Exclusive FNG… FNG has learned that Vince De Castro has left his position as Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) of Cyprus-based retail FX and CFDs broker OneRoyal to set up a new digital marketing company called De Castro Media (see website decastromedia.agency).
Vince De Castro had joined OneRoyal last year, as he also exclusively reported here at FNG at the time, after serving in senior marketing roles at a number of other brokers including NAGA, FXPrimus, Orbex and easyMarkets, dating back more than 10 years.
FNG took this opportunity to speak with Vince to learn more about his decision and what he plans to achieve at De Castro Media. Here’s what he had to say.
FNG: Hi Vince, and thanks for joining us today. Tell us a little more about your decision to leave a position like being CMO to start over with a new marketing agency.
Vince: I’ve always been driven to create and lead, and starting my own company seemed like the next big step. After years as a CMO, dive deep into digital marketing and really get all the little things that make a big difference, I spotted an opportunity to do something new. Artificial intelligence is changing the marketing game, making things not just faster but smarter and more creative. I wanted to be a part of that change.
At De Castro Media, we can dive deep into AI and explore its potential to open up new possibilities for our clients.
FNG: What will DeCastro Media focus on?
Vince: Our focus is on empowering startups and small businesses with cutting-edge marketing expertise, especially leveraging the power of artificial intelligence. We specialize in offering Fractional CMO services, combining strategic leadership with practical marketing skills. Artificial intelligence is at the heart of our strategy, powering areas such as copywriting, email marketing and funnel optimization – where we can deliver immediate, impactful results.
For businesses that may not have a full marketing department or those looking to fill specific skills gaps, we bring AI-powered insights and tactics to the table. This not only streamlines marketing efforts, but also brings a certain level of expertise often out of reach for smaller companies.
We will find out what your goals are and what has worked so far and create a comprehensive marketing plan to achieve those goals. Our goal is to make high-level, AI-powered marketing accessible and effective for businesses at every stage.
FNG: Will you be looking for clients in the broader area of FX/CFDs (and in Cyprus) or not only?
Vince: We are setting our sights beyond the retail FX space. With our strong understanding of technology, regulations and B2B strategies, we are a great fit for forex brokers, fintech companies and more. We implement strong foundations and innovative marketing campaigns. And yes, our fintech expertise means we are ready to support a range of organizations in this area.
FNG: From your point of view as a (now former) senior executive with several FX/CFD brokers, what do you see as the main areas where brokers can improve?
Vince: A few areas.
· Inadequate Market Segmentation: Many brokers do not segment their market sufficiently. Understanding the different needs and behaviors of different segments of traders – from beginners to experienced traders – is crucial. Tailored marketing strategies for each segment can significantly improve engagement and conversion rates.
· Overreliance on short-term campaigns: Many brokers focus heavily on short-term marketing campaigns aimed at quick wins such as sign-up bonuses, often neglecting long-term brand building. Balancing short-term tactics with strategies that build long-term brand loyalty is essential for sustainable growth.
· Neglecting merchant education and resources: Providing educational content and resources can be a powerful tool in the forex industry. Brokers often miss the opportunity to build trust and long-term relationships by educating their traders, which can lead to increased trading confidence and activity.
· Insufficient use of data analysis: Forex brokers often underutilize the power of data analytics to understand trader behavior and preferences. Leveraging data can lead to more targeted and effective marketing strategies, enhancing both merchant acquisition and retention.
· We don’t embrace digital transformation: As the forex market evolves, some brokers are slow to adopt new technologies and digital marketing trends, such as artificial intelligence and automation. Keeping up with digital developments can give brokers more sophisticated tools to attract and retain traders in a highly competitive market.
By addressing these areas, forex brokers can improve their marketing effectiveness, leading to better acquisition, retention and overall business growth.
FNG: And how does DeCastro Media fit into this?
Vince: At De Castro Media, our strength lies in our deep experience and knowledge of the foreign exchange market. We know how to make key improvements for forex brokers, from market segmentation to trader education and data analysis. Our approach includes the strategic use of artificial intelligence, improving operations and marketing strategies.
Clients working with us have access to a wealth of expertise, not only in designing but also executing AI-embedded strategies for immediate and sustainable success. We help brokers optimize customer journeys, use predictive analytics and create personalized experiences, putting them ahead of their market.
When you work with us, you tap into a deep well of expertise, taking on both the design and the action. It’s about making an immediate impact and paving the way for lasting success in a market that’s always in motion.
FNG: What are the main areas of challenge (and opportunity) for FX/CFD brokers going forward?
Vince: Brokers are dealing with a lot – trying to stay current with evolving compliance rules, finding new methods to retain clients in this highly competitive space, and the constant rule changes across various advertising platforms.
On the opportunity side, there is clear potential to capitalize on emerging markets. These markets are less saturated and rapidly growing with new merchants, creating a path for expansion. The growing preference for smart, mobile-first trading platforms represents a unique opportunity for brokers to attract and cater to a new kind of audience.
FNG: In what ways can you help?
Vince: We are well connected in the industry. Our extensive network of third party suppliers and industry contacts allows us to provide more than just strategic advice. We can facilitate introductions and partnerships where a client’s needs extend beyond our scope.
We understand the critical importance of artificial intelligence in the evolution of digital marketing. As we head towards 2024, it’s clear that artificial intelligence is not just an option. It is a necessity for companies aiming to remain competitive. Businesses that aren’t already exploring ways to leverage AI risk being left behind.
Our goal is to help companies effectively integrate artificial intelligence into their marketing strategies. We see huge potential in AI for predictive analytics, which enables the prediction of market trends and customer behaviors, enabling proactive strategy.
That’s our plan – guiding companies through the integration of AI into their marketing, ensuring they don’t just keep up, but move forward in the digital world.
More about De Castro Media
At De Castro Media, we combine expert marketing knowledge with advanced artificial intelligence to deliver tailored strategies for businesses of all sizes. Specializing in Fractional CMO services, we empower startups and small businesses with cutting-edge marketing solutions. Our focus: driving growth and efficiency through AI-powered content, email and funnel optimization. We are your partners in navigating and excelling in the digital marketing landscape.