At Finyard, we’re always looking for ways to innovate and lead by example. That’s why we’re thrilled to announce our latest initiative: our new hybrid cars that perfectly align with our core values and brand identity.
Why hybrid?
We chose hybrid vehicles for two key reasons:
Tech innovation: These cars are packed with cutting-edge technology, mirroring the advanced features of our brand.
Sustainability: Hybrid engines significantly reduce emissions, reflecting our commitment to a sustainable future. The 2024 Toyota Hybrid C-HRs we purchased emits only 111gr/km, which is less than half of the equivalent ICE (internal combustion engine) vehicle.
Brand synergy
The selected model isn’t just any car – it’s a statement. Its futuristic design and hybrid technology embody Finyard’s forward-thinking approach to FinTech, technology and sustainability.
Boosting brand awareness
Each car sports the Finyard logo, promoting the brand we are so proud of wherever we go. This strategic move amplifies our brand presence and reinforces our identity as an innovative, sustainable FinTech leader.
Growing together
As Finyard expands, so will our fleet. We’re committed to scaling this initiative alongside our company growth, ensuring our brand remains visible and our values tangible. These vehicles initiative perfectly encapsulates our core values:
People: Providing our amazing team with eco-friendly transportation options.
Ownership: Empowering our team to represent Finyard on the road.
Results: Measurably increasing brand awareness while decreasing our environmental impact.
Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to drive innovation in finance and beyond.
As the world moves towards a more sustainable and socially responsible future, environmental, social, and governance activities are becoming greatly important to businesses. Activities like litter collecting and recycling are helpful in cleaning up the environment and reducing pollution. While donations to local charities and volunteering help alleviate social issues and support the less fortunate in the community. The ESG activities also help promote accountability and responsibility, as well as highlight the importance of ethical business practices.
At Finyard, environmental, social, and governance activities have always been important to us. From day one, giving back to the local communities in which we operate has been a clear goal for us as a company. We truly care, which is why we’re always looking for new ways we can help make a positive environmental and social impact.
Our team has made important donations to local Cypriot charities PASYKAF and Little Heroes, taken part in Movember, and volunteered at William’s Safe Shelter House, a local dog shelter. As a company, we’ve also invested heavily in “going green”. This includes setting up specialised recycling points around our offices, championing reusable cups and plastic in the workplace, and ensuring all company cars are hybrid vehicles.
At Finyard, we are leading by example with our passion and commitment. But in such a fast-paced and innovative industry, it’s when we all come together that the biggest and most positive changes will be made. Collectively, we can help build a brighter future.
Finyard is firmly committed to building community bonds and contributing to the local community through all of our corporate social responsibility activities.
One of our most recent contributions was hosting a clothing collection for The Cyprus Association of Cancer Patients and Friends, PASYKAF.
PASYKAF was founded in 1986 by 21 people to offer cancer patients, their friends and families support services. The organisation has had a long and storied history since then, and has numerous European and international partnerships in place including but not limited to the European Cancer Patient Coalition, Association of European Cancer Leagues and European Society for Medical Oncology.
Since their founding, their group of dedicated and compassionate people has expanded into the thousands. Today, they are an internationally recognised charitable organisation, not only helping with patient care both financially, psychologically and emotionally but also contributing to the efforts of educating people about cancer prevention.
As PASYKAF says on its website, quoting the author Helen Keller, who inspired many, “Alone we can do so little. Together we can do so much.”
In the past, we have also contributed to other local charities including the Little Heroes children’s charity and Movember Cyprus, and volunteered to help William’s Dog Shelter by walking and playing with the rescued pups and donating food and other essentials like beds and blankets.
We are happy to have contributed to these causes, and we look forward to not only working with them again but finding more ways to contribute, reach out and help the local community in Cyprus.
As a tech-focused company, it makes sense that Finyard leverages the power of automation to enable practically effortless data sharing, which helps daily operations run smoother. This is especially important for a company like ours that operates internationally and has team members worldwide.
We do this through the powerful HR software called HiBob, which serves as a performance tracking tool that can help develop and optimise data-driven goals, give managers the information they need to manage and motivate their teams, and share important announcements, updates, and policy changes.
A high level of integration with Slack (our primary internal communication channel) and our primary task management platform, Jira, makes HiBob even more convenient and easy to use. It allows employees and managers to receive real-time notifications, view personnel information (including birthdays and career milestones), and request various types of leave (days off) offered to our employees.
In addition, Finyard’s HR department also uses Greenhouse, a powerful applicant and candidate tracking platform that allows for seamless data sharing between interviewers and internal recruiters.
As automation solutions like HiBob and Greenhouse, machine learning, and AI data management solutions continue to evolve, we are sure they will offer us even more tools we can use to empower not only the growth of our organisation, but also the people who contribute to it daily.
Financial inclusion has become a fundamental goal in today’s financial landscape, with technology and innovation being the driving force behind reshaping the future of finance.
Leading fintech companies like Finyard recognise the importance of fostering financial inclusion and bridging the gap for the financial industry’s future development. By leveraging technological innovations, these companies create financial solutions that promote economic growth and social equity.
The importance of financial inclusion
Financial inclusion focuses on making financial products and services accessible and affordable to everyone, regardless of their net worth or the size of their business. It is all about breaking down barriers across the financial system and ensuring equal financial opportunity across the board.
Proper access to the financial system has the potential to dramatically enhance quality of life, reduce poverty and promote economic development. Thus, financial inclusion is critical for creating a fair and equitable society and fostering a thriving economy.
Such financial services allow individuals or businesses to save money, invest, seek education, improve health, and grow the local economy through starting or expanding businesses –– all while contributing to the greater global economy. This, in turn, leads to increased income and more job creation, further bolstering the economy.
How to make finance accessible to all
By creating financial solutions tailored to a wider population, fintech companies allow a higher level of participation in the financial system, enhance transaction security, and reduce costs. Such products and services can include mobile banking, digital payment systems, user-friendly design, localisation, and more.
Mobile banking and digital payments
One of the most effective ways to enhance financial inclusion is through mobile banking and digital payments. These technologies allow people to access financial services from their smartphones, eliminating the need for physical bank branches. Mobile banking apps offer a wide range of services, from opening accounts to transferring money and paying bills. Digital payments make transactions faster, safer, and more convenient, especially in remote or underserved areas.
User-friendly design
Creating user-friendly financial products is essential for financial inclusion, especially for those that historically haven’t had access to such products. Products with intuitive interfaces and positive user experiences make it easier for people to navigate and utilise such financial services. This is particularly important for individuals who may not be tech-savvy or familiar with complex financial products. Simplifying the user experience ensures that financial services are accessible to the broadest audience possible.
Lower fees
Financial inclusion is most necessary in economically underdeveloped regions that have traditionally lacked financial services. Therefore, high fees can pose a significant barrier for potential users and businesses. Reducing fees or keeping fees to a minimum in general, allow more participation for low-income individuals, small businesses, and more. Low fees can apply to opening accounts, transferring or depositing funds, and/or maintaining minimum balances. Eliminating such a significant barrier via cost reduction can attract more users and a much larger customer base, bolstering financial inclusion.
Localised products and services
Perhaps the least obvious way to promote financial inclusion, is to build all products and services with localisation in mind. Tailoring financial products and services to meet the specific needs of local populations is an effective strategy. This includes offering services in local languages, providing local multilingual customer support, and developing products that cater to the unique financial behaviours and needs of different communities. Understanding and addressing the specific needs of customers improves access and usability of financial services.
Conclusion
In conclusion, financial inclusion is essential for creating a fair, equitable, and thriving society. Fintech companies like Finyard are leading the way in this effort by developing cutting-edge financial solutions that make finance more accessible to all. With focus on technology and innovation, Finyard builds products and services geared toward simplifying financial services. With added attention to localisation, Finyard ensures its products reach a broader audience.
Looking ahead to the future, the continued development and implementation of new technologies will be vital for advancing financial inclusion. By always prioritising inclusivity in product design and development processes, financial institutions can ensure that their services reach and benefit everyone, regardless of their economic status or geographical location.
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives are at the core of Finyard as a company. We’re always looking for new ways to give back to our local communities. As part of that commitment, we’re proud to have donated proceeds from our recent Finyard Connect event to children’s charity, ‘Little Heroes’.
What is ‘Little Heroes’?
‘Little Heroes’ is an amazing children’s charity in Cyprus. It started operations in 2017, and became an officially licensed foundation in 2021. The team at ‘Little Heroes’ is committed to helping local children suffering from cancer and leukaemia, and their families, by providing both financial and psychological support.
To learn more about the foundation and how you can support their efforts, visit their website.
Supporting the local community
We’re proud to have the Finyard headquarters located in Cyprus. The country provides great support for growing businesses. And its rapidly-evolving tech scene attracts the world’s top talent. That’s why we’re so committed to supporting the local community in any way we can.
Our CEO, Dmitrij Pruglo, had this to say about our donation to ‘Little Heroes’, and the importance of CSR at Finyard:
“At Finyard, we fully support the mission and values of the ‘Little Heroes’ foundation. Corporate social responsibility is very close to our hearts, as is supporting the local community here in Cyprus. The opportunity to donate to and help such a worthy cause was one we couldn’t miss out on.”
While Vice President of ‘Little Heroes’, Kostas Pantelides, commented:
“We’re very grateful for Finyard’s donation to ‘Little Heroes’, as it will help us further support local children in their fight against cancer. It is great to see the expanding tech sector giving back to the local community in Cyprus.”
More to come
This is just the latest in a long line of CSR initiatives here at Finyard. With past activities including donations for Movember and to a local dog shelter. And we’re not stopping here! We’ve already got some things planned for the future, like blood donations, as we continue to find new ways to help support our community.
We’re proud to announce that Finyard has become a member of Techisland, a non-profit organisation seeking to make Cyprus a global hub for tech talent. We’re joining a community of over 300 of the most innovative companies on the island, and together we’ll help the local tech sector grow to new and exciting heights.
Accelerating technological growth and innovation
Becoming a member of Techisland is about more than just ‘joining the club’. With Finyard headquartered in Cyprus, we’re committed to helping the local tech sector grow and challenge among Europe’s elite. This is a mission we and Techisland share; to turn Cyprus into a world class destination for the best in tech talent. The non-profit’s objectives include:
Giving a voice to the local tech industry
Improving living conditions to attract world-class talent
Raising awareness around tech-based opportunities in Cyprus
Supporting the development of the local tech ecosystem
Creating long-lasting impact on society through coordinated CSR campaigns
We’re really excited about the journey ahead, and can’t wait for all the amazing things we and the other members of Techisland will achieve in the coming years. Here’s to making an impact, together!
Finyard CEO, Dmitrij Pruglo, commented:
“Joining Techisland is a good step towards our ultimate goal; helping make Cyprus a #1 destination for tech talent from all over the world. At Finyard, we’ve always understood the potential of the island, which is why we based our HQ here. And with the hard work that non-profits like Techisland have been doing, I’m sure that potential will be realised soon.”
The FinTech world is a vast ocean of innovation and Dmitrij Pruglo, CEO of Finyard, stands as a beacon of knowledge in this ever-changing landscape. This article is a voyage through the books and TED Talks that have shaped his understanding and vision in FinTech.
Influential FinTech Books
“The Innovator’s Dilemma” by Clayton M. Christensen
Pruglo’s Insight: This book’s exploration of how successful companies can fail to adapt to disruptive technologies resonates deeply with Pruglo. He values its lesson on the necessity of embracing innovation, mirroring Finyard’s ethos of continuous evolution in the FinTech space.
“Bank 4.0” by Brett King
Pruglo’s Insight: Pruglo sees King’s discussion on the future of banking in the digital era as a blueprint for Finyard’s vision. The book’s alignment with digital transformation and staying ahead of technology trends is a cornerstone of Finyard’s strategy.
“Blockchain Revolution” by Don Tapscott and Alex Tapscott
Pruglo’s Insight: Essential for understanding the transformative potential of blockchain, this book is a keystone in Pruglo’s library. Its insights into blockchain’s impact across industries echo Finyard’s commitment to this revolutionary technology.
“The Lean Startup” by Eric Ries
Pruglo’s Insight: Ries’ methodology for rapid and iterative product development strikes a chord with Pruglo. He endorses its approach to agility and responsiveness, reflecting Finyard’s agile and dynamic development process.
“Digital Bank” by Chris Skinner
Pruglo’s Insight: Pruglo values Skinner’s strategies for digital banking as a roadmap for both traditional banks and FinTech firms navigating the digital age. The book offers a comprehensive view of the evolving landscape that Finyard aims to shape.
“The Bitcoin Standard” by Saifedean Ammous
Pruglo’s Insight: Ammous’ analysis of Bitcoin’s role in the financial world is a topic of great interest at Finyard. Pruglo highlights the book’s insights into the revolutionary potential of cryptocurrencies.
“The Fintech Book” by Susanne Chishti and Janos Barberis
Pruglo’s Insight: Offering a collective wisdom of FinTech innovators, this book is recommended by Pruglo for its broad perspectives on FinTech innovation, aligning with Finyard’s diverse approach to technology.
“Machine, Platform, Crowd: Harnessing Our Digital Future” by Andrew McAfee and Erik Brynjolfsson
Pruglo’s Insight: Pruglo considers this book critical for understanding the balance of power in the digital economy. Its insights into the roles of machines, platforms, and crowds are integral to Finyard’s strategic approach.
“Fintech in a Flash: Financial Technology Made Easy” by Agustin Rubini
Pruglo’s Insight: A comprehensive primer for those new to FinTech, Pruglo finds Rubini’s book an invaluable encapsulation of the industry’s key concepts and trends, perfect for those embarking on a FinTech journey.
“The End of Banking: Money, Credit, and the Digital Revolution” by Jonathan McMillan
Pruglo’s Insight: This visionary take on the future of finance resonates with Pruglo’s belief in innovation. The book’s discussion on the shift away from traditional banking systems aligns with Finyard’s mission to redefine financial services.
TED Talks for FinTech enthusiasts
“How the Blockchain is Changing Money and Business” by Don Tapscott
Pruglo’s Insight: Pruglo regards this talk as a pivotal guide to understanding blockchain’s far-reaching capabilities. He believes Tapscott’s insights into blockchain’s transformative role in finance are essential for anyone in FinTech, reflecting Finyard’s deep commitment to exploring blockchain applications.
“The Future of Money” by Neha Narula
Pruglo’s Insight: Pruglo finds Narula’s exploration of digital currencies and their impact on the future of finance particularly enlightening. He views this talk as crucial for understanding the evolving landscape of digital finance, resonating with Finyard’s vision for leveraging digital currencies.
“What’s Wrong with Our Monetary System and How to Fix It” by Simon Dixon
Pruglo’s Insight: Pruglo values Dixon’s critique of the current financial system and the exploration of FinTech’s role in rectifying its flaws. He believes this talk is instrumental in understanding the challenges and opportunities facing the financial industry, aligning with Finyard’s mission to innovate within the financial sector.
“The Power of Financial Inclusion” by Ami Dalal
Pruglo’s Insight: Pruglo sees Dalal’s talk on financial inclusion as a cornerstone in understanding FinTech’s potential to bridge service gaps for underserved communities. This aligns with Finyard’s goal of creating inclusive financial solutions that cater to a broader demographic.
“Building Trust in a Digital Age” by Rachel Botsman
Pruglo’s Insight: Trust in the digital economy, as discussed by Botsman, resonates strongly with Pruglo’s philosophy. He considers this talk essential for anyone in FinTech, highlighting the crucial role of trust in building sustainable digital financial services, a principle that is central to Finyard’s approach.
Blending insights with recommendations: a holistic approach to knowledge
Dmitrij Pruglo’s book and TED Talk selections are more than just a list; they are a mosaic of insights and wisdom. Each selection is chosen not only for its subject matter expertise but for the broader lessons they impart about the societal impacts and ethical considerations of financial technology.
Pruglo’s approach in recommending these works is deeply intertwined with his philosophy: understanding the technology is just the beginning; grasping its potential to reshape societies, economies, and lives is where the true journey begins.
He encourages budding professionals and seasoned experts alike to look beyond the surface of FinTech innovation and explore its deeper implications.
Fostering a culture of curiosity and lifelong learning
At Finyard, the cultivation of a learning culture goes beyond mere encouragement; it is an intrinsic part of the company’s DNA.
Pruglo’s leadership style is a testament to this ethos. He doesn’t just advocate for continuous learning; he embodies it, actively participating in discussions on the latest industry reads and thought-provoking talks.
This culture of curiosity extends across the organisation, where knowledge sharing isn’t just a practice but a norm that drives innovation.
In Pruglo’s vision, every team member is both a learner and a teacher, contributing to a vibrant ecosystem of ideas and insights.
Embracing the unending journey of learning in FinTech
Dmitrij Pruglo’s extended list of books and TED Talks is not just a resource; it’s a roadmap for anyone seeking to navigate the complex world of FinTech.
In Pruglo’s words, “In the dynamic world of FinTech, one must continually evolve to lead.” This mantra resonates through Finyard’s corridors, reminding us that the journey of learning is endless, and those who embrace this path will not only lead but also illuminate the way for others in the ever-evolving FinTech landscape.
In the fast-paced world of FinTech, standing still means falling behind. Companies must foster a culture of continuous learning to stay competitive and equip teams with the latest knowledge and skills. This commitment to growth and expertise fuels innovation that solves new challenges.
Finyard’s robust training programs
Finyard, a pioneering software solutions provider, recognises learning’s imperative. Though a young company, it has quickly implemented robust training initiatives. Workshops, external courses, conferences – Finyard invests substantially in professional development. Employees enjoy flexible learning pathways catered to their goals. Language courses are also fully covered for any employee looking to study a new language, for example.
The company also empowers employee-driven learning. Workers freely collaborate and exchange perspectives. Seasoned team members mentor new hires. Leadership recognises all talent and potential. They encourage creativity, exploration and bold thinking. Additional qualification improvement courses and further education opportunities are available to all employees starting from their second year of employment.
Stories of learning in action
This culture has already benefited many Finyard team members:
Katrina, a Junior Developer, leverages diverse learning resources. She attends coding workshops and online tutorials to strengthen technical skills. When tackling a complex client project, she consulted senior architects. Their guidance helped her contribute meaningfully while expanding her capabilities.
For Gabriel, an Analytics Manager, Finyard funded his certificate in data science from a top university. Applying these enhanced data skills, he pioneered an AI model that reduces client risk. His innovation may soon become a commercial offering.
Angela, a Marketing Associate, attends global FinTech conferences to absorb cutting-edge trends. Recently she presented new outreach strategies to the Executive team. Several of her proposals have increased engagement. She also coaches interns to help them grow.
These stories exhibit Finyard’s learning culture bearing fruit. Employees gain more knowledge, skills and confidence to drive solutions. Their continuous growth lifts collective performance. This empowers both workers and companies to reach fuller potential.
Benefits for company culture and clients
Learning initiatives also build camaraderie and the sense of a shared mission. Teams bond while acquiring new skills, fostering collaboration. Employees feel valued through professional development investments. This drives engagement, innovation and retention.
Ultimately, a commitment to continuous learning signals strategic vision. Every workshop, conference or training session keeps Finyard on technology’s cutting edge. It helps the company deliver excellence to clients and the industry.
FinTech firms take note
Other FinTech firms should take note. Learning is not a luxury or a nice-to-have. It is oxygen for innovation and essential to survive. Companies must empower people to regularly develop abilities that position their organisation for sustainable success.
The barrier to entry for financial services shrinks daily. Solutions once impossible are now expected. To meet escalating client demands over time requires equipping talent with the latest perspectives, knowledge and skills.
This means dedicating capital and resources. But more fundamentally, it means nurturing a culture that celebrates growth, collaboration and exploration. Every team member should feel confident to learn continuously while spreading that learning across the organisation.
Knowledge compounds exponentially when shared. This is why Finyard’s professional development extends beyond its own walls through conferences, open-source projects and community outreach.
Looking ahead
FinTech moves fast. But when a company runs even faster toward new ideas, bolstered by people constantly gaining new skills, they can lead disruption rather than react to it.
If the goal is excellence, there is no finish line. And on this endless journey of individual and collective growth, Finyard is already miles ahead.
The company’s commitment to continuous learning for current and future team members will only compound its edge going forward. What investment could be wiser than nurturing talents and empowering them to reach their peak potential each day? This quest for excellence never ceases. And Finyard welcomes fellow travellers on this lifelong journey of growth.
Technology has long been a catalyst for positive change. From the printing press increasing literacy, to vaccines eradicating disease, to the internet connecting people across borders, humanity’s inventions have aimed to improve lives.
FinTech is no different. Mobile payments bring financial services to the unbanked. Digital advisors make investing accessible to all. Blockchain allows to transfer monetary values in matter of seconds and digitalize ownership of almost any physical asset. The potential for technology to spread prosperity knows no bounds.
Yet purpose must remain at the core. This is the Finyard mission. Without ethical guidance, technological progress can falter. Profit can eclipse people. Convenience can compromise conscience.
FinTech making a difference
Technology has already fundamentally improved our daily life.
Email allows instant communication across the globe for free, strengthening connections.
Ridesharing services like Uber provide affordable, convenient urban transportation options.
Home rental platforms like Airbnb enable new income streams and foster cultural exchange.
Challenger banks like Revolut simplify money management, saving users time and fees.
These innovations have become so ingrained that it’s hard to imagine a world without them.
Finyard, an innovative software solutions provider, seeks to build on the countless examples of how applications and services are already making a meaningful, tangible difference improving lives across the globe. These existing FinTech solutions inspire Finyard’s vision of positive technological change, including:
Microlending platforms that empower entrepreneurs in developing nations to access capital and grow their businesses. This stimulates economic activity and creates jobs.
Automated advice services that lower the barriers to investing, allowing anyone to grow their wealth, promoting financial inclusivity.
Biometric ID systems that give refugees without documentation access to financial services. This provides stability and safety for vulnerable populations.
Mobile wallets that allow the unbanked to store and transfer funds securely using just their phones, increasing financial access.
Remittance services that enable inexpensive cross-border money transfers, helping support families back home.
Crowdfunding platforms that let socially conscious startups raise capital from a wider pool of investors.
Donation processing systems that provide transparency around how charitable contributions are used, building trust.
Compliance automation tools that help detect financial crimes to prevent money laundering and fraud.
While the FinTech industry already offers uplifting examples of positive technological change, Finyard seeks to leave its own unique and forward-thinking mark on driving human progress.
Pruglo’s vision
Dmitrij Pruglo, CEO of Finyard, understands this delicately balanced dichotomy. For him, FinTech presents a monumental opportunity to lift up humanity. But only if moral imperatives steer the ship.
Pruglo’s motivations stem from experience. Having experience from major financial institutions, he witnessed technology’s benefits firsthand. Transactions became seamless, costs plummeted, access widened.
Technology has seen investing apps evolve. Not only providing low-cost access to major financial markets, but also a wider range of assets, for investors to diversify their portfolios, and help improve returns. Innovation has made emerging markets, previously only accessible to hedge funds and major financial institutions, available to all.
FinTech apps have become more user-friendly, leading to the democratisation of the whole financial system. This has made it easier, even for the least tech-savvy people, to bank or invest, without even having to leave home. No more waiting in queues – technology allows us to save time, the most precious commodity we have.
Then there’s social investing or copy trading, which allow inexperienced users to profit from the global financial markets, simply by relying on the knowledge of more experienced investors, lowering the barrier to entry.
But he also saw how FinTech could do more. How applications could simplify lives beyond finances. How ethics could parallel efficiency.
This sparked an epiphany. Technological innovation and human progress need not be mutually exclusive. With conscientious leadership, FinTech could drive societal change, not just economic returns.
Pruglo realised companies like his possessed immense power – and responsibility. The solutions they created impacted millions. Their words resonated globally. From this privilege came the duty to speak for good.
Thus he vowed Finyard would blaze a trail, showcasing FinTech’s promise to propel humanity forward. Code became more than a competitive edge; it became a change agent.
Leading with purpose
This philosophy now embodies all Finyard pursues. For Pruglo, this constitutes enlightened self-interest. Doing good does well – rising tides lift all ships. But that should not be the incentive. As FinTech gains influence, its leaders must ask, “How can we help?” Progress means little if people are left behind.
Pruglo challenges our industry to live these ideals. To forge technology that serves humankind, not just shareholders. To measure success not by the numbers, but by the lives changed. To believe, as he does, that FinTech can make the world better.
A call to action
The industry must pledge itself to ethical innovation that lifts up lives. To judge success not by balance sheets, but by the light spread. To unleash FinTech’s full promise as a change agent.
FinTech harbours huge potential for human betterment. But only if people remain the priority. If so, a brighter future awaits. Dmitrij Pruglo and Finyard will lead the way. Who will join them? Learn more at the official Finyard website.
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