Talking #DigitalDisruption with Robin Kiera

In this episode of Conversations with Dez, host Dez Blanchfield is joined by Robin Kira, also known as Digital Scouting. Robin is based in Hamburg, Germany, and has made a significant impact in the influencer space, particularly in the fintech and insuretech industries.

Robin’s Background and Journey

Robin’s journey into the tech space is quite unique. With a background in history, he initially worked for a family-owned medical technical company, which exposed him to the world of entrepreneurship. This experience laid the foundation for his transition into the tech industry.

After completing his studies and working for a few companies, including Allianz, Robin recognized the potential of digital tools in the banking and insurance sectors. His expertise in product development and digital ecosystems has positioned him as a valuable consultant for startups and investors.

The Evolution of Fintech and InsureTech

Robin’s insights shed light on the evolving landscape of fintech and insuretech. He identifies three distinct waves of disruption in these industries:

• First Wave: Startups targeting specific parts of the value chain, such as customer relationship management and underwriting systems.
• Second Wave: Companies attacking the entire value chain, signaling a shift towards comprehensive disruption.
• Future Wave: Anticipated industry mergers and a focus on life assistance, presenting new opportunities for innovation and growth.

The Impact of Disruptive Technologies

As the conversation unfolds, Robin delves into the challenges and opportunities presented by disruptive technologies. He emphasizes the need for traditional companies to embrace agility and innovation to stay competitive in the evolving market. Robin’s eight-step approach for incumbent companies includes:

• Honest self-assessment
• Preservation and optimization of existing business models
• Becoming an agile tech company
• Immediate action on innovation initiatives
• Shifting from product-centric to solution-centric approaches
• Cultural and hierarchical transformation
• Structural innovation strategies
• Leveraging industry expertise with tech integration

Crystal Ball Gazing: The Future of Digital Scouting

Looking ahead, Robin’s personal and professional goals align with his commitment to digital scouting and thought leadership in the tech space. He aims to expand the scope of digital scouting, attracting a wider audience and fostering meaningful discussions on emerging trends and technologies.

In addition to his professional endeavors, Robin’s primary focus remains on being a dedicated father, embracing the joys and responsibilities of parenthood.

The Future of Technology and Consumer Space

In the latest segment of the conversation, Robin and Dez explore the future of technology in the consumer space. They discuss the potential rise of full digital insurers in the insuretech industry and the emergence of WeChat-like apps in the Western world for peer-to-peer payments.

Robin also shares his prediction for the mass adoption of VR and AR devices for entertainment, highlighting the anticipated breakthrough in the upcoming Christmas season.

Conclusion

Robin Kira’s perspective offers valuable insights into the future of fintech and insuretech. As the industry continues to evolve, his expertise and forward-thinking approach position him as a key influencer in driving meaningful change and innovation.

Stay tuned for more thought-provoking discussions and expert insights from Robin Kira and Digital Scouting as they continue to shape the future of the tech industry.

For more updates and industry insights, visit Digital Scouting and follow Robin Kira on Twitter.