Leapfrogging Into the Future: Central Asia Goes Digital-First with Nika Kurdiani

How does a region skip the traditional path of banking entirely and jump straight into a digital future? Central Asia has become one of the fastest-moving digital banking regions in the world. In this episode, Nika Kurdiani , CEO of TBC Uzbekistan , reflects on what’s driving this rapid shift and how it’s reshaping competition, customer expectations, and the overall financial landscape. We discuss TBC’s approach to entering Uzbekistan, the evolving needs of a young and digital-first population, and the operational and strategic choices required to build trust in a transforming market. Discussion Highlights: The Post-Soviet Legacy: How the collapse of financial institutions resulted in a cash-based culture and long-lasting skepticism toward banks. A Leapfrog Moment: Why Central Asia moved straight into mobile-first, digital-native banking, and how this compares to mature markets. Generational Shifts in Adoption: The divide between younger users driving digital growth and older generations relying on familiar cash habits. TBC’s Strategy in Uzbekistan: What it takes to enter and scale in a high-growth market, from talent and product design to regulatory navigation. AI & Digital Innovation: How AI, UX, and mobile onboarding are reshaping customer expectations and accelerating adoption. The Future of Fintech in Central Asia: How customer education, responsible data use, and embedded services will define the next phase of digital banking in the region. About Fintech Files: Join us on Fintech Files from BCG Platinion as we explore the cutting-edge trends disrupting Fintech today. From NeoBanks to cryptocurrency, we delve into the dynamic landscape of financial technology through insightful conversations with global disruptors. We’ll uncover the most groundbreaking trends shaping the future of Fintech and examine their impact on the financial world. We focus on real-world examples, making financial technology relatable and accessible to both Fintech enthusiasts and professionals alike. Hosted by Annika Melchert , a Principal currently based at BCG Platinion in the Middle East, and Nora Hocke , a Principal currently based at BCG Platinion in Sydney, our hosts bring expertise in tech transformations, platform architecture, and digital innovation. Annika and Nora work with Fintechs and incumbent banks, and together they offer unique insights into the evolving financial landscape, drawing on their wealth of experience with leading organizations. Bianca Lopes is an entrepreneur and economist from Brazil with a background in digital identity and biometrics. Having supported over 40 financial institutions and eight governments, Bianca’s work reshapes technology, reimagines identity, and drives innovation.