Verto aims to simplify global financial transactions for businesses of all sizes. As a partner for cross-border payments, foreign exchange and banking solutions, Verto simplifies the complexities of international finance.
The advanced platform allows businesses to accept and send global payments seamlessly. With over 3,000 customers worldwide and the ability to work with more than 20 exotic currencies, Verto prides itself on being at the forefront of efficiency and innovation in fintech.
What sets Verto aside is its strong focus on emerging markets. These regions are often overlooked and notoriously fragmented in the financial world. By focusing on these areas, Verto not only makes global payments more accessible, but also simplifies complicated transactions through a single, easy-to-use platform. Whether it’s the treasurer of a US-based bank dealing with fragmented branches in Africa or the CEO of a UK-based energy company looking to reduce transaction costs to a branch in Kenya, Verto offers competitive exchange rates and automated processes to simplify operations.
Headquartered in the UK, Verto leverages its strategic location to work closely with global leaders, regulators and banks, ensuring accurate risk assessments for transactions in emerging markets. The company’s role goes beyond that of a service provider; Verto is a key influencer and innovator in the industry. Recently, Verto launched Verto Marketplace, an innovative product designed for traders, brokers and treasurers. This platform offers a simpler and more transparent way to trade exotic currencies, satisfying a growing market demand.
What was the inspiration behind Verto?
The story of Verto’s birth is rather unconventional. Unlike typical startup origin stories that revolve around board meetings or moments of enlightenment in a bar, Verto was actually born out of a poker game. In 2017, I was looking for ways to help people in the UK, particularly those with families in Nigeria, send money home more efficiently. This led me to create an online remittance company. At the same time, my co-founder Anthony was busy launching a prop tech company and preparing to start his MBA.
Magic really happened during one of our poker games. Naturally, we started talking about the problems we were facing in our ventures. I mentioned the significant challenges I encountered in paying overseas suppliers, particularly those in emerging markets like Nigeria. Inefficiencies, lack of transparency and high transaction costs were all obstacles that needed a solution. Right there, we realized the opportunity to address these pain points.
We both decided to quit our jobs and pursue this new venture wholeheartedly. Verto was born from these first-hand experiences and from a real need to make cross-border financial transactions easier. Our mission from day one has been clear: to empower individuals, businesses and organizations by making their international financial transactions seamless, secure and cost-effective. That poker game not only changed our careers, it sparked the creation of what Verto is today, a revolutionary global payments platform.
Who do you admire?
Jamie Dimon, CEO of JPMorgan Chase, is someone I greatly admire. He holds the most senior position in global financial services and has demonstrated exemplary leadership and strategic thinking in addressing the complexities of the financial world.
Looking back, is there anything you would have done differently?
This is a good question: I would have done many things differently. Our priority would have been to early embrace our legacy in emerging markets and amplify the fact that we are solving a significant pain point for these companies, which is helping them transact internationally seamlessly. We initially spent some time torn between the priority of doubling emerging market capabilities and serving our developed market clients.
What defines your way of doing business?
My approach to business is deeply rooted in my Nigerian heritage, which has profoundly influenced my perspective as both a co-founder and CEO. Growing up with a commercial worldview, I’m always looking for ways our company can develop products that solve everyday problems. This pragmatic yet visionary approach drives much of what we do at Verto.
When it comes to leadership, I am constantly reminded that I am an immigrant in a country that has provided me with numerous opportunities. This ethic of providing opportunities for all shapes my leadership style. This belief is reflected in our diverse team at Verto, which has grown to 100 people from over 30 different nationalities. By promoting diversity, we draw on a broad range of strengths, experiences and perspectives, making our company stronger and more innovative. I firmly believe that openness leads to winning ideas. My leadership style is characterized by providing tasks and guidance without resorting to micromanagement. I value accountability and trust that my team will take ownership of their work. This method not only empowers people, but also cultivates a collaborative and dynamic work environment where everyone can thrive. Ultimately, what defines the way I do business is a combination of a problem-solving mindset, a commitment to opportunity and diversity, and a leadership style built on trust and accountability.
What advice would you give to someone starting out?
To achieve lasting success, focus on building relationships that align with your values and goals. Equally important is completing your commitments. Consistently delivering on promises builds credibility. A reputation for keeping your word earns you respect and loyalty in both your professional and personal life.