FCAT and looking at what’s possible, not what is already in place

Richard Murphy, vice-president and head of FCAT Europe at Fidelity Investments, emphasizes the importance of considering what can be made real through curiosity and determination. FCAT is the company's speculative innovation wing, focusing on the "art of the possible" rather than what already exists. Murphy described FCAT as a place where creativity and imagination drive the exploration of emerging technologies and societal shifts, aiming to redefine the future of the financial sector and beyond.

Murphy noted that the team at FCAT starts with small ideas and experiments, always keeping an eye on what could happen, rather than what is already in place. This approach allows the firm to spot opportunities and scale them out. He stated that FCAT is very active within Ireland's start-up community and also collaborates with academia and other companies across various industries.

This diverse team, comprising deep-tech engineers, PhDs, artists, design thinkers, and human experience designers, helps create a cross-collaborative ecosystem of innovation.

To innovate in a rapidly changing world with uncertain answers and questions, Murphy stressed the importance of a learning mentality and experimenting with what's possible. He highlighted that FCAT's associates prioritize continuous learning and improvement, challenging the status quo by asking "but why?" and "why not?". This trait of pushing boundaries and embracing change is crucial for staying ahead in the ever-evolving technological landscape.