Discover valuable insights for those who want to grow, transform, and make an impact.
During the largest financial innovation congress in Latin America, held in Miami, N5 — in collaboration with Fintech Americas — produced an exclusive episode of the FinTalks podcast. The goal: to explore the ideas, trends, and people transforming the global financial future.
In this episode, we welcome María Laura Palacios, CEO of G&L Group, for an inspiring conversation about innovation, organizational culture, and the challenges of leading in the age of digital transformation.
With over 30 years of experience in the financial sector, María Laura shares key lessons that have helped keep her company relevant in a rapidly evolving industry. Topics include curiosity as a driver of innovation, building strategic partnerships, smart adoption of technologies like AI, and the essential role of attitude in high-performance teams.
Watch the full interview now:
Topics and insights from the episode:
1. G&L’s journey and secret to longevity
G&L Group has been in the financial technology market for 30 years. María Laura attributes this longevity to the company’s “constant curiosity” — a culture of never getting comfortable, even with a strong market position. This ongoing reinvention is key to remaining relevant in a fast-evolving industry.
2. Transformation and legacy systems in banking
Originally focused on legacy banking systems, G&L faced the challenge of retiring specialists. They responded by creating programs to train a new generation in these systems, while also equipping them with digital skills. Anticipating change is central to their strategy.
3. Strategic partnership with N5
The partnership with N5 brings together a robust product and a skilled implementation team. Both companies share a client-centric DNA marked by empathy, commitment, and deep involvement in delivery.
4. Success case: multi-country payments platform
A highlight was the joint development of a payment platform operating in seven countries. The project required coordination across geographies, technical integration, and alignment with local regulations — a powerful example of learning through innovation.
5. Adoption of new technologies and AI
G&L has had a dedicated R&D unit since 2011, now focused on data and machine learning. Their approach centers on testing, failing fast, and adapting. AI is seen as a key operational complement that boosts efficiency and enables strategic focus.
6. Team building and organizational culture
G&L promotes collaboration, even across different companies working on the same project. New team members are onboarded with a mindset of shared purpose and extended teamwork — critical for large-scale implementations.
7. Organizational structure and talent
María Laura believes in flexible structures aligned with present-day goals. The key hiring trait is attitude: proactivity, learning mindset, and comfort with change. Skills can be taught — mindset makes the difference.
8. Future and trends in Latin America
She sees a coming wave of service consolidation following fintech expansion. Integration and collaboration among specialized solutions will be vital. AI will be a key driver of operational efficiency and competitive edge.
9. Career advice for experienced professionals
Her final advice: don’t let fear hold you back. Focus on what you already have and build from there. Say “yes” to challenges — even without all the answers — and move forward with courage and commitment.
