In this episode, Karim interviews J.K Khalil, General Manager of MENA East at Mastercard, with over 18 years of tech, banking, consulting and payments experience. Prior to Mastercard, Khalil was a senior manager with Strategy & (formerly Booz & Company). In 2021, he was recognized in Arabian Business’ Young Achievers List (formerly known as 40 under 40), profiling young leaders who are making their mark in the GCC and the wider region. Karim and J.K Khalil discuss the growth of fintech and its intersection with ecommerce. Khalil covers the different types of payments and their popularity in different regions as well as cryptocurrencies – and Mastercard’s expansion of digital innovation portfolio through investments and acquisitions.