Michael Karbouris

7th Floor Ventures

Founder & CEO

With more than two decades of experience in global capital markets, regtech and technology strategy, Michael stands out as a seasoned expert with profound knowledge in Anti Financial Crime technology, growth strategies, and the application of new paradigms in tech across cryptocurrency and AI.

During his tenure as Head of Strategy, Michael played a pivotal role in a transformative phase for Nasdaq's Anti Financial Crime technology division, including leading the strategic $2.75 billion acquisition of Verafin in 2021. His leadership was instrumental in establishing Nasdaq as a recognized authority in Anti Financial Crime technology.

Prior to Nasdaq, Michael was a key member of Australian start-up turned global leader in real-time market surveillance and supervision, SMARTS. Michael joined SMARTS when the firm had less than 10 employees, establishing and overseeing a period of growth that saw the pioneering firm more than 10x in just 3 years. In this period Michael established the SMARTS Headquarters in Asia and then New York, spearheading the sale of SMARTS to Nasdaq in 2010.

Under Nasdaq, Michael was responsible for establishing and growing several technology divisions in the areas of trade surveillance, risk management and electronic trading across the US, Europe and Asia. In 2018, Michael's role elevated to lead strategy for Nasdaq's Anti Financial Crime technology division. Over the next 5 years the division's revenue saw more than 5x growth and Nasdaq evolved from a single point solution to an undisputed leader in Anti Financial Crime, sporting a full suite of Regtech solutions across trade surveillance, anti money laundering, anti fraud and regulatory reporting and closing in on $1bn in annual recurring revenues.

Embracing the potential of decentralized technology, in 2021 Michael led the development and execution of a progressive cryptocurrency strategy within Nasdaq focusing on blockchain analytics. In parallel, he engaged deeply in 'DeFi summer' as an active community member and involved in advisory and governance of a number of DeFi protocols.

Michael is renowned for his capacity to demystify complex challenges in the evolving landscape of financial markets, earning him a reputation as a thought leader in his field. He continues to influence the industry through his roles as a speaker, advisor, and investor.