Where Leaders Connect
HFTCON Origins: Event Recap
An exclusive, invitation-only gathering of 100+ leaders in cybersecurity, fintech, and regulated industries came together on March 19, 2026. From keynotes and expert panels to networking and recognition ceremonies, HFTCON Origins delivered strategic insights and meaningful connections that will shape the future of our industry.
Who are We?
The HFTC Network is an exclusive community for professionals in regulated industries like Capital Markets, uniting leaders across security, compliance, operations, and technology. As an HFTC member, you gain access to a select group of peers and industry decision-makers through private events, roundtables, and virtual showcases.
Membership is about more than simply joining a network—it’s an opportunity to build meaningful relationships, share expertise, and help shape industry best practices. Join us to engage with accomplished professionals, exchange critical insights, and contribute to innovation in this dynamic sector. With HFTC, real connections lead to real impact.
Learn More at hftconnect.comWhat Defined HFTCON Origins
HFTCON Origins brought our community together to tackle the big-picture challenges and opportunities in cybersecurity. This exclusive gathering of 100+ vetted leaders created an ideal environment for meaningful discourse and strategic partnerships.
At this event, we explored what we've learned about AI, cybersecurity, data, governance, compliance, and leadership—and considered what comes next. Together, we discussed how to effectively prepare to defend, innovate, and lead in a world where competitive advantage is won and protected in ever-shorter timeframes.
About The Event
HFTCON Origins was an exclusive, invitation-only gathering designed for leaders in regulated industries. We stepped back from the day-to-day to analyze the macro trends, emerging threats, and innovative strategies that define the future of cybersecurity. Attendees connected with peers, learned from top experts, and gained strategic insights in a rapidly evolving landscape.
What Defined HFTCON Origins
HFTCON Origins brought together cybersecurity and fintech leaders for a unique learning and networking experience. Here's what made it special.
- Multiple accredited sessions
- Expert-led workshops
- Professional certification support
- Industry-leading thought leaders
- Meaningful networking connections
- Professional relationship building
- MIT Computer Science & AI Laboratory insights
- Real-world AI implementation strategies
- Future of AI in financial services
- Modern threats vs modern tools roundtable
- Data security best practices
- Operational risk management
- Compliance as a strategic tool
- Fintech regulation insights
- Risk management frameworks
- Member recognition ceremonies
- Industry achievement awards
- Peer networking opportunities
- Structured networking sessions
- Sponsor engagement opportunities
- Cross-industry collaboration
- 12+ hours of content and networking
- Premium venue and catering
- Exclusive cocktail reception
- Community after-party
HFTCON will return
Thank you to all attendees, speakers, and sponsors who made HFTCON Origins unforgettable. Subscribe below for updates on future events, speakers, and exclusive early access.
Agenda
HFTCON Origins featured a full day of keynotes, panels, and networking sessions focused on foundational decisions shaping modern finance and technology. Explore the complete agenda below to relive the event's key moments.
Event Highlights
A visual recap of keynotes, panels, networking, and memorable moments from HFTCON Origins.
Opening Keynote speech with Co-Emcees Ben Saberin and Eldon Sprickerhoff
Panel: Lessons From First Movers Panelists: (left to right) Naresh Singh, Chris Hainlen, Ben Saberin & Mark Van Der Sande
3/4's of Team HFTC, hard at work! (A.J. was hard at work battling a roll of tape just out of the picture)
Member of the Quarter Barry Moraller, doing what he does best: Engaging with the HFTC Community!
Saberin Group representative Michael Maguire extolling the virtues of Audition Ai.
Panel The Next Origin Story with Panelists Ben Saberin & Sean Kennedy.
Presentation by Stephen Bisbee from Sponsor FirmScribe
Charity Challenge: Team Digital Girl vs Team HFTC
Panel: The Birth of Real Time Data Feeds with Panelists (from left to right) Ben Saberin, Steven Kerstein, Bryan Hull & Shruthi Velidi.
ThreatLocker representative Mohammad Hussain chatting with Members.
Members engaging in content.
Members engaging in great content and amazing food!
HFTC Members comparing swag.
Presenting Member of the Quarter: Barry Moraller
Panelist Chris Hainlen
Panel From Origin to Obsolescence with Panelists (from left to right) David Dinner, Ben Saberin, Michael Hess & Eldon Sprickerhoff.
Panel From Annie Moore's to Capital Grille: The Birth of HFTC, Panelists (from left to right) Ben Saberin, Aaron Steinberg, and Dave Lund.
Michelle & Toni from Digital Girl Inc explaining their mission.
Speakers & Hosts
HFTCON Origins featured leaders from across trading, infrastructure, compliance, and security.
Benjamin Saberin
Co-Emcee
Panelist
Eldon Sprickerhoff
Co-Emcee
Keynote Speaker
Stephen Krug
Panelist
David Dinner
Panelist
Naresh Singh
Panelist
David Lund
Panelist
AJ Fried
Panelist
Ken D'Agostino
Panelist
Mark Van Der Sande
Panelist
Chris Hainlen
Panelist
Michael Hess
Panelist
Jeff Miller
Panelist
Aaron Steinberg
Panelist
Steven Kerstein
Panelist
Shruthi Velidi
Panelist
Bryan Hull
Panelist
Sean Kennedy
Panelist
Member of the Quarter
Barry Moraller
IT Director
Kemnay Advisory Services Inc
Barry Moraller is an experienced IT leader specializing in data analytics, security, compliance, business continuity and risk with a focus on providing and organizing data; enabling companies to ask better questions.
He has built teams, led the design and implementation of CRMs and data warehouses including the sourcing, processing and quality control of new data sources for multiple financial service firms.
Recognized for outstanding contributions and leadership within the HFTC community
Our Sponsors
HFTCON Origins brought together industry leaders and decision-makers in a premium environment that fostered authentic engagement. Our sponsors gained direct access to a curated audience of 100+ vetted professionals committed to advancing security, compliance, and innovation in regulated industries.
Position Your Brand as a Thought Leader
Future HFTCON events offer premium sponsorship opportunities to align with industry decision-makers. Gain visibility, demonstrate expertise, and build strategic relationships with the peers and professionals shaping the future of regulated industries.
Partner with Future HFTCON EventsWhy Sponsor HFTCON?
HFTCON Origins proved that the right venue and audience create exceptional ROI for sponsors. Here's what awaits premium partners in future events.
Access to Vetted Decision-Makers
Connect directly with 100+ C-suite executives, compliance officers, and technology leaders who actively seek innovative solutions in cybersecurity and fintech.
Premium Brand Positioning
Demonstrate thought leadership and establish credibility alongside industry pioneers. HFTCON attracts professionals committed to advancing security and compliance.
Authentic Engagement Opportunities
Beyond booth presence—interactive demos, roundtable participation, keynote platforms, and intimate networking sessions drive meaningful conversations and qualified leads.
Elevated Event Experience
HFTCON Origins set a new standard for professional events in regulated industries. Sponsors benefit from premium venue, curated programming, and exclusive recognition.
Ready to Sponsor?
HFTCON Origins demonstrated the power of bringing together vetted, decision-making executives. Premium sponsorship opportunities for future events offer unmatched brand visibility, direct engagement with industry leaders, and the platform to establish thought leadership at the highest level.
Charity of the Quarter
Raffle Prizes
Meta Quest 3 VR Headset
Bose Ultra Open Earbuds
DJI Mini 4K Drone
Nintendo Switch Lite
Nespresso Vertuo Next with Aeroccino
Exclusive Swag
Byte Me T-Shirt
$24.99
99 Problems T-Shirt
$24.99
There's No Place Like 127.0.0.1 T-Shirt
$24.99
Straight Outta Liquidity T-Shirt
$24.99
Crossland Cuff Beanie
$29.99
Cotton Twill Baseball Cap
$29.99
HFTC Argyle Sock
$19.99
HFTC Logo Argyle Necktie
$29.99
HFTC Logo Necktie
$29.99
Stainless Steel Hip Flask - 8oz
$29.99
Frosted Glass Beer Stein - 16oz
$39.99
Collapsible Koozie
$5.00
Travel Umbrella
$24.99
Golf Umbrella
$39.99
Venue
NYCES
4 W 43rd St, New York, NY
A state-of-the-art venue in the heart of Manhattan, fully accessible.
HFTCON will return
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