Kristo Käärmann

Kristo Käärmann is the co-founder and chief executive officer of Wise, a global financial technology company that began as TransferWise and contributed to redefining how people move money across borders. Käärmann, a former management consultant and financial services specialist, launched the company with the goal of exposing and eliminating hidden fees and unfavorable exchange rates prevalent in traditional international banking. Under Käärmann's leadership, Wise has evolved from a niche startup into a widely used platform for low-cost international transfers, multi-currency accounts, and cross-border payments infrastructure, serving individuals, businesses, and financial institutions.

Before founding Wise, Käärmann developed expertise in finance and operations at major firms, working on large-scale transformation projects in banking and insurance. This experience provided insight into the workings and shortcomings of legacy financial systems, informing Wise’s transparent pricing model and technology-driven approach. As CEO, Käärmann has overseen the company’s expansion into multiple markets, the development of products such as the Wise account and debit card, and its transition into a publicly listed fintech company, with a continued focus on regulatory compliance and operational resilience.

Käärmann is recognized as a leading voice in financial technology and the evolution of cross-border payments. He has participated in industry conferences, policy forums, and media interviews, addressing topics including financial inclusion, real-time payments, open banking, and consumer transparency in financial services. Käärmann’s role in building Wise into a trusted global brand has led to frequent inclusion in fintech rankings and business leadership lists, establishing his credibility as a speaker on innovation, digital finance, and entrepreneurship.

Throughout Wise’s growth, Käärmann has managed regulatory scrutiny and operational challenges associated with disrupting the financial services industry, including addressing compliance issues and strengthening company governance. Käärmann has discussed lessons learned from these experiences and advocates for higher standards in fintech and effective collaboration between innovators and regulators. His combination of technical expertise, strategic leadership, and openness about both achievements and challenges positions him as a prominent figure in the global discussion on how technology can create a more efficient and equitable financial system.