"Tech Finance" with Sasha Orloff: B2B Fintech | AI | Finance Tech E65: a16z-backed Stuut CEO Tarek Alaruri on Why Legacy AR Software Failed and How AI Fixes It
Jan 14, 2026
Tarek Alaruri, CEO and co-founder of Stuut, leads an AI-powered accounts receivable platform that automates multiple AR functions. He discusses the shortcomings of legacy software and how Stuut’s solution drastically reduces days sales outstanding (DSO) by 40%. Tarek also emphasizes the importance of human-in-the-loop training to fine-tune AI responses and shares insights on fundraising from Andreessen Horowitz, addressing the evolving role of AR teams in managing client relationships rather than routine tasks.
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Timing: AI And APIs Finally Align
- Tarek argues the technical stack and AI breakthroughs of the last 16–18 months enabled true AR automation.
- He contrasts this with legacy vendors who profit from more seats and services instead of automating work away.
Automate Gradually With Humans In The Loop
- Put a human in the loop, learn from them, then automate their tasks gradually.
- Use different models for different workflow steps and avoid fully automating customer-facing dispute escalation.
Modular Models For Diverse AR Tasks
- Stuut layers multiple AI models to handle inbound (IVR) and outbound (collections, payments) AR workflows.
- That modular model strategy enables fast, varied actions like fetching invoices or collecting card payments by phone.