Swift, innovation and the evolution of cross border payments
05 March, 2025
The Future of Trading
In the latest episode of FinTech Focus TV, Toby welcomes Rebecca Healey and Matt Coupe, Co-Chairs of FIX EMEA, to discuss the upcoming FIX EMEA Trading Conference and the evolving landscape of trading, data standards, and fintech innovation. This episode offers an in-depth look into the challenges, opportunities, and future of electronic trading, making it a must-watch for professionals in the FinTech and financial services sectors.
Exploring the Evolution of FIX EMEA Trading Conference
Toby kicks off the episode with enthusiasm, highlighting the significance of the FIX EMEA Trading Conference, which has become a cornerstone event in the fintech calendar. Rebecca and Matt share their excitement about the new venue, strategically located next to the London Stock Exchange, promising an even bigger and better event than previous years. With cutting-edge facilities and a diverse agenda, this year’s conference aims to address the most pressing issues in trading, from data standardisation to the integration of artificial intelligence (AI).
Rebecca emphasises that while many of the themes remain consistent—such as addressable liquidity and data normalisation—the rapid advancement of technology, particularly AI, has intensified the importance of these discussions. The conference will focus on how clean, standardised data can drive meaningful insights and support the adoption of AI in trading.
The Lifeblood of Trading: Data Standards and Innovation
Data has always been at the heart of trading, but as Matt points out, it’s now more critical than ever. The FIX EMEA Trading Conference will delve into the role of data standards in facilitating efficient trading and ensuring liquidity. Topics like Tag 74, Tag 36, and Tag 3031 will be explored in detail, underscoring the technical nuances that industry professionals need to understand.
Rebecca highlights the "back to basics" approach the conference is adopting, but with a modern twist. With the influx of AI and machine learning technologies, having robust data standards isn’t just beneficial—it’s essential. Without high-quality, standardised data, AI initiatives in trading are likely to falter. This perspective sets the stage for in-depth panel discussions on how the industry can evolve to meet these challenges.
Addressing Industry Challenges: Budgets, Innovation, and Regulation
One of the key themes Rebecca and Matt discuss is the balancing act between innovation and budget constraints. As Matt notes, many firms are grappling with limited resources while trying to stay ahead in a rapidly evolving market. The conference aims to provide actionable insights, helping firms justify investments in new technologies and navigate the complexities of modern trading.
The episode also touches on the role of regulators in shaping the future of trading. With significant political changes and evolving regulatory landscapes, staying compliant while fostering innovation is a delicate balance. The FIX EMEA Trading Conference will feature panels with leading regulators from across Europe, offering attendees a comprehensive view of upcoming regulatory changes and their potential impact on the market.
The Rise of NextGen: Fostering New Talent in FinTech
A standout topic in this episode is the focus on NextGen talent. Rebecca and Matt are passionate about nurturing the next generation of trading professionals. The conference will feature dedicated panels and networking opportunities for young professionals, aiming to break down barriers and foster a more inclusive industry.
Matt shares insights into the NextGen initiative, which FIX EMEA has been actively promoting. This programme not only provides young professionals with opportunities to network and learn but also gives them a platform to voice their ideas. By involving NextGen talent in panel discussions and mentoring programmes, FIX EMEA is helping to cultivate the future leaders of the fintech industry.
Artificial Intelligence in Trading: Hype or Reality?
AI is one of the hottest topics in fintech, and this episode doesn’t shy away from diving deep into its implications for trading. Rebecca recounts her recent trip to New York, where she attended a roundtable on AI in trading. She shares key takeaways, emphasising that while AI offers tremendous potential, its success hinges on having the right data and connectivity.
The conference will feature a dedicated panel on AI, exploring how the technology is transforming trading strategies, enhancing analytics, and improving decision-making processes. Discussions will also address the "elephant in the room"—the fear of job displacement due to AI. Toby and his guests explore how AI is more about augmenting human capabilities than replacing jobs. The goal is to use AI to enhance efficiency, drive innovation, and unlock new opportunities within the industry.
The Importance of Impartiality and Collaboration
One of the unique aspects of the FIX EMEA Trading Conference, as highlighted in the episode, is its commitment to impartiality. Toby, Rebecca, and Matt discuss how the conference serves as a neutral platform where industry professionals can engage in meaningful dialogue without pushing specific agendas.
Rebecca emphasises the importance of collaboration, noting that the conference aims to bring together diverse voices—from buy-side and sell-side firms to regulators and technology vendors. This inclusive approach ensures that the discussions are well-rounded and focused on solving real industry challenges.
DeFi, Carbon Markets, and the Expanding FIX Arena
In addition to traditional trading topics, the FIX EMEA Trading Conference is expanding its focus to include emerging areas like Decentralised Finance (DeFi) and carbon markets. Rebecca and Matt explain that this shift reflects the evolving nature of the financial markets and the growing importance of sustainability and innovation.
Panels on DeFi will explore how decentralised technologies are impacting trading, while sessions on carbon markets will delve into how financial institutions can engage in sustainable trading practices. By broadening its scope, FIX EMEA aims to stay ahead of industry trends and provide attendees with a comprehensive view of the trading landscape.
Building the Agenda: Topics That Matter
Toby delves into the process of building the conference agenda, highlighting how FIX EMEA ensures that the topics covered are both relevant and forward-thinking. Rebecca and Matt explain that they work closely with industry stakeholders to identify the most pressing issues and emerging trends.
This year’s agenda is designed to offer something for everyone, whether you’re interested in equities, fixed income, AI, or DeFi. The conference will also feature interactive sessions, allowing attendees to engage directly with experts and participate in meaningful discussions.
The FIX EMEA Trading Conference: A Must-Attend Event
As the episode wraps up, Toby, Rebecca, and Matt emphasise the value of attending the FIX EMEA Trading Conference. Scheduled for 6th March at a brand-new venue next to the London Stock Exchange, the conference promises to be a landmark event for the fintech and trading communities.
Tickets are available through the FIX Trading Community website, with special options for FIX members, technology professionals, and NextGen participants. With record numbers expected, attendees are encouraged to register early to secure their spots.
Toby highlights the unique atmosphere of the conference, which combines high-level discussions with practical insights and networking opportunities. From panel sessions and keynote speeches to interactive workshops and social events, the FIX EMEA Trading Conference offers a comprehensive experience for anyone involved in financial services, trading, or fintech.
Defining the Future of FinTech
This episode of FinTech Focus TV offers an insightful preview of the upcoming FIX EMEA Trading Conference, shedding light on the key themes and discussions that will shape the future of trading. Rebecca Healey and Matt Coupe provide a compelling look at the challenges and opportunities facing the industry, from data standardisation and AI integration to fostering NextGen talent and promoting sustainability.
For anyone involved in fintech recruitment, trading technology, or the broader financial services sector, this episode—and the upcoming conference—are invaluable resources. As a leading FinTech recruitment business, Harrington Starr is proud to support initiatives like the FIX EMEA Trading Conference that drive innovation and collaboration within the industry.
This episode of FinTech Focus TV featuring Rebecca Healey and Matt Coupe from FIX EMEA perfectly aligns with Harrington Starr’s mission as a leading FinTech recruitment firm. The discussion highlights key themes that are deeply relevant to the talent landscape in financial technology, particularly the focus on data standardisation, AI integration, and the nurturing of NextGen talent—areas where Harrington Starr actively places candidates and supports firms in sourcing the right expertise.
As Rebecca and Matt emphasise the growing importance of clean, standardised data and AI-driven innovation, Harrington Starr plays a vital role in connecting companies with top talent skilled in these technologies. The conversation around NextGen also mirrors Harrington Starr's dedication to fostering new talent in FinTech, ensuring that future leaders are supported and mentored.
Moreover, the episode’s emphasis on collaboration, education, and impartiality reflects Harrington Starr’s commitment to being more than just a recruitment firm—it’s about being a trusted advisor and a key player in the FinTech ecosystem. By engaging in conversations like these, Harrington Starr stays at the forefront of industry trends, enabling them to better serve both clients and candidates.
If you're attending the FIX EMEA Trading Conference, be sure to connect with the Harrington Starr team. Whether you're looking to expand your FinTech team or exploring new career opportunities, we'd love to discuss how we can help you achieve your goals.
Join us at our booth on the day of the event, where we’ll be connecting with industry leaders and interviewing speakers live for both of our podcasts. Stop by to meet the team, watch the interviews in action, and get involved in the conversation shaping the future of FinTech.
