Chris Read Dunstan Thomas Podcast
Podcast
2 min

Mind The Gap: Client Engagement In A Tik Tok Era With Chris Read

Posted by Picture of Paul Holland Paul Holland

For episode 2 of our Sense of Identity podcast, we chatted with Chris Read from Dunstan Thomas on how to engage clients in a TikTok era.

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Dunstan Thomas⁠ provides a whole ream of interesting technologies to the financial services sector, investment, savings, and retirement. This has given Chris a unique view of digital transformation that spans the market.

Chris is not only the Founder of Dunstan Thomas and a thought leader on all things financial services tech, but he also started The Singing Gorilla Project in Uganda, helping to improve the welfare of remote communities.

Key Takeaways

  • Understand how financial services technology can cater to a broad demographic, ensuring no one is excluded.
  • Discover why the financial sector has historically been slow in digital adoption and how this is evolving.
  • Hear the ways in which COVID-19 accelerated digital engagement among older generations, offering a unique perspective on changing consumer behaviours.

Interview Summary

Paul: Chris, with Dunstan Thomas's broad technological offerings in financial services, how do you ensure inclusivity across diverse demographics?

Chris: Initially, our focus was on manufacturers and providers, without a major emphasis on end-user usability. However, as digital tools became integral for both advisers and consumers, we've had to adapt to include direct consumer capabilities, considering their needs and behaviours.

Paul: Do you think the financial services sector has been slow to embrace digital transformation?

Chris: Yes, primarily because the sector has traditionally targeted older demographics with more financial resources. This approach has resulted in a slower digital evolution, tailored to the pace acceptable to older generations.

Paul: Has the pandemic shifted the digital resistance, particularly among older demographics?

Chris: Absolutely. COVID-19 has accelerated digital adoption among older generations. We've seen a leapfrogging of technology, with even those unfamiliar with emails adapting to platforms like Facetime.

Paul: How do you view the future of digital engagement in financial services?

Chris: Digital tools, like online banking, are changing behaviors across generations. However, there's a resistance to transacting digitally in certain areas. Parental and peer influences play a significant role in shaping digital adoption.

Paul: What role do you see technology playing in navigating the current economic challenges?

Chris: Technology is vital in developing new efficiencies, especially during recessions. At Dunstan Thomas, we focus on product development and maintaining team sizes during these periods to emerge stronger post-recession.

Paul: What future trends do you foresee in financial services technology?

Chris: With rising interest rates, I anticipate more sophisticated retirement propositions, blending guarantees with drawdown options. We're likely to see a shift towards guaranteed income solutions in higher interest environments.

Paul: Lastly, could you share your involvement with the Singing Gorilla Project in Uganda?

Chris: Initially started as a music school to establish a common language between the West and local communities, the project expanded to include essential services like water tanks, a hospital, and schools. It's about creating sustainable support systems for remote communities.

Paul: That's amazing. It's been great to have you Chris, thanks.

Chris: Thanks Paul, it's been a pleasure.

 

Originally posted on 15 11 22
Last updated on December 19, 2023

Posted by: Paul Holland

CEO and Founder of Beyond Encryption, Paul is an expert on digital identity, fintech, cyber security, and business. As a key driver behind the development of Webline, one of the UK’s most well-known comparison engines, Paul has vast experience in developing digital technologies and bringing them to market. Through Beyond Encryption’s Mailock, nigel and AssureScore solutions, he aims to make a positive impact by helping regulated businesses engage with customers while keeping their data secure.

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