blockCAST PODCAST

Luuk Strijers, CEO of Deribit, joins Anton Golub and Dr. Demetrios Zamboglou for an inside look at building crypto’s leading options venue and what Coinbase’s acquisition means for product, scale, and institutional trust. We unpack Deribit’s 85% institutional mix, $266B monthly volumes, why BTC options dominate, how DVO (Deribit Volatility) and vol futures fit market structure, and what it takes to quote thousands of strikes in real time. We go deep on matching engines, co-lo, market-maker dynamics, roadmap cadence, and the integrations now underway across custody, KYC/AML, wallets, and AI-driven tooling as Deribit aligns with Coinbase’s “most trusted” mandate. A sharp, trading-first conversation on liquidity, risk, and where derivatives go next.

Paul Dawalibi‏, CEO of Innovation City in Ras Al Khaimah, joins Anton Golub and Dr. Demetrios Zamboglou on blockCAST podcast for a wide-ranging conversation on how free zones are evolving and why the next chapter of tech, AI, digital assets, Web3, gaming, robotics, and health tech in the UAE may be written in RAK. Paul explains why free zones, rather than tourism, have historically been the UAE’s economic engine and why the traditional free zone model is due for disruption. He outlines Innovation City’s ambition to build a Silicon Valley style hub driven by ecosystem building, density of intensity, and sector specific enablement, moving beyond the standard license, visa, and desk formula to actively support founders and scale ups. The discussion covers competition and collaboration across free zones, what founders actually need to succeed including bankability, compute, labs, publishing, and streamlined compliance, how AI is changing entrepreneurship by lowering barriers while increasing noise, and why gaming, virtual worlds, and digital experiences may become one of the fastest growing parts of the economy as automation expands. A practical and forward looking episode on innovation ecosystems, founder success, and why Ras Al Khaimah is emerging as one of the most compelling growth stories in the region.

Jez Mohideen, Co-Founder and CEO of Laser Digital, joins Anton Golub and Dr. Demetrios Zamboglou for an in-depth conversation on building institutional-grade digital-asset infrastructure. Beginning his career in investment banking and quantitative trading, Jez brings decades of experience across fixed income, hedge funds, and global capital markets into the digital-asset space. He shares how Laser Digital was built with a clear institutional focus; spanning custody, liquidity provision, financing, asset management, tokenization, and DeFi, backed by strong governance, risk management, and regulatory alignment. The discussion explores market structure, derivatives, tokenized funds and RWAs, stablecoins, AI-driven trading, and the balance between transparency and liquidity. A focused and insightful discussion on institutional adoption, regulation, and why the UAE has emerged as a global hub for digital assets and on-chain finance.

Michael Ayers, Group CEO and Partner of Rostro Group, joins Anton Golub and Dr. Demetrios Zamboglou for a sharp conversation on building and scaling a modern brokerage group. Starting his career in the City of London during the 2008 financial crisis, Michael’s trajectory led him to lead a global, multi-asset firm spanning CFDs, securities, futures, and prime-of-prime solutions. He shares how Rostro expanded from small teams to a 260-person international organisation through strategic acquisitions, a strong people-first culture, and clear leadership principles. The discussion also covers automation and AI, multi-asset growth, digital-asset ambitions, and why Dubai has become a magnet for fast-growing financial institutions. A concise and insightful look at the mindset, culture, and execution behind building a resilient financial group.

Ian Weisberger, CEO & Co-Founder of CoinRoutes, joins Anton Golub and Dr. Demetrios Zamboglou for an insightful conversation on building institutional-grade trading infrastructure for digital assets. The discussion explores Ian’s journey from software engineer to leading a global fintech and how CoinRoutes delivers best execution across fragmented liquidity spanning CEXs, perps DEXs, futures, and equities through advanced order-routing and risk technology. He shares how the firm’s recent acquisition strengthens its vertical integration and how stablecoins are transforming both trading and cross-border payments. The conversation also examines AI’s impact on engineering, recruitment, and trading systems, while highlighting Dubai’s role as a strategic hub for serving Europe and Asia. Offering practical insights on product-market fit, partnerships vs. build/buy strategies, and institutional adoption as regulation matures, this episode provides a forward-looking view on the future of execution, regulation, and leadership in a 24/7 market.

Andrey Lazorenko, CEO of ADI Foundation, joins Anton Golub and Dr. Demetrios Zamboglou for a dynamic conversation on building blockchain infrastructure in the UAE. The discussion explores Andrey ’s leadership journey and career path, while highlighting the ADI Foundation’s pivotal role in launching the Dirham stablecoin - set to be regulated by the Central Bank of the UAE. He shares insights on how ADI Chain and key regional stakeholders are driving digital asset innovation, strengthening financial infrastructure, and fostering trust in stablecoins. The conversation also examines the intersection of regulation, technology, and adoption, offering a forward-looking perspective on how the Middle East can position itself as a global hub for digital finance.

Michael Chan, CEO of Zand Bank, joins Anton Golub and Dr. Demetrios Zamboglou for a compelling episode on the evolving role of banking in the digital asset ecosystem. The conversation delves into Michael’s journey to becoming a bank CEO, exploring the education, career path, and leadership qualities required to reach the top. He shares insights into Zand Bank’s pivotal role in the UAE as a trusted partner for digital asset firms, and highlights key innovations shaping the future of financial services. The discussion also examines how banks can adapt to rapid technological change, support industry growth, and contribute to building a secure and efficient digital finance infrastructure.

Demetris Skourides, Chief Scientist and Chairman of the AI Task Force of Cyprus, joins Anton Golub and Dr. Demetrios Zamboglou for a thought-provoking episode on the future of AI and its intersection with digital assets. The discussion explores how AI is transforming both the private and public sectors, with a focus on value creation, resource efficiency, and strategic implementation. Demetris shares insights into Cyprus’s national AI strategy, the challenges of data infrastructure, and the ethical frameworks guiding AI adoption. The episode also touches on the crypto landscape, including government efforts to attract blockchain companies to Cyprus and the broader vision for integrating AI and Web3 technologies.DISCLAIMER: The information shared on blockCAST is for general knowledge and should not be considered investment advice. Always consult a financial professional before making any investment decisions.

Juliet Su, Founding Partner of New Tripe Capital, joins Anton Golub and Dr. Demetrios Zamboglou to explore the evolving landscape of venture capital in the crypto industry. The episode delves into Juliet's journey from a corporate career in China to pioneering Web3 investments in the UAE, the shift from ICO frenzy to institutional adoption, and the growing importance of stablecoins and real-world asset tokenization. Juliet shares insights on the challenges of meme coins, the intersection of AI and blockchain, and the UAE’s forward-thinking regulatory environment. Tune in to discover how market trends, M&A deals, and practical use cases are reshaping the future of crypto investments in the GCC and beyond.DISCLAIMER: The information shared on blockCAST is for general knowledge and should not be considered investment advice. Always consult a financial professional before making any investment decisions.

Mohammed Al-Tamami, Co-Founder and Chief Commercial Officer of Mamun, joins Anton Golub and Dr. Demetrios Zamboglou to discuss how his Omani fintech is leveraging its crowdfunding license to build a robust trade finance platform. The episode explores Mamun's pivot from an infrastructure provider to a direct liquidity provider, its expansion into the UAE and Bahrain, and the strategic importance of stablecoins in reducing transactional costs. Mohammed also shares insights into Oman's thriving crypto mining sector, the significant local adoption of digital assets, and his perspective on CBDCs and the future of real-world asset tokenization. Tune in to understand how regulatory evolution and entrepreneurial vision are shaping the financial landscape in the GCC.DISCLAIMER: The information shared on blockCAST is for general knowledge and should not be considered investment advice. Always consult a financial professional before making any investment decisions.

Tarik Erk, General Manager for MEA at Crypto.com, joins Anton Golub and Dr. Demetrios Zamboglou to discuss how the crypto giant is building its global strategy from its hub in Dubai. The episode explores Crypto.com’s landmark partnership with the Dubai government, the critical role of a compliance-first approach in navigating VARA regulations, and the future of crypto payments, stablecoins, and the FATF Travel Rule. Tarik also shares his personal journey from New York to Dubai and his perspective on market trends. Tune in to understand how regulatory clarity and strategic partnerships are cementing the UAE's status as a premier destination for crypto innovation.DISCLAIMER: The information shared on blockCAST is for general knowledge and should not be considered investment advice. Always consult a financial professional before making any investment decisions.

Ahmed Allam, Senior Financial Expert at His Highness Ruler’s Court in Dubai, joins Anton Golub and Dr. Demetrios Zamboglou for an in-depth discussion on the legal and regulatory landscape of the UAE. From company formation and liquidation to financial fraud investigation and crypto regulation, Ahmad shares his expert perspective on what it takes to succeed legally in Dubai. The episode explores the evolution of the UAE’s virtual asset frameworks, the rise of VARA, the digitization of courts, and the growing role of stablecoins and CBDCs. With a focus on business-friendly jurisdictions, AI-powered dispute resolution, and the future of digital money, Ahmad reveals why the UAE is becoming the global destination for founders, legal innovators, and crypto pioneers. Tune in for insights on navigating legal setups, understanding UAE’s fintech ecosystem, and building trust through regulatory clarity.DISCLAIMER: The information shared on blockCAST is for general knowledge and should not be considered investment advice. Always consult a financial professional before making any investment decisions.

Benjamin Grolimund, General Manager of RAIN, joins Anton Golub and Dr. Demetrios Zamboglou for an in-depth discussion on pioneering cryptocurrency in the Middle East. From RAIN’s groundbreaking achievement as the region’s first regulated crypto platform in 2019 to navigating the complexities of a 2024 hack, Ben shares his journey from traditional finance to leading a trusted exchange. The episode explores the region’s crypto landscape, the dominance of stablecoins for cross-border payments, and the potential of AED stablecoins. With a focus on user-friendly design, regulatory trust, and robust cybersecurity, Ben reveals how Rain (https://www.rain.com) is shaping the future of digital finance in the UAE and beyond. Tune in for insights on building trust, simplifying UX, and thriving in a dynamic crypto ecosystem.DISCLAIMER: The information shared on blockCAST is for general knowledge and should not be considered investment advice. Always consult a financial professional before making any investment decisions.

Andreas Tsindos, CEO of MWAN, joins Anton Golub and Dr. Demetrios Zamboglou for a far-reaching conversation on unlocking blockchain’s real-world potential—across healthcare, tokenized rewards, and seamless digital experiences. From building one of the region’s top event companies to pioneering Web3 development since 2015, Andreas shares his journey from civil engineer to decentralized architect. The episode delves into the rise of frictionless wallets, smart health incentives, and how NFTs can reshape everything from patient records to duty-free perks. With Dubai as the proving ground and adoption at the heart of the mission, Andreas unpacks why great tech must be invisible—and why trust, UX, and education are the keys to onboarding the next billion users. Tune in for a masterclass in blockchain usability, human-centered design, and the future of digital identity.DISCLAIMER: The information shared on blockCAST is for general knowledge and should not be considered investment advice. Always consult a financial professional before making any investment decisions.

Toli Mancris, CEO of EX Sports, joins Anton Golub and Dr. Demetrios Zamboglou for an eye-opening conversation exploring the evolution of collectibles, timeless value, and entrepreneurial vision in the digital era. From the nostalgia-driven power of Panini and Topps trading cards to the economics of scarcity and cultural relevance, Toli shares fascinating insights on why collectibles continue to thrive—regardless of who’s trending on Twitter or sitting in political office. With Panini’s billion-euro empire in Bologna as proof of the timeless appeal of collectibles, the episode unpacks how that legacy is inspiring a new generation of digital-native collectibles in a blockchain-enabled world. Tune in for a deep dive into passion-driven markets—and the psychology behind what we choose to value… forever.DISCLAIMER: The information shared on blockCAST is for general knowledge and should not be considered investment advice. Always consult a financial professional before making any investment decisions.

Jose Aguinag, CEO of Tungsten, joins Anton Golub and Dr. Demetrios Zamboglou for a dynamic conversation exploring the future of digital asset custody, cybersecurity, and institutional crypto infrastructure. From the anatomy of the Bybit hack and the tactics of the Lazarus Group to the vulnerabilities in multisig wallets and supply chains, Jose shares hard-hitting insights on how secure asset management is evolving and what it means for the future of finance. With Abu Dhabi and the ADGM at the center of this transformation, the episode unpacks why the region is becoming the world’s go-to hub for regulated custody, compliance, and institutional capital. Tune in for a deep dive into the mechanics of crypto security—and the minds building the future of digital finance…DISCLAIMER: The information shared on blockCAST is for general knowledge and should not be considered investment advice. Always consult a financial professional before making any investment decisions.

Phillip Lord, President of Oobit, joins Anton Golub and Dr. Demetrios Zamboglou for a dynamic conversation exploring the future of AI, humanoids, and digital finance. From the rise of tokenized payments and AI agents to the disruptive power of robotics in everyday life, Philip shares hard-hitting insights on how emerging technologies are reshaping industries and redefining the future of work. With Dubai at the center of this transformation, the episode unpacks why the city is becoming the world’s go-to hub for innovation, capital, and entrepreneurship. Tune in for a deep dive into the technologies that are changing the game—and the minds behind them…DISCLAIMER: The information shared on blockCAST is for general knowledge and should not be considered investment advice. Always consult a financial professional before making any investment decisions.

NeosLegal Irina Heaver, Managing Partner joins Anton Golub and Dr. Demetrios Zamboglou to explore the dynamic intersection of AI, crypto, and law. As the first female guest on the podcast, Irina shares her journey through the evolving regulatory landscape, shedding light on the legal frameworks shaping the future of digital finance. Gain exclusive insights into how the UAE is emerging as a global blockchain hub, the challenges and opportunities for crypto companies, and the crucial role of compliance in fostering innovation. Discover how regulators and industry leaders are working together to redefine the future of decentralized finance…DISCLAIMER: The information shared on blockCAST is for general knowledge and should not be considered investment advice. Always consult a financial professional before making any investment decisions.

D2A2 Saqr Ereiqat, Secretary General, joins Anton Golub and Dr. Demetrios Zamboglou to discuss his transformative journey—from arriving in Dubai in 2008 with wide-eyed wonder to becoming a key architect of the UAE’s digital asset revolution. Hear firsthand how early challenges, groundbreaking regulatory shifts, and a passion for technology converged to shape a thriving crypto ecosystem in the region. Discover the story behind Dubai’s unmatched safety, talent, and infrastructure, and learn why this dynamic hub is setting the pace for global digital innovation...DISCLAIMER: The information shared on blockCAST is for general knowledge and should not be considered investment advice. Always consult a financial professional before making any investment decisions.

Middle East Venture Partners pioneer Rabih Khoury joins Anton Golub and Dr. Demetrios Zamboglou to unpack the shifting landscape of digital assets, AI innovation, and capital markets across the MENA region. From the rise of venture capital and angel investing in the Middle East to AI-driven disruption, tokenization, and the future of IPOs, this deep-dive covers it all. Rabih reflects on his journey from Silicon Valley to Dubai, the evolution of VC strategies, navigating regulatory hurdles, scaling startups, and what’s next for MENA’s investment ecosystem. Expect insights on liquidity, fintech expansion, the intersection of AI and finance, and a candid look at where the industry is heading…DISCLAIMER: The information shared on blockCAST is for general knowledge and should not be considered investment advice. Always consult a financial professional before making any investment decisions.