CEO Monthly Issue 11 2018

CEO MONTHLY / ISSUE 11 2018 7 Simon Byrne, CEO: Helping to Redefine the Trading Industry all look for where the ‘grass is greener’ however, sometimes it is good to just sit back and take in what you have achieved to date and be proud.” “To the entrepreneurs in us, find what you enjoy doing the most… or at least, what you are the best in the world at. Try to invent a formula, unique delivery method or anything that will help the world to improve people’s lives or offer a unique user experience. Brand it and protect yourself with a trade mark or patent. Invest the money you can afford to lose or find investors who think alike. Do not chase the success, chase the dream of changing the world. Success will come.” Changing gears slightly, Simon talks about his career milestones, from Dublin graduate to CEO of Acetop. “From the very start and through my education, the financial industry always had me intrigued. Having graduated with a Bachelor of Commerce in the University College of Dublin, I started my professional career in the late 80s, working more than 17 years in the Irish Banking Industry. During this time, I worked in all areas of Treasury, watching as the market and technology changed the shape of the financial industry we see today. From starting in the post room, I moved on to become Chief Dealer within a modest bank that later became one of the largest FX banks in Ireland. Having crossed the waters to the UK in 2006, I continued working for major global banks within Treasury until the banking collapse. It was at this time, I decided to move away from the mainstream banks into the CFD and hedge-fund arena.” “Over the following number of years, I helped establish a number of companies from obtaining FCA licences to business growth. In late 2016, a wonderful opportunity arose to head up Acetop’s venture into the UK. The start-up began and to date we have over 20 employees working to achieve our ultimate goal.” Finally, as the interview comes to a close, Simon discusses the future of Acetop Financial as they look to capitalise on the changing dynamic of the market. Changes are imminent, and though they may be challenging initially, Simon believes that they are pushing the industry in a better, more innovative, more secure direction. “The future is very positive and optimistic. In the short term, the future may seem challenging. Changes to regulations protecting the client, data protection (GDPR) and Brexit are all having an impact on the forex industry currently. These changes will help to strengthen the industry, provide better protection to both the client and companies, ensuring a bright future ahead for all.” “Lower leverage within the industry is there to protect the clients and reduce the risk of the company, which must be embraced. Greater emphasis on educating clients wishing to enter this industry will also help to improve the image of the industry and allow a more level playing field. Further, the recent spending and improvements of Acetop’s technology should allow us to gain even greater efficiency - while minding the environment and consuming less energy- and provide our customers with reliable services at a lower cost. While positive changes are afoot at Acetop, we hope to launch many new innovations within the years ahead.” In his closing comments, Simon summarises his approach to the year ahead. “Hopefully, through working with the excellent staff and management here at Acetop, I can improve my leadership style, increase my knowledge base and continue to enjoy the wonders that life has to offer.” Contact: Sergey Tsvetkov, Digital Marketing Manager Company: Acetop Financial Ltd Address: 3 St Helen’s Place, London, EC3A 6AB, United Kingdom Website: www.acetop.uk Telephone: +44 (0) 207 382 1700