In Profile: Nicolai Chamizo, Founder and CEO at Incore Invest

The UK startup scene has often been described as the backbone of the country’s economy. Therefore, it is paramount that new entrants are guided on the right path. One such guide is Nicolai Chamizo, founder and CEO of Swedish-based Incore Invest.

Chamizo has had a significant impact on the tech industry, supporting the UK startup scene with valuable insights drawn from his experience launching several companies, each achieving valuations exceeding €100million.

Off the back of Incore Invest’s continued partnership announcement with SAVR, the long-term investment fintech, and to learn about his journey through fintech and how Incore Invest came to be, we sat down with Chamizo.

Tell us more about your company and its purpose.

The journey of Incore Invest began with a vision to catalyse innovation and drive positive change within the financial services sector. Founded by a team of seasoned entrepreneurs, investors and fintech enthusiasts, the firm is driven by a deep-rooted belief in the transformative power of technology to reshape the future of finance.

Incore Invest is backed by Nordic entrepreneurs and investors who shared my vision about fintech and innovation. We are on a mission to scout for promising entrepreneurs, people, and disruptive technologies. Armed with a keen eye for innovation and a passion for driving change, the team embarked on a journey that would take us to the forefront of the fintech revolution.

Our purpose is to invest in promising fintech startups, support their growth and success, and ultimately generate attractive returns for our investors while driving innovation and positive change within the financial services industry. It is important to bear in mind that all the partners are also invested in Incore Invest and have skin in the game.

What are some of your recent achievements you’d like to highlight?

My decision to invest in Brite Payments from its inception has proven to be fruitful. Brite Payments has experienced rapid growth and has emerged as a leading player in the digital open banking space. Our recent series A with investments from Dawn Capital and Headline show that we are on a very exciting journey.

How did you get into the fintech industry?

My journey into the fintech industry began with a foundation built in the traditional banking sector. I started my career in the banking industry during my time at university. There, I gained valuable experience and insights into the workings of financial institutions, banking operations, and customer service. Soon, I realised that the rapidly evolving landscape of technology was reshaping the finance sector. It presented new opportunities for innovation and disruption.

Driven by a passion for technology with a desire to be at the forefront of change, I transitioned into the fintech industry. After recognising the potential of fintech to revolutionise financial services and improve access to banking and payment solutions, I sought to channel my expertise and entrepreneurial spirit into this field

But 2019 was my real entrance into the fintech space when I decided to invest in Brite Payments from its inception and support Lena Hackelöer (founder, Brite Payments). This marked a significant milestone in my journey into the fintech industry, as I became directly involved in supporting and shaping the growth of a promising fintech startup.

What’s the best thing about working in the fintech industry?

The best thing about working in the fintech industry is undoubtedly the dynamic environment fuelled by innovation and constant evolution. In the fintech industry, we’re at the forefront of transforming traditional financial services through cutting-edge technology, disrupting outdated practices, and revolutionising the way people manage their finances.

This industry also gives you the chance to be at the forefront of innovation, driving positive change in the world of finance while continuously challenging yourself to reach new heights.

What frustrates you most about the fintech industry?

The fintech industry offers numerous opportunities and advancements, but there are also frustrations that professionals may encounter along the way. One of the most significant frustrations is the regulatory complexity and uncertainty that often accompany innovative fintech solutions.

Navigating through a labyrinth of regulations and compliance requirements can be daunting, especially when these regulations vary across different regions and jurisdictions. This can significantly slow down the pace of innovation and hinder the rapid deployment of new products and services.

How have your previous roles influenced your career?

My previous roles in corporate banking and investments, coupled with my experience in building tech companies, have provided me with a unique blend of financial insight, strategic thinking, client relationship management, risk management, entrepreneurship, and technical expertise. These skills and experiences have prepared me well for navigating the dynamic and challenging landscape of the fintech industry, where the intersection of finance and technology presents endless opportunities for innovation and growth.

 What’s the best mistake you’ve ever made?

At 19 years old, I invested all my money in trading with leverage and lost it all in one day. It was a painful experience which ultimately turned out to be the best mistake I’ve ever made. It taught me valuable lessons about diversification, risk management, financial education, discipline, and resilience, which have helped me in becoming a more prudent and successful investor in the long run.

What has the future got in store for your company?

The future holds immense potential for our portfolio company, so we will continue to support those companies’ growth and journey. Later this year, we will raise capital for Incore Invest II. With the backing of Incore Invest II, we will have the resources to expand our investment portfolio and support a diverse range of fintech startups. We will actively seek out innovative entrepreneurs and disruptive technologies that have the potential to transform the financial services landscape and drive meaningful impact.

What are the next key talking points or challenges for your industry as a whole?

I believe there are three important points to consider to be able to manage and navigate the industry.

Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) are revolutionising various aspects of fintech, from risk assessment and fraud detection to customer service and personalization. Fintech companies will need to leverage AI and ML capabilities effectively while addressing concerns related to algorithmic bias, data privacy, and ethical use of AI.

• Regulation and compliance

Fintech companies continue to grapple with evolving regulatory frameworks globally. As governments strive to balance innovation with consumer protection and financial stability, navigating regulatory compliance will remain a significant challenge. Staying abreast of regulatory changes and proactively adapting to compliance requirements will be crucial for fintech firms.

• Security and cyber attacks

With the increasing digitisation of financial services, cybersecurity threats and data privacy concerns are becoming more pronounced. Fintech companies must invest heavily in robust cybersecurity measures to protect sensitive financial data from cyberattacks and ensure compliance with stringent data privacy regulations.