Writes Rien D. (L6th)
When former Merchant Taylors’ student Mr Varun Paul (OMT 1998–2003) returned to the school to deliver a talk on the future of finance, students were treated to a fascinating glimpse into how technology, economics, and innovation are reshaping the global financial system.
Mr Paul’s journey since leaving Merchant Taylors’ has been one of remarkable accomplishment. After studying Economics at the University of Cambridge, he went on to complete a Masters in Economics at University College London before joining the Bank of England in 2008. Over his 14 years at the Bank, Mr Paul worked at the heart of the nation’s financial system, supporting decisions on interest rates, managing risks to financial stability, and leading a landmark review on the Future of Finance. Most recently, as Head of the Bank’s Fintech Hub, he explored the cutting edge of innovation – from artificial intelligence to digital currencies.
Today, Mr Paul serves as Global Business Lead for Central Banks and Financial Market Infrastructures at Fireblocks, a company at the forefront of the digital asset revolution. In this role, he supports central banks and financial institutions across the world as they navigate the evolving landscape of blockchain technology, stablecoins, and digital assets.
During his talk, Mr Paul shared expert insights into the transformative potential of blockchain in banking. He explained how this technology – which securely records transactions across a distributed network – could make financial systems faster, cheaper, and more transparent. However, he warned that with innovation comes a responsibility, emphasizing the significance of regulation and security in the digital era.
A key theme of his discussion was the shift away from physical currency. With the rise of stablecoins – digital tokens designed to maintain a steady value – and the growing interest in central bank digital currencies (CBDCs), the financial world is moving towards a future where cash may no longer be king. Mr Paul explored both the opportunities and challenges of this transition, from enhancing cross-border payments to ensuring financial inclusion in an increasingly digital economy.
His talk left students inspired – not only about the possibilities of technology in finance, but also about the power of intellectual curiosity and adaptability in shaping the future. As Mr Paul’s career shows, the next big breakthrough in Economics might not come from a trading floor, but from the intersection of innovation, insight, and integrity.
