The CXO Conversations - From Farming Dreams to Building a Global Digital Bank for Africa

Synopsis:

At the Inclusive Fintech Forum 2026 in Kigali, CXO Conversations host Pat Patel speaks with Nicolai, co-founder of Nala, about his unconventional journey from a Waldorf school upbringing in the US - where he later dreamed of becoming a dairy farmer - to fintech entrepreneurship. He shares how early experiences in economics, Morningstar, and payments shaped his interest in financial systems and inclusion. The conversation explores Nala’s startup struggles, co-founder transitions, and product evolution through Y Combinator and beyond. They also discuss stablecoins, cross-border payments, and the future of global financial infrastructure, with Nala aiming to become a global digital bank by 2030. 

About Nicolai Eddy

Nicolai Eddy is the Co-Founder and Chief Operating Officer of NALA and Rafiki, two fintech companies backed by Accel and Y Combinator. Together, they are building modern payment infrastructure and digital banking solutions that connect people and businesses globally.
In his role, Nicolai oversees the Rafiki business, compliance, finance, and product, with a focus on scaling teams and delivering financial innovation at a global level. He is also a fellow of the Acumen Fellowship, reflecting his commitment to combining social impact with business leadership.