In this episode of the Guts, Grit, and Fintech Podcast, we’re joined by Miguel Zepeda, Founder of Complify, a regtech startup building an AI-powered compliance platform for fintech companies. Hosted by Vasyl Soloshchuk, CEO of INSART, the conversation explores the growing challenges of compliance in fintech, how AI can automate regulatory workflows, and why modern financial companies need better infrastructure for risk and compliance operations.
The Hidden Compliance Problem in Fintech
Miguel opens the discussion with a striking industry reality: billions of dollars in penalties are issued to banks and fintech companies each year due to compliance failures. While fintech has dramatically improved the user experience on the front end, many companies still rely on manual processes such as spreadsheets, emails, and messaging tools to manage compliance operations. Miguel explains why this outdated infrastructure creates serious operational risks and makes it difficult for fintech companies to scale.
Automating Compliance with AI
Compfy aims to modernize compliance operations by building a platform designed specifically for fintech teams. The platform embeds AI and large language models (LLMs) to help compliance teams automate reporting, generate regulatory narratives, and streamline communication with regulators. By integrating AI directly into the compliance workflow, the platform enables teams to operate more efficiently while ensuring sensitive data remains secure within the system.
Building the Next Generation Regtech Platform
Miguel shares how Complify is developing a comprehensive compliance management platform that replaces fragmented tools like Excel, Slack, and Jira with a centralized solution. The goal is to give fintech companies access to enterprise-level compliance infrastructure without the complexity and cost typically associated with large banking systems.
From Idea to Product: Early Traction
The startup is currently working with more than 20 fintech companies interested in improving their compliance operations. The team has validated product workflows, identified required integrations, and already secured two pilot customers ready to test and refine the platform once the initial product is launched.
The Role of Accelerators in Startup Growth
Miguel also reflects on the experience of building Complify through the Antler accelerator in Singapore, one of the leading global startup incubators. He shares how accelerator programs help founders rapidly move from idea to MVP by providing mentorship, funding, and access to strong technical and business talent. Through the program, Miguel also met his co-founder and CTO, who is leading the development of the platform’s AI capabilities.
Fundraising and Market Opportunity
Complify is currently raising a pre-seed round of $550K–$750K to complete the development of the platform and onboard its first customers. The company is targeting fintech startups and mid-sized financial institutions that need robust compliance tools but lack the resources of large banks.
About Miguel Zapa
Miguel Zepeda is a fintech executive with more than 20 years of experience in banking, financial technology, and startup growth. Throughout his career, he has been involved in over $500 million in transactions across venture capital, investment banking, and startup ventures. Through Compfy, he is focused on bringing modern automation and AI-driven tools to one of the most critical yet underserved areas of fintech: regulatory compliance.
A Note on Our Platform
The Guts, Grit, and Fintech explores the ideas, technologies, and founders shaping the future of financial services. While we highlight fintech innovation and industry insights, we do not provide investment advice or professional consulting services.
