LIFETIME OF ACHIEVEMENT IN FINTECH
Philip Belamant founded Zilch in London in August 2018 , serving as Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of the fintech venture . Philip established Zilch as the world ’ s first direct-toconsumer , ad-subsidised payments network ( ASPN ) reaching unicorn status within 14 months of its 2020 launch .
The company gathered two million customers in 18 months , moving at a pace three years ahead of comparative unicorn firms in the sector .
His work centres on removing consumer credit cost through Zilch ’ s virtual Mastercard system , which links to users ’ bank accounts . The platform provides cashback on debit payments whilst offering credit repayments across six weeks without interest charges , marking a shift in consumer credit accessibility .
This innovation in payment systems reflects Philip ’ s understanding of market needs , which he developed through his extensive experience in financial technology .
In 2024 , Zilch achieved both operating profit and surpassed the US $ 130m revenue run rate in July 2024 .
This growth stems from Philip ’ s development of what he terms the
“ Google-isation of payments ” – an advertising-subsidised network delivering financial products based on user behaviour and needs .
The model demonstrates the practical application of technology in consumer finance , combining payment systems and consumer credit into a platform serving both users and advertisers .
CAREER AND RECOGNITION Prior to Zilch , Philip owned To The Power Of X and held the position of Managing Director for NET1 UEPS Technologies Inc . in the UK from January 2015 to August 2017 . He directed Net1 Mobile Solutions from November 2012 to January 2015 , developing expertise in financial technology systems .
His earlier ventures include founding Moola Mobile in Windhoek , Namibia , where he worked as Executive Director until August 2017 . Before that he established PBel in Johannesburg in February 2006 , serving as Managing Director until April 2012 , building his foundation in financial services .
Philip studied at St . David ’ s Marist Inanda before earning a BSc IT Honours degree with Cum Laude from the University of Johannesburg between 2002 and 2006 . fintechmagazine . com 45