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Samarth Shekhar
EMEA Lead- SixThirty Ventures | Co-Founder, FinTech Forum | WSJ/ FN FinTech40
Professional Background
Samarth Shekhar is a distinguished professional in the venture capital and fintech sectors, currently heading the EMEA operations of SixThirty Ventures, a prominent US-based fund that invests globally in B2B startups. The fund specializes in various innovative sectors, including FinTech, InsurTech, Digital Health, and InfoSec, focusing on pre-Seed to Series A/B stages. Samarth works closely with a network of limited partners (LPs) consisting of leading banks and insurance firms, aiding startup growth and facilitating exceptional networking opportunities. Throughout his career, he has overseen numerous investments in notable companies such as IVM Markets, Armilla AI, and AxeTrading, which has made a significant impact on their respective industries.
In his previous capacity, Samarth co-founded FinTech Forum in 2013, in collaboration with Frank Schwab, to foster a community of entrepreneurs, investors, and corporates within the fintech ecosystem. This community, now boasting over 20,000 members, has successfully guided more than 360 hand-picked startups and facilitated $800 million in funding, making it one of the most influential platforms in Europe for fintech innovation.
Beyond his role at FinTech Forum, Samarth established TechFluence in 2012, a research and advisory boutique dedicated to navigating the intersection of technology, venture capital, and finance. Through TechFluence, he has assisted numerous blue-chip financial institutions in developing and executing their strategies to engage with burgeoning fintech startups.
Samarth has been recognized for his impactful contributions to the industry, earning accolades as part of the WSJ/FN FinTech40, highlighting 40 Innovators Shaping the Future of Finance. His depth of knowledge and commitment to fintech innovation has solidified his standing as a primary driver in shaping the landscape of financial technology and investment.
Education and Achievements
Samarth's educational foundation is robust, with a keen focus on technologies that drive the future of finance. He earned an MBA (PGDM) in Marketing and Strategy from the prestigious Indian Institute of Management, Calcutta, which is renowned for producing some of the finest leaders and innovators in India. Prior to this, he completed his Bachelor of Engineering in Computer Science at the Birla Institute of Technology, Mesra, where he developed a strong technical background that complements his strategic vision in the fintech space.
Earlier in his educational journey, he attended Springdales School in Delhi for his Pre-University studies and Don Bosco Academy in Patna for his ICSE examinations, establishing a solid academic foundation that has contributed to his analytical and problem-solving abilities.
Samarth has held several distinguished positions throughout his career. His previous roles include serving as a Regional Manager EMEA at SixThirty Ventures, where he was pivotal in expanding the firm's footprint in the European, Middle Eastern, and African markets. His diverse work experience also includes pivotal positions in sales and business development within major companies such as HCL GmbH, where he was the Sales Director for Financial Services, and Capgemini Deutschland GmbH, where he advanced through several roles, including Director of Business Development in the Financial Services division.
Throughout his career, Samarth has contributed significantly to shaping the future of finance through various capacities in multiple organizations. His work with reputable firms like PricewaterhouseCoopers and Wipro Technologies has equipped him with insights and strategies that are instrumental in steering startups and established companies toward sustainable growth.
Achievements
Samarth Shekhar's achievements extend far beyond his impressive professional trajectory. As a recognized thought leader in fintech, he participates regularly in industry events, conferences, and panels, sharing his knowledge and insights into the evolving landscape of financial technology. His co-founding of FinTech Forum demonstrates his commitment to fostering innovation and collaboration among startups and established financial institutions.
Under Samarth's leadership, FinTech Forum has hosted over 21 events, connecting over 1800 investors and corporate partners with promising startups, a testament to his ability to bridge the gap between capital and innovation. The impressive track record of startups facilitated by FinTech Forum raising substantial funding has made it a pivotal entity in the European fintech ecosystem.
In addition to his entrepreneurial endeavors, Samarth's transition from sales and business development roles to leading investment strategies showcases his versatile skill set and comprehensive understanding of the financial services industry. His strategic foresight and ability to spot emerging trends have played a crucial role in the success of numerous startups and their investors alike.
Samarth's educational background, combined with his extensive professional experience and impactful leadership roles, positions him as a key player in the venture capital and fintech arenas. He continues to mentor aspiring entrepreneurs and contribute to discussions shaping the future of finance on various platforms.
tags:[
fintech innovation
EMEA operations
venture capital
B2B startups
financial technology
funding facilitation
startups
investment strategies
business development
entrepreneurship
market growth strategies
TechFluence
FinTech Forum
startup ecosystem
networking
financial services
financial institutions
business growth
international expansion
investor relations
