Digital Payments Speakers

A digital payments speaker is someone who specializes in communicating the trends, technologies, and transformations shaping how money moves in the digital age. They're not just tech-savvy - they're translators of innovation, helping audiences understand everything from mobile wallets to blockchain-based settlements.

At their core, these speakers bridge the gap between financial technology and real-world application. Whether they're talking about how QR codes are revolutionizing payments in India or explaining the rise of Buy Now, Pay Later in Western markets, their job is to make complex systems accessible and actionable.

Digital payments speakers often come from diverse backgrounds: some are fintech founders, others are economists, policy advisors, or product leaders at companies like Stripe, Square, or PayPal. What unites them is their ability to contextualize change - not just what's happening, but why it matters.

They speak at conferences, webinars, podcasts, and corporate events, tailoring their message to different audiences. A talk for a group of e-commerce entrepreneurs might focus on cross-border payment friction, while a keynote at a banking summit could dive into regulatory shifts around digital currencies.

In short, a digital payments speaker is your go-to guide for navigating the fast-evolving world of financial transactions - and understanding how it impacts your business, your customers, and the global economy.

The world of payments is evolving faster than most businesses can keep up with - and that's exactly where a digital payments speaker comes in. They help demystify the noise and spotlight what actually matters.

When you bring in a digital payments speaker, you're not just adding a name to your agenda. You're giving your audience a roadmap. Whether it's a startup founder trying to choose a payment gateway or a policymaker exploring CBDCs, the right speaker can break down the implications in a way that's clear, relevant, and forward-thinking.

These speakers are especially crucial in moments of transition. Think about the pandemic-driven surge in contactless payments, or the regulatory shifts around crypto in the EU. A digital payments speaker can help contextualize these changes, offering both macro trends and micro strategies.

They also bring credibility. When someone who's worked with global platforms like Alipay or Visa speaks on stage, people listen. Their insights can validate your event, attract a wider audience, and spark meaningful conversations.

And let's not overlook the ripple effect. A great speaker doesn't just inform - they inspire action. That could mean a business owner finally adopting digital invoicing, or a developer building the next wallet app. Either way, the impact goes far beyond the talk itself.

Digital payments speakers do more than just talk about money - they decode the systems, technologies, and behaviors shaping how we transact in the 21st century. Here's a closer look at what they actually do:

1. Educate Diverse Audiences.
- They explain complex topics like tokenization, real-time payments, or open banking in ways that resonate with non-experts.
- For example, a speaker might walk a room of small business owners through how to reduce cart abandonment by optimizing checkout flows.

2. Analyze Trends and Forecasts.
- They interpret data and market signals to highlight where digital payments are headed.
- Whether it's the rise of embedded finance in Latin America or the impact of AI on fraud detection, they connect the dots.

3. Share Global and Local Case Studies.
- They bring in examples from around the world - like how Kenya's M-Pesa transformed rural commerce or how Sweden is nearly cashless.
- These stories help audiences see what's possible in their own context.

4. Inspire Strategic Action.
- They don't just inform - they challenge assumptions and encourage innovation.
- A corporate audience might leave ready to pilot a new payment method. A startup founder might rethink their monetization model.

5. Facilitate Dialogue.
- Many speakers also moderate panels, lead workshops, or host fireside chats.
- They create space for meaningful conversations between stakeholders - from regulators to developers to end users.

In essence, digital payments speakers are educators, analysts, and catalysts. They help people understand not just how digital payments work, but why they matter - and what to do next.

Becoming a digital payments speaker isn't just about knowing the tech - it's about communicating it in a way that resonates. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you break into the space:

1. Build Your Expertise in Digital Payments
- Start by immersing yourself in the ecosystem: fintech trends, blockchain, mobile wallets, cross-border payments, and regulatory frameworks.
- Follow industry leaders like Elizabeth Rossiello (CEO of AZA Finance) or Jack Dorsey (Block, formerly Square).
- Take courses or certifications from platforms like Coursera or the Digital Frontiers Institute.

2. Develop a Unique Point of View
- What makes your perspective different? Maybe you've worked in emerging markets, or you're focused on financial inclusion.
- Craft a signature talk or framework. For example, 'The 3 Pillars of Secure Cross-Border Payments' or 'How Gen Z is Redefining Mobile Wallets'.

3. Create a Speaker Page
- Use platforms like Talks.co to build a professional speaker profile. Include your bio, topics, testimonials, and a short video reel.
- Make it easy for event organizers to find and book you.

4. Start Small, Then Scale
- Speak at local meetups, fintech webinars, or industry panels. Record everything.
- Use those clips to pitch to larger conferences like Money20/20, Finovate, or regional banking summits.

5. Network with Hosts and Other Speakers
- Join speaker communities on LinkedIn or Talks.co.
- Reach out to podcast hosts or virtual summit organizers. Offer to guest speak on topics like 'The Future of Real-Time Payments' or 'Crypto vs. CBDCs'.

6. Keep Evolving
- The payments space moves fast. Stay updated and refresh your content regularly.
- Subscribe to industry newsletters like The Fintech Times or PYMNTS.com.

By following these steps, you'll not only position yourself as a digital payments speaker but also build a sustainable speaking career in one of the fastest-growing sectors in the world.

To be a digital payments speaker, you need more than just a grasp of fintech jargon. You need a blend of subject matter expertise, communication skills, and market awareness. Let's break it down:

Subject Matter Expertise
You need to understand how digital payments work across different environments. This includes:
- Payment gateways, APIs, and transaction flows.
- Regulatory compliance (like PSD2 in Europe or UPI in India).
- Trends like embedded finance, BNPL (Buy Now Pay Later), and crypto payments.

Presentation and Communication Skills
You could be a genius in blockchain, but if you can't explain it clearly, you'll lose your audience. Great speakers:
- Use storytelling to make complex topics relatable.
- Tailor their message to different audiences (e.g., banks vs. startups).
- Practice regularly and refine their delivery.

Credibility and Visibility
You need to show that you've walked the walk. This could mean:
- Having worked in fintech, banking, or e-commerce.
- Publishing thought leadership articles.
- Creating a speaker page on Talks.co to showcase your expertise and availability.

Networking and Access to Events
Many speaking gigs come from relationships. Connect with:
- Event organizers on LinkedIn.
- Hosts on Talks.co who are looking for expert guests.
- Communities like Fintech Today or Women in Fintech.

Tech Setup for Virtual Speaking
In today's hybrid world, you'll also need:
- A good microphone and webcam.
- A clean, branded background.
- Presentation tools like Canva, Prezi, or OBS Studio.

Being a digital payments speaker is about combining deep knowledge with the ability to educate and inspire. If you can do both, you're already ahead of the curve.

Yes, digital payments speakers do get paid, but how much and how often depends on several variables. Let's analyze the landscape:
Factors That Influence Payment
- Experience Level: New speakers may speak for free or for travel reimbursement, while seasoned experts can command thousands per talk.
- Event Type: Corporate keynotes and industry conferences typically pay more than webinars or community events.
- Geography: Speakers in North America and Europe often earn more than those in emerging markets, though virtual events are leveling the field.
Payment Ranges
- Entry-level: $0 to $500 per talk.
- Mid-tier: $1,000 to $5,000 per engagement.
- High-profile: $10,000 to $50,000+ for keynote speakers at global fintech events.
Pros of Paid Speaking
- Builds authority and credibility.
- Generates leads for consulting or product sales.
- Offers global exposure, especially via platforms like Talks.co.
Cons
- Not all events pay, especially virtual summits or early-stage conferences.
- Payment terms can vary widely (net 30, net 60, etc.).
Comparison Table

Speaker Type	Avg. Fee per Talk	Typical Audience Size
Newcomer	$0 - $500	50 - 200
Mid-level Expert	$1,000 - $5,000	200 - 1,000
Industry Leader	$10,000+	1,000+

So yes, digital payments speakers do get paid - but the range is wide and depends heavily on your positioning, niche, and visibility.

Digital payments speakers have multiple income streams, and the smartest ones diversify. Here's a breakdown of how they monetize their expertise:

1. Speaking Fees
- This is the most direct route. Speakers charge for keynotes, panels, and workshops.
- Rates vary based on experience, audience size, and event prestige.

2. Sponsored Talks or Brand Partnerships
- Fintech companies often sponsor speakers to represent them at events.
- Example: A speaker might be paid by a digital wallet provider to discuss 'The Future of Contactless Payments' at a global summit.

3. Consulting and Advisory Roles
- After a talk, companies may approach speakers for deeper engagement.
- This could include product strategy, go-to-market planning, or compliance advisory.

4. Online Courses and Webinars
- Speakers often create digital products to scale their knowledge.
- Platforms like Teachable or Udemy are popular, or they may host paid webinars via Zoom.

5. Books and Publications
- Publishing a book on digital payments can lead to passive income and more speaking gigs.
- Example: 'The Cashless Revolution' by Martin Chorzempa boosted his visibility in the space.

6. Affiliate and Referral Income
- Some speakers monetize by referring tools, platforms, or fintech services.
- For example, referring clients to a payment gateway provider could earn a commission.

7. Hosting Events or Summits
- Some speakers flip the model and become hosts themselves.
- Using platforms like Zoom they bring together other experts and monetize through ticket sales or sponsorships.

In short, digital payments speakers don't just rely on the stage. They build ecosystems around their brand to generate income from multiple angles.

The income of digital payments speakers varies widely, depending on their niche, experience, and how they structure their business. Let's break it down with some real-world context:
Entry-Level Speakers
- These are professionals just entering the speaking circuit.
- They may earn between $0 and $1,000 per event.
- Often speak at local meetups, webinars, or internal company events.
Mid-Tier Speakers
- These speakers have a few years of experience and a defined niche (e.g., CBDCs in Africa, or mobile payments in Southeast Asia).
- They typically earn $2,000 to $7,500 per talk.
- They may also earn from consulting or digital products.
Top-Tier Speakers
- These are industry veterans or thought leaders with global recognition.
- They can command $10,000 to $50,000+ per keynote.
- Often speak at events like Money20/20, Singapore Fintech Festival, or Davos.
Annual Income Potential

Speaker Level	Avg. Talks/Year	Avg. Fee	Total Income (Speaking Only)
Entry	10	$500	$5,000
Mid-Tier	20	$4,000	$80,000
Top-Tier	30	$20,000	$600,000

Additional Revenue
- Courses, books, and consulting can double or triple total income.
- Some speakers use Talks.co to land consistent gigs and grow their brand.
So while some digital payments speakers treat it as a side hustle, others turn it into a six- or even seven-figure business.

Hiring a digital payments speaker can cost anywhere from a few hundred dollars to tens of thousands, depending on several factors. Here's a breakdown to help you understand the pricing landscape:
1. Experience and Reputation
- New or Emerging Speakers: $500 - $2,000 per talk.
- Established Experts: $3,000 - $10,000.
- High-Profile Thought Leaders: $15,000 - $50,000+.
2. Event Type and Format
- Virtual Events: Often cheaper due to no travel or lodging. Expect 20-40% lower fees.
- In-Person Conferences: Higher costs due to logistics and time commitment.
- Workshops or Training Sessions: May charge by the hour or day (e.g., $2,000/day to $10,000/day).
3. Customization and Prep Time
- If the speaker needs to tailor content for your audience or industry, expect higher fees.
- For example, a talk on 'Digital Payments in Latin America' tailored for a regional bank will cost more than a generic keynote.
4. Location and Travel
- International events may include travel fees or require business-class flights and accommodations.
5. Booking Platform
- Booking through Talks.co or a speaker bureau may include platform fees or bundled services (e.g., promotion, tech setup).
Sample Cost Table

Speaker Type	Virtual Talk	In-Person Talk	Workshop (1 Day)
Newcomer	$500	$1,000	$2,000
Mid-Level Expert	$2,500	$5,000	$7,500
Industry Leader	$10,000+	$20,000+	$25,000+

Hiring a digital payments speaker is an investment in insight and credibility. Choose based on your goals, audience, and budget.

Here's a list of some of the most impactful digital payments speakers to date. These individuals have shaped the conversation globally:

- Chris Skinner: Author of 'Digital Bank' and a frequent keynote speaker on the future of banking and payments.
- Elizabeth Rossiello: CEO of AZA Finance, known for her insights on cross-border payments in Africa.
- Brett King: Futurist and founder of Moven, he's a regular on the global fintech stage.
- Dave Birch: Renowned for his work on digital identity and payments innovation.
- Neha Narula: Director of the Digital Currency Initiative at MIT, she speaks on crypto and central bank digital currencies (CBDCs).
- Jack Dorsey: While not a traditional speaker, his talks at events like Bitcoin 2021 have had massive influence.
- Sheila Warren: Former head of blockchain at the World Economic Forum, now CEO of the Crypto Council for Innovation.
- Chris Gledhill: Known for his provocative takes on the future of finance and digital disruption.
- Angela Strange: General Partner at Andreessen Horowitz, she's spoken extensively on embedded finance and the infrastructure of payments.
- Ramesh Siromani: A lesser-known but respected voice in Southeast Asia's digital payments evolution.

These speakers have not only delivered powerful talks but also influenced policy, product design, and public perception of digital payments.

Looking for the top digital payments speakers right now? These individuals are currently leading conversations at global events, summits, and virtual stages:

- Simon Taylor: Co-founder of 11:FS and a go-to speaker on fintech infrastructure and open banking.
- Scarlett Sieber: A global voice in digital transformation and fintech partnerships, often featured at Money20/20.
- Michael Casey: Chief Content Officer at CoinDesk, he's a regular speaker on crypto payments and blockchain ecosystems.
- Ruth Wandhöfer: A regulatory expert and advisor, she bridges the gap between traditional finance and digital innovation.
- Ronit Ghose: Global Head of Future of Finance at Citi, known for his data-driven talks on digital payments trends.
- Monica Long: President of Ripple, she speaks on blockchain-based payment systems and cross-border finance.
- Tayo Oviosu: CEO of Paga in Nigeria, he brings a unique perspective on mobile payments in emerging markets.
- Sopnendu Mohanty: Chief Fintech Officer at the Monetary Authority of Singapore, a frequent speaker on policy and innovation.
- Melissa Guzy: Managing Partner at Arbor Ventures, she often speaks on the intersection of venture capital and payments.
- Ajit Tripathi: A prominent voice in DeFi and digital banking, regularly featured on fintech podcasts and panels.

These speakers are shaping the global narrative on digital payments, from regulation to innovation to inclusion. Whether you're organizing a summit or tuning in to Talks.co, these are the names to watch.

Let's talk about some of the biggest misconceptions floating around about digital payments speakers. These myths can hold people back from stepping into the space or from hiring the right expert for their event.

- Myth 1: Digital payments speakers only talk about fintech.
Not true. While fintech is a core topic, digital payments speakers often cover a wide range of subjects: cybersecurity, regulatory compliance, consumer behavior, blockchain, cross-border commerce, and even financial inclusion. For example, speakers like Neha Narula from MIT Media Lab often dive into decentralized systems and their impact on global payments, not just app-based fintech.

- Myth 2: You need to be a developer or coder to be a credible digital payments speaker.
Nope. Many successful speakers in this space come from business, legal, or policy backgrounds. What matters is your ability to translate complex topics into actionable insights. Think of someone like Elizabeth Rossiello, CEO of AZA Finance. She's not a coder, but she's a powerhouse speaker on African payment infrastructure and digital currency adoption.

- Myth 3: The market is too niche to build a speaking career.
Actually, digital payments touch nearly every industry now: retail, healthcare, logistics, government, and even entertainment. With the rise of embedded finance and real-time payments, there's a growing demand for speakers who can explain these shifts to different audiences. From Visa's global summits to regional e-commerce expos in Southeast Asia, the opportunities are diverse and expanding.

- Myth 4: Only executives from big tech companies get invited to speak.
While big names like Stripe or PayPal do get stage time, event organizers are actively looking for fresh, diverse voices. Independent consultants, startup founders, and even academics are getting booked more often, especially when they bring unique regional insights or case studies.

- Myth 5: You have to be based in Silicon Valley or London to get noticed.
Not anymore. With virtual events, podcasts, and global speaker directories, your location matters less than your message. Speakers from Nairobi, São Paulo, and Jakarta are getting featured on international stages thanks to platforms like Talks.co and LinkedIn Live series focused on global fintech trends.

When you look at the journeys of successful digital payments speakers, what stands out isn't just their knowledge... it's their clarity, relevance, and ability to connect across industries.

Take Chris Skinner, for example. He's known globally for his work on digital banking and payments. But what really propelled him was his ability to simplify complex banking transformations for non-technical audiences. He didn't just speak at finance events. He started showing up at retail and logistics conferences, explaining how digital payments were reshaping supply chains and customer expectations. That crossover appeal made him a go-to speaker.

Then there's Sopnendu Mohanty, the Chief FinTech Officer at the Monetary Authority of Singapore. His talks blend regulatory insight with innovation strategy. At the Singapore FinTech Festival, he doesn't just talk policy. He brings in real-world pilots, like cross-border CBDC trials between Singapore and Thailand. That kind of grounded storytelling makes his sessions memorable and actionable.

Another standout is Marta Piekarska-Geater, who's spoken extensively about blockchain-based payments. What made her talks different? She focused on underbanked populations and how decentralized systems could serve them. Her storytelling often includes examples from Eastern Europe and sub-Saharan Africa, which gives her talks a global relevance that resonates with diverse audiences.

And let's not forget smaller-scale success stories. A payments consultant in Lagos started doing short LinkedIn videos explaining how mobile money works in informal markets. Within a year, she was invited to speak at a UNDP event on digital inclusion. Her secret? Consistency, clarity, and speaking directly to a local problem with global implications.

These speakers didn't follow a single path. Some came from policy, others from tech, and some from grassroots advocacy. But they all understood their audience, told real stories, and stayed ahead of the curve. That's what made them successful digital payments speakers.

If you're eyeing the future of digital payments speaking, you're stepping into a space that's expanding in both depth and reach. The next few years will open up new topics, new audiences, and new formats.

First, expect more demand for regional expertise. As countries like Brazil, India, and Nigeria roll out real-time payment systems, there's a growing appetite for speakers who understand local nuances. It's no longer enough to talk about 'global trends'-audiences want specifics. What does UPI mean for rural merchants in India? How is Pix changing consumer behavior in Brazil? Speakers who can answer those questions will stand out.

Second, the intersection of AI and payments is heating up. From fraud detection to personalized financial services, AI is reshaping how payments are processed and experienced. Speakers who can demystify these changes-especially for non-technical audiences-will be in high demand.

Third, hybrid and virtual formats are here to stay. That means speakers need to adapt their delivery. Shorter, sharper segments. Interactive Q&A. Visual storytelling. If you're used to 45-minute keynotes, it's time to rethink your format.

Here are a few key trends to watch:

- Embedded finance: Non-financial companies integrating payments into their platforms (think Shopify or Uber).
- Digital identity and KYC: As regulations tighten, there's a need for speakers who can explain compliance in plain English.
- Crypto and stablecoins: Not just hype anymore-real use cases are emerging, especially in remittances and cross-border trade.
- Financial inclusion: Still a hot topic, especially in regions where cash is still dominant.
- Green payments: ESG is moving into the payments space. Speakers who can talk about sustainability in transaction systems will find new stages.

Bottom line: if you're a digital payments speaker, the future is wide open-but only if you're willing to specialize, localize, and modernize your message.

Getting started as a digital payments speaker? You don't need to reinvent the wheel. Here's a curated list of tools and resources to help you build authority, land gigs, and deliver talks that resonate.

1. Talks.co. This podcast guest matching tool is perfect for getting your voice out there. Start by appearing on fintech or payments-related podcasts. It's a low-barrier way to test your message, build credibility, and get discovered by event organizers.

2. Finextra. Stay updated with the latest in banking tech and payments. Use it to find timely topics for your talks or to reference real-world news in your presentations.

3. SpeakerHub. Create a profile and list your speaking topics. It's a marketplace where event organizers look for niche speakers. Make sure your bio includes keywords like 'real-time payments', 'cross-border transactions', or 'CBDCs'.

4. SlidesCarnival. Not a designer? No problem. Use their free templates to build professional-looking decks that don't bore your audience. Choose layouts that work well for data-heavy topics.

5. LinkedIn Creator Mode. Turn this on to boost your visibility. Post short videos explaining payment concepts, share insights from recent events, or comment on trending topics. This builds your thought leadership organically.

6. Eventbrite. Browse fintech and digital commerce events in your region. Reach out to organizers with a tailored pitch. Even local panels or webinars can be stepping stones to bigger stages.

7. Toastmasters International. If you're new to public speaking, this is a great place to practice. Look for clubs with a tech or business focus to get relevant feedback.

8. CB Insights. Use their research to back up your points with data. Whether you're talking about BNPL trends or the rise of embedded wallets, citing solid numbers makes your talk more credible.

Use these tools not just to prepare, but to position yourself. The goal isn't just to speak-it's to be heard, remembered, and invited back.