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Ian Kar

Ian Kar

Writer and builder at the intersection of fintech, AI, and media

ian-kar-1624
New York, New York
Joined May 2026
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Network

3.7K connections
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Startup Founders CEOs
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AI Emerging Tech Builders
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Fintech Product Operations
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Venture Capital Investing
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Media Journalism Leaders
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Fintech Partnerships GTM
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Acorns Alumni

Summary

Fintech journalist turned operator and founder — Ian began his career in finance journalism and used that domain expertise to found Fintech Today and move into product and venture roles, combining reporting instincts with operator experience. qz+2
Builder and product leader — he held product roles at Acorns and Lot18/Tasting Room, later leading product and founding companies; his background blends product management with go-to-market and community-building skills. iankar+1
Investor and regulatory-focused VC partner — as a managing partner at Vol.1 Ventures he invests in early-stage founders in highly regulated sectors (fintech, crypto) and emphasizes regulatory and compliance support alongside capital. f4+1
AI and fintech consultant and public thinker — currently runs Arcana Advisors advising banks and large enterprises on AI product strategy while writing and speaking about how AI is reshaping finance. benzinga+2

Work

Education

Projects

Writing

New Consumer Financial Regulations Unlock Data For AI

October 1, 2024

Explains how CFPB rulemaking (Section 1033) and open banking unlock opportunities for AI in consumer finance and the challenges ahead.

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Random Thoughts on Fintech, Lobbying, and Regulation

Essay on fintech lobbying, regulation, and strategy (published on Medium / Fintech Today context).

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Fintech Today archives and long-form newsletter pieces

Collection of articles and analyses on fintech strategy, fundraising, and industry trends published through Fintech Today / Workweek.

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Quartz finance reporting by Ian Kar

Finance journalism pieces published on Quartz during reporting tenure.

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Hobbies

Enjoys sports (basketball, football, baseball, tennis, golf), rap and house music, writing, plants, and spending time with his dogs. iankar