Hirander Misra

Hirander Misra is the Chairman and CEO of GMEX Group and ZERO13. ZERO13 is a climate fintech company that focuses on providing automated AI and multi-blockchain-driven aggregation solutions for carbon credits and related ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) real-world assets. Their ecosystem facilitates trusted supply, digital issuance, trading, clearing, and settlement processes. ZERO13 connects various stakeholders, including registries, banks, custodians, asset managers, corporates, buyers and sellers, markets, exchanges, climate tech, and fintech firms to help achieve the goal of Net Zero.

GMEX Group, on the other hand, offers innovative fintech solutions for the creation and operation of electronic exchanges and post-trade infrastructure in regulated environments. Their solutions cover a wide range of financial instruments, including securities, foreign exchange (FX), derivatives, commodities, and real-world digital assets.

Formerly, he was the COO and Co-Founder of Chi-X Europe Limited, being instrumental in taking the company from concept in November 2005 to reality with the launch and ongoing development with a successful exit to Bats Global Markets for $365M.

Both GMEX Group and ZERO13 have been recognized as leaders in the blockchain technology space. In the All Party Parliamentary Group's 2018 report on the UK Blockchain industry, the GMEX Group was listed among the top 10 leaders of blockchain technology, with Hirander Misra being a leading influencer in the field. They have also been identified as a leading Blockchain Fintech in the 2021 report on the UK Blockchain industry. Misra has been featured in LATTICE80's Top 100 influencer list for the UN Sustainable Development Goals agenda, specifically for his pioneering blockchain technology solutions. Furthermore, he was listed in the Financial Technologist's 2019 list of the 50 most game-changing founders of fintech companies.

From an early age, Hirander Misra's fascination with stock markets and finance was evident, influenced by his father's involvement in the UK stock markets during the privatisation boom of the 1980s. His passion for these subjects led him to pursue a degree that would combine his interests in history and economics. He enrolled at the prestigious London School of Economics (LSE), where he completed his undergraduate studies, earning a BSc. in Economics with a specialization in Economic History in 1995.

Recognizing the increasing role of technology in shaping the future of finance, Misra pursued further education to bridge the gap between business and technology. He undertook a part-time MSc. in Business Systems Analysis and Design at City University from 1998 to 2000, where his exceptional performance earned him a distinction.

Armed with a comprehensive understanding of both history and economics, as well as a keen insight into technology's potential impact on the financial industry, Misra embarked on a remarkable career that would redefine the way we trade and invest.

Armed with his extensive experience and a desire to revolutionize the financial landscape, Misra went on to co-found GMEX Group. As the co-founding Chairman and CEO of this groundbreaking enterprise, he embarked on a mission to create a cohesive business and technology ecosystem that would shape the future of electronic exchanges and post-trade infrastructure.

GMEX Group, with its portfolio of companies, became a catalyst for change in the global financial markets. By offering sustainable and innovative solutions, Misra and his team addressed the evolving needs of both developing and developed markets. Equities, debt, foreign exchange, derivatives, and commodities—all found a place in GMEX Group's aligned, partnership-driven approach.

Misra's expertise and forward-thinking approach garnered him recognition as a thought leader in the industry. His valuable insights on electronic trading, fintech, market structure, and financial innovation have been sought after by prestigious conferences and events worldwide. He has shared his knowledge through keynote speeches and engaged in enlightening panel discussions, inspiring audiences with his passion and deep understanding of the subject matter.

One significant platform where Misra's ideas found an eager audience was TEDxPanchgani. In his captivating talk, he shed light on the development of the financial system, from the archaic barter system to the sophisticated computerized trading systems of today. Misra articulated how the fusion of business and technology has fundamentally transformed the concept of financial trading, revolutionizing marketplaces and enabling digital empowerment.

Beyond the confines of the financial sector, Misra recognized the potential for social and economic impact through small-scale schemes. Initiatives like agricultural commodity exchanges and waste exchange schemes have brought about profound changes in the lives of individuals and communities. By eliminating middlemen and connecting producers directly to consumers, these schemes have empowered farmers, particularly women, and fostered sustainable practices.

Under his leadership as CEO, GMEX has launched ZERO13, a climate fintech that aims to create a global carbon ecosystem. ZERO13 utilizes automated AI and multi-blockchain technology to provide trusted supply, digital issuance, trading, clearing, and settlement for a wide range of carbon credits and ESG real-world assets. Its purpose is to interconnect various stakeholders such as registries, banks, asset managers, corporates, buyers and sellers, and climate tech and fintech firms to help achieve the goal of Net Zero.

Misra's relentless pursuit of progress extends beyond local boundaries. He understands the global nature of the changing ethos, with social media and connectivity playing a pivotal role. Embracing this fusion of the old and the new holds the power to change the world, and Misra encourages others to do the same. With an emphasis on embracing change, he reminds us that it is through adaptation and innovation that we avoid being left behind.

Hirander Misra's contributions have left an indelible mark on the financial industry. His vision, leadership, and unwavering commitment to technological advancement have shaped the way we trade, invest, and connect in the modern era. As a true pioneer, he continues to push the boundaries, driving us toward a future where finance and technology merge seamlessly, bringing forth transformative changes that benefit us all.
 

When he graduated and then joined Reuters in 1996, he realised that the employees on the business side did not understand the technology and that the technology staff did not understand the business. This led to that eureka moment for him as he realised that technology moving forward would increasingly enable new business opportunities and that those who knew both aspects would be at a distinct advantage. 

“This in reality has played out and continues to play out and since I combined these facets, I have never looked back as I can think top down and bottom up very quickly to spot opportunities in the Fintech space,” he said in a recent interview.

Hirander Misra's vision is to revolutionize the financial industry through the seamless integration of technology, blockchain, and innovative business models. He envisions a future where financial markets are more efficient, transparent, and inclusive, enabling individuals and businesses worldwide to participate and thrive. Misra aims to create sustainable and transformative solutions that empower market participants and drive social and economic impact.