Sameer Lalani, CEO and Founder of Cheque Express and Cheque Reliance, has built a remarkable career as one of Atlanta’s most influential figures in financial services and technology. Originally from Mumbai, India, Sameer moved to the U.S. at the age of 13 and quickly learned the ropes of entrepreneurship from his parents, who ran convenience stores and gas stations in Atlanta. With an early start in business, he forged his own path, creating Georgia’s largest money services company. His ventures extend into fintech, real estate, and hospitality, all while staying grounded in his commitment to the community. Known for his resilience, disciplined approach, and strong network, Sameer views his work as a means to uplift not just himself, but those around him. Today, he’s deeply involved in initiatives to improve financial access and support underserved communities through his innovative fintech solutions.
What’s the driving force behind your work in financial services and technology?
At the heart of my work is a desire to make financial services accessible to everyone, particularly those who are underserved. Many individuals, especially immigrants and people from lower-income backgrounds, lack access to traditional banking systems. I’ve seen this firsthand growing up in both Mumbai and Atlanta, where financial exclusion prevents people from reaching their full potential. I want to create products that cater to those communities, providing secure, efficient, and affordable financial solutions. I believe financial access isn’t just a service; it’s a pathway to dignity, stability, and, ultimately, empowerment.
How did growing up in Mumbai and then moving to Atlanta shape your perspective on business and entrepreneurship?
Growing up in Mumbai, you experience both vibrancy and challenge. There’s an entrepreneurial spirit that drives people to seize opportunities because there’s no guarantee another will come. When I moved to Atlanta, I saw my parents work incredibly hard to establish their business. They instilled values of integrity and resilience in me, but they also taught me the importance of adaptability. Seeing two different cultures and approaches to business gave me a dual perspective. It allowed me to recognize the importance of community support in Mumbai and the structured approach in the U.S. Combining these perspectives has been my foundation in building a successful business.
What sets your leadership style apart, and how do you apply it at Cheque Express and Cheque Reliance?
My leadership style focuses on empowerment and accountability. I want my team to feel they have the freedom to innovate and take risks while also being responsible for their actions. I’m always approachable, which I think helps foster trust and open communication within the team. At Cheque Express and Cheque Reliance, I encourage team members to challenge ideas and offer solutions. I believe the best ideas come from collaboration, so I always encourage feedback from every level of the organization. I want my team to see themselves as leaders in their own right, contributing to a shared mission rather than just following directives.
What’s the biggest challenge you’ve faced as an entrepreneur, and how did you overcome it?
One of the most significant challenges I’ve faced is navigating regulatory hurdles. The financial services industry is heavily regulated, and when I was establishing Cheque Express, understanding and complying with those regulations felt overwhelming. I had to invest time in building a legal team and educating myself on these aspects. By surrounding myself with experts in compliance, we were able to create a robust structure that not only met regulatory standards but also allowed us to innovate without fear. That experience taught me that challenges are often just areas where you need more knowledge—and the sooner you address them, the stronger your business will be.
How do you ensure that Cheque Express continues to stay competitive and innovative?
Innovation requires constant learning and adaptation. I read extensively, particularly the Wall Street Journal and Financial Times, and I attend industry conferences to keep up with trends. But beyond that, I rely on feedback from our clients and my team. They’re on the ground, interacting with customers, and they bring insights that shape our innovation. For example, we’re currently developing software that uses AI to predict client needs based on transaction history. This kind of innovation doesn’t happen in isolation—it’s built on an understanding of our clients and their needs.
What advice would you give to someone just starting out in financial technology?
Be prepared to handle complexities. The financial services industry isn’t easy to navigate, especially with ever-changing regulations. My advice would be to start with a clear understanding of the industry’s challenges and surround yourself with experts who can help guide you. Fintech is highly competitive, so knowing your market and understanding the pain points of your target demographic are crucial. Remember that you’re here to solve a problem; don’t get too attached to your product if it’s not doing that effectively.
What are some core values that guide you in both life and business?
Integrity, commitment, and empathy are values that I uphold personally and professionally. Integrity is the foundation of everything I do—it’s crucial in building trust with clients, partners, and my team. Commitment is about staying the course, even when things get tough, which they inevitably will. Finally, empathy allows me to understand the perspectives of others, whether it’s a team member, a client, or someone from a different walk of life. These values help me connect deeply with people, and in business, that connection often translates into lasting partnerships.
How do you maintain balance between your professional responsibilities and personal life?
I’ll be honest—it’s not easy. Running multiple businesses demands a lot of time, but I make it a priority to spend time with my family. We enjoy hosting dinners, watching Bollywood movies, and traveling together. I’m fortunate that my work is my passion, so even though I work long hours, it doesn’t feel draining. However, I always carve out time to recharge with my family. They’re my reason for everything, and staying connected with them reminds me of my purpose.
What’s a common misconception about the financial services industry that you wish more people understood?
A common misconception is that financial services are only for the wealthy or privileged. In reality, the majority of financial services businesses cater to individuals and small businesses trying to make their way in the world. Our clients aren’t just faceless accounts; they’re people with dreams and aspirations. Financial services should be accessible to everyone, and I hope to play a part in breaking down those barriers and helping people achieve financial security.
What’s one piece of technology you find indispensable in your daily work?
Microsoft Teams has been a lifesaver for remote collaboration. With several projects happening simultaneously, it allows my team and me to communicate efficiently. The scheduling feature helps me organize my day, while shared channels and files make it easy to keep everything on track. It’s simple but effective, and it’s helped streamline a lot of our internal operations.
When you’re not working, what do you enjoy doing most?
Outside of work, I’m passionate about fitness. I’ve been involved in sports from a young age, so I keep up with weightlifting and CrossFit. I also love watching live sports, especially cricket. There’s something energizing about being in a stadium, cheering on your team with others who share that same excitement. It’s a great reminder of how, no matter our differences, we can come together for a shared love.
Who or what has had the most significant influence on your career?
Without a doubt, my parents. Their entrepreneurial spirit and work ethic have been the bedrock of my career. I saw firsthand how hard they worked to provide for us, and their resilience inspired me to push through my own challenges. They taught me that success isn’t just about what you achieve but how you achieve it. Integrity, patience, and a willingness to learn are lessons they passed down to me, and I apply those lessons every day.
What’s next for Cheque Express? Any exciting projects in the pipeline?
Absolutely. We’re exploring the integration of blockchain technology to enhance the transparency and security of our services. While it’s still forthcoming, this development promises to offer an additional layer of safety for our clients’ transactions. Alongside this, we’re actively developing a mobile app that will provide users with easier access to essential financial tools, with a focus on simplicity and accessibility—especially for those who may not have access to traditional banking. These projects align with our mission to empower people through accessible financial services, and we’re excited to bring them to life in the near future.
Is there a quote or saying that resonates with you and why?
One quote that resonates with me is: “Success is not final; failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that counts.” This Winston Churchill quote has guided me through both highs and lows. It reminds me that success is a journey, not a destination, and that the resilience to keep moving forward, even after setbacks, is what ultimately matters.