Fintech PR

London Blockchain Summit: Blockchain in Government and Public Sector Successfully Convenes at the House of Lords

Published

4 hours ago

November 26, 2024

LONDON, Nov. 26, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — London Blockchain Conference (LBC) is proud to announce that the London Blockchain Summit: Blockchain in Government and Public Sector was held in the House of Lords, UK Parliament on Monday, 25^th November.

This exclusive, invite-only gathering brought together leading policymakers, technology pioneers, and industry experts to explore the critical intersection of blockchain technology and governance frameworks. The event provided a unique opportunity to discuss DEI strategies, the power of blockchain and AI to reduce bias, and how Web3 and blockchain can drive more equitable access.

The summit kicked off with an introduction by Lord Wharton of Yarm and Baroness Charlotte Owen setting the tone for an evening of meaningful conversations around the potential of blockchain.

The key highlight of the summit was the “Driving Inclusive Innovation: DEI Strategies for Blockchain, Web3, and AI in the UK” panel discussion. The panellists included:

Dr. Maxine Room CBE, Unyted
Jo Stansfield, Inclusioneering Ltd.
Stephanie Ramezan, The Crypto Collective
Chrissy Hill, Parity Technologies

The panel, moderated by Alex Stein, Conference Director for LBC, was structured into three segments: Policy Frameworks for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI), Addressing Bias in AI, and Equitable Access in Web3 and Blockchain. The discussion delved into importance of embedding DEI into tech policy frameworks, addressing systematic AI biases through ethical benchmarking, the role of blockchain in ensuring transparency and equitable access to data, the importance of partnerships in funding, digital literacy programs, and democratising access with secure technology solutions. The panellists emphasised fostering innovation through diverse leadership, leveraging data to drive impactful decisions and tackling challenges such as digital poverty and gender disparity in the tech space.

Some of the additional key discussion points were:

Less than one-third of the tech workforce comprises women, highlighting the gender divide that must be addressed to bring more women into tech and blockchain
Education systems need disruptive innovation to integrate technology and blockchain to foster equitable digital literacy, especially for under-represented groups
AI and blockchain together can help reduce bias, but frameworks and accountability are needed to ensure ethical implementation and equitable access
Organisations must adopt operational practices and blockchain-based solutions that support DEI and encourage diversity of thought to foster innovation

The panel also highlighted actionable strategies such as using procurement processes to prioritise DEI, creating inclusive AI training datasets, and establishing equitable educational opportunities across demographics. They also discussed strategic interventions that organisations should prioritise to create equitable opportunities in Web3 and blockchain.

The London Blockchain Summit was a resounding success with engaging conversations and insights from both the panellists and the audience, that are set to shape the future of blockchain technology in government and public services.

About the London Blockchain Conference

UNITING ENTERPRISE, AI & WEB3

At the London Blockchain Conference, we show how Blockchain will change the world and help people see another way to manage data, build scalable on-chain solutions and achieve great things. We do this by creating valuable, insightful, and engaging events that educate and inform, allowing you to connect and network to build strong business relationships. Our conference is the best avenue to see blockchain innovations, big ecosystem announcements, new product launches, technology updates, keynote speeches, panels, and fireside chats from blockchain leaders. Join us and experience it for yourself.

Notes to Editors:

Dr. Maxine Room, CBE, a trailblazer in education and equality, diversity, and inclusion. With an extensive career leading Further Education colleges and a passion for anti-racism and mentoring, Maxine now applies her expertise to innovative technologies like blockchain and digital literacy.

Chrissy Hill is the General Counsel at Parity Technologies and a champion for diversity of thought. Chrissy has an impressive background spanning law, investment banking, and Web3, and she’s dedicated to creating inclusive, long-lasting business solutions—always with a smile.

Stephanie Ramezan is a seasoned entrepreneur and thought leader in the digital assets space. As the former CEO of Gemini UK and one of the ‘Most Influential Women in Blockchain,’ Stephanie is passionate about empowering female founders and driving equitable opportunities in emerging tech.

Jo Stansfield is the founder of Inclusioneering and a Business Psychologist with a deep background in engineering. Jo’s focus is on embedding diversity and inclusion into the technology and engineering sectors, drawing on her experience and her groundbreaking research into gender and racial diversity.

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/london-blockchain-summit-blockchain-in-government-and-public-sector-successfully-convenes-at-the-house-of-lords-302316610.html

Fintech

Fintech Pulse: A Daily Dive into Industry Innovations and Developments

Published

15 minutes ago

November 26, 2024

Peter Tolan

fintech-pulse:-a-daily-dive-into-industry-innovations-and-developments

The financial technology sector continues to evolve at a rapid pace, offering innovations that disrupt traditional paradigms. Today’s briefing underscores fintech’s diverse growth avenues: from substantial venture capital plays and strategic partnerships to groundbreaking implementations in lending. Here’s a closer look at recent developments shaping the landscape.

Synapse’s Comeback and Andreessen Horowitz’s Strategic Bet

Source: Axios
Synapse, a financial infrastructure company previously embattled by controversy, is staging a remarkable comeback, backed by none other than venture capital heavyweight Andreessen Horowitz (a16z). With this new infusion of funds, Synapse aims to consolidate its position as a premier platform for building financial services tools.

This resurgence demonstrates the resilience of the fintech ecosystem, where innovation often prevails over turbulence. Synapse’s renewed vigor also signals that top-tier investors remain bullish on infrastructural solutions pivotal to the future of digital finance. Andreessen Horowitz’s participation not only validates Synapse’s model but also underscores the VC giant’s enduring interest in fintech infrastructure, even amid global economic uncertainties.

Analysis:
This partnership exemplifies the dynamism within fintech, highlighting the interplay of innovation, capital, and resilience. It also raises questions about the broader implications of giving second chances to firms with turbulent histories. While Synapse’s evolution could inspire others, it also places a spotlight on governance and accountability in high-growth sectors.

Israel’s Fintech Scene Gets a Boost with Investment in Finova Capital

Source: Calcalistech
Israeli fintech startup Finova Capital has raised an impressive $20 million in a funding round led by prominent institutional investors. This marks a significant milestone for the company as it seeks to expand its suite of financial solutions aimed at underserved markets.

Israel’s fintech ecosystem has long been recognized as a hub of innovation, and this latest investment only reinforces its global standing. Finova Capital’s focus on empowering smaller businesses and fostering financial inclusivity aligns with emerging trends where tech-driven solutions bridge critical gaps in financial services.

Analysis:
With this funding, Finova is poised to enhance its technological offerings while contributing to economic inclusion. However, the broader fintech industry will watch closely to see how the company leverages this capital amid increasing competition from regional and global players.

India’s Yubi Plans a Fundraising Push

Source: Bloomberg
Yubi, a prominent Indian fintech platform backed by Insight Partners, is reportedly preparing for a new fundraising round. Having already established itself as a leader in credit infrastructure, Yubi aims to bolster its offerings and expand its market footprint.

India’s fintech landscape is witnessing explosive growth, with platforms like Yubi playing a critical role in the credit ecosystem. Yubi’s planned fundraising reflects the broader appetite for scaling solutions that streamline credit access, particularly in emerging markets where traditional lending models often fall short.

Analysis:
This development highlights two key trends: the increasing reliance on credit platforms in high-growth economies and the strategic role of international investors like Insight Partners in driving fintech innovation. Yubi’s expansion plans could set a precedent for other regional fintech players seeking to scale amid global economic headwinds.

Provenir and Hastings Financial Services Win Global Recognition

Source: Business Wire
In a testament to the transformative power of digital lending solutions, Provenir and Hastings Financial Services have been jointly recognized for the Best Digital Lending Implementation at the IBSi Global Fintech Innovation Awards. This accolade underscores the success of their collaboration in modernizing the lending process through cutting-edge technology.

Provenir’s advanced decision-making platform and Hastings Financial Services’ lending expertise have delivered a solution that significantly enhances user experience, operational efficiency, and risk management. Such innovations highlight the increasing role of partnerships in advancing fintech’s digital transformation.

Analysis:
This recognition not only validates the efficacy of digital lending but also emphasizes the importance of partnerships in driving innovation. It signals to the industry that collaboration can be a powerful tool for staying ahead in a rapidly evolving marketplace.

Microf and Quantum Financial Technologies Forge New Alliances

Source: PR Newswire
Microf, a financial solutions provider, has announced a strategic partnership with Quantum Financial Technologies. This collaboration aims to expand lending solutions for contractors, providing streamlined access to capital for businesses in need of flexible financing options.

This partnership is a timely response to the growing demand for specialized financial products in niche markets. By leveraging Quantum’s technology, Microf can now offer more tailored solutions, particularly to contractors navigating complex financial requirements.

Analysis:
This development reflects a growing trend: the diversification of fintech offerings to serve specific market segments. As competition in mainstream fintech intensifies, targeting underserved niches could become a defining strategy for success.

Key Takeaways for the Fintech Ecosystem

Resilience in Fintech Funding: Despite economic uncertainties, venture capital continues to fuel innovative fintech players like Synapse and Finova Capital.
Regional Growth Stories: From Israel to India, fintech ecosystems are thriving, attracting global attention and investment.
Collaboration as a Catalyst: The success of partnerships like Provenir-Hastings and Microf-Quantum underscores the importance of strategic alliances.
The Power of Recognition: Awards like the IBSi Fintech Innovation Awards validate industry achievements, inspiring others to push the envelope.
Focus on Inclusion: Whether through credit platforms or lending solutions, fintech is playing a pivotal role in fostering financial inclusivity worldwide.

Looking Ahead: Challenges and Opportunities

The fintech sector’s journey is far from linear. Regulatory complexities, technological disruptions, and market volatility remain persistent challenges. However, as seen in today’s developments, the opportunities far outweigh the risks. By prioritizing innovation, collaboration, and inclusivity, fintech players can navigate the complexities of the global financial landscape.

This moment in fintech history is pivotal. It’s a time for bold decisions, strategic partnerships, and a commitment to bridging financial divides. As industry players rise to the occasion, the road ahead promises a future where technology and finance intertwine to empower individuals and businesses alike.

The post Fintech Pulse: A Daily Dive into Industry Innovations and Developments appeared first on News, Events, Advertising Options.

Fintech PR

BIZCLIK MEDIA LAUNCHES DECEMBER EDITION OF FINTECH MAGAZINE

Published

1 hour ago

November 26, 2024

CISION (PR Newswire)

The December edition of FinTech Magazine includes interviews with leading experts and executives from Alipay+, Marqeta & Flyfish

LONDON, Nov. 26, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — BizClik, the UK’s fastest-growing publishing company, has released the latest edition of FinTech Magazine.This publication is highly regarded by voices within the Financial Sector for its in-depth reports and interviews with prominent figures in the industry.

FinTech Magazine

This month’s edition features an exclusive lead interview with Flyfish C-Suite, Savvas Pashias, Shay Merary and Michael Zetser on how they have developed a platform for SMEs to access banking services, as traditional infrastructure struggles to meet increasing cross-border needs.

“The UniFi platform is inherently scalable, designed to growin line with a company’s expansion and service requirements” – Michael Zetser, CEO, Flyfish

The edition also contains extensive interviews with key thought leaders from Marqeta, Sidekick, PayU and more. Plus the Top 10: Decacorns

You can visit FinTech Magazine for daily news and analysis of the ever-changing financial industry.

About BizClik

BizClik is one of the fastest-growing digital media companies in the UK, host to a growing portfolio of industry-leading global brands and communities.

BizClik’s expanding portfolio includes Technology, AI, FinTech, InsurTech, Supply Chain, Procurement, Energy, Mining, Manufacturing, Healthcare, Mobile, Data Centre, Cyber, and Sustainability.

For more information, please visit our website.

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/bizclik-media-launches-december-edition-of-fintech-magazine-302316768.html

Fintech PR

Hakluyt announces new partnership with Orchestras for All

Published

3 hours ago

November 26, 2024

CISION (PR Newswire)

LONDON, Nov. 26, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Hakluyt, the global strategic advisory firm for businesses and investors, has today announced a new social impact partnership with Orchestras for All (OFA), on the eve of the charity’s Big Give Campaign launch.

Orchestras for All is a UK-based charity that works with 11-19 year-olds to widen access to music, with a particular focus on those who face challenges such as disability, deprivation or caring responsibilities.

Drawing on its connectivity and in-house expertise, Hakluyt will advise the charity on issues as it seeks to fulfil its mission to ensure that all children, regardless of background or circumstance, are able to share in the benefits of group music-making.

Hakluyt, which has been providing in-kind support to the charity since 2022, has now formalised a partnership with Orchestras for All that will see it provide advice and guidance across a range of strategic challenges in order to help the charity widen its impact and reach more young people.

Kayo Yoshida, who co-leads Hakluyt’s work with Orchestras for All, said: “Orchestras for All does invaluable work sharing the benefits of music with children who have often been shut out of creative opportunities. I am personally delighted to be working with them, and look forward to our partnership flourishing over the coming years.”

Alexandra Davison, who also co-leads Hakluyt’s work with the charity, commented: “The opportunities that Orchestras for All offers can be life-changing for young people. The myriad benefits of musical education to children’s development and educational attainment are well known, and Orchestras for All is an organisation with a proven track record of widening access to music for the children who need it most.”

Nick Thorne, Executive Director of Orchestras for All, added: “We are delighted to have formalised our partnership with Hakluyt, and are incredibly grateful for the support they provide. This relationship is one of our most significant corporate partnerships to date, offering both financial support and advisory services.

“The funding Hakluyt have provided will not only help OFA continue providing its life-changing musical programmes, but also enable our participation in the Big Give Christmas Challenge 2024. Through this campaign, OFA aims to raise vital funds to ensure that more young people can access inclusive and transformative music-making opportunities.”

Notes to Editors

Hakluyt is a strategic advisory firm that works with corporate leaders and investors around the world on their most important commercial issues. For more information on the firm, please visit www.hakluytandco.com

Orchestras for All (OFA) is an Arts Council National Portfolio Organisation that breaks down barriers to give all young people the life-changing experience of making music together, regardless of the daily challenges they might be facing. Its inclusive, non-auditioned National Orchestra for All (NOFA) brings together 100 young musicians from across the UK who would otherwise be unable to access musical opportunities – whether due to physical disability, a mental health condition, economic deprivation, or rural isolation.

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/hakluyt-announces-new-partnership-with-orchestras-for-all-302316677.html