Exploring the Evolution of Money at TechCrunch Disrupt 2026
Money today transcends the traditional notions of cash in your wallet or balances in your bank account. It has morphed into a dynamic, multifaceted entity influenced by technology, regulation, and consumer behavior. Recognizing this profound transformation, TechCrunch Disrupt 2026 is dedicating an entire stage—the Smart Money Stage—to explore the intersection of fintech, payments, and artificial intelligence (AI).
Taking place from October 13 to 15 at San Francisco’s Moscone Center, this event brings together industry leaders from Circle, Robinhood, American Express, Plaid, Airwallex, and others. They will delve into how innovations such as stablecoins and instant payments are revolutionizing the movement of money, the integration of AI agents in financial decision-making, and the challenges of building regulated financial infrastructure suitable for a globalized economy.
As the current ticket pricing window nears its close, attendees are encouraged to secure their spots early. This opportunity provides access not only to the Smart Money Stage but also to a wealth of networking events and educational sessions designed to prepare participants for the next wave of financial innovation. Explore ticket options here.
The Future of Money Movement: Stablecoins, Instant Payments & What’s Next
Stablecoins and instant payment technologies are reshaping how money is transferred globally, offering alternatives to traditional banking systems. This session will examine how these modern payment mechanisms stack up against legacy infrastructure, the role of emerging platforms like FedNow and private payment networks, and the regulatory frameworks that could influence their adoption. Participants will gain insights into where these technologies are making inroads and the obstacles that remain to their widespread acceptance.
Featuring Nikhil Chandhok, Chief Product & Technology Officer, Circle; Rodney Robinson, Co-founder and CEO, TabaPay, Inc.; and Lotti Siniscalco, General Partner, Emergence
Winning the Modern Financial Consumer
Consumer expectations around financial services are evolving rapidly, influenced by technological advancements and changing behaviors. Robinhood, with a market capitalization exceeding $90 billion, exemplifies this trend as it expands from a stock trading app into a comprehensive financial platform encompassing investing, banking, credit, cryptocurrency, and prediction markets. Abhishek Fatehpuria, Head of Product at Robinhood, will discuss the strategies behind building trusted financial products that can scale effectively while meeting modern consumer demands.
With Abhishek Fatehpuria, Head of Product, Robinhood
AI, Trust & Verification in Financial Services
The integration of AI into financial services is not just about automation but also redefines trust, oversight, and security paradigms. As AI agents begin to execute actions autonomously, companies must balance transparency and human judgment with technological capabilities. This panel will explore current approaches to privacy protection, fraud prevention, and identity verification in an AI-driven environment, highlighting how these factors influence consumer confidence and regulatory compliance.
Featuring Hannah Bozian, VP, Agentic Partnerships & Strategy, American Express; Pedro Sanzovo, Head of Fraud and Identity, Plaid; and Victoria Zuo, Partner, QED Investors
Building the Infrastructure for Global Commerce
Legacy financial systems often struggle to meet the needs of modern global businesses. Airwallex, valued at $11 billion, is pioneering an AI-native financial operating system designed to facilitate cross-border payments, manage multinational finances, and embed financial services within other platforms. Jack Zhang, Founder and CEO, will provide insights into how AI is transforming payment infrastructures and the complexities involved in constructing regulated financial frameworks capable of supporting millions of enterprises worldwide.
With Jack Zhang, Founder & CEO, Airwallex
Whether you are innovating in payment rails, integrating AI in fraud and identity workflows, or seeking to understand the trajectory of consumer finance, the Smart Money Stage offers valuable, no-nonsense insights for founders and operators. Attending Disrupt 2026 also means access to a vibrant startup ecosystem, networking opportunities, and a wide array of sessions designed to fuel innovation and growth.
Register today to be part of this transformative event.
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