Navigating Japan's FinTech Landscape with Pieter Franken

In this episode of the FocusCore podcast, host David Sweet interviews Pieter Franken, a FinTech pioneer and innovator with a rich history in finance, technology, and regulation. Pieter outlines his journey from a trainee scientist in Holland to becoming a key figure in Japan's FinTech ecosystem. He shares his experiences and significant contributions, including his roles at Citigroup, Shinsei Bank, and the Monetary Authority of Singapore, as well as his co-founding of Safecast, a crucial citizen science project post-Fukushima. The conversation delves into the evolution of FinTech globally and in Japan, discussing the impact of cloud computing, APIs, and mobile technology, as well as governmental roles in stimulating innovation. Pieter also talks about the upcoming Global Finance and Technology Network Forum (GFTN) in Tokyo, highlighting its importance for FinTech discussion and networking. Additionally, he touches upon the complexity of integrating new technologies into human systems and stresses the need for adaptive, human-centric innovations.

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In this episode you will hear:

1. Pieter Franken's journey from Holland to Japan and his pivotal role in the FinTech industry
2. The evolution of Japan's startup ecosystem and cultural shifts in recent decades
3. The role and impact of cloud computing and mobile technology in FinTech's growth
4. The establishment of Safecast and its significance in citizen science and data transparency
5. The importance and anticipation of the Global Finance and Technology Network Forum in fostering industry dialogue and innovation

About Pieter:

Pieter is a fintech pioneer, deep-tech innovator, and builder with over three decades at the intersection of finance, technology, regulation, and public good.

He’s held senior leadership roles at institutions like Citigroup, Shinsei Bank, Monex, and UnionDigital Bank; advised regulators including the Monetary Authority of Singapore; and helped build global platforms focused on financial inclusion, open data, and responsible innovation. He’s also a co-founder of Safecast, one of the most influential citizen-science projects in the world, and a driving force behind Japan’s fintech ecosystem through Elevandi and the Japan Fintech Festival.

Connect with Pieter:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pbfranken/

GFTN Japan: http://gftn.co/japan

GFTN Forum[Feb 24-27th 2026]: https://gftnforum.jp/?utm_medium=paid-search&utm_source=google&utm_term=gftn%20japan&utm_content=branded-insights-learning&utm_campaign=gfj_2026_jp_search_traffic_280126&_gl=1*1uvuohl*_up*MQ..*_gs*MQ..&gclid=Cj0KCQiA7rDMBhCjARIsAGDBuEBY1bz21ngvAnJufNmlwr_Kxe4Ku6uz1R5I6beSQvq5Qiv7h2aZCHkaAmI3EALw_wcB&gbraid=0AAAAAqxUcYm4HHIROSay5zHtoL9JyGrmm

Connect with David Sweet:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drdavidsweet/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/focuscorejp

Facebook: :https://www.facebook.com/focuscoreasia

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