Baku: AZERTAC presents an exclusive interview with Giovanni Everduin, an expert in strategy and innovation, Chief Strategy and Innovation Officer, co-founder of CBIx, and a leading specialist in integrating artificial intelligence and decentralized finance into traditional financial systems.
According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, Giovanni Everduin shared insights into his unconventional career path, emphasizing the importance of seizing intuitive opportunities. He recounted his journey from a political analyst in Mexico City to leading significant HR transformation and outsourcing projects at Accenture and eventually co-founding CBIx. His role has evolved into one focused on preparing financial institutions for the future and developing alternative revenue streams.
Everduin discussed the concept of being a “bridge” between Web2 and Web3, highlighting the necessity of understanding multiple dimensions to succeed in a rapidly evolving technological landscape. He sees the future as hybrid, requiring individuals to navigate institutional and entrepreneurial, centralized and decentralized environments. His diverse background, spanning Western culture and Middle Eastern experience, enables him to connect different contexts and perspectives.
Azerbaijan’s efforts in digital transformation, blockchain, AI, and DeFi were also addressed. Everduin emphasized the need for an ecosystem approach, involving academic institutions, venture capital, and supportive government policies. He pointed to successful examples in the UAE, Singapore, Kazakhstan, and Tajikistan as models for nurturing innovation.
Assessing Azerbaijan’s potential as a regional fintech hub, Everduin identified the country’s strong infrastructure, strategic geographical location, and government initiatives to build a vibrant startup ecosystem. He highlighted the InMerge Summit as a key platform for innovation and collaboration in the region.
Discussing Azerbaijan’s role in bridging East and West in digital finance and blockchain technologies, Everduin emphasized the importance of solving unique problems in emerging markets. He noted that Azerbaijan’s nascent regulatory environment could facilitate innovative solutions, scalable beyond local challenges.
On the topic of a digital manat or a national digital currency, Everduin expressed caution, citing the potential conflicts with decentralization principles. He acknowledged the appeal of programmable money for governments but warned against creating new “walled gardens” in digital finance. He suggested observing Kazakhstan’s progress with its CBDC and stablecoin as a reference point.
Finally, Everduin advised on structuring technology parks and innovation clusters in Azerbaijan. He stressed the importance of clear objectives to foster an organic, scalable startup ecosystem. Drawing lessons from successful global examples, he underscored the need to tailor initiatives to local contexts and goals.