Tokenization, stablecoins and AI are shifting the financial sector’s attention from policy debates to practical implementation. Julian Schmeing, Partner at zeb consulting, speaks with Sopnendu Mohanty, the Global CEO of the Global Finance and Technology Network (GFTN), about lessons from the Point Zero Forum, opportunities in cross-border payments and Europe’s approach to regulatory certainty and digital sovereignty. They also explore the Singapore FinTech Festival’s agenda and GFTN’s priorities for connecting markets, technology and capital.What does moving from financial innovation policy to execution involve? This conversation connects developments in payments and digital assets with the priorities of regulators, financial institutions and technology firms. Topics include: - Point Zero Forum takeaways: implementing MiCA and advancing tokenization, programmable assets and settlement infrastructure. - Cross-border payments: stablecoin demand among businesses in emerging markets, and why Europe’s needs may differ. - Europe’s position: regulatory certainty, digital sovereignty and the potential role of a wholesale digital euro. - AI and quantum readiness: governance, trust, identity and the transition toward quantum-resilient security. - Singapore FinTech Festival: the “rewiring” agenda across policy, technology, talent, capital and geoeconomics. - GFTN’s ambitions: connecting regional markets, supporting experimentation and skills, and addressing financial inclusion and financial health. The conversation closes with a personal reflection on the resilience required to build and run an organization.