Adaptive Podcast

9th September 2025

What’s Driving the New Wave of Capital Markets’ Technology?

In Conversation with Steve Grob: Mike Powell, CEO of Rapid Addition and Matt Barrett, CEO of Adaptive

Join Steve Grob, founder of Vision 57, as he discusses the evolution of technology in Capital Markets with Matt Barrett, CEO of Adaptive, and Mike Powell, CEO of Rapid Addition. Explore the strategic shift towards “buy and build” models and the integration of best-of-breed solutions.

Hear about the strategic shift towards “buy and build”:

 

What does “buy and build” really mean today?

Mike Powell explains the shift in technology strategies for banks and asset managers. Traditionally, firms either bought restrictive vendor products or built their own systems in-house. Both options created significant challenges with control and ongoing maintenance. Today, companies like Rapid Addition and Adaptive offer core capabilities and platform technologies, allowing firms to buy fundamental components and build unique applications on top, creating a flexible and innovative tech stack.

Why is “buy and build” gaining traction now?

Matt Barrett highlights the growing importance of technology layers in business operations. The commodification of compute infrastructure allows firms to allocate surplus capital to innovation. As margins shrink and cost optimizations become crucial, “buy and build” offers a sustainable path for firms to differentiate and stay competitive.

How are firms approaching legacy technology challenges?

Both CEOs discuss the complexities of replacing or modernizing legacy systems. Mike Powell highlights how operational pressures and regulatory changes are forcing the industry to seek out agile, interoperable solutions. In response, Matt Barrett advocates for a “best-of-breed” approach, arguing that integrating specialist vendors is the best way to create a flexible and future-proof technology environment.

How is component-based architecture transforming Capital Markets technology?

Matt Barrett and Mike Powell highlight the shift from monolithic, one-stop-shop platforms to modular, component-driven architectures. Instead of relying on rigid systems that limit innovation, firms are now adopting smaller, interoperable building blocks that can be integrated and swapped as needs evolve. This approach reduces risk, enables faster adaptation to regulatory and market pressures, and empowers firms to assemble a best-of-breed tech stack that supports long-term agility and differentiation.

How is the partnership between Adaptive and Rapid Addition shaping the industry?

The partnership between Adaptive and Rapid Addition creates a comprehensive, interoperable offering that embodies the “buy and build” philosophy. By leveraging Aeron technology, both firms deliver robust and scalable solutions, providing capital markets with the tools to meet their ever-changing demands.