funding isn’t just about having the perfect pitch deck (although that helps). The key is discovering investors who align with your values—and nurturing those relationships. For many, this means knowing when to educate on your startup versus investing in relationship-building.

This Month’s BIG Question

Your responses always spark news ideas and help shape future topics. And, as always, all responses remain confidential. I will explore the most popular theme in next month’s newsletter.

Thank You!

Every end is a beginning, and I’m looking forward to 2026. I’m hoping to spend more time having small group conversions with decision makers on how we can shape a better future. I’m looking forward to discussing how existing leaders and current executives (private and public, startups and corporations) can collaborate with each other for common good, instead of working in silos.

After all, creating an inclusive space and bringing in professionals from all backgrounds matter more than ever if we want to design authentic, pragmatic solutions. When you see someone like you, you know you can be next.

The key to coming together for a common good is communication. And it’s worth investing in.

Let me know, what communities have lifted you up over the past year?

Thank you for being part of this community. I look forward to our next connection, whether through this newsletter or at the upcoming events.

Onward and upward,

Bhuva Shakti, Founder of Wallet Max and Bhuva’s Impact Global.

Let’s collaborate, send me your ideas! https://www.bhuvas-impact.global/contact

Hi {{first name | there}},

From mentoring founders through product, operations, and fundraising strategies to exploring AI risks for growth, November has been full of inspiration and progress. Watching the female founders shine throughout the Project 2.8 accelerator where I was also an instructor and mentor until their final pitch graduation at Times Square New York last week was a proud highlight.

This month’s newsletter brings you event recaps, key insights from my latest blogs, and stories shaping business and global trends today. I hope it sparks ideas and inspires action as we head into December with reflections for 2025 and planning forward towards 2026.

This Month’s Past Events

A Night of Inspiration, Innovation, and Equity at Columbia University

Last week, I had the incredible privilege of joining the final graduation night for Columbia University’s Project 2.8 accelerator program for women-led startups. As a Columbia Business School Alum Mentor and Startups Advisor, I have been honored to guide this cohort through their fundraising journey and teach an extensive workshop on “Startup Growth Playbook: How to Convert Early Users Into Paying Customers.”

Watching these exceptional female founders shape their startup stories, confidently sharing their fundraising ambitions to investors and industry leaders, was nothing short of inspiring. Their creativity, determination, and growth over the program truly make me proud. The future of entrepreneurship and innovation looks bright in their hands.

Securing Angel Investment: A Practical Guide to Raising Your First Round

Earlier this month, I had the pleasure of coaching small business entrepreneurs at the US Small Business Administration (SBA) and Small Business Development Center (SBDC) to explore alternative sources of funding while Government grants and bank loans are becoming inaccessible. I taught this hands-on workshop with clear strategies to prepare, fundraise, and close the round with angel investors specifically, and how they were different from venture capital and other private investors. It was gratifying that the entrepreneurs were able to progress through the roadmap that I had shared and a few were able to start meeting investors in a short timeframe.

Some of the key takeaways from my workshop included: 

✅ Beyond money, angels often provide industry expertise and business relationships.

✅ A reasonable valuation and use-of-funds builds trust faster than inflated financials.

✅ Use simple language when you explain your unique proposition and ROI for angels.

✅ Post-investment communication turns one-time investors into long-term champions.

Startup Growth Playbook – Turn Your “Why” Into Investor Confidence

In my latest LinkedIn LIVE session, I focused on something you won’t find on a spreadsheet: conviction. Here are a few key lessons I shared.

Key Takeaways

1. Your “Why” is your strongest evidence of inevitability. 

Metrics make you sound capable, but conviction makes you sound unavoidable. Investors fund founders whose belief is so clear that the solution feels inevitable, not optional.

2. Anchor emotion in evidence to build trust. 

A compelling origin story draws people in, but pairing it with real market shifts (regulation, behavior, technology…) transforms your belief into proof. That is where investors feel both safety and opportunity.

3. A powerful Why is a repeatable story.

If an investor, teammate, or customer can retell your Why in a single breath, you have won. Simple, human language creates a narrative that travels, and becomes the spine of your entire pitch. 

4. Purpose must translate into performance.

Purpose is not separate from profitability. Show how your mission reduces churn, improves margins, accelerates adoption, or strengthens trust. When purpose becomes measurable, it becomes investable.

In Case You Missed It – The BIG News Highlights

Here’s what I have been reading lately: thoughtful pieces that shed light on where business, global trends, and leadership are headed next.

Generative AI Implementation Requires Strategic Balance of Innovation and Data Security

Organizations eager to tap into generative AI’s potential are getting a clear reminder: innovation and data security must go hand-in-hand. According to recent research, firms need to build guardrails around sensitive data, output reliability, human oversight and transparency. Otherwise, AI could become more of a burden than a breakthrough.

riskandinsurance.com/generative-ai-implementation-requires-strategic-balance-of-innovation-and-data-security

Weekly Global Economic Update: Deloitte Insights

This week’s global economic snapshot highlights a softening in China’s investment and consumption, a strengthening U.S. dollar driven by the profit gap created by different countries’ interest rates, and growing caution around AI-driven valuations. The takeaway: despite headline strength, underlying risks are mounting and strategic agility remains essential.

www.deloitte.com/us/en/insights/topics/economy/global-economic-outlook/weekly-update.html

Extreme Heat and Rainfall: Biggest Climate Risks for Pension Funds

A new study shows one of the largest exposures for listed equity portfolios of global pension funds: chronic and physical climate risks like extreme heart or heavy rainfall. In other words, while transition risks get lots of attention, the more immediate danger might be straightforward weather and climate events that are already playing out.

www.ipe.com/news/msci-extreme-heat-and-rainfall-biggest-climate-risks-for-pension-funds/10133618.article

The BIG Blog Digest

Still time for some reading? Here are the articles that will interest you for this month.

The risk of misaligned AI & how to measure what matters?

Most AI systems optimize the wrong things. Here’s a practical framework to track impact, not just output, and make your AI work for your mission.

www.bhuvas-impact.global/post/the-risk-of-misaligned-ai-how-to-measure-what-matters

The Risk of Perfect Design and Why Friction Still Matters

Too much automation dulls human attention. See how designing friction on purpose keeps systems ethical. Decisions intentional, and processes aligned with your goals.

www.bhuvas-impact.global/post/the-risk-of-perfect-design-and-why-friction-still-matters

The Risk of Mistaking Data for Understanding

Dashboards tell you the numbers, but not the story. Learn how pairing data with context keeps your insights human, actionable, and strategic.

www.bhuvas-impact.global/post/the-risk-of-mistaking-data-for-understanding

Last month's reactions to the BIG question

Last month you were numerous to answer the BIG question:

What is the biggest skill founders need to master in 2026 to stay ahead?

The most-voted answer was “Impact-driven strategy”, and for good reason.

In a business world increasingly defined by purpose, the ability to embed social and environmental impact into your growth strategy is not just nice-to-have: it is a core competitive advantage. Leading firms do not treat impact as a side project; they integrate purpose into their very business model. McKinsey calls this “bridging the purpose gap,” emphasizing that real impact comes when purpose is embedded in day-to-day operations, not just in Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives.

Here’s what makes this skill so vital for business leaders and startup founders in 2026, and why mastering it will set you apart:

1. It drives long-term value. Berkeley research shows that companies with deeply embedded purpose tend to outperform peers over time because they align societal impact with financial results.

2. It unlocks new opportunities. McKinsey finds that sustainable strategies reduce risk and open new revenue streams. Not just “good ethics,” but smart business.

3. It builds trust. Forbes reports that purpose-driven companies enjoy stronger loyalty from both customers and employees, giving them a real competitive edge.

4. It sharpens focus. McKinsey notes that purpose only works when tied to a company’s unique strengths, in other words, your core “superpower.”

It is sustainable by design. Impact becomes measurable and scalable when tied to your value creation model, not kept separate from it (I touched upon that topic in the Startup Growth Playbook session “Turn Your ‘Why’ Into Investor Confidence”).

Why this matters for 2026:

Investors, customers, and talent are increasingly choosing companies that pair strong business fundamentals with meaningful purpose. Leaders who can turn impact into a clear, actionable strategy will be far better positioned to raise capital, attract great people, and stay resilient through change.

If you are looking to refine your impact-driven strategy or to ensure your business is structured for purposeful, sustainable growth, this is precisely where my advisory work is focused. I support leaders in aligning strategy, purpose, and execution so they can scale with clarity and credibility. If you would like to explore what this could look like for your organization, let’s connect.

This Month’s BIG Question

Your responses always spark news ideas and help shape future topics. And, as always, all responses remain confidential. I will explore the most popular theme in next month’s newsletter.

Thank you for being part of this community. I look forward to our next connection, whether through this newsletter or at the upcoming events.

Onward and upward,

Bhuva Shakti, Founder of Wallet Max and Bhuva’s Impact Global.

Let’s collaborate, send me your ideas! https://www.bhuvas-impact.global/contact

Hi {first name},

It is hard to believe we are already in October. Between the incredible energy from our latest AMA sessions and the meaningful conversations across our community, I’m feeling deeply inspired by the momentum we’re building together.

In this newsletter, I will share curated industry updates, highlights from recent events, and an invitation to keep the conversation going, including this month’s BIG Question, which I cannot wait to hear your thoughts on.

As always, thank you for reading and for being a part of this growing, curious, and action-oriented community.

The BIG Business Blueprint™: Highlights of October’s Startup Growth Playbook Sessions

October kicked off with two energizing recorded sessions focused on helping startup founders refine their concept and business strategies.

We covered everything from improving your conversion funnel to accessing angel investors and venture capital with confidence and authenticity. The insights were practical, the takeaways actionable, and the sense of shared ambition contagious.

Oct 15: Unlocking Angel & Venture Capital for Founders

​​Most small business owners know about loans and grants. But far fewer know how to raise money from angel investors and venture capital.

​In this interactive session, I outlined:

​✅ The difference between loans/grants vs. angel & VC funding

​✅ What investors prioritize when evaluating businesses

​✅ How to craft a compelling business pitch

​✅ A readiness checklist before meeting investors

Oct 1: How to Convert Early Users Into Paying Customers

We explored practical tactics to help you convert early users into paying customers, even without a sales team or full product in place.

​In this session we discussed:

​✅ Why early users aren’t converting—and what to do about it

​✅ How to design a simple, founder-led conversion journey

​✅ Trust-building strategies that work without ads or funnels

​✅ Real-world examples from seed-stage tech startups

If you missed this month’s live sessions, you can still watch the latest recorded session and catch all the key insights.

In Case You Missed It – The BIG News Highlights

Here is a selection of industry stories worth your attention this month, all shaping the conversations that matter most for business and innovation.

Navigating Market Shifts: Strategies for Investors

As market dynamics evolve, investors must adapt. The focus is shifting from speculative narratives to solid structures. Key strategies include maintaining liquidity, reassessing holdings, and preparing for market dislocations. This approach emphasizes discipline over prediction to thrive in the next market phase.

www.barchart.com/story/news/35397527/when-the-market-structure-breaks-how-to-survive-the-next-phase

AI’s Impact on Consumer Shopping Behavior

Artificial Intelligence is transforming the shopping experience offering personalized recommendations and streamlining purchasing decisions. Retailers like Walmart are integrating AI tools to enhance customer interactions. As AI becomes more prevalent, businesses must adapt to maintain consumer trust and visibility.

www.foodbusinessnews.net/articles/29154-ai-set-to-reshape-the-consumer-shopping-experience

Family Offices Adopting Startup Mindsets

Family offices are increasingly applying startup principles to build strong brands. By focusing on purpose, agility, and clear narratives, they can attract better opportunities and navigate market fluctuations effectively. This mindset shift positions them for long-term success.

www.forbes.com/sites/francoisbotha/2025/10/12/the-startup-mindset-for-family-offices-build-your-brand-like-a-founder

Last month's reactions to the BIG question

Last month you were numerous to answer the BIG question:

Where do you see the biggest opportunity for fintech and AI to drive a positive impact?

Most of the respondents believe one of the biggest opportunities for fintech and AI lies in helping SMEs and startups access transition finance, i.e. the capital they need to move toward more sustainable business models — and I could not agree more.

Right now, smaller companies are under high pressure to decarbonize*, yet most can’t afford the tools or financing to do it. In fact, SMEs account for over 50% of global emissions, but fewer than 10% track their carbon footprint. And the global financing gap for formal MSMEs in emerging markets is estimated at around USD 5.7 trillion, with the gap even higher if informal businesses are included.

This is where fintech and AI can make a real difference; by automating carbon accounting, using AI-driven credit scoring based on real data, and linking sustainability metrics directly to financing.

We are always seeing it happen: Biz2Credit and Magnati are rolling out $1 billion in AI-powered SME loans. When fintech meets sustainability, small businesses can finally lead (not lag) the green transition.

*Despite the priority shift on decarbonization at a federal level, the public continues to advocate for companies to take sustainability seriously and take climate-focused actions.

This Month’s BIG Question

Your responses always spark news ideas and help shape future topics. And, as always, all responses remain confidential. I will explore the most popular theme in next month’s newsletter.

Remember: There’s no planet B, Let’s make A-level action plans together. What can I help you with? Email me! contact@bhuva.biz

Reflections from New York Climate Week

At the end of last month, I had the opportunity to speak at a panel on “Climate and Social Impact Investments: A Personal Finance Dialogue” during New York Climate Week. It was a privilege to join Manju Seal and other leaders shaping the conversation around how capital can drive real, lasting impact.

Drawing from my experiences on Wall Street and at Wallet Max™, I shared why founder-investor fit matters just as much as product-market fit when it comes to building purposeful, resilient growth. We engaged in an action-focused discussion on aligning personal investments with climate and social impact goals. The session offered practical guidance on integrating sustainability into personal finance — from structuring portfolios and identifying credible advisors to managing long-term risk and return.

The discussion was a powerful reminder that impact investing is ultimately about people; the founders we back, the investors we collaborate with, and the communities we aim to strengthen.

Take the Next Step in Your Career. Explore the Executive Edge Expeditor™ Mastering Negotiations Course

Leadership isn’t about having the right title; it’s about making decisions that matter. The Executive Edge Expeditor™ offers a suite of lessons focused on critical leadership skills necessary for effective executive performance in today’s dynamic business environment.

Each lesson is crafted to stand alone:

• allowing you to engage with the material in any order,

• depending on your immediate needs and interests.

Reflecting on my three decades in corporate America and entrepreneurial leadership, I’ve designed this program to focus on what actually works: improving negotiation skills, thinking strategically, and running teams and projects more effectively with practical scripts, and templates to handle several business and individual negotiation scenarios. Just frameworks you can use.

It’s a chance to pause, reflect, and approach your next level of leadership with intention.

The BIG Blog Digest

Still time for some reading? Here are the articles that will interest you for this month.

Feeding the Future with Climate-Smart Farming

Climate change is hitting our plates — and our wallets. From soaring veggie prices to struggling farmers, the impacts are real. But climate-smart agriculture offers hope: drought-resistant seeds, regenerative soil practices, and local food systems are boosting yields and creating resilient communities.

www.bhuvas-impact.global/post/feeding-the-future-with-climate-smart-farming

Bold, Honest, Unapologetic: Leading Through Chaos

After 3 decades at the world’s top institutions, one lesson stands out: authenticity matters, especially under pressure. During a massive bank bankruptcy, staying unapologetically yourself (and backing it with data) helped navigate losses, build lasting trust, and create win-win solutions. This case study shows that challenging the status quo isn’t just brave; it’s smart business.

www.bhuvas-impact.global/post/why-does-authenticity-matter-for-startup-leaders-aspiring-to-grow-global-profits

How do I get funding for an AI business?

AI funding is more accessible than ever, but only if you truly understand your startup and what it brings to the table. Take the time to clarify your mission, your market, and what makes your solution unique. Once you have that, the right funding (whether bootstrapping, grants, accelerators, or venture capital) will follow. Thoughtful preparation today paves the way for meaningful growth tomorrow.

www.bhuvas-impact.global/post/how-do-i-get-funding-for-an-ai-business

Where Ideas and People Grow Together

Behind every great business is a network that believes in it. Our community brings together founders, executives, and investors who know that real growth happens through connection, shared learning, and honest conversations.

Join us to exchange insights, access curated events and resources, and grow alongside others who are building with purpose.

The Planet Positive Hub™ membership starts at $15 per month for students, with your first month free to explore.

Join the community →

Thank you for being part of this community. I look forward to our next connection, whether through this newsletter or at the upcoming events.

Onward and upward,

Bhuva Shakti, Founder of Wallet Max and Bhuva’s Impact Global.

Let’s collaborate, send me your ideas! https://www.bhuvas-impact.global/contact

Hi {{first_name}},

I am still carrying the energy from Emerald Summit kicking off New York Climate Week on September 19 (Friday). 

The exchange of ideas, the quality of the conversations, and the forward-looking perspectives along with a huge dose of optimism shared continue to resonate with me. 

It was a highlight to present an early preview of my upcoming book, which is scheduled for release in 2026. The feedback and dialogue around it reinforced just how important it is that we keep engaging deeply with the shifts taking place across our industries, and how we can fight climate risk together as a community.

In this edition of my newsletter, I will highlight several pieces of curated industry news that I believe are worth your attention, as well as share my reflections on last month’s BIG question, a theme that continues to spark meaningful discussion.

As ever, I am grateful for your readership and the thoughtful exchanges that follow. It is a privilege to be in conversation with peers and leaders who are committed to navigating change with clarity and purpose.

Looking back at the Summit: Another memorable edition with leaders like you!

Thank YOU from Emerald Summit 2025! 

Thanks a lot for your support throughout the Emerald Summit along with Startup Awards and Executive Dinner. It was our biggest annual event, and we had an overwhelmingly positive, hopeful, and optimistic response from our entire community coming together as we started the New York Climate Week! This was much needed in today's uncertainties.

Give Your Leadership a Boost. Enroll in the Executive Edge Expeditor™

You’ve worked hard to get here. Now it’s time to sharpen the skills that set exceptional leaders apart.

I created the Executive Edge Expeditor™ masterclass for ambitious executives, founders, and consultants who want to lead with more impact, negotiate with confidence, and move faster toward their goals. My aim is to give you actionable tools and frameworks so every lesson translates into real results in your work and leadership. 

What you’ll get:

• Self-paced, actionable lessons designed for busy leaders

• Practical frameworks you can apply immediately

• A powerful first module: Mastering Negotiations with the Ask-Anchor-Align method

• A certificate of completion to showcase your growth

Why now?

Enroll in the next 24 hours to secure the launch price of $249 (regularly $899). You’ll have 120 days to complete the program at your own pace.

Ready to sharpen your edge? 🚀

In Case You Missed It – The BIG News Highlights

I've carefully curated the most relevant industry news for you, whether you're strategizing for the future, preparing for important investor meetings, or collaboratively building something great with your team.

CEO Insights: Harnessing the full potential of a transformation

CEOs play a unique role in setting the tone, tempo, and scope of a transformation.

www.mckinsey.com/locations/mckinsey-client-capabilities-network/our-work/strategic-and-change-communications/the-communications-exchange/ceo-insights-harnessing-the-full-potential-of-a-transformation

Founder Insights with Carta’s CEO | Morgan Stanley

Founders should consider their evolving role, tender offers for liquidity and key considerations in the path to IPO, according to Carta CEO Henry Ward.

www.morganstanley.com/insights/articles/ipo-founder-insights-carta-henry-ward

Transforming your business with AI

Five questions for every CEO.

www.bain.com/insights/transform-business-with-ai-five-questions-for-every-ceo

A sneak peek about my book: August’s LinkedIn Live

I’ve always wanted to give back and support the next generation of leaders, helping them navigate their careers and pursue their dreams with a little less trial and error. Over the years, I had to figure out a lot on my own, but you don’t have to.

Of course, everyone builds their own path, learns through experience, and grows along the way. But my hope with this book is to provide guidance, share lessons, and inspire you as you create your own legacy.

I had a wonderful conversation with Tia Green- Granger, and the live interview is now available on LinkedIn and my YouTube. Check it out to hear more about what inspired me to write this book and what readers can expect.

What struck me most in this conversation with Tia was how many of us move through our careers feeling like the first, the only, or the overlooked. I know that experience well, and it’s one of the biggest reasons I wrote Everyday Risk Wisdom.

This book isn’t about being fearless. It’s about moving forward with intention, taking smart risks, and building a blueprint to thrive in complex times without losing yourself. If you’ve ever wished for a guide to help you navigate challenges with more clarity and confidence, this book is for you.

👉 You can unlock exclusive early access and be among the first to receive bonus toolkits and sneak peeks of the book. My hope is that, in its pages, you’ll feel both seen and supported as you shape your own path forward.

Last month's reactions to the BIG question

Last week you were numerous to answer the BIG question: “What’s your biggest challenge to enforce a climate-first mentality in your company?”

Let’s address the topic the majority of you selected as their biggest challenge.

Measuring Climate Impact

Many of you have said the toughest part of building a climate-first company is knowing how to measure and track impact. It’s a real challenge, and you’re not alone. Here are some practical ways to get started:

• Use clear frameworks: The GHG Protocol is the go-to for measuring emissions (Scopes 1, 2, and 3). It gives you a solid, trusted baseline.

• Lean on smart tools: Platforms like Climatiq, Greenly, and Watershed help automate data collection and make reporting far less painful.

• Turn numbers into action: Don’t stop at measurement. Look for insights on where you can cut emissions and make real progress.

• Show your impact: For investors, frameworks like the GenZero–BCG Climate Impact Framework help clarify whether your impact is direct, indirect, or transformational.

Measuring climate impact isn’t simple, but it’s becoming easier and more valuable. Start with a clear framework, pick tools that fit your business, and focus on progress you can act on.

If this is an area you’d like more support with, I work with leaders and teams on these challenges and many more. Feel free to reach out if you’d like to explore how I can help.

This Month’s BIG Question

I will be reviewing your responses next month and develop on the most popular answer, sharing insights while keeping all responses completely confidential.

Remember: There’s no planet B, Let’s make A-level action plans together. What can I help you with? Email me! contact@bhuva.biz

My SXSW 2025 Talk – Transforming business, communities, and the planet!

In my recent talk on corporate sustainability during the 2025 edition of SXSW, I shared how businesses can do well by doing good.

I talked about why ESG matters and how focusing on women’s financial inclusion and ethical practices can create real impact for people and the planet. I shared practical ideas that have helped me rethink risk, culture, and growth. It was an inspiring conversation, and I hope it sparks action.

Watch the full talk on YouTube, I’d love for you to see it!

The BIG Blog Digest

Still time for some reading? Here are the articles that will interest you for this month.

From Gardens to Salmon: How Communities Grow Resilience Together | Bhuva's Impact Global

Discover how local gardens, shared skills, and community projects build resilience. Join the Emerald Summit to scale grassroots solutions into impact.

www.bhuvas-impact.global/post/risk-is-the-beginning-of-community-strength

Greener infrastructure for healthier communities and thriving economies | Bhuva's Impact Global

Inequality, urban design, and consumption might feel like big policy issues. But the reality is that they’re the forces shaping how we live, where we live, and whether the next […]

www.bhuvas-impact.global/post/greener-infrastructure-for-healthier-communities-and-thriving-economies

How Today’s Financial Choices Shape Tomorrow’s Paychecks | Bhuva's Impact Global

Discover how daily money, career, and lifestyle decisions impact your future income, savings, and financial freedom. Today’s choices build tomorrow’s paycheck.

www.bhuvas-impact.global/post/how-todays-choices-shape-tomorrows-paychecks

Thank you for being part of this community. I look forward to our next connection, whether through this newsletter or at the upcoming events.

Onward and upward,

Bhuva Shakti, Founder of Wallet Max and Bhuva’s Impact Global.

Let’s collaborate, send me your ideas! https://www.bhuvas-impact.global/contact

Hi {{first_name}},

This summer, the Bhuva’s Impact Global (BIG) newsletter is evolving — with a new name, a refreshed design, and plenty of exciting updates!

After my TEDx Talk in 2024, I thought I’d shared it all. But people wanted more — they wanted to understand, and were looking for advice on how to reinvent. I took the time to reflect on what it has meant to navigate Wall Street and Silicon Valley as an outsider and a woman of color, and many times as the first, the only, and the first and the only for decades, in fields where leadership and opportunity aren’t evenly distributed, even today.

Yes, we’ve made huge progress in financial inclusion and responsible technology transformation. But lately, that progress is at risk. Too many talented, marginalized people are still shut out from the chance to bring their ideas to life, take risks, and chase their ambitions. This is even harder for overlooked leaders prioritizing people and planet wellness, for the long-term resilience of their business growth.

Now, when I started out, I fought hard to be heard and respected. But I’m not the type to say “If I could do it the hard way, so can you.” 

Instead, I take actions to change the system and to make it easier for those coming next.

That’s why I wrote a book reflecting on my decades of lived experiences, across countries and cultures, and how change makers, dedicated disruptors, and bold risk-takers — like you — can harness their uniqueness to shape ideas that are powerful and meaningful. This book represents my legacy, a well of information I would have loved to receive in my debut.

📖 My book is releasing in March 2026 in honor of Women’s month and leading into the Earth month in April 2026, and I can’t wait to share it with you!

More good news…

On September 19th, during Climate Week in NYC, Wallet Max and Fintech Is Femme are co-hosting The Emerald Summit – the greenest event of the year.

Think: brilliant minds, bold ideas, and real climate action. If you’re a founder, you can enter your startup to pitch at our awards competition, and our mission is to fund sustainable and profitable tech. 

Climate fintech isn’t the future. It's now. 

Save your seat at the Summit →

The BIG Insights Roundup

Alongside writing my book and preparing various events, awards, and summits, I’ve joined inspiring businesses to discuss the vital role women play in shaping the age of AI and driving purposeful finance.

LinkedIn Live with ‘Women Of Influence’ How Women Can Lead in the Age of AI?

AI is moving fast — too fast for us to sit on the sidelines.

I’ve spent my career navigating power structures in investment banking, venture capital, AI governance, and responsible tech startups.

And one thing is clear:

That’s why I’m rooting for "Power, Data, and Influence: How Women Can Lead in the Age of AI".

TEDx Talk: Rethinking Failures and Challenging Traditions: My Lessons as an Outsider (and a Woman of Color) on Wall Street

From being one of the first women in my community to study computer science in India, to navigating a muti-decade career on Wall Street, I’ve learned that setbacks aren’t the opposite of success — they’re part of it. In my TEDx talk, I share the risks I took, the barriers I faced as a woman of color, and the lessons I’m now passing on to the next generation.

Inside the Room: Fundraising, Finance, Tech Strategies Shaping Climate Week

Before the Emerald Summit kicks off on Sept 19 during NYC Climate Week 2025, I went LIVE to answer your questions.

Catch the replay for your press pass to the story before it broke:

 ✅ Where climate risk meets capital
 ✅ The tech shaping the next decade
 ✅ The financing models that could change who gets funded—and who gets left behind

If you’re in media, finance, tech, or policy, this is the conversation that set the stage before the headlines.

Meet me at the Emerald Summit in September in New York City!

I love when communities come together to create something truly inspiring. When established voices meet emerging leaders, ideas fuse, and experiences are shared. When challenges are solved collectively and successes celebrated. Together, we can build a better planet and a better society.

The Big Apple is calling our BIG community. ‘Wallet Max’ and myself are excited to see you at the Emerald Summit 2025 this September on the 19th!

What’s in it for you?

🌟 Network with inspiring speakers, impact investors, startup founders, policymakers and corporate executives from various industries.

🌱 Discover bold, sustainable tech solutions driving our planet forward.

🌳 Pitch your startup innovation, and compete to win one of multiple awards!

🫶 Connect with the community all-day long, at breakfast and lunch — and dinner for VIP guests!

This Month’s BIG Question

I will be reviewing your responses next month and focus on the most popular challenge, sharing insights while keeping all responses completely confidential.

Remember: There’s no planet B, Let’s make A-level action plans together. What can I help you with? Email me! contact@bhuva.biz

The BIG Blog Digest

Still time for some reading? Here are the articles that will interest you for this month.

Money talks — but what’s it saying?

Global climate finance hit $1.3T—but we need $8.4T annually to meet our goals. The gap affects real lives. At the Emerald Climate Fintech Summit, we’ll explore how to move capital with purpose—so people, not just profits, stay at the center.

www.bhuvas-impact.global/post/financing-the-future-why-climate-capital-must-center-people

The EU's got it right. Nature isn’t a luxury — it’s our life support.

The EU Nature Restoration Law isn’t just environmental policy—it’s a blueprint for aligning public funds and private capital with long-term resilience. Explore how it sets a precedent for financing nature-based solutions at scale.

www.bhuvas-impact.global/post/the-eu-nature-act-as-a-roadmap-for-public-funds-and-private-finance

The “One Big Beautiful Bill” with an ugly cost.

The One Big Beautiful Bill promises savings—but at what cost? Explore how proposed cuts to clean energy, air quality, and climate resilience could endanger public health, economic stability, and environmental justice.

www.bhuvas-impact.global/post/the-real-cost-of-the-beautiful-bill

Thank you for being part of this community. I look forward to our next connection, whether through this newsletter or at the Emerald Summit September 19 at New York City.

Onward and upward,

Bhuva Shakti, Founder of Wallet Max and Bhuva’s Impact Global.

Let’s collaborate, send me your ideas! https://www.bhuvas-impact.global/contact

Hey there! 👋

Hope you had a great start to the New Year! Last month, we highlighted traceability’s pivotal role in decarbonization, NatureFinance’s biodiversity tool, and carbmee’s €20M funding for AI-driven carbon management solutions. This week, we’re exploring venture capital funding trends, and how the future of finance meets climate action due to the expanding growth in Climate Fintech sector, and the big global economic blind spot.

At The BIG Risk Navigator, my mission is to deliver expert insights on sustainability, climate finance, and the transformative potential of technology for risk management.

Let’s get started!

• Climate Fintech is no longer an emerging sector: Startup funding has increased for Series A/B+ and is expected to grow in 2025, with Europe leading the way.

• Net-Zero Transition, the future of finance meets climate action: 2023 saw record-breaking momentum in sustainable finance, with $670B+ in green bonds issued globally.

• Nature-Dependent Economies, why Climate Fintech must lead the charge: More than half of global GDP, around $44 trillion, is dependent on nature and its services and the World Economic Forum calls this “a global economic blind spot”.

• Case Study: 3 common reasons why tech startups struggle when expanding into new markets - cultural misalignment, regulatory hurdles, and local competition.

Before getting deep into the news, take a look at how you can engage more with the broader community of climate, fintech, and risk enthusiasts focused on inclusion.

🌏 Join events that I host, connecting sustainable startups with impact investors.

📰 Share this newsletter with a friend and stand out in executive meetings.

🖇️ Connect with me on LinkedIn for insights on managing risk, people, and planet.

🤝 Here’s more about my personal and professional journey: Watch my TEDx Talk.

🎯 Climate Fintech is no longer an emerging sector

✅ Highlights

• Climate Fintech: prioritizes investments in technologies that reduce financial risks while restoring planet and people health.

• Funding Trends: with 31% Series B+ and 26% Series A global funding, climate fintech startups surpassed $2.3B from 2023.

• Startup Categories: carbon markets, energy management, and carbon accounting lead the sector (using AI and Blockchain).

Climate Fintech is no longer an emerging sector. Startup funding has increased for Series A/B+ and is expected to grow in 2025, with Europe leading the way as per the CommerzVentures 2024 Climate Fintech report.

🎯 Net-Zero Transition, the future of finance meets climate action

✅ Highlights

• Net-Zero: is an ideal state, where the amount of greenhouse gases released into atmosphere equals the amount removed.

• Successful Transition: requires balancing energy reliability, affordability, emissions removal, and industrial competitiveness.

• Climate Fintech: can accelerate net-zero using tech for ESG reporting, transparent carbon markets, and green investments.

2023 saw record-breaking momentum in sustainable finance, with $670B+ in green bonds issued globally. Yet, as highlighted in McKinsey & Company's latest report, we face a $3.5T to $9.2T annual investment gap to achieve net-zero goals by 2050. The challenge isn’t just financial - it’s multidimensional. A successful net-zero transition requires balancing four interdependent objectives:

• Cutting emissions,

• Ensuring affordability,

• Maintaining energy reliability, and

• Safeguarding industrial competitiveness.

This is where Climate Fintech steps in. By leveraging AI, blockchain, and digital innovations, we can scale solutions that align these objectives, such as:

• Real-time ESG impact tracking,

• Transparent carbon markets, and

• Democratized access to green investments.

The net-zero transition is more than a necessity - it’s an unparalleled opportunity to innovate and collaborate.

🎯 Nature-Dependent Economies, why Climate Fintech must lead the charge

✅ Highlights 

• Global Economic Blind Spot: as per the World Economic Forum, more than half of global GDP is dependent on natural resources.

• Climate Fintech: bridges this gap at the intersection of digital innovation, nature-positive solutions, and financial incentives.

• 395 Million Jobs: can be created by 2030 with 15 transitions in 3 socio-economic systems, delivering $10 Trillion business growth.

More than half of global GDP - around $44 trillion - is dependent on nature and its services. Yet, as highlighted in the CDP Europe Report - financial institutions have been slow to address the growing risks associated with nature loss. The World Economic Forum’s New Nature Economy Report calls this oversight a “systemic risk” to both economies and businesses - a global economic blind spot.

The good news? Climate Fintech is uniquely positioned to bridge this gap by driving innovations that align nature-positive solutions with financial incentives:

• Digital platforms for biodiversity-linked loans and green bonds,

• AI-powered tools to quantify and mitigate ecosystem risks, and

• Transparent frameworks for tracking and reporting on nature-related investments.

For example, the World Economic Forum estimates that transitioning to nature-positive pathways could unlock $10.1 trillion in annual business opportunities and create 395 million jobs by 2030. This isn’t just about protecting the planet - it’s about safeguarding the future of global economies. The question isn’t whether we can afford to invest in nature, but whether we can afford not to.

🎯 3 common reasons why tech startups struggle when expanding into new markets

✅ Highlights

• Cultural misalignment

• Regulatory hurdles

• Local competition

A few years ago, I was leading a team for a top investment bank that had projects on four continents. We had one goal: How to reimagine our products and services so the local consumers would actually use it?

We were so focused on launching the business line, that we didn’t research the culture. The people. But we turned around and successfully launched the product that allowed the local consumer to have access to their bank accounts 24x7.

Read my case study.

How do you secure Series A funding? Insights from a fundraising professional

Series A funding is a critical intermediary step in launching a company. But how do you secure Series A funding, anyway?

www.bhuvas-impact.global/post/how-do-you-secure-series-a-funding

How to scale a SaaS business: A COO's perspective

Don’t scale for the sake of scaling. If and when you do scale, make sure you do it for the right reasons. Read this post for scaling tips.

www.bhuvas-impact.global/post/how-to-scale-a-saas-business

🌏 Join events that I host, connecting sustainable startups with impact investors.

📰 Share this newsletter with a friend and stand out in executive meetings.

🖇️ Connect with me on LinkedIn for insights on managing risk, people, and planet.

🤝 Here’s more about my personal and professional journey: Watch my TEDx Talk.

Hey there! 👋

Last week, we highlighted Spain’s €3.34B impact investment growth, IBM’s AI sustainability insights in India, and the $789B green finance opportunity for SMEs. This week, we’re exploring traceability’s pivotal role in decarbonization, NatureFinance’s biodiversity tool, and carbmee’s €20M funding for AI-driven carbon management solutions.

At the BIG Risk Navigator, our mission is to deliver expert insights on sustainability, climate finance, and the transformative potential of technology for risk management.

Let’s get started!

• Morgan Stanley survey unveils robust growth prospects in sustainable investing: Sustainable investing offerings emerging as a key differentiator for the large majority of investors.

• Zurich Resilience Solutions introduces Climate Spotlight to empower sustainable planning: The new tool, Climate Spotlight, is tailored to offer flexible, data-driven insights into climate risks.

• Carbon management software provider carbmee Raises €20 Million: carbmee’s AI-powered solutions help organizations accurately manage, reduce and report their carbon output.

• Speeki launches new carbon data collection and reporting solution:A new AI-powered tool aimed at enabling companies to automate Scope 1, 2 and 3 greenhouse gas emissions data collection and streamline carbon management.

• Data center developer Equinix issues $1.2 billion of green bonds: The bonds are aimed at financing green projects at the company including renewable energy and decarbonization solutions.

Before getting deep into the news, take a look at how you can engage more in my community.

🌏 Join my community connecting climate fintech startups with investors.

📰 Share this newsletter with a friend and start to stand out in the executive meetings.

🖇️ Connect with me on LinkedIn for daily insights on expanding into the US market.

🤝 Need a board director? Reach out to me today.

🎯 Traceability data: The key to unlocking green finance and decarbonization

The global race to decarbonize is accelerating, driven by the urgent need to mitigate climate change. As the world grapples with increasingly severe climate impacts, the focus is shifting towards green finance and sustainable investments. The upcoming UN climate summit, COP29, is poised to play a pivotal role in mobilizing trillions of dollars to fund climate action in developing countries. However, the success of these initiatives hinges on robust transparency and accountability, which can be achieved through advanced traceability data.

Why it matters for climate fintech: The intersection of climate change and finance has given rise to a burgeoning climate fintech sector. Traceability data offers a powerful tool for climate fintech companies to assess environmental risks, identify sustainable investment opportunities, and develop innovative financial products. By providing granular insights into supply chain emissions and social impacts, traceability data can help financial institutions make informed decisions and align their portfolios with ESG principles. Moreover, as regulatory scrutiny intensifies, traceability data can help firms comply with evolving sustainability reporting standards and disclosure requirements.

Key implications for startups: The growing demand for traceability solutions presents a significant opportunity for climate fintech startups. By developing innovative technologies to capture, analyze, and verify supply chain data, startups can position themselves as essential partners in the global effort to decarbonize. Key implications for startups include:

• New funding opportunities: Increased investor interest in sustainable finance and climate tech can lead to new funding avenues for startups.

• Potential partnerships: Collaborations with established financial institutions, corporations, and governments can accelerate growth and market penetration.

• Competitive advantage: Early adoption of advanced traceability technologies can provide a competitive edge and differentiate startups from rivals.

• Regulatory compliance: Understanding and addressing evolving regulatory requirements can help startups navigate the complex landscape of sustainability reporting.

🎯 NatureFinance launches NatureAlign: A new tool for green finance

NatureFinance, a leading non-profit organization focused on green finance, has unveiled a groundbreaking tool called NatureAlign. Designed to empower financial institutions, from asset managers to banks, NatureAlign offers a comprehensive assessment of their portfolio's alignment with nature-positive outcomes. This innovative tool leverages the Biodiversity Plan (formerly known as the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework) to provide a clear roadmap for financial institutions to transition towards a more sustainable future.

Why it matters for climate fintech: The launch of NatureAlign is a significant milestone for the climate fintech industry. As global attention intensifies on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors, financial institutions are under increasing pressure to demonstrate their commitment to sustainability. NatureAlign provides a much-needed solution by offering a robust framework to measure and manage nature-related risks and opportunities. By aligning with the Biodiversity Plan, financial institutions can proactively contribute to biodiversity conservation and restoration, while also mitigating potential financial risks associated with environmental degradation.

Key implications for startups: The emergence of NatureAlign presents both challenges and opportunities for climate fintech startups. On the one hand, the tool's comprehensive assessment capabilities could potentially disrupt traditional ESG analysis methods, creating a more competitive landscape. However, startups that can integrate NatureAlign's insights into their products and services can gain a significant competitive advantage. This could lead to new funding opportunities and partnerships with financial institutions seeking to enhance their sustainability profiles.

Moreover, NatureAlign's focus on biodiversity and water scarcity opens up new avenues for innovation. Startups specializing in biodiversity data analytics, water risk assessment, and nature-based solutions could find valuable opportunities to develop innovative products and services. By leveraging NatureAlign's data and insights, these startups can help financial institutions make more informed decisions and drive positive environmental impact.

🎯 Auquan raises $4.5M to revolutionize fintech with AI-driven deep work automation

Auquan, an AI-powered financial technology company, has recently secured an additional $4.5 million in seed funding, led by Peak XV. This brings the company's total seed funding to $8 million, further solidifying its position as a leading innovator in the fintech industry. Auquan is pioneering the use of AI agent architecture and retrieval augmented generation (RAG) to automate complex, knowledge-intensive tasks within financial services.

Why it matters for climate fintech: While Auquan's immediate focus is on traditional finance, its AI-driven approach has broader implications for the burgeoning climate fintech sector. As the industry grapples with the increasing complexity of ESG data and regulations, AI tools can streamline data analysis, risk assessment, and portfolio management. By automating routine tasks, AI can free up analysts and portfolio managers to focus on strategic decision-making, such as identifying emerging climate investment opportunities and developing innovative green finance products.

Key implications for startups: Auquan's success highlights the immense potential of AI-driven solutions to transform the financial services industry. For climate fintech startups, this development offers several key opportunities:

• Increased funding opportunities: The growing interest in AI-driven solutions within the financial sector can attract significant investments from venture capital firms and other investors.

• Strategic partnerships: Collaborations with established financial institutions and technology providers can accelerate the development and deployment of climate fintech solutions.

• Enhanced data analysis capabilities: AI-powered tools can help climate fintech startups analyze vast amounts of ESG data to identify trends, assess risks, and uncover investment opportunities.

• Improved decision-making: By automating routine tasks and providing actionable insights, AI can empower climate fintech companies to make more informed and timely decisions.

🎯 Morgan Stanley survey unveils robust growth prospects in sustainable investing

✅ Key Insights

• 78% of asset managers and 80% of asset owners anticipate an increase in assets under management (AUM) allocated to sustainable funds over the next two years.

• The survey highlights that increased AUM in sustainable investing is likely to come from a variety of sources.

• 70% of respondents cited data availability and consistency as the most substantial barriers.

Four out of five asset managers and owners expect to see increases in their sustainable assets under management (AUM) and allocations over the next two years, with sustainable investing offerings emerging as a key differentiator for the large majority of investors, driven by the anticipated exposure to growth opportunities from sustainable investments, and a more established track record for sustainable investing strategies, according to a new survey released by Morgan Stanley.

Read more.

🎯 Zurich Resilience Solutions introduces Climate Spotlight to empower sustainable planning

✅ Key Insights

• Zurich Resilience Solutions specialises in offering risk advisory services that empower organisations to mitigate operational vulnerabilities.

• The new tool, Climate Spotlight, is tailored to offer flexible, data-driven insights into climate risks.

• Zurich aims to achieve over 9% compound annual growth in core earnings per share through 2027.

Zurich Resilience Solutions, the risk advisory arm of Zurich Insurance Group, has unveiled Climate Spotlight, an innovative digital platform designed to enhance climate risk understanding and management for organisations. The launch of Climate Spotlight addresses the growing demand for tools that help organisations navigate climate challenges, according to InsurTech Insights.

Read more.

🎯 Carbon management software provider carbmee Raises €20 Million

✅ Key Insights

• carbmee’s AI-powered solutions help organizations accurately manage, reduce and report their carbon output.

• The funds raised will be invested in further developing carbmee’s Environmental Intelligence System (EIS) platform.

• The round was led by climate fintech investor CommerzVentures, and included participation from Fly Ventures, alongside several angel investors.

Founded in 2021, carbmee’s AI-powered solutions help organizations accurately manage, reduce and report their carbon output, a process increasingly required to meet new regulations and reporting requirements. The funds raised will be invested in further developing carbmee’s Environmental Intelligence System (EIS) platform, which, among other things, the company says, can collect granular data on company activities required for the life-cycle assessment (LCA) component of EU carbon regulations.

Read more.

🎯 Speeki launches new carbon data collection and reporting solution

✅ Key Insights

• A new AI-powered tool aimed at enabling companies to automate Scope 1, 2 and 3 greenhouse gas emissions data collection and streamline carbon management.

• Speeki includes automated data collection through the use of AI.

• It produces reports aligned with sustainability reporting frameworks and standards including the ESRS, IFRS S2 and GRI.

According to Speeki, the new solution comes as companies are increasingly required to disclose their carbon footprint as part of their sustainability reporting, and as companies focus on measuring emissions as defined by standards set by the GHG Protocol, with the tool aimed at addressing challenges arising from the complexity of carbon calculations, which requires data collection from multiple sources and compliance with evolving regulations.

Read more.

🎯 Data center developer Equinix issues $1.2 billion of green bonds

✅ Key Insights

• The bonds are aimed at financing green projects at the company including renewable energy and decarbonization solutions.

• The offering comes as AI-driven growth is driving a rapid increase in demand for data centers, and for energy infrastructure to power them.

• Equinix has set goals to reduce absolute Scopes 1 and
2 emissions by 50% and Scope 3 GHG emissions from fuel- and energy-related activities by 50% by 2030.

Equinix issued its updated Green Finance Framework earlier this year, detailing eligible use of proceeds from green bond offerings. Project categories eligible for investment under the framework include green buildings, renewable and clean energy, energy efficiency, resource conservation, decarbonization solutions, and climate change adaptation.

Read more.

The path to AI-powered sustainability and ESG lies in partner ecosystems

We stand at the intersection of two revolutions—sustainability and artificial intelligence. One demands we change how we live, and the other enables us to do it. The convergence of AI and ESG represents a transformative force for businesses seeking to address today’s sustainability challenges. AI is pivotal in helping companies unlock deep insights into operational efficiencies, emission reductions and public sentiments, which are essential for shaping ESG strategies that are not only reactive but proactive.

✅ Highlights 

• AI-driven ESG insights: The power of partnership

• Harnessing AI for enhanced ESG reporting and compliance

• Driving innovation and impact through a partner ecosystem

However, for many organizations, the complexity of AI integration can be overwhelming—especially when they lack the necessary resources, mature models or internal expertise. This is where a robust partner ecosystem becomes a critical enabler, providing the infrastructure, data, tools and AI capabilities to effectively power.

Read more.

Climate finance, carbon markets and more: 4 key takeaways from COP29

✅ Highlights 

• What did COP29 accomplish?

• What didn’t move forward?

• What’s next?

At COP29, finance emerged as the key focus, particularly mobilizing and allocating funds for the necessary work. Key negotiations aimed to set a new global climate finance target, strengthen nationally determined contributions, make significant strides in adaptation and loss and damage efforts, and advance progress on the COP28 energy pledges.

Read more.

Respecting local culture is critical to build customer trust and expand business presence

Learn how cultural sensitivity fosters trust and drives business expansion.

https://www.bhuvas-impact.global/post/respecting-local-culture-is-critical-to-build-customer-trust-and-expand-business-presence

Global exploration of central bank digital currencies (CBDCs)

Explore how CBDCs reshape financial systems and impact climate fintech.

https://www.bhuvas-impact.global/post/global-exploration-of-central-bank-digital-currencies-cbdcs

Current AI policies, legislation, regulations, and more in the EU vs the US

Understand how AI policies shape sustainability and innovation in fintech.

https://www.bhuvas-impact.global/post/ai-policies-legislation-regulations-eu-us

🌏 Join my community connecting climate fintech startups with investors.

📰 Share this newsletter with a friend and start to stand out in the executive meetings.

🖇️ Connect with me on LinkedIn for daily insights on expanding into the US market.

🤝 Need a board director? Reach out to me today.

Hey there! 👋

Last week, we spotlighted CaixaBank’s €100 billion green finance pledge, Bolivia’s carbon credit strategy, and the transformative power of EU’s CS3D regulation. This week, we explore IBM’s findings on AI-driven sustainability in India, Spain’s booming €3.3 billion impact investment market, and the $789 billion green finance opportunity for SMEs.

At the BIG Risk Navigator, we equip you with the latest on sustainability, climate finance, and tech innovation to navigate emerging risks and scale your business.

Let’s dive into the updates.

• India leading in AI-Driven sustainability, says IBM Report: The report suggests ways to confront sustainability challenges.

• responsAbility and Phlomis Finance Combine Blockchain and Impact Investing: The collaboration aims to bring the concept of impact investing to more people by using blockchain for transparency and efficiency.

• Normative acquires Eivee to strengthen carbon accounting: The company is a leading provider of carbon accounting services in the Nordic region, the EU, and the UK.

• Spain's impact investment market hits €3.34bn in 2023: Spain's impact investing has witnessed a 135% growth since 2020.

• Over half of European companies invest in climate action: EIB survey says that EU firms have weathered climate challenges relatively well.

Before getting deep into the news, take a look at how you can engage more in my community.

🌏 Join my community connecting climate fintech startups with investors.

📰 Share this newsletter with a friend and start to stand out in the executive meetings.

🖇️ Connect with me on LinkedIn for daily insights on expanding into the US market.

🤝 Need a board director? Reach out to me today.

🎯 UK’s digital information and smart data bill will impact open finance

The UK's Digital Information and Smart Data (DISD) Bill, currently making its way through Parliament, promises to reshape the digital landscape and accelerate the adoption of open finance. This ambitious legislation aims to bolster data sharing, improve digital identity, and streamline public services. 

By empowering individuals to control their data and facilitating secure data exchange, the DISD Bill has the potential to unlock significant economic and social benefits.

Why it matters for climate fintech: The DISD Bill's focus on data sharing and interoperability aligns with the goals of climate fintech. By enabling seamless data exchange between financial institutions, fintech companies, and other relevant stakeholders, the legislation can facilitate the development of innovative solutions to address climate-related challenges.

For instance, the sharing of granular data on energy consumption patterns, carbon footprints, and renewable energy investments can empower consumers to make informed decisions and drive sustainable behavior. Additionally, the Bill's emphasis on digital identity can streamline the onboarding process for climate fintech startups, allowing them to scale their operations more efficiently.

Key implications for startups: The DISD Bill offers several opportunities for climate fintech startups:

• Data-driven innovation: The increased availability of data can fuel the development of innovative products and services, such as personalized carbon footprint tracking tools and AI-powered investment platforms.

• Enhanced customer experience: By leveraging open finance capabilities, startups can offer seamless and personalized financial solutions that cater to the specific needs of their customers.

• Strategic partnerships: Collaborating with traditional financial institutions and other industry players can help startups accelerate growth and scale their operations.

• Regulatory compliance: Adhering to the data protection and privacy provisions of the DISD Bill is crucial for startups to build trust with customers and regulators.

🎯 Navigating the future of insurance distribution and innovation

The insurance industry is undergoing a seismic shift, driven by the dual forces of climate change and digital disruption. As carriers, brokers, and MGAs grapple with increasing climate risks and evolving customer expectations, they are turning to technology and innovative strategies to stay competitive. Jeff Heine, CRO at Novidea, sheds light on the key trends shaping the future of insurance distribution.

Why it matters for climate fintech: The insurance industry's focus on climate risk management presents significant opportunities for climate fintech startups. As insurers seek to quantify and mitigate climate-related risks, innovative solutions that leverage AI, machine learning, and advanced data analytics can provide valuable insights. Additionally, the industry's growing reliance on digital technologies opens doors for fintech firms specializing in areas such as insurtech, digital insurance platforms, and climate risk modeling.

Key implications for startups: 

• Climate risk modeling and analytics: Startups offering advanced climate risk modeling and analytics tools can capitalize on the increasing demand for accurate and timely risk assessments.

• Digital insurance platforms: Developing user-friendly digital platforms that streamline insurance processes and improve customer experience can attract a broader customer base.

• Insurtech solutions: Innovative insurtech solutions that address specific pain points within the insurance value chain, such as claims processing, underwriting, and fraud detection, can gain traction.

🎯 $789bn green finance opportunity for SMEs revealed by Sage report

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are poised to play a pivotal role in the global transition to a sustainable future. However, a significant gap exists between their sustainability ambitions and their ability to access the necessary financing. A new report by Sage, in partnership with the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), has highlighted this opportunity, estimating a $789 billion potential market for green finance aimed at SMEs.

The report underscores the strong desire of SMEs to embrace sustainability. An overwhelming 86% of respondents view sustainability as a priority. Yet, only a small fraction (9.1%) formally report on their environmental impact. This disconnect is largely attributed to complex reporting standards, which 74% of SMEs identified as a major hurdle.

Why it matters for climate fintech: The SME segment presents a significant opportunity for climate fintech startups. As SMEs seek to improve their sustainability performance and access green finance, innovative fintech solutions can provide the tools and insights needed to navigate the complexities of sustainability reporting and financing. Climate fintech startups can develop user-friendly platforms for carbon accounting, ESG reporting, and green loan origination. Additionally, they can offer data-driven insights to help SMEs identify and implement cost-effective sustainability measures.

Key implications for startups: 

• Climate tech solutions: Startups developing climate tech solutions, such as carbon accounting software, renewable energy financing platforms, and energy efficiency optimization tools, can target SMEs as a key market segment.

• ESG reporting and data analytics: Fintech firms can offer specialized ESG reporting and data analytics services to help SMEs comply with regulatory requirements and improve their sustainability performance.

• Green finance platforms: By building digital platforms that connect SMEs with green lenders and investors, fintech startups can facilitate access to sustainable financing.

• Financial inclusion: Fintech solutions can help bridge the financing gap for SMEs, particularly those in underserved markets, by providing innovative financing products and services tailored to their specific needs.

🎯 India leading in AI-Driven sustainability, says IBM Report

✅ Key Insights

• The report suggests ways to confront sustainability challenges.

• There is an overwhelming response from Indian businesses and their leaders to achieve sustainability goals through AI.

• Most Indian business leaders (96%) plan to invest more in the IT sector.

A report released by IBM notes that India is ushering in sustainability through artificial intelligence (AI) and plans to make more investments in IT to achieve sustainability goals over the next 12 months.

Read more.

🎯 responsAbility and Phlomis Finance Combine Blockchain and Impact Investing

✅ Key Insights

• The collaboration aims to bring the concept of impact investing to more people by using blockchain for transparency and efficiency.

• responsAbility and Phlomis Finance leverage their expertise in social impact investment and blockchain technology, respectively.

• The tie-up also supports micro-entrepreneurs in developing countries and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

responsAbility Investments AG, a leading impact asset manager, has joined forces with Phlomis Finance, a blockchain-enabled investment platform, to advance financial inclusion and climate finance.

Read more.

🎯 Normative acquires Eivee to strengthen carbon accounting

✅ Key Insights

• The company is a leading provider of carbon accounting services in the Nordic region, the EU, and the UK.

• Strengthen Normative's ability to help its clients with regulations such as the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive.

• Facilitate clients' compliance with carbon reduction laws and reporting standards.

Normative, a carbon accounting and net zero expert based in Denmark, has acquired Eivee, another leading carbon accounting solution provider, to expand its market reach and cater to large corporations.

Read more.

🎯 Spain's impact investment market hits €3.34bn in 2023

✅ Key Insights

• Spain's impact investing has witnessed a 135% growth since 2020.

• Institutional investors remain underrepresented in the country's market.

• Foundation investments also increased, though at a smaller scale (€260m).

A recent study executed by SpainNAB and the Esade Center for Social Impact (Esade) shows that Spain's impact investment market reached €3.34 billion in 2023, including bank financing and investments. Direct impact investments saw a 26% spike, reaching over €1.52 billion, driven by private equity funds and other investors. Also, assets under management increased by 32% in the wake of new entrants.

Read more.

🎯 Over half of European companies invest in climate action

✅ Key Insights

• EIB survey says that EU firms have weathered climate challenges relatively well.

• EU businesses are investing more in climate change mitigation initiatives.

• Around 27% are moving towards a zero-carbon economy and seeing growth in the sector over the next five years.

Companies in the European Union (EU) have fared well in dealing with various challenges, such as health issues, price increases, and trade problems in the last four years, notes a recent survey by the European Investment Bank (EIB).

Read more.

The green premium explained

In 2021, Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates authored How to Avoid a Climate Disaster, a comprehensive plan for reducing global net CO2 emissions to prevent a climate catastrophe. Among the key concepts he discusses is the “green premium,” which refers to the additional cost associated with producing goods or services in a pollution-free or environmentally friendly way. This premium represents the price tag for choosing a greener option.

✅ Highlights 

• Sector-wise analysis of the green premiums

• Call to action: How do we bring the premium down?

Early signals of market demand for low-carbon technologies are emerging, bolstered by supportive policies and green subsidies. However, challenges such as untested green premiums persist. The ability of the industry to pass along this premium or to monetise near-zero-emission products as a differentiating attribute depends on the target consumer segment (B2B vs consumer) and geography.

Read more.

How Ushur is revolutionising AI innovation with robust risk management and compliance

✅ Highlights 

• Introduction of AI and GenAI technologies

• A unique set of risks

• GRC frameworks playing in the governance of AI technologies

As companies across the financial services landscape seek to expand their offerings with advanced artificial intelligence (AI) and generative AI (GenAI), how can they ensure they maintain cybersecurity, regulatory compliance and data privacy standards. 

Ushur, an intelligent automation and customer experience solution provider, aims to help firms leverage the latest in advanced technology, but not at the expense of security, compliance or ethical responsibility.

Read more.

How to identify risks in business: Insights from a fractional COO

Practical strategies for identifying and managing business risks.

https://www.bhuvas-impact.global/post/how-to-identify-risks-in-business-insights

What you need to know about risk metrics in risk management

Understand how risk metrics strengthen operational resilience.

https://www.bhuvas-impact.global/post/risk-metrics-in-risk-management-fractional-coo-explains

How a fractional COO can streamline operations

Discover how fractional COOs optimize workflows and reduce costs for scaling businesses.

https://www.bhuvas-impact.global/post/fractional-coo-can-streamline-operations

🌏 Join my community connecting climate fintech startups with investors.

📰 Share this newsletter with a friend and start to stand out in the executive meetings.

🖇️ Connect with me on LinkedIn for daily insights on expanding into the US market.

🤝 Need a board director? Reach out to me today.

Hey there! 👋

Last week, we explored Estonia’s leadership in climate fintech, cutting-edge AI compliance tools, and the $789 billion green finance opportunity for SMEs. This week, we spotlight CaixaBank’s ambitious €100 billion green finance pledge, Bolivia’s innovative carbon credit sales strategy, and the transformative impact of EU’s CS3D regulation on risk management.

At the BIG Risk Navigator, we deliver key insights into sustainability, climate finance, and tech innovation—equipping you to build future-proof, resilient businesses.

Let’s dive into this week’s updates.

• CaixaBank commits €100 billion to sustainable finance by 2027: CaixaBank has unveiled its 2025-2027 Sustainability Plan, a cornerstone of its Strategic Plan.

• Bank of England reports major AI growth in the financial sector: The latest research conducted by the Bank of England and the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) highlights a significant leap in the adoption of AI within the UK Financial Services sector.

• AI-driven insurTech Federato secures $40m Series C funding round: Federato, an InsurTech startup specialising in AI-driven underwriting solutions.

• EU greenlights new ESG regulation to fortify investor trust: The Council of the EU has endorsed a significant regulation aimed at enhancing the transparency, consistency, and comparability of ESG ratings.

• Bolivia targets $5 billion in carbon credit sales to combat deforestation: The plan allows countries and companies to offset emissions by funding projects that reduce climate-warming emissions.

Before getting deep into the news, take a look at how you can engage more in my community.

🌏 Join my community connecting climate fintech startups with investors.

📰 Share this newsletter with a friend and start to stand out in the executive meetings.

🖇️ Connect with me on LinkedIn for daily insights on expanding into the US market.

🤝 Need a board director? Reach out to me today.

🎯 Sustainable banking: From vision to reality

The financial industry is increasingly recognizing the urgent need to align its operations with sustainability goals. While many leading financial institutions (FIs) have unveiled their net-zero roadmaps for 2050, the focus now shifts to actionable steps that can drive immediate impact. As key players in the global economy, banks are well-positioned to lead the charge in green financing and cater to the growing demand for sustainable products.

"Consumer demand is surging, not just for ESG-focused offerings, but for products with clear links to well-defined metrics and impact mandates," says Shuvo G Roy, VP and Head of Banking Solutions (EMEA) at Mphasis. Statistics underscore this trend, with recent research indicating that consumers are willing to allocate up to 40% of their savings to green products. This growing appetite has fueled the rapid rise of green assets under management (AUM), which now approaches 10% of global AUM.

Why it matters for climate fintech: The increasing emphasis on sustainable finance presents a significant opportunity for climate fintech startups. As banks and other financial institutions seek to integrate ESG factors into their operations, innovative fintech solutions can provide the necessary tools and technologies to streamline processes, enhance risk management, and develop new sustainable products. This could lead to increased funding opportunities, partnerships with traditional financial institutions, and the development of groundbreaking solutions that address the climate crisis.

Key implications for startups: To fully capitalize on this opportunity, climate fintech startups should focus on developing solutions that:

• Measure and manage climate risk: Provide tools to assess the climate-related risks faced by financial institutions and their portfolios.

• Facilitate green finance: Develop platforms to connect investors with green projects and facilitate sustainable lending and investment.

• Enable data-driven decision making: Utilize advanced analytics to analyze ESG data and inform investment decisions.

• Promote transparency and accountability: Provide tools to track and report on environmental and social impact.

🎯 Airwallex: Turning 1% Pledge into a fintech foundation

Global fintech leader Airwallex has taken a significant step towards corporate social responsibility by joining the Pledge 1% movement. This initiative will see the company dedicate 1% of its equity to support emerging entrepreneurs and philanthropic causes.

By joining the Pledge 1%, Airwallex joins the ranks of tech giants like Atlassian, Canva, and Airbnb, demonstrating a growing trend of tech companies prioritizing social impact. The company's commitment is further solidified through the establishment of the Airwallex Impact program, an endowment structure designed to grow alongside the company's valuation.

Why it matters for climate fintech: Airwallex's commitment to supporting startups and social causes has significant implications for the climate fintech sector. By nurturing a vibrant startup ecosystem, the company can foster innovation and the development of new solutions to address climate change and sustainability challenges. This could lead to the emergence of fintech companies focused on green finance, sustainable investing, and climate-resilient technologies.

Key implications for startups: 

• Increased funding opportunities: Airwallex's Impact Program can provide increased funding opportunities for startups, particularly those focused on sustainability and social impact.

• Mentorship and networking: The company's commitment to mentoring and networking can provide invaluable support to early-stage startups.

• Access to technology and infrastructure: Airwallex's payment infrastructure and technology can be a valuable asset for startups, especially those operating in cross-border markets.

🎯 How CS3D is reshaping financial institutions’ approach to risk management

The European Union's Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CS3D), enacted on July 25, 2024, is poised to revolutionize the financial landscape. This groundbreaking legislation mandates that financial institutions (FIs) within the EU, and those with significant EU operations, adopt a more proactive approach to managing environmental and social risks.

The Directive's far-reaching implications extend beyond traditional financial metrics, compelling FIs to prioritize human rights and environmental impact assessments. This shift underscores the growing importance of sustainable finance and the need for responsible business practices.

Why it matters for climate fintech: AThe CS3D's emphasis on climate change mitigation and transition plans aligns seamlessly with the goals of climate fintech. By requiring FIs to assess the climate impact of their investments and lending activities, the Directive encourages the development of innovative financial products and services that support sustainable development.

Moreover, the Directive's focus on due diligence and transparency can drive the adoption of climate risk assessment tools and data analytics solutions. Climate fintech startups can capitalize on this opportunity by providing cutting-edge solutions to help FIs comply with the new regulations and manage their climate-related risks.

Key implications for startups: The CS3D presents both challenges and opportunities for climate fintech startups. On one hand, the Directive's stringent requirements may increase the regulatory burden on FIs, potentially leading to a surge in demand for specialized services and technologies. Startups that can offer innovative solutions to help FIs navigate the complex regulatory landscape can position themselves for significant growth.

However, the Directive's focus on due diligence and transparency may also increase operational costs and compliance risks for startups. It is crucial for startups to stay informed about the evolving regulatory landscape and to invest in robust compliance frameworks.

By embracing the principles of sustainable finance and leveraging technological advancements, climate fintech startups can play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the financial industry.

🎯 CaixaBank commits €100 billion to sustainable finance by 2027

✅ Key Insights

• CaixaBank’s 2025-2027 Sustainability Plan includes a 56% increase in sustainable financing, targeting €100 billion to drive environmental, social, and economic transformation.

• The bank aims to cut financed emissions in key sectors by up to 100%, advancing toward carbon neutrality by 2050.

• Plans to improve financial inclusion and employability, benefiting 150,000 people through targeted initiatives for vulnerable groups and seniors.

CaixaBank has unveiled its 2025-2027 Sustainability Plan, a cornerstone of its Strategic Plan, committing to mobilize €100 billion in sustainable finance—a 56% increase from its previous plan. This ambitious initiative aligns with its goal to transition to a low-carbon economy and foster social and economic development.

Read more.

🎯AI-driven insurTech Federato secures $40m Series C funding round

✅ Key Insights

• InsurTech startup specialising in AI-driven underwriting solutions.

• The round was led by StepStone Group, with continued support from existing investors Emergence Capital, Caffeinated Capital, and Pear VC.

• The firm plans to use the fresh funding to expand its global footprint.

Federato is known for its innovative underwriting platform that leverages artificial intelligence to streamline processes for insurers, including global carriers, managing general agents (MGAs), and mutuals.

Read more.

🎯 EU greenlights new ESG regulation to fortify investor trust

✅ Key Insights

• This regulatory advance seeks to boost investor confidence in sustainable financial products by ensuring the reliability of ESG evaluations.

• The regulation sets out criteria for non-EU rating providers.

• In the UK, a significant majority (95%) of respondents during consultations supported the regulation.

Under the new regulation, ESG rating providers within the EU will require authorization and be subject to monitoring by the European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA). These providers must also disclose their rating methodologies and information sources to uphold transparency.

Read more.

🎯 Bolivia targets $5 billion in carbon credit sales to combat deforestation

✅ Key Insights

• Bolivia plans to raise $5 billion through carbon credits to end deforestation by 2030, aligning with global climate targets under the Paris Agreement.

• The initiative seeks to address Bolivia’s economic struggles, depleted reserves, and soaring deforestation rates, with proceeds earmarked for forest conservation and reforestation.

• Talks with corporations and governments are underway, with first deliveries expected by Q2 2025, ensuring compliance through Laconic Infrastructure Partners’ platform.

Bolivia is set to sell $5 billion worth of carbon offset credits to tackle rampant deforestation and achieve its goal of halting forest loss by 2030. The plan allows countries and companies to offset emissions by funding projects that reduce climate-warming emissions.

Read more.

Reimagining urban finance for a climate-resilient future

At last week’s COP29, nations faced an urgent priority – addressing the critical role of finance in adapting to climate change and tackling loss and damage. Cities, which account for over 70% of global CO2 emissions and house more than half the world's population, stand at the frontline of both climate impacts and solutions. Yet with a staggering global climate financing gap of more than US$4 trillion annually, it's clear that new approaches to funding urban climate action are needed.

✅ Highlights 

• Democratizing access to finance through crowdfunding

• Leveraging blockchain technology to foster transparency and efficiency

• Building resilience with innovative financial instruments

UNDP in Europe and Central Asia has been advancing an array of innovative financing initiatives designed to transform our cities and build resilience in the face of climate change. We're testing different approaches – from assessing how blockchain technology can help fund green initiatives, to building capacity for crowdfunding that empowers communities to invest in sustainable efforts, to exploring how environmental impact bonds can create win-win opportunities for investors and the planet.

Read more.

 Climate fintech flourishes under female leadership

✅ Highlights 

• Decoding climate fintech

• Insights from Tenity's 2024 Report

Recent findings from Tenity's 2024 Global Climate Fintech Report illuminate a significant trend: companies with at least one woman founder or CEO secured over half of the funding in pre-Series B rounds during 2022-2023.

This figure stands in stark contrast to the broader fintech landscape, where women-led companies typically receive only 3.4% of venture funding.

What's even more striking is the role of female entrepreneurs in the area of climate fintechs. They have co-founded or led one-third of all these innovative firms. This proportion increased to a remarkable 45% for companies initiated in 2023.

Read more.

AI Ethics and AI Law continue to overlap and conflict

Explore the intersection of AI ethics and law, shaping sustainable innovation and compliance strategies.

https://www.bhuvas-impact.global/post/ai-ethics-and-ai-law

3 ways to use machine learning and AI in risk management

Discover how AI transforms risk management processes.

https://www.bhuvas-impact.global/post/machine-learning-and-ai-in-risk-management

Global exploration of Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs)

How CBDCs shape financial systems and climate fintech.

https://www.bhuvas-impact.global/post/global-exploration-of-central-bank-digital-currencies-cbdcs

🌏 Join my community connecting climate fintech startups with investors.

📰 Share this newsletter with a friend and start to stand out in the executive meetings.

🖇️ Connect with me on LinkedIn for daily insights on expanding into the US market.

🤝 Need a board director? Reach out to me today.

Hey there! 👋

Last week, we spotlighted breakthroughs in carbon credit insurance, wildfire risk management innovations, and the $5 trillion GSS bond milestone. This week, we’re diving into Estonia’s impressive climate fintech growth, cutting-edge AI tools for risk management, and the untapped $789 billion green finance opportunity for SMEs.

At the BIG Risk Navigator, we’re committed to bringing you the latest insights on sustainability, climate finance, and innovative tech solutions that help you build resilient, future-focused businesses.

Now let’s get into the news.

• $789 billion green finance opportunity awaits SMEs, ICC and Sage Report reveals: Unlocking sustainable finance for SMEs is essential for accelerating global climate action.

• Multilateral climate funds launch AI-powered climate Project Explorer at COP29: An innovative AI-powered search platform designed to enhance access to climate finance information.

• IFRS Foundation publishes a guide to help companies identify, disclose sustainability risks: This initiative underscores the ISSB’s commitment to supporting the global adoption of its standards.

• AI risk management pioneer Calvin Risk secures $4m in seed funding: Calvin Risk’s platform provides real-time, adaptive assessments, offering organizations a comprehensive view of their AI models’ risks and compliance with regulations.

• Atom becomes first UK bank to commit to being carbon positive by 2035: Atom Bank, the UK’s first app-only bank, has purchased 25 acres of newly planted broadleaf woodland in Northumberland.

Before getting deep into the news, take a look at how you can engage more in my community.

🌏 Join my community connecting climate fintech startups with investors.

📰 Share this newsletter with a friend and start to stand out in the executive meetings.

🖇️ Connect with me on LinkedIn for daily insights on expanding into the US market.

🤝 Need a board director? Reach out to me today.

🎯 Estonia leads in climate FinTech with the highest female founder rate and startups per capita

Tenity, a global accelerator with offices spanning from Zurich to Singapore and Tallinn, has released its Climate Fintech Report 2024. 

Estonia, which has ambitious climate goals, has emerged as a strong player in the FinTech niche — the report highlights the country’s standout performance across several key metrics, including startups per capita and the rate of female founders.

• Estonia experienced a strong 24% increase in funding for climate FinTech startups in 2023 compared to 2022, defying the global trend of a 23% decline in funding.

• Estonia holds the top spot globally for female founders in climate FinTech, with 44% of startups having at least one female co-founder. This figure puts Estonia ahead of other leading markets like Canada (43%) and the UK (42%).

• Estonia leads globally in climate FinTechs per million inhabitants, boasting 11.8 startups in this category.

• Estonia excels in Digital Investment Solutions and Carbon Offset Markets & Credits, with many startups overlapping across both categories.

Why it matters for climate fintech: Estonia's success in climate fintech can be attributed to several factors, including:

• Strong digital infrastructure: The country's advanced digital infrastructure and e-governance initiatives provide a solid foundation for fintech innovation.

• Supportive regulatory environment: Estonia's progressive regulatory framework encourages entrepreneurship and fosters a conducive environment for fintech startups.

• Talent pool: The country boasts a highly skilled workforce with expertise in technology, finance, and sustainability.

These factors have combined to create a thriving climate fintech ecosystem, attracting both domestic and international talent and investment.

Key implications for startups: However, Estonia’s climate FinTech ecosystem is still in the early stages of development compared to markets like the UK, with the majority of Estonia’s climate FinTech companies having been founded between 2020 and 2022. Only 6.25% of those are at the Series A growth stage, while the UK has 27.44% of its companies at this stage.

🎯 Grasshopper teams up with EnFi for enhanced AI-powered risk monitoring

Grasshopper, a digital bank focused on the business and innovation economy, has partnered with AI-driven EnFi to enhance operational efficiency and expand its digital banking capabilities.

The platform employs real-time data aggregation and advanced analytics to transform traditional credit assessment and risk management. Its proprietary Continual Risk Analysis™ model allows financial institutions to shift from periodic reviews to a proactive risk management approach, enabling timely, strategic lending decisions.

Why it matters for climate fintech: Through this collaboration, Grasshopper and EnFi aim to redefine the credit risk assessment process by utilizing real-time AI-driven insights, helping Grasshopper streamline traditionally time-intensive processes.

EnFi’s platform will allow Grasshopper’s underwriters to make proactive decisions, optimizing the bank’s ability to meet the needs of its clients in a fast-evolving business landscape.

Key implications for startups: By continually adopting innovative banking solutions, Grasshopper is strengthening its position in the digital banking space and reinforcing its dedication to supporting the growth of startups and small businesses.

🎯 Fintel Connect introduces automated compliance tool for BaaS banks

Fintel Connect, a leading growth marketing platform for the financial sector, has introduced a new tool designed to simplify the monitoring of fintech partner marketing activities for Banking-as-a-Service (BaaS) sponsor banks and middleware providers. Fintel Check for BaaS leverages automation to streamline compliance checks, reduce manual effort, and enhance overall efficiency.

The new tool addresses the specific challenges faced by BaaS banks in managing the marketing activities of their fintech partners. By automating the scanning, evaluation, and documentation processes, Fintel Check helps banks ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and maintain brand reputation.

Why it matters for climate fintech: While Fintel Check for BaaS is primarily aimed at the broader fintech industry, it has implications for climate fintech startups as well. As climate fintech companies often partner with banks and other financial institutions to scale their solutions, effective monitoring and compliance are essential.

By streamlining the onboarding and monitoring processes for fintech partners, tools like Fintel Check can help accelerate the adoption of climate fintech solutions. This can lead to increased investment in sustainable finance, faster deployment of green technologies, and a more sustainable future.

Key implications for startups: HClimate fintech startups can benefit from the introduction of Fintel Check for BaaS in the following ways:

• Simplified partner onboarding: Streamlined compliance checks and automated documentation can expedite the onboarding process for startups partnering with BaaS banks.

• Enhanced brand reputation: By ensuring that partners adhere to regulatory standards and maintain high ethical standards, startups can protect their brand reputation.

• Increased efficiency: Automation of monitoring tasks can free up resources for startups to focus on product development, innovation, and customer acquisition.

🎯 $789 billion green finance opportunity awaits SMEs, ICC and Sage Report reveals

✅ Key Insights

• Only 2.8% of SMEs have accessed green finance, leaving a $789 billion opportunity untapped.

• Simplifying sustainability reporting can unlock significant funding and accelerate climate action among SMEs.

• SMEs with sustainable finance are 2.5 times more likely to implement major sustainability initiatives.

The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) and Sage have released a global report unveiling a $789 billion green finance opportunity for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Despite this vast potential, a significant gap exists between SMEs’ sustainability ambitions and their ability to secure funding for green initiatives.

Read more.

🎯 Multilateral climate funds launch AI-powered climate Project Explorer at COP29

✅ Key Insights

• The Climate Project Explorer consolidates nearly 4,000 climate projects funded by four major climate funds into a single, searchable platform.

• AI-powered search and filtering options enable stakeholders to discover key information, fostering collaboration and best practices.

• The tool aims to strengthen access to climate finance and support developing countries’ climate goals by increasing transparency and streamlining information.

At COP29, the Multilateral Climate Funds (MCFs)—comprising the Green Climate Fund (GCF), the Adaptation Fund, the Climate Investment Funds (CIF), and the Global Environment Facility (GEF)—announced the launch of the Climate Project Explorer, an innovative AI-powered search platform designed to enhance access to climate finance information.

Read more.

🎯 IFRS Foundation publishes a guide to help companies identify, disclose sustainability risks

✅ Key Insights

• The IFRS Foundation has introduced a comprehensive guide to help companies identify and disclose material sustainability-related risks and opportunities impacting their financial future.

• The guide elaborates on how companies can understand sustainability dependencies and impacts as described in the IFRS S1 General Requirements for Disclosure of Sustainability-related Financial Information.

• Companies already following IFRS Accounting Standards will find it easier to integrate sustainability-related disclosures with financial statements, enhancing connectivity for global investors.

The International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB), under the IFRS Foundation, has published a new guide to aid companies in identifying and disclosing material information related to sustainability risks and opportunities. This initiative underscores the ISSB’s commitment to supporting the global adoption of its standards.

Read more.

🎯 AI risk management pioneer Calvin Risk secures $4m in seed funding

✅ Key Insights

• The investment brings the Swiss startup’s total funding to over $5m since its inception in 2022.

• Calvin Risk’s platform provides real-time, adaptive assessments, offering organizations a comprehensive view of their AI models’ risks and compliance with regulations.

• This modular framework supports governance digitisation and automated AI testing, catering to industries like financial services, transportation, and telecommunications.

Calvin Risk, an ETH Zurich spin-off specializing in AI risk management and governance, has raised $4m in a seed funding round led by Join Capital and seed + speed Ventures. The Zurich-based company focuses on helping enterprises deploy artificial intelligence (AI) safely, offering automated testing and quantitative risk assessments to tackle operational risks such as bias, opaque decision-making, and unpredictable behaviour in AI systems.

Read more.

🎯 Atom becomes first UK bank to commit to being carbon positive by 2035

✅ Key Insights

• Atom Bank, the UK’s first app-only bank, has purchased 25 acres of newly planted broadleaf woodland in Northumberland.

• Atom’s current annual operational emissions range between 500 and 700 tonnes.

• Atom bank has been measuring its carbon impact for three years and reported a 2.2% reduction in operational emissions in the last financial year.

Atom Bank, the UK’s first app-only bank, has made headlines by purchasing 25 acres of newly planted broadleaf woodland in Northumberland, as it becomes the first UK bank to commit to being carbon positive by 2035.

Read more.

Sustainable finance and global efforts to combat desertification: an overview

Over the past two decades, climate change has exacerbated desertification, intensifying its impacts on biodiversity, food security, and water availability. However, a significant global effort has also unfolded to address desertification, often led by the UN Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) and underpinned by sustainable finance mechanisms.

✅ Highlights 

• Emergent financing mechanisms 

• Impact investing projects 

• Scaling up sustainable finance to meet future challenges

Sustainable finance includes a range of financial instruments, such as green bonds and sustainability-linked loans (SLLs), which are designed to achieve environmental objectives while generating returns for investors. These financial instruments have become important ways to mobilize the capital needed for land restoration, sustainable agriculture, and climate resilience projects—all of which contribute to mitigating desertification.

Read more.

 Embracing AI for enhanced regulatory compliance in FinTech

✅ Highlights 

• A Time for Innovation in regulatory reporting

• The top 3 focus areas to enhance

• The top 3 focus areas to enhance

A recent whitepaper by Regnology delves into the significant potential of artificial intelligence (AI) to revolutionize regulatory reporting, highlighting both the challenges and opportunities it introduces. As firms navigate this evolving landscape, the implementation of AI presents a promising avenue for enhancing efficiency and accuracy in compliance processes.

Read more.

3 ways to use machine learning and AI in risk management

Explore how AI transforms risk assessment and management processes.

https://www.bhuvas-impact.global/post/machine-learning-and-ai-in-risk-management

AI ethics expert for startups: helping navigate ethical AI in startups and climate fintech

Insights on integrating AI ethics into sustainable startup growth.

https://www.bhuvas-impact.global/post/ai-ethics-expert-for-startups

How to identify risks in business: insights from a fractional COO

Practical strategies for identifying risks and enhancing management practices.

https://www.bhuvas-impact.global/post/how-to-identify-risks-in-business-insights

🌏 Join my community connecting climate fintech startups with investors.

📰 Share this newsletter with a friend and start to stand out in the executive meetings.

🖇️ Connect with me on LinkedIn for daily insights on expanding into the US market.

🤝 Need a board director? Reach out to me today.

Hey there! 👋

Last week, we covered COP29’s $120 billion climate finance pledge, the rise of female-led climate fintechs achieving funding parity, and global green financing taxonomy expansion. This week, we’re spotlighting breakthroughs in carbon credit insurance, AI-driven climate risk models, and the monumental growth of GSS bond issuance.

At the BIG Risk Navigator, we bring you cutting-edge insights on sustainability, climate finance, and tech innovation, empowering decision-makers to create resilient and forward-thinking businesses.

Now, let’s get into the news.

• Verra to Support Carbon Markets in Amazonas: Verra, a global leader in reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, has collaborated with the state of Amazonas in Brazil to strengthen its carbon markets.

• NatureFinance launches tool enabling investors, banks to assess portfolio nature impact: Green finance-focused not-for-profit organization NatureFinance announced the launch of NatureAlign.

• Nearly two-thirds of companies not yet reporting climate-related financial impact on financial statements: EY: EY analyzed the public disclosures of approximately 1,400 companies across 51 countries and 13 sectors.

• Normative acquires carbon accounting solution provider Eivee: Normative’s system lets companies track their carbon footprint via mapping their business activities.

• 73% of insurers see AI models as key to managing climate risks: It highlights a significant rise in AI usage for evaluating specific climate risks.

🎯 Artio secures funding to pioneer insurance for early carbon credits

Artio, a London-based climate InsurTech startup, has successfully raised £550k in a seed funding round led by Lifetime Ventures. The investment will be used to develop innovative insurance solutions for early-stage carbon removal projects, aiming to mitigate investment risks and accelerate the growth of the carbon credit market.

The company's proprietary risk modeling platform is designed to assess the potential risks associated with carbon removal projects, enabling investors to make informed decisions and support high-quality initiatives. By providing insurance coverage, Artio aims to increase the supply of reliable carbon credits, which are crucial for achieving global climate goals.

Why it matters for climate fintech: Artio's innovative approach to insuring carbon removal projects highlights the growing importance of climate fintech in addressing climate change. By leveraging technology to quantify and manage climate-related risks, climate fintech companies can unlock capital flows and accelerate the transition to a low-carbon economy.

This development is significant for the climate fintech industry as it demonstrates the increasing demand for solutions that can mitigate the risks associated with climate change mitigation projects. As the carbon market continues to evolve, climate fintech startups can play a crucial role in developing innovative financial products and services to support the transition to a sustainable future.

Key implications for startups: Artio's success underscores several key implications for climate fintech startups:

• Focus on climate risk: Climate fintech startups can identify and address climate-related risks, such as physical and transition risks, to create innovative financial products.

• Leverage technology: By leveraging advanced technologies like AI and machine learning, startups can develop sophisticated risk modeling and analytics tools.

• Partner with traditional financial institutions: Collaborating with banks, insurers, and other financial institutions can help startups scale their solutions and access new markets.

• Prioritize sustainability: Integrating sustainability into the core business model can attract impact investors and environmentally conscious customers.

🎯 Delos Insurance Solutions attracts $9m in Series A to tackle wildfire risks

Delos Insurance Solutions, a California-based insurtech startup, has successfully raised $9 million in a Series A funding round led by HSBC Asset Management. The company’s innovative approach to property insurance, leveraging satellite imagery and AI to assess wildfire risk, has attracted significant investor interest.

Delos aims to address the growing challenge of insuring properties in wildfire-prone areas. Traditional insurers have often retreated from these regions due to increasing risks, leaving homeowners vulnerable. By utilizing advanced technology, Delos can provide more accurate risk assessments and offer affordable insurance coverage.

Why it matters for climate fintech: The increasing frequency and intensity of wildfires, driven by climate change, highlight the need for innovative insurance solutions. Climate fintech companies can play a crucial role in developing risk assessment models, pricing strategies, and insurance products that address the unique challenges posed by climate-related risks.

Delos's success demonstrates the potential for climate fintech startups to disrupt the traditional insurance industry and provide much-needed coverage to vulnerable communities. By leveraging technology and data analytics, these startups can help mitigate the financial impact of climate-related disasters.

Key implications for startups: Climate fintech startups can learn from Delos's success and apply the following strategies:

• Focus on underinsured markets: Target underserved markets, such as regions prone to natural disasters, to address unmet needs.

• Prioritize data and analytics: Invest in data science and analytics to improve risk assessment and pricing models.

• Adapt to evolving climate risks: Stay ahead of the curve by continuously monitoring climate trends and adjusting insurance products accordingly.

🎯 Green, social and sustainability bond issuance surpasses $5trn

The Green, Social, and Sustainability (GSS) bond market has reached a significant milestone, surpassing $5 trillion in cumulative issuance. This surge in activity underscores the growing global demand for sustainable finance and the increasing role of GSS bonds in financing the transition to a low-carbon economy.

The first half of 2024 witnessed a record-breaking $356 billion in green bond issuance, with Europe continuing to dominate the market. This trend is driven by a combination of factors, including stringent environmental regulations, increasing investor interest in sustainable investments, and the need to finance climate-related projects.

Why it matters for climate fintech: The growth of the GSS bond market has significant implications for the climate fintech industry. As investors seek to allocate capital to sustainable projects, there is a growing demand for innovative financial solutions to facilitate the issuance, trading, and management of GSS bonds.

Climate fintech startups can play a crucial role in this market by developing technologies to:

• Enhance transparency and traceability: Track the impact of GSS bond investments and ensure funds are used for intended purposes.

• Optimize portfolio management: Develop tools to help investors select and manage GSS bond portfolios based on specific sustainability criteria.

• Facilitate green bond issuance: Streamline the issuance process and reduce costs for issuers.

• Provide data-driven insights: Analyze market trends, identify investment opportunities, and assess the creditworthiness of GSS bond issuers.

Key implications for startups: Climate fintech startups can capitalize on the growing GSS bond market by:

• Partnering with traditional financial institutions: Collaborating with banks, asset managers, and insurance companies to integrate green finance solutions.

• Focusing on niche markets: Targeting specific sectors, such as renewable energy, clean transportation, or sustainable agriculture, to develop specialized solutions.

• Building strong relationships with investors: Engaging with impact investors and ESG funds to secure funding and partnerships.

🎯 Verra to support carbon markets in Amazonas

✅ Key Insights

• The partnership helps secure financing for strengthening carbon markets.

• Amazonas has undertaken several measures to advance nature-based climate solutions within its jurisdiction.

Verra, a global leader in reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, has collaborated with the state of Amazonas in Brazil to strengthen its carbon markets. The two parties signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on the sidelines of the COP29 event in Baku, Azerbaijan. They will work together to reduce GHG emissions and strengthen the carbon markets in Amazonas.

Read more.

🎯 NatureFinance launches tool enabling investors, banks to assess portfolio nature impact

✅ Key Insights

• The first module of NatureAlign will help private financial institutions assess their baseline position with respect to environmental and sustainability issues.

• The tool allows financial institutions to input data on their investments and loans into a watchlist.

• The app also assesses the exposure of sectors within the watchlist to nature-related dependencies and impacts.

Green finance-focused not-for-profit organization NatureFinance announced the launch of NatureAlign, a new tool designed to help financial institutions assess and progress on their alignment with nature-positive outcomes through the lens of the Biodiversity Plan (formerly the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF)). The first module of NatureAlign will help private financial institutions, from asset managers to banks, assess their baseline position with respect to environmental and sustainability issues.

Read more.

🎯Nearly two-thirds of companies not yet reporting climate-related financial impact on financial statements: EY

✅ Key Insights

• Companies globally are only incrementally improving the quality of their climate-related disclosures.

• The study also found that to date, most companies’ climate action strategies are focused primarily on reducing emissions from their use of energy, or Scope 2.

• The report also found a disconnect between companies’ climate-related and financial reporting, with only 36% referencing the financial risks of climate change.

For the study, EY’s sixth annual Global Climate Action Barometer, EY analyzed the public disclosures of approximately 1,400 companies across 51 countries and 13 sectors, assessing factors including the link between companies’ climate disclosures and their transition-related actions, and the connectivity with financial disclosures on climate risk.

Read more.

🎯 Normative acquires carbon accounting solution provider Eivee

✅ Key Insights

• Normative’s system lets companies track their carbon footprint via mapping their business activities.

• The system continuously measures and reports CO2 reduction progress, ensuring compliance with regulations

• Acquisition of Eivee will significantly expand its market reach and enhance its ability to serve major corporations across Europe.

Normative, a Stockholm-based developer of carbon accounting software, announced today the acquisition of Denmark-based carbon accounting solution provider Eivee, enabling an expansion of sustainability accounting services throughout Europe. Founded in 2020, Copenhagen-based Eivee has developed software that calculates clients’ CO2 emissions across scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions. The system continuously measures and reports CO2 reduction progress, ensuring compliance with regulations and requirements for that reduction.

Read more.

🎯 73% of insurers see AI models as key to managing climate risks

✅ Key Insights

• The study, which surveyed 200 senior executives in Property & Casualty insurance.

• It highlights a significant rise in AI usage for evaluating specific climate risks.

• There is no consensus among industry leaders regarding the accuracy of different risk assessment models.

A recent survey by ZestyAI has revealed that 73% of insurers believe AI models are key to managing climate-related losses, as the insurance industry grapples with mounting losses from extreme weather. The study, which surveyed 200 senior executives in Property & Casualty insurance, found that one in four respondents now use artificial intelligence (AI) models to assess the risk of severe storms..

Read more.

Diligent's Keith Fenner on AI for Innovation and Compliance

Keith Fenner, SVP and GM International at Diligent, a leading governance, risk and compliance (GRC) software provider, asserts that as ESG and sustainability become increasingly important, the need for consistency and transparency in organizational reporting also rises.

✅ Highlights 

• What is the primary environmental concern associated with AI?

• What are the key ESG regulations that businesses need to be aware of, and how can AI help?

• What are the challenges and opportunities for businesses in balancing innovation with sustainability?

In this Q&A, he delves into the intricate relationship between AI and sustainability, discussing the necessity for regulation, the influence of shareholder activism and how AI can be leveraged to tackle urgent environmental challenges.

Read more.

How dMRV ensures precision and transparency in the carbon removal market

✅ Highlights 

• What is a dMRV?

• Why is dMRV critical for carbon credit buyers?

• Use case: Carbon Plus project in Malaysia

As the carbon removal market continues to grow, ensuring the quality and credibility of carbon credits is more important than ever. Projects that lack real-time monitoring and transparent verification are increasingly at risk of greenwashing and misreporting. This is why adopting a dMRV system isn’t just a best practice—it’s essential for success in the evolving carbon market.

Read more.

How to identify risks in business: insights from a fractional COO

Practical strategies for identifying risks and enhancing management practices.

https://www.bhuvas-impact.global/post/how-to-identify-risks-in-business-insights

3 ways to use machine learning and AI in risk management

Explore how AI transforms risk assessment and management processes.

https://www.bhuvas-impact.global/post/machine-learning-and-ai-in-risk-management

AI ethics expert for startups: helping navigate ethical AI in startups and climate fintech

Insights on integrating AI ethics into sustainable startup growth.

https://www.bhuvas-impact.global/post/ai-ethics-expert-for-startups

🌏 Join my community connecting climate fintech startups with investors.

📰 Share this newsletter with a friend and start to stand out in the executive meetings.

🖇️ Connect with me on LinkedIn for daily insights on expanding into the US market.

🤝 Need a board director? Reach out to me today.

Hey there! 👋

Last week, we highlighted key ESG tools for SMEs, rising sustainability mandates in Latin America, and Allianz’s pioneering green project bonds. This week, we dive into COP29’s historic $120 billion climate finance pledge, the rise of female-led climate fintechs achieving funding parity, and groundbreaking green finance initiatives across the globe.

At the BIG Risk Navigator, we offer the latest insights into sustainability, climate finance, and tech innovation, equipping decision-makers to build resilient, forward-thinking businesses.

Now let’s get into the news.

• World’s top development banks commit $120 billion for climate finance by 2030: COP29: Major development banks committed to increasing climate finance for low- and middle-income countries by 60% compared to 2023 levels.

• 80% of global financial regulators aligned with ISSB, TCFD recommendations: FSB Report: The Financial Stability Board (FSB) has released its 2024 progress report on climate-related financial disclosures

• Microsoft and RBC purchase 10,000 carbon removal credits from Deep Sky: The purchase will boost the development of Direct Air Capture (DAC) technologies.

• Saudi Arabia launches first voluntary carbon credit exchange platform at COP29: This initiative is part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 plan to diversify its economy and boost renewable energy investments.

• Singapore joins EU and China in expanded green financing taxonomy: Singapore, the EU, and China unveil the Multi-Jurisdiction Common Ground Taxonomy (M-CGT), boosting cross-border green financing.

🎯'Setting new standards for inclusion': Female-founded climate fintechs achieve early-stage funding parity

A groundbreaking shift is underway in the climate fintech sector, as female-led startups are achieving funding parity at early stages, according to a new report by Tenity. This marks a significant departure from the broader tech industry, where women-led firms typically receive a fraction of venture capital funding.

The report analyzed data from 750 climate fintech startups worldwide. It found that female-founded or led climate fintechs secured 50.4% of funding in pre-Series B rounds during 2022-2023, a stark contrast to the 3.4% typically received by female-led fintech companies overall. Notably, women have co-founded or lead one third of all climate fintechs, a figure that rises to 45% among companies founded in 2023.

Why it matters for climate fintech:The rise of female-led climate fintechs is a positive development for the industry. It signals a growing recognition of the importance of diversity and inclusion in driving innovation and addressing climate change.

Moreover, female founders often bring unique perspectives and experiences to the table, leading to the development of innovative solutions that can have a significant impact on the environment and society.

Key implications for startups: For climate fintech startups, particularly those founded or led by women, this trend offers several opportunities:

• Increased Funding Opportunities: The growing recognition of female-led climate fintechs can lead to increased investment from venture capital firms and other investors.

• Enhanced Innovation: Diverse teams can drive innovation and develop more effective solutions to address climate challenges.

• Stronger Networks: Female founders can benefit from supportive networks and mentorship programs to accelerate their growth.

🎯 Africa Secures $10.9M for Clean Energy Transition

The Rockefeller Foundation, a US-based philanthropic medical research and arts funding organization, has announced $10.9 million for Africa to help the continent transition to green energy.

This project will fund clean energy initiatives in several African regions and support energy systems planning in Africa, with designs and modelling tailored to the continent's requirements.

Why it matters for climate fintech: The integration of fintech with renewables paints a picture of how energy expansion can be complemented by other development needs. Agent networks introducing affordable energy alternatives in rural areas can be put to use just as effectively towards registering users for digital services. And widening access to digital financial services hosts a scope of possibilities for poverty reduction.

An approach that merges financial services and renewable energy has been adopted by InfiBranches, a Nigerian fintech company. InfiBranches’s two main products, OmniBranches and Green Energy Plug, focus on the distribution and financial components of clean energy development. As of last year, InfiBranches has secured $2 million in funding from All On, a Shell-backed impact investment firm.

Climate fintech startups can play a crucial role in supporting this transition by developing innovative products and services, such as:

• Green finance platforms: Facilitating the flow of capital to renewable energy projects.

• Climate risk assessment tools: Helping financial institutions assess the climate-related risks of their portfolios.

• Carbon credit trading platforms: Enabling the trading of carbon credits generated from clean energy projects.

• Insurtech solutions: Providing insurance products to protect renewable energy assets from climate-related risks.

Key implications for startups: The alignment of green innovation with fintech holds potential to accelerate development initiatives. As other investments in Africa’s green transition command attention, the continent must assess how they fit into existing infrastructure and specific development needs. When greater foresight is incorporated into tech solutions, accessibility is widened and development is fostered that is sustainable not just environmentally, but generationally.

🎯 Growth-powering strategy: Data center financing for a sustainable future

The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) and the increasing reliance on cloud computing have fueled an unprecedented demand for data centers. These massive facilities, which house servers and storage systems, are the backbone of the digital economy. However, their energy consumption and carbon footprint have raised significant environmental concerns.

Data centers around the world are looking to decarbonise their emissions while expanding to cater to global demand. Reaching out to partners with deep sector knowledge like Crédit Agricole CIB brings advantages as they can customize innovative financing solutions with specific features to support decarbonisation trajectories. When designed thoughtfully, sustainable finance can also address ESG priorities beyond climate goals, such as diversity and community engagement.

Why it matters for climate fintech: The data center industry offers significant opportunities for climate fintech startups. As data centers seek to reduce their carbon footprint and improve energy efficiency, there is a growing need for innovative financial solutions.

Climate fintech startups can develop technologies to:

• Monitor and measure carbon emissions: Tracking energy consumption and identifying opportunities for reduction.

• Optimize energy usage: Implementing AI-powered solutions to optimize energy efficiency and reduce costs.

• Facilitate green financing: Connecting data center operators with impact investors and sustainable finance providers.

• Develop carbon offsetting strategies: Helping data centers offset their carbon emissions through investments in renewable energy projects.

Key implications for startups: 

Gathering billions of funding within a relatively short period of time is not a straightforward process – it requires specially designed solutions and access to a variety of credit and debt financing sources including project finance, securitisation and private credit, to accumulate sufficient investment. Banks play a critical role in this complicated process – they can help tailor suitable financing structures and tap the right liquidity pools, such as seeking funds from private debt providers or issuing credit facilities themselves, and line up independent credit rating and legal reviews for funding.

🎯 World’s top development banks commit $120 billion for climate finance by 2030: COP29

✅ Key Insights

• Major development banks committed to increasing climate finance for low- and middle-income countries by 60% compared to 2023 levels.

• Development banks aim to mobilize an additional $65 billion from the private sector to support climate initiatives.

• The plan includes $42 billion for adapting to extreme weather, a 70% increase from 2023 levels.

At COP29 in Azerbaijan, a significant early pledge emerged as major development banks, including the World Bank, committed to raising climate finance to $120 billion annually by 2030. This figure marks a 60% increase from the funding levels in 2023, targeting support for low- and middle-income countries grappling with climate change.

Read more.

🎯 80% of global financial regulators aligned with ISSB, TCFD recommendations: FSB Report

✅ Key Insights

• 19 out of 24 FSB member jurisdictions have climate-related disclosure regulations or guidelines in place, influenced by the ISSB.

• 17 jurisdictions have set or proposed disclosure requirements aligned with ISSB Standards and TCFD recommendations.

• The report urges continued support for SMEs and emerging markets facing challenges in adopting ISSB standards.

The Financial Stability Board (FSB) has released its 2024 progress report on climate-related financial disclosures, underscoring the strides made by global jurisdictions in implementing International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB) disclosure standards. This report draws insights from a survey involving FSB member jurisdictions and input from key standard-setting bodies and international organizations.

Read more.

🎯 Microsoft and RBC purchase 10,000 carbon removal credits from Deep Sky

✅ Key Insights

• The purchase will boost the development of Direct Air Capture (DAC) technologies.

• Deep Sky Labs will host eight DAC technologies to accelerate the scalability and efficiency of carbon capture.

• The collaboration is set to create green jobs and inject over $100 million into the local economy in Innisfail, Alberta, over the next decade.

Deep Sky, a leader in carbon removal technology, has finalized a significant deal with Microsoft and Royal Bank of Canada (RBC) for the sale of 10,000 carbon removal credits. This transaction marks a pivotal step for the industry and highlights Deep Sky’s mission to scale Direct Air Capture (DAC) solutions.

Read more.

🎯 Saudi Arabia launches first voluntary carbon credit exchange platform at COP29

✅ Key Insights

• Saudi Arabia’s Regional Voluntary Carbon Market Company (RVCMC) unveiled the first carbon credit trading platform at COP29.

• This initiative is part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 plan to diversify its economy and boost renewable energy investments.

• The move aligns with a growing Middle Eastern push towards carbon market participation.

Saudi Arabia, the world’s largest oil exporter, marked a significant milestone in its environmental strategy by launching its first carbon credit exchange at the UN Climate Change Conference (COP29) in Baku on November 12. Managed by the Regional Voluntary Carbon Market Company (RVCMC), the platform is designed to strengthen the voluntary carbon market as the country pushes for economic diversification under its Vision 2030 plan.

Read more.

🎯 Singapore joins EU and China in expanded green financing taxonomy

✅ Key Insights

• Singapore, the EU, and China unveil the Multi-Jurisdiction Common Ground Taxonomy (M-CGT), boosting cross-border green financing.

• M-CGT now includes 110 economic activities across eight sectors, up from 72 activities in the previous taxonomy.

• The M-CGT aims to reduce fragmentation and lower costs, benefiting investors and issuers in green finance.

Singapore has joined the European Union (EU) and China in presenting the Multi-Jurisdiction Common Ground Taxonomy (M-CGT), a significant step towards harmonizing sustainable finance taxonomies across the three regions. Developed by the People’s Bank of China (PBOC), the EU Directorate-General for Financial Stability (FISMA), and the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS), the M-CGT builds on the existing EU-China Common Ground Taxonomy (CGT) to include the Singapore-Asia Taxonomy (SAT).

Read more.

The countries making waves in carbon markets today – and how they’re doing it

Abatable’s 2024 VCM Investment Attractiveness Index is out, and Colombia leads the ranking this year thanks to a rich supply of in-demand credits and a healthy developer ecosystem. The shifts in country positions seen in 2024 were spurred by focused engagement with Article 6 and show trends of strong regional activity.

✅ Highlights 

• The VCM Investment Attractiveness Index

• The countries topping 2024’s rankings

• Significant changes from 2023

The Index also tracks whether a country has actually revoked any Article 6 credits. It’s worth noting that while countries progressing well with Article 6 may have jumped up the rankings this year, there could be a need to be cautious with countries authorizing Article 6 credits without a clear strategy against overselling, and thus potentially jeopardizing their NDC targets.

Read more.

Gartner: The Hype Cycle of climate technologies

✅ Highlights 

• Understanding the Gartner Hype Cycle

• Decoding the Hype Cycle’s insights

• Advancing sustainable technology

As the planet continues grappling with the escalating climate crisis, the corporate world is increasingly channeling investments into technology. Tech doesn’t just support sustainability targets but can also help businesses to adapt to the evolving environmental landscape. Global consultant Gartner’s 2024 Hype Cycle for Environmental Sustainability shows that companies must shift to climate adaptation strategies to survive.

Read more.

How to hire your first advisory board in 2024

Learn strategic steps to onboard advisors that can accelerate growth and align with ESG goals.

https://www.bhuvas-impact.global/post/how-to-hire-your-first-advisory-board-in-2024

Global exploration of central bank digital currencies (CBDCs)

This article talks about how CBDCs are shaping financial ecosystems and their implications for climate fintech.

https://www.bhuvas-impact.global/post/global-exploration-of-central-bank-digital-currencies-cbdcs

Women continue to remain underrepresented in sustainability

Explore why the gender gap persists in sustainability roles and how businesses can champion inclusivity.

https://www.bhuvas-impact.global/post/women-continue-to-remain-under-represented-in-sustainability

🌏 Join my community connecting climate fintech startups with investors.

📰 Share this newsletter with a friend and start to stand out in the executive meetings.

🖇️ Connect with me on LinkedIn for daily insights on expanding into the US market.

🤝 Need a board director? Reach out to me today.

Hey there! 👋

Last week, we explored significant investments in European climate fintech, the potential of women investors to add trillions to markets, and the DOE’s allocation of $43 million toward industrial decarbonization technologies. This week, we’re diving into game-changing ESG tools for SMEs, rising sustainability mandates in Latin America, and capital requirements for fossil fuel investments.

At the BIG Risk Navigator, we offer the latest insights into sustainability, climate finance, and tech innovation, equipping decision-makers to build resilient, forward-thinking businesses.

Now let’s get into the news.

• MAS-backed Gprnt launches ESG tools to help SMEs simplify sustainability reporting: Gprnt, a digital ESG platform launched by the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS).

• 57% of Latin American companies lag in sustainability reporting standards, RSM finds: Highlights the challenges and opportunities faced by 200 Latin American businesses in adopting International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) S1 and S2 for sustainability.

• EIOPA proposes higher capital charges for insurers’ fossil fuel assets: The European Insurance and Occupational Pensions Authority (EIOPA) has released its final report on the prudential treatment of sustainability risk.

• Optera upgrades supply chain tool for enhanced Scope 3 emissions reporting: Optera has released the next generation of its Supply Chain Manager, advancing Scope 3, category 1 emissions management.

• UN-backed net-zero asset owner Alliance invests $175 Billion In climate solutions: Report: The UN-backed Net-Zero Asset Owner Alliance (NZAOA) reported a record $175 billion investment in climate-focused solutions by its members in 2023.

🎯 Proposed EU financial services commissioner to push for sustainable investment product labels

Maria Luis Albuquerque, the EU’s Commissioner-designate for Financial Services, has pledged to strengthen the bloc’s sustainable finance framework. Her key priorities include addressing greenwashing risks and streamlining the Sustainable Finance Disclosure Regulation (SFDR) to reduce the burden on smaller market participants.

Albuquerque has expressed concerns about the misuse of Article 8 and 9 classifications under the SFDR, which has led to greenwashing concerns. She believes that a clear labeling system for sustainable and transition investments is crucial to enhance transparency and investor trust.

Why it matters for climate fintech: Albuquerque’s proposed reforms have significant implications for the climate fintech industry. A robust and transparent sustainable finance framework can stimulate innovation, attract investment, and drive the development of innovative financial solutions that support the transition to a sustainable economy.

Moreover, reduced reporting burdens for smaller market participants can level the playing field and encourage the emergence of new climate fintech startups. By simplifying regulatory requirements, the EU can foster a more inclusive and dynamic climate finance ecosystem.

Key implications for startups: Climate fintech startups can benefit from a strengthened EU sustainable finance framework in several ways:

• New funding opportunities: A clear labeling system can attract more investment from impact investors and sustainable funds.

• Enhanced market access: A harmonized regulatory environment can facilitate cross-border operations and expand market reach.

• Reduced regulatory burden: Streamlined reporting requirements can free up resources for innovation and growth.

• Increased investor confidence: A robust framework can help build trust with investors and clients.

🎯 Allianz Trade launches surety solution to enable clients to invest in cleantech

Insurance and investment group Allianz’s trade credit insurance unit Allianz Trade announced the launch of Surety Green2Green, a new solution aimed at enabling clients to engage in low-carbon technologies and renewables projects through issuance of surety bonds and guarantees securing project completion.

By offering financial guarantees, Allianz Trade aims to unlock capital for green projects, particularly those that might face challenges in securing traditional financing. This move aligns with the growing global focus on sustainable finance and the transition to a low-carbon economy.

Why it matters for climate fintech: The launch of Surety Green2Green highlights the increasing role of insurance and financial services in driving climate action. By providing innovative financial solutions, insurers can help bridge the financing gap for green projects and accelerate the adoption of clean technologies.

Allianz is setting a standard for the insurance sector, offering a path for compliance and risk management professionals to consider how financial mechanisms can support sustainability within their own risk and governance frameworks. This development is significant for climate fintech startups as it opens up new opportunities for collaboration and partnership. Startups can leverage such solutions to enhance their offerings and attract investment, particularly in areas like green project finance, carbon credit trading, and sustainable supply chain finance.

Key implications for startups: Climate fintech startups can benefit from Allianz Trade's Surety Green2Green in several ways.

• Enhanced project financing: Startups involved in green projects can access additional funding sources by utilizing surety bonds to mitigate risks and improve their creditworthiness.

• Accelerated growth: By reducing financial barriers, surety solutions can enable startups to scale their operations and expand their impact.

• Strategic partnerships: Collaborating with insurers like Allianz Trade can provide startups with valuable expertise, market access, and risk management capabilities.

• Innovation catalyst: The growing demand for green finance solutions can drive innovation and the development of new fintech products and services.

🎯 Hong Kong tells banks to target net zero financed emissions

The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) has issued a groundbreaking directive, setting ambitious targets for local banks to achieve net-zero financed emissions by 2050. This move is part of the HKMA's Sustainable Finance Action Agenda, which aims to establish Hong Kong as a leading sustainable finance hub in Asia.

In addition to the net-zero target, the HKMA has mandated that banks must enhance their climate-related disclosures, aligning with international standards such as the International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB) framework. Banks will be required to disclose their transition plans, including decarbonization targets and action plans, starting from 2030.

Why it matters for climate fintech: The HKMA's directives have significant implications for the climate fintech industry. The increasing regulatory focus on climate-related financial risks and the growing demand for sustainable finance solutions will create new opportunities for fintech startups.

Fintechs can help banks collect and integrate a wide range of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) datasets, both conventional such as financial risks and exposures, and non-traditional such as weather patterns, satellite imagery, hazard forecasts, emissions data, and sustainability reports. By incorporating these variables into their risk assessments, banks can gain a comprehensive understanding of their exposure and vulnerabilities, allowing them to devise effective risk mitigation strategies.

Key implications for startups: Climate fintech startups operating in Hong Kong and the broader Asia-Pacific region can benefit from the HKMA's initiatives in several ways:

• Increased demand: The increased focus on sustainable finance will create a surge in demand for climate fintech solutions.

• Regulatory tailwinds: The HKMA's clear regulatory framework can provide a conducive environment for innovation and growth.

• Collaboration opportunities: Partnerships with banks and financial institutions can help startups scale their solutions and reach a wider market.

• Access to capital: The HKMA's support for sustainable finance can attract investment to the climate fintech sector.

🎯 MAS-backed Gprnt launches ESG tools to help SMEs simplify sustainability reporting

✅ Key Insights

• Gprnt’s new tools simplify sustainability reporting for SMEs, corporates, and financial institutions.

• Supported by Ant International, MUFG Bank, GFTN, and Microsoft for scalable implementation.

• Free Disclosure tool helps SMEs report emissions, while the Marketplace connects users with tailored sustainability solutions.

Gprnt, a digital ESG platform launched by the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS), has unveiled its inaugural Disclosure and Marketplace tools. This launch addresses a critical market need: while nearly 80% of businesses in Singapore have expressed readiness to adapt to Singapore’s Green Plan 2030, more than 40% of businesses still face uncertainty about where and how to begin their sustainability journey.

Read more.

🎯57% of Latin American companies lag in sustainability reporting standards, RSM finds

✅ Key Insights

• Only 46% of Latin American companies have formal sustainability policies, with significant disparities between countries.

• Key challenges include C-suite disconnect, lack of training, and difficulty generating and monitoring ESG KPIs.

• Chile and Brazil lead in ESG maturity, while Mexico shows potential for rapid change due to new regulations.

A recent report from RSM International highlights the challenges and opportunities faced by 200 Latin American businesses in adopting International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) S1 and S2 for sustainability. The ESG Latin America Landscape 2024 survey reveals that only 46% of companies in the region have a formal sustainability policy or strategy, indicating a significant gap in ESG commitment.

Read more.

🎯 EIOPA proposes higher capital charges for insurers’ fossil fuel assets

✅ Key Insights

• EIOPA advises additional capital charges for insurers’ fossil fuel assets, proposing up to 17% added capital for stocks and up to 40% for bonds.

• The measures aim to align capital requirements with the heightened transition risks associated with fossil fuel investments, enhancing insurers’ resilience.

• Recommendations include future analysis of non-life underwriting and consideration of social risks, though no specific prudential treatments for social risks are suggested at this stage.

The European Insurance and Occupational Pensions Authority (EIOPA) has released its final report on the prudential treatment of sustainability risks under Solvency II, recommending increased capital requirements for insurers holding fossil fuel assets. This move aims to better reflect the significant transition risks these assets pose and follows a directive from the European Commission to evaluate sustainability risks within insurers’ portfolios.

Read more.

🎯Optera upgrades supply chain tool for enhanced Scope 3 emissions reporting

✅ Key Insights

• Optera’s upgraded Supply Chain Manager now includes more granular supplier data and transparent calculations, aiding companies in meeting regulatory requirements like the EU’s CSRD.

• Enhanced features support faster onboarding, facilitating emissions data access in weeks and streamlined reporting for key frameworks.

• The latest updates emphasize supplier engagement, a necessity as 70% of sustainability professionals focus on decarbonizing their value chains.

Optera, an ESG and carbon management software leader, has released the next generation of its Supply Chain Manager, advancing Scope 3, category 1 emissions management. This update comes as companies face new regulatory pressures, such as the European Union’s Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) and California’s Climate Corporate Data Accountability Act.

Read more.

🎯 UN-backed net-zero asset owner Alliance invests $175 Billion In climate solutions: Report

✅ Key Insights

• Investment in climate solutions surged to $175 billion in 2023

• 81 of the Alliance’s 88 members have committed to intermediate net-zero targets

• The Alliance urges a “decisive shift in policy” to align government actions with net-zero goals, citing a slow global transition despite increased climate investments.

The UN-backed Net-Zero Asset Owner Alliance (NZAOA) reported a record $175 billion investment in climate-focused solutions by its members in 2023, marking a nearly 38% jump from the previous year’s $127 billion. Representing 88 of the world’s leading asset owners, including the California Public Employees’ Retirement System and Allianz SE, the Alliance collectively manages $9.5 trillion in assets.

Read more.

Elon Musk gamble on Trump pays Off – what this means for the EV industry

Musk’s outspoken support, paired with over $118 million in funding to Trump’s campaign efforts, has paid off in Tesla’s favor, with a 15% surge in Tesla trading. Yet, the benefits may extend beyond Tesla, setting a more favorable tone for American EV production. Trump’s re-election could mean streamlined regulatory approaches that support EV infrastructure, such as increased EV manufacturing incentives and reduced foreign competition.

✅ Highlights 

• A Strategic Win for Tesla—and a Boost for U.S. EV Innovation

• Trump-Musk Alignment on Green Initiatives and Efficiency

• The Future of EVs Under a Trump-Musk Era

Elon Musk’s high-stakes gamble to support Trump’s reelection may do more than just boost Tesla’s stock—it could have a positive ripple effect across the entire U.S. EV market. While Trump’s stance on electric vehicles has been mixed in the past, his endorsement of Musk and recent plans for a “government efficiency commission” hint at a potential alignment that could benefit the industry as a whole.

Read more.

Business process automation 101: How to automate workflows

✅ Highlights 

• What is Business Process Automation?

• Top benefits of automating your business processes

• How is BPA different from robotic process automation (RPA)?

According to McKinsey research, 50% of all work can be automated. And the value that business process automation offers is huge. It can save companies anywhere from $10,000 to millions per year, according to Formstack's 2022 State of Digital Maturity report. Read on to learn the compelling benefits of ​​automating your business processes and how to get started.

Read more.

How local partnerships accelerate your startup's growth and compliance

This blog discusses the importance of building local partnerships for startups, especially those in the climate and sustainability sectors, to scale operations while ensuring compliance with regional and international regulations.

https://www.bhuvas-impact.global/post/how-local-partnerships-accelerate-your-startup-s-growth-and-compliance

AI policies, legislation, and regulations in EU and US

This article covers current AI policies and regulatory frameworks in the EU and U.S., providing insights on their impact on sustainability, risk management, and climate fintech solutions.

https://www.bhuvas-impact.global/post/ai-policies-legislation-regulations-eu-us

3 decades, countless boardrooms, one truth: accountability

This blog explores the critical role of accountability in corporate governance and its importance in driving sustainable practices within businesses, particularly for industries aligning with ESG goals.

https://www.bhuvas-impact.global/post/3-decades-countless-boardrooms-one-truth-accountability

🌏 Join my community connecting climate fintech startups with investors.

📰 Share this newsletter with a friend and start to stand out in the executive meetings.

🖇️ Connect with me on LinkedIn for daily insights on expanding into the US market.

🤝 Need a board director? Reach out to me today.