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Quendale Capital Corp. Enters into Letter of Intent for Qualifying Transaction with Prairie Storm Energy Corp.
Vancouver, British Columbia–(Newsfile Corp. – August 31, 2020) – Quendale Capital Corp. (TSXV: QOC.P) (“Quendale”), a capital pool company under TSX Venture Exchange (“TSXV” or the “Exchange”) Policy 2.4 (the “CPC Policy”), is pleased to announce that it has entered into a letter of intent (the “LOI”) dated August 26, 2020 with Prairie Storm Energy Corp. (“Prairie Storm”), whereby the parties have agreed to negotiate a definitive agreement (the “Definitive Agreement”) related to a proposed business combination (the “Acquisition”) which will result in a reverse take-over of Quendale (the combined entity hereinafter referred to as the “Resulting Issuer”) for purposes of completing a Qualifying Transaction (as defined in the CPC Policy). The Acquisition represents an arms’ length Qualifying Transaction between Quendale and Prairie Storm for the purposes of the CPC Policy. When the Definitive Agreement between Quendale and Prairie Storm is executed, in accordance with the policies of the TSXV, Quendale will issue a more comprehensive press release containing additional details of the Definitive Agreement and terms of the Acquisition.
About Quendale
Quendale is a “capital pool company” that completed its initial public offering in June 2018. The common shares of Quendale are listed for trading on the TSXV under the stock symbol QOC.P. Quendale has not commenced commercial operations and has no assets other than cash. Quendale currently has issued and outstanding 3,360,000 common shares (2,010,000 common shares subject to escrow), 300,000 stock options and 100,000 broker warrants. It is intended that the Acquisition, when completed, will constitute the “Qualifying Transaction” of Quendale pursuant to the CPC Policy. Quendale was incorporated under the Business Corporations Act (British Columbia) and its head and registered office is located in Vancouver, British Columbia.
About Prairie Storm
Prairie Storm is a focused oil and gas Cardium producer, active in the Willesden Green and Ferrier areas of Alberta. In the second quarter of 2020, Prairie Storm produced on average 2,143 boe/d of high netback production, weighted 53% to liquids, that enjoys low operating costs due to the strategic ownership and control of key infrastructure including pipelines, compression and processing facilities. Prairie Storm owns and operates several units under water flood which have very low decline rates due to pressure support. With a large, primarily contiguous land base of approximately 107 gross sections (77 net), and the successful drilling and delineation of 13 horizontal Cardium oil wells, Prairie Storm has booked 28.5 million boe of reserves at December 31, 2019 and maintains a large inventory of booked and un-booked locations. Prairie Storm is debt free with an undrawn credit facility and enjoys a high working interest in excess of 70% in its largely operated base of production. Prairie Storm, as of the date hereof, has 76,331,514 common shares issued and outstanding and no issued warrants, options or other securities. Prairie Storm was incorporated under the Business Corporations Act (Alberta) and its head and registered office is located in Calgary, Alberta.
Summary of Acquisition
As part of the Acquisition, Quendale and Prairie Storm intend to combine their respective businesses and continue under the name of “Prairie Storm Energy Corp.”. Quendale and Prairie Storm are continuing to evaluate possible structures to effect the Acquisition based on further diligence and discussions with their respective legal and tax advisers, including effecting the Acquisition by way of a share exchange, merger, amalgamation, arrangement, takeover bid or other similar form of transaction. As such, due notice will be provided in accordance with the applicable policies of the TSXV and securities laws if a special meeting of shareholders to approve the Acquisition is required.
Pursuant to the terms of the LOI, subject to execution of a definitive acquisition agreement and receipt of applicable regulatory and TSXV approvals, the terms of the Acquisition contemplate a share exchange of the 76,331,514 outstanding common shares of Prairie Storm at a ratio of approximately 1:1.883233. Accordingly, if the Acquisition is completed, and all outstanding Quendale options and warrants are exercised, it is expected that the Resulting Issuer will have approximately 147,110,026 common shares issued and outstanding (on a non-diluted basis).
It is intended that the Resulting Issuer will carry on the business as previously carried on by Prairie Storm prior to completion of the Acquisition. The current head office of Prairie Storm, located at 2000- 215 9 Ave SW, Calgary AB, T2P 1K3, shall continue to be the head office of the Resulting Issuer.
Reserve Information Concerning Prairie Storm
Prairie Storm has obtained a third-party independent reserve report effective December 31, 2019 from Sproule Associates Limited (“Sproule”) on all of its major oil and gas reserves in accordance with National Instrument 51-101 – Standard of Disclosure for Oil and Gas Activities (“NI 51-101”) which is summarized below. Sproule is a qualified reserve evaluator in accordance with NI 51-101.
Summary of Oil and Gas Reserves
Light & Medium Oil |
Conventional
Natural Gas |
Natural Gas Liquids | ||||
Reserves Category |
Company
Gross
Mbbl |
Company
Net
Mbbl
|
Company
Gross
MMcf |
Company
Net
MMcf
|
Company
Gross
Mbbl |
Company
Net
Mbbl
|
Proved | ||||||
Producing | 1,752 | 1,559 | 15,014 | 13,858 | 1,359 | 1,112 |
Undeveloped | 7,081 | 6,325 | 42,204 | 39,261 | 3,038 | 2,661 |
Total Proved | 8,833 | 7,884 | 57,218 | 53,119 | 4,396 | 3,773 |
Total Probable | 2,324 | 1,898 | 13,936 | 12,865 | 1,060 | 858 |
Total Proved plus Probable | 11,157 | 9,782 | 71,155 | 65,985 | 5,456 | 4,631 |
Oil Equivalent | ||
Reserves Category |
Company
Gross
Mboe
|
Company
Net
Mboe
|
Proved | ||
Producing | 5,613 | 4,980 |
Undeveloped | 17,153 | 15,530 |
Total Proved | 22,766 | 20,510 |
Total Probable | 5,706 | 4,900 |
Total Proved plus Probable | 28,471 | 25,410 |
Net Present Value of Future Net Revenue | ||||||||||||
Net Present Values | Net Present Values | Unit Value | ||||||||||
of Future Net Revenue | of Future Net Revenue | Before Income Tax | ||||||||||
Before Income Taxes | After Income Taxes | Discounted at | ||||||||||
Discounted At (%/year) | Discounted At (%/year) | 10%/year | ||||||||||
Reserves Category |
0%
M$ |
5%
M$
|
10%
M$
|
15%
M$
|
20%
M$
|
0%
M$
|
5%
M$
|
10% M$
|
15%
M$
|
20%
M$
|
$/boe | $/Mcfe |
Proved | ||||||||||||
Producing | 59,496 | 64,968 | 56,398 | 48,796 | 42,974 | 38,787 | 48,624 | 42,851 | 37,172 | 32,746 | 11.32 | 1.89 |
Undeveloped | 341,652 | 208,073 | 134,958 | 91,863 | 64,562 | 261,610 | 156,386 | 98,098 | 63,759 | 42,124 | 8.69 | 1.45 |
Total Proved | 401,148 | 273,041 | 191,356 | 140,659 | 107,537 | 300,397 | 205,010 | 140,948 | 100,931 | 74,869 | 9.33 | 1.55 |
Total Probable | 180,266 | 111,707 | 79,110 | 60,925 | 49,415 | 138,537 | 85,798 | 60,576 | 46,528 | 37,652 | 16.15 | 2.69 |
Total Proved plus Probable | 581,414 | 384,748 | 270,465 | 201,585 | 156,952 | 438,934 | 290,807 | 201,524 | 147,459 | 112,522 | 10.64 | 1.77 |
*Numbers may not add up due to rounding. |
The reserves are provided on a net before royalty basis in units of thousands of barrels of oil equivalent using a forecast price deck for gas and oil, adjusted for crude quality, in Canadian dollars. The estimated net present value of future net revenues attributable to reserves do not represent fair market value. The estimates of reserves and future net revenue for individual properties may not reflect the same confidence level as estimates of reserves and future net revenue for all properties, due to the effects of aggregation.
“Proved reserves” are those reserves that can be estimated with a high degree of certainty to be recoverable. It is likely that the actual remaining quantities recovered will exceed the estimated proved reserves. “Probable reserves” are those additional reserves that are less certain to be recovered than proved reserves. It is equally likely that the actual remaining quantities recovered will be greater or less than the sum of the estimated proved plus probable reserves.
Forecast pricing is based on Sproule’s pricing as at December 31, 2019.
Management of Resulting Issuer
Upon completion of the Acquisition, the individuals indicated below will be appointed as the officers and directors of the Resulting Issuer:
Hugh G. Ross – Proposed President, Chief Executive Officer and Director
In 1990, Mr. Ross was co-founder, President and Chief Executive Officer of Gentry Resources Ltd. (“Gentry”), a Toronto Stock Exchange listed company. Under Mr. Ross’ stewardship, Gentry grew to over 5,000 boe/d of production and held approximately 430 net sections of undeveloped land in Southern Alberta until it was sold to Crew Energy Inc. in August 2008 for proceeds of approximately $300 million.
He was also a founder of Stratic Energy Corp. (“Stratic”) and served as its President & CEO from April 1999 to August 2005. Stratic was an international exploration company with exploration activities in Syria, the North Sea, Black Sea offshore Turkey, Gabon and Ivory Coast West Africa, and onshore Morocco. Stratic was sold to EnQuest PLC, the largest independent oil and gas producer in the UK North Sea.
Mr. Ross served as Chief Executive Officer and President of Novus Energy Inc. (“Novus Energy”) from March 2009, when the company was recapitalized, through to October 2014. Novus Energy, a junior oil and gas company with high netback light oil reserves and production in Alberta and Saskatchewan, had production of 4,500 boe/d at the time of Mr. Ross’ departure. Novus Energy was sold in January 2014 for approximately $320 million to a wholly owned subsidiary of Yanchang Petroleum International Limited (“Yanchang”), an oil and gas producer and refined oil wholesale and retail business whose stock is listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange. Yanchang is controlled by Shaanxi Yanchang Petroleum (Group) Co. Ltd which was the fourth largest oil producer in China with $25 billion annual revenue in 2012.
After leaving Novus Energy, Mr. Ross co-founded and became President and Chief Executive Officer of Prairie Storm. In early 2015 the company closed a large equity financing commitment with a leading US private equity firm. Prairie Storm is focused on acquiring, developing and exploiting industry leading, large scale oil and gas assets in select regions of Western Canada.
Roderick Keith MacLeod – Proposed Director
Mr. MacLeod held the position of Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board of Sproule and its subsidiaries, until his retirement on June 30, 2014. In this position, he was responsible for overseeing its Canadian, U.S., International, Unconventional and Project Management businesses. His worldwide experience at Sproule was primarily in the areas of reservoir engineering, oil and gas reserves/resource evaluations, expert witness testimony, investment advice and education.
Mr. MacLeod lectured at the University of Calgary for many years and presented to industry on oil and gas disclosure related matters. Mr. MacLeod has been an industry advisor to the Alberta Securities Commission (“ASC”). He was one of the authors of the Canadian Oil and Gas Evaluation Handbook and a member of the ASC’s industry taskforce, whose recommendations formed the framework for NI 51-101.
Mr. MacLeod is active with the Society of Petroleum Engineers having served as the Canadian Regional Director on the international board as well as chair of the Canadian Section. He is also a member of the Society of Petroleum Evaluation Engineers and Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Alberta (“APEGA”).
Mr. MacLeod is Lead Director of Paramount Resources Ltd., Chair of the Canada-Nova Scotia Offshore Petroleum Board and the Veschuren Centre for Sustainability in Energy and the Environment at Cape Breton University. He is also a director of Prairie Storm and ETX Systems Inc.
Bruce G. Waterman – Proposed Director
Mr. Waterman is a Corporate Director, currently serving on the Boards of Ovintiv Inc., Irving Oil Limited and Prairie Storm.
Mr. Waterman retired in January 2013 from Nutrien Ltd. (formerly Agrium Inc.) as Executive Vice President, having held senior roles as Chief Financial Officer, as well as in business development and strategy since April 2000. He was Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Talisman Energy Inc., a public oil and gas company, from January 1996 to April 2000. Prior to Talisman Energy Inc., Mr. Waterman spent 15 years (1981 to 1996) at Amoco Corporation (“Amoco”), including Dome Petroleum Limited, a predecessor company. At Amoco (a global chemical, oil and gas company which merged with British Petroleum in 1998), his roles included various positions in finance, accounting and business development.
Mr. Waterman holds a Bachelor of Commerce (Honours) from Queen’s University and is a Chartered Accountant. He was chosen as Canada’s CFO of the Year in 2008 and named a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Alberta in 2011. He is past Chair and a member of the Selection Committee of Canada’s CFO of the Year Award and is a member of the Advisory Board of FEI Canada’s CFO Leadership Beyond Finance Program.
Julian Din – Proposed Vice President, Business Development and Director
Mr. Din is currently the VP of Business Development of Prairie Storm. Previously, he was VP Business Development of Novus Energy. Mr. Din joined Novus Energy in 2009 to assist with the recapitalization of the company and to help spearhead its growth initiatives. Under Mr. Din’s guidance, Novus Energy’s production grew from less than 300 boe/d to nearly 4,500 boe/d at the time of sale to Yanchang in January 2014.
From 1994 to 2009 Mr. Din held various roles in the securities industry where he was primarily involved in raising equity and debt capital for public and private energy companies and advising companies concerning merger and acquisition activity.
Mr. Din holds a Masters of Business Administration (M.B.A.) from Pepperdine University and a Bachelor of Commerce (B. Comm) from the University of Calgary.
Ketan Panchmatia – Proposed Vice President, Finance & CFO
Mr. Panchmatia was appointed the VP Finance & CFO of Prairie Storm in February 2015. Prior thereto, Mr. Panchmatia was the VP Finance and Chief Financial Officer of Novus Energy. Mr, Panchmatia joined Novus Energy in March 2009 to assist with the company’s recapitalization efforts and future growth.
Prior to Novus Energy, Mr. Panchmatia was with Gentry until August 2008 at which time it was sold to Crew Energy Inc. Mr. Panchmatia held various positions throughout his career at Gentry, and was eventually appointed Chief Financial Officer in 1996 and VP Finance in 2001.
Mr. Panchmatia gained international exposure with his time at Stratic. Mr. Panchmatia was VP Finance and CFO of Stratic from March 1999 through October 2005, at which time he left the company to more fully focus his efforts on Gentry.
Greg Groten – Proposed Vice President, Exploration
Mr. Groten is currently the VP of Exploration of Prairie Storm. Previously, he was VP Exploration of Novus Energy, being one of the five executives which formed Novus Energy through the re-financing of Regal Energy Inc. in March 2009. He has had roles of increasing responsibility both in geo-technical roles as well as in management at publicly traded companies, including his role as Vice President Exploration at Gentry until August 2008. He brings over 30 years of technical and management experience to his role as Vice President of Exploration.
Mr. Groten holds a Bachelor of Science degree with Specialization in Geophysics from the University of Alberta and is a registered Professional Geophysicist with APEGA and is a registered Professional Geoscientist in British Columbia.
Rob Morrison – Proposed Vice President, Operations
Mr. Morrison brings with him 26 years of progressive experience in many facets of Engineering and Management within the upstream oil and gas industry. The last 15 years of his career have been spent in senior management roles with junior producers while still remaining active on the technical side.
Mr. Morrison began his career working for Placid Oil Company’s Canadian district office where he gained exposure to the entire range of engineering duties (drilling, completions, production, exploitation and marketing). He completed his 10 year stint at the company in 1995 as Engineering Manager at which time the Canadian assets were acquired by Tarragon Oil and Gas (“Tarragon”). He then worked for Tarragon for an approximate 3 year period both as a Production Manager and subsequently as an Exploitation Engineer. Morrison then worked for CEC Resources initially as VP Engineering for a one year period prior to being appointed as President around the same time that the company changed names to Carbon Energy Corporation (Canada) (“Carbon Energy”). The company grew over the next four years increasing production approximately seven-fold while issuing no further shares to fund any of the Canadian growth. Carbon Energy was ultimately sold in 2003 to Evergreen Resources out of Denver. Mr. Morrison then became a founder of Element Energy Canada which was subsequently acquired by Reliable Energy Ltd. (“Reliable”). He worked at Reliable as Vice President Engineering and Operations until its acquisition by Crescent Point Energy in May 2012 for a purchase price of just under $100 million. Lastly Mr. Morrison spent time at Questerre Energy Corporation as VP Operations, Western Canada then as COO where he was responsible for the Western Canadian assets within the company as well as the engineering, geological and land department functions until year end 2013.
Mr. Morrison has a Bachelor of Science Degree in Engineering from the University of Calgary and is a registered Professional Engineer with APEGA.
Conditions
Closing of the Acquisition is subject to a number of conditions including, but not limited to, the following:
- no change in the affairs of Prairie Storm or Quendale that would have a material adverse effect;
- the representations and warranties of each party in the Definitive Agreement remaining accurate at and as of the closing of the Acquisition;
- absence of any government or regulatory order that would adversely affect the Acquisition; and
- all necessary regulatory and other material third party approvals, including approval by the TSXV and if required, by a court of competent jurisdiction, being obtained.
Special Meeting of Quendale Shareholders
The Acquisition will be carried out by parties dealing at arm’s length to one another and therefore will not be considered a “Non-Arm’s Length Qualifying Transaction” as such term is defined under the policies of the TSXV. As a result, a special meeting of the shareholders of Quendale is not required by the TSXV to approve the Acquisition.
Sponsorship
Sponsorship of a qualifying transaction of a capital pool company is required by the TSXV unless exempt in accordance with the policies of the TSXV. Quendale intends to apply to the TSXV for an exemption from the sponsorship requirements; however, there is no assurance that Quendale will obtain such exemption.
Trading in the common shares of Quendale will remain suspended until certain required documents have been provided to the TSXV and the Acquisition is complete.
Additional Information
All information contained in this press release with respect to Quendale and Prairie Storm was supplied by the parties respectively for inclusion herein, without independent review by the other party, and each party and its directors and officers have relied on the other party for any information concerning the other party.
Quendale and Prairie Storm will provide further details in respect of the Acquisition in due course by way of press release. However, Quendale and Prairie Storm will make available to the TSXV, all information including financial information as required by the TSXV and will provide, in a press release to be disseminated at a later date, required disclosure.
For further information:
Quendale Capital Corp.
Richard A. Graham, President, Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Corporate Secretary, and Director
(604) 488-8717
Prairie Storm Energy Corp.
Hugh G. Ross, President and Chief Executive Officer
(403) 774-2901
Oil and Gas Measures & Abbreviations
Barrels of Oil Equivalent – This news release discloses certain production information on a barrels of oil equivalent (“boe”) basis with natural gas converted to barrels of oil equivalent using a conversion factor of six thousand cubic feet of natural gas (“Mcf”) to one barrel (bbl) of oil (6 Mcf:1 bbl). Condensate and other Natural Gas Liquids (“NGLs”) are converted to boe at a ratio of 1 bbl:1 bbl. Boe may be misleading, particularly if used in isolation. A boe conversion ratio of 6 Mcf:1 bbl is based roughly on an energy equivalency conversion method primarily applicable at the burner tip and does not represent a value equivalency at sales point. This conversion conforms with Canadian Securities Regulators’ National Instrument 51-101 – Standards of Disclosure for Oil and Gas Activities. Although the 6:1 conversion ratio is an industry-accepted norm, it is not reflective of price or market value differentials between product types. Based on current commodity prices, the value ratio between crude oil, NGLs and natural gas is significantly different from the 6:1 energy equivalency ratio. Accordingly, using a conversion ratio of 6 Mcf:1 bbl may be misleading as an indication of value.
Mcfe Conversions: Thousands of cubic feet of gas equivalent (“Mcfe”) amounts have been calculated by using the conversion ratio of one barrel of oil (1 bbl) to six thousand cubic feet (6 Mcf) of natural gas. Mcfe amounts may be misleading, particularly if used in isolation. A conversion ratio of 1 bbl to 6 Mcf is based on an energy equivalency conversion method primarily applicable at the burner tip and does not represent a value equivalency at the wellhead. Given that the value ratio based on the current price of natural gas as compared to oil is significantly different from the energy equivalent of 1:6, utilizing a conversion on a 1:6 basis may be misleading as an indication of value.
Reader Advisory
Completion of the Acquisition is subject to a number of conditions, including, but not limited to, Exchange acceptance and if applicable pursuant to Exchange requirements, majority of the minority shareholder approval. Where applicable, the Acquisition cannot close until the required shareholder approval is obtained. There can be no assurance that the Acquisition will be completed as proposed or at all.
Investors are cautioned that, except as disclosed in the management information circular or filing statement to be prepared in connection with the Acquisition, any information released or received with respect to the Acquisition may not be accurate or complete and should not be relied upon. Trading in the securities of a capital pool company should be considered highly speculative.
The Exchange has in no way passed upon the merits of the Acquisition and has neither approved nor disapproved the contents of this press release.
Neither the TSXV nor its regulation services provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSXV) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
This press release contains forward-looking statements and forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Any statements that are contained in this press release that are not statements of historical fact may be deemed to be forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are often identified by terms such as “may”, “should”, “anticipate”, “will”, “estimates”, “believes”, “intends” “expects” and similar expressions which are intended to identify forward-looking information or statements. More particularly and without limitation, this press release contains forward-looking statements and information concerning the Acquisition, the expected composition of the board of directors of the Resulting Issuer, the completion and timing of the application to the TSXV in respect of the Acquisition, the proposed structure by which the Acquisition is to be completed, the ability of Quendale and Prairie Storm to meet the conditions of the Qualifying Transaction in the required timeframes, obtaining the necessary exemptions and approvals from the TSXV or other regulatory bodies, including the business, name and function of the Resulting Issuer and certain financial information and forecasts. Quendale cautions that all forward-looking statements are inherently uncertain, and that actual performance may be affected by a number of material factors, assumptions and expectations, many of which are beyond the control of Quendale and Prairie Storm, including expectations and assumptions concerning Quendale, Prairie Storm, the Resulting Issuer, the Acquisition, the negotiation of the Definitive Agreement on satisfactory terms, the timely receipt of all required shareholder, Court, TSXV and regulatory approvals (as applicable), the satisfaction of other closing conditions in accordance with the terms of the Definitive Agreement, as well as other risks and uncertainties, including those described in Quendale’s final prospectus dated May 10, 2018 filed with the British Columbia Securities Commission, the ASC and the Ontario Securities Commission and available on www.sedar.com. The reader is cautioned that assumptions used in the preparation of any forward-looking information may prove to be incorrect. Events or circumstances may cause actual results to differ materially from those predicted as a result of numerous known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors, many of which are beyond the control of Quendale. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking information. Such information, although considered reasonable by management at the time of preparation, may prove to be incorrect and actual results may differ materially from those anticipated. Forward-looking statements contained in this press release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement.
The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are made as of the date of this press release, and Quendale does not undertake any obligation to update publicly or to revise any of the included forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as expressly required by securities law.
THIS PRESS RELEASE, REQUIRED BY APPLICABLE CANADIAN LAWS, IS NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO U.S. NEWS SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES, AND DOES NOT CONSTITUTE AN OFFER TO SELL OR A SOLICITATION OF AN OFFER TO SELL ANY OF THE SECURITIES DESCRIBED HEREIN IN THE UNITED STATES. THESE SECURITIES HAVE NOT BEEN, AND WILL NOT BE, REGISTERED UNDER THE UNITED STATES SECURITIES ACT OF 1933, AS AMENDED, OR ANY STATE SECURITIES LAWS, AND MAY NOT BE OFFERED OR SOLD IN THE UNITED STATES OR TO U.S. PERSONS UNLESS REGISTERED OR EXEMPT THEREFROM.
This news release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities in any jurisdiction.
/NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO U.S. NEWS SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES/
To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/62884
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Asian Financial Forum held next week as the region’s first major international financial assembly of 2025
The 18th Asian Financial Forum 2025 (AFF), co-organised by the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), will be held at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC) on 13 and 14 January (Monday and Tuesday). As the region’s first major international financial conference in 2025, the forum will examine the landscape for new business opportunities in various industries and regions in the coming year and promote global cooperation, and is expected to attract more than 3,600 finance and business heavyweights.
Themed “Powering the Next Growth Engine”, the AFF will bring together more than 100 global policymakers, business leaders, financial experts and investors, entrepreneurs, tech companies and economists to share their views on the shifting global economic landscape and financial ecosystem. These industry experts will dissect the risk management strategy, discover new business opportunities, and explore how Hong Kong can seek breakthroughs in a period of change.
First flagship financial event to showcase Hong Kong’s financial strengths
Launched in 2007, the AFF has become a flagship financial event for Hong Kong and the broader region, highlighting the city’s pivotal role as a globally renowned financial hub with a highly competitive economic and business environment. Amid a rapidly changing global macroeconomic landscape, and shifts in geopolitical dynamics and monetary policies, Hong Kong’s financial services sector continues to leverage its strengths across various domains, drawing on its world-class business infrastructure and robust regulatory regime to help drive cooperation and mutual success across Asia and around the world.
Christopher Hui, Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury of the HKSAR Government, said: “Hong Kong’s financial market went through a lot of reforms and innovation last year. We have also launched a roadmap on sustainability disclosure in Hong Kong and issued a policy statement on responsible application of artificial intelligence in the financial market with a view to boosting green finance and sustainable financing. The upcoming Asian Financial Forum will gather the top-tier of the financial and various sectors from all around the world, the Mainland and in Hong Kong and hence is the perfect occasion for us to showcase to the world the new momentum and latest advantages of Hong Kong in the financial realm. Participants will also have a chance to learn more about how Hong Kong can partner with them to explore new collaborations and development areas while expanding their network here.”
Luanne Lim, Chairperson of the AFF Steering Committee and Chief Executive Officer, Hong Kong, of HSBC, said: “The global economy faces greater uncertainties in 2025 compared to 2024. However, robust growth in India and ASEAN nations, combined with increased policy support from Mainland China, is expected to keep Asia’s (ex-Japan) GDP growth at a strong 4.4%, well above the global average of 2.7%.” Against this backdrop, this year’s Asia Financial Forum is aptly themed “Powering the Next Growth Engine” and will focus on high-potential markets such as ASEAN, the Middle East (particularly the Gulf Cooperation Council countries), and the role that Hong Kong can play. Ms Lim said Hong Kong’s unique role as a bridge between the mainland and international markets allows it to support mainland enterprises expanding globally. She added that Hong Kong is committed to attracting global talent and investors, driving growth for both mainland and international businesses.
Patrick Lau, HKTDC Deputy Executive Director, said: “As we move into the new year, different economies around the world are facing challenges in maintaining economic growth. As an international financial centre, Hong Kong is playing an important role both as a ‘super-connector’ and a ‘super value-adder’ to link the world, enabling investors and fundraisers to leverage the city’s professional services and investment platforms to facilitate collaboration and create business opportunities. This year’s forum not only brings together heavyweight speakers and thought leaders but also builds on the success of previous years to provide a business platform for international participants, promoting financial and business cooperation and working together to launch new engines for growth.”
Exploring new trends as the world’s economic centre of gravity continues its shift east
Reflecting on a trend where the world’s economic centre of gravity continues to take an eastward shift, Christopher Hui will host two plenary sessions on emerging prospects in the region on the first day of the forum (13 January). The morning session of Plenary Session I will feature H.E. Adylbek Kasymaliev, Prime Minister of Kyrgyzstan, finance ministers from countries such as Pakistan and Luxembourg, and Yoshiki Takeuchi, Deputy Secretary-General of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), who together will explore the financial policy outlook for 2025. In the afternoon, Plenary Session II will bring together leaders from multilateral organisations to share their views on the role of multilateral cooperation in regional economic development. Speakers will include Roberta Casali, Vice-President, Finance and Risk Management, Asian Development Bank; Jin Liqun, President and Chair of the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB); and Satvinder Singh, Deputy Secretary-General for ASEAN Economic Community, Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). Moreover, a new session, the Gulf Cooperation Council Chapter, will bring together HE Jasem Mohamed AlBudaiwi, Secretary General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), speakers from the Middle East and local experts to discuss prospects in fostering financial cooperation and investment between the member states of the GCC and Hong Kong.
Also on the first day, Eddie Yue, Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Monetary Authority, will host the Policy Dialogue session with speakers including European representatives such as Philip Lane, Chief Economist and Member of the Executive Board of the European Central Bank, and Dr Olli Rehn, Governor of the Bank of Finland. The discussion will explore the opportunities and challenges arising from the global shift towards more accommodative monetary policies and national authorities’ strategic deployment of measures to revitalise their economies and accelerate growth through innovation.
The panel discussion on China Opportunities returns this year with senior figures invited to analyse investment prospects under China’s commitment to technological innovation and its impact on global business. The panellists included Li Yimei, Chief Executive Officer of China Asset Management; and Ken Wong, Executive Vice President of Lenovo and President of Lenovo Solutions & Services Group.
Top economist and leading AI expert take the stage at keynote luncheons
Another highlight of this year’s AFF will be the two keynote luncheons featuring thematic speeches by two distinguished guests: Prof Justin Lin Yifu, Chief Economist and Senior Vice President of the World Bank (2008-2012), and Prof Stuart Russell, Co-chair of the World Economic Forum Council on AI. These two prominent figures will dissect the evolution of the global economic landscape amid changing international dynamics, and examine how artificial intelligence (AI) is emerging as a new driving force for rapid global economic growth respectively.
Exploring hot topics in the financial and economic sectors
The afternoon panel discussion, Global Economic Outlook, will feature a special address from Liu Haoling, Vice Chairman, President and Chief Investment Officer, China Investment Corporation. The panel will analyse international economic trends and provide insights into business opportunities and wealth accumulation in emerging industries and regions in 2025.
Other sessions titled Global Spectrum, Dialogues for Tomorrow and Thematic Workshop will feature in-depth discussions focusing on the latest industry trends, including AI, Web 3.0, sustainability, philanthropy and family offices. As AI becomes increasingly widespread and diversified in its societal applications, the second day of the forum will introduce a special session, Dialogue with Kai-Fu Lee, in which Dr Kai-Fu Lee, Chairman of Sinovation Ventures, will discuss the transformative power of AI and its impact on technological advancements in the global business ecosystem.
Exploring the impact of sustainable disclosure on investment strategies
Sustainable finance and environmental, social and governance (ESG) considerations have become an irreversible global trend. In 2025, Hong Kong is set to fully align its regulatory framework with the sustainability disclosure standard of the International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB). Sue Lloyd, Vice Chair of the ISSB, will join other experts in discussing how adopting international financial sustainability disclosure standards can strengthen market confidence in Hong Kong’s capital markets, address post-COP29 implementation in Asia, and share strategies for sustainable investing across three separate sessions. In addition, the Breakfast Panel on the second day will focus on the flows of transition finance in shaping a sustainable future in the Greater Bay Area and beyond. Furthermore, the HKTDC has partnered with EY to conduct a joint market survey on sustainable development, aiming to explore the views and practices of Asian businesses and investors on topics such as sustainability reporting, sustainable finance and preparations for dealing with climate change. The results of the survey will be unveiled on the first day of the forum.
Expanding cross-border opportunities through the HK global investment platform
As a key element of this year’s forum, AFF Deal-making offers one-on-one matching services for project owners and investors. More than 270 investors and 560 projects are expected to participate, with investment opportunities across industries such as environmental, energy, clean technology, food and agriculture tech, healthcare tech, fintech and deep technology. The exhibition sections of the AFF – Fintech Showcase, InnoVenture Salon, FintechHK Startup Salon and Global Investment Zone – will attract more than 130 local and global exhibitors, international financial institutions, technology companies, start-ups, investment promotion agencies and sponsors, including Knowledge Partner EY, HSBC, Bank of China (Hong Kong), Standard Chartered Bank, UBS, Prudential, China International Capital Corporation (CICC), Huatai International and more. Notably, the InnoVenture Salon will provide a platform for more than 100 start-ups to showcase innovative technologies in a variety of fields such as finance, regulation, sustainability, health and agriculture, supported by more than 110 Investment Mentors and Community Partners.
IFW 2025 creates synergies with AFF to boost mega event economy
International Financial Week (IFW) 2025 runs from 13 to 17 January with the AFF as its highlight event. This year’s IFW will feature more than 20 partner events, covering a wide range of global financial and business topics, including private equity, family offices, net-zero investing and generative AI. As the region’s first major financial event of the year, the AFF attracts top global enterprises and leaders to Hong Kong, creating connections between capital and opportunities. The forum assists industry professionals in seizing opportunities in the new year and helps promote the mega event economy in Hong Kong.
This year, the AFF has collaborated with various organisations to provide special travel, dining and shopping discounts and privileges for overseas participants joining the event. Activities include Peak Tram and Sky Terrace trips, the iconic Aqua Luna red-sail junk boat, and guided tours of Man Mo Temple and Tai Kwun arranged by the Hong Kong Tourism Board. Participants can also enjoy dining discounts and guided tours from the Lan Kwai Fong Group, as well as the Winter Wonderland at the Hong Kong Jockey Club’s Happy Wednesday at Happy Valley Racecourse, all designed to immerse overseas visitors in the vibrancy and diversity of Hong Kong.
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Fintech
Fintech Pulse: Your Daily Industry Brief (Chime, ZBD, MiCA)
As we close out 2024, the fintech industry continues to deliver headlines that underscore its dynamism and innovation. From IPO aspirations to groundbreaking regulatory milestones, today’s updates highlight the transformative power of fintech partnerships, regulatory evolution, and disruptive technologies. Here’s what you need to know.
Chime’s Quiet Step Toward Public Markets
Chime, the U.S.-based financial technology startup best known for its digital banking services, has taken a significant step by filing confidential paperwork for an initial public offering (IPO). As one of the most valuable private fintechs in the U.S., Chime’s move could potentially signal a renewed appetite for fintech IPOs in a market that has been cautious following fluctuating valuations across the tech sector.
With a valuation that reportedly exceeded $25 billion in its last funding round, Chime’s IPO could set a new benchmark for the industry. Observers note that its strong customer base and revenue growth may make it an appealing choice for investors seeking to capitalize on the digital banking boom. However, the timing and success of the IPO will depend on broader market conditions and the regulatory landscape.
Source: Bloomberg
ZBD’s Pioneering Achievement: EU MiCA License Approval
ZBD, a fintech company specializing in Bitcoin Lightning network solutions, has made history by becoming the first to secure an EU MiCA (Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation) license. This landmark approval by the Dutch regulator positions ZBD at the forefront of compliant crypto-fintech operations in Europe.
MiCA, which aims to harmonize the regulatory framework for crypto-assets across the EU, has been a focal point for industry players aiming to establish legitimacy and expand their offerings. ZBD’s achievement not only validates its operational rigor but also sets a precedent for other fintech firms navigating the evolving regulatory landscape.
Industry insiders view this as a strategic advantage for ZBD as it broadens its footprint in Europe. By leveraging its regulatory approval, the company can accelerate its product deployment and establish trust with institutional and retail users alike.
Source: Coindesk, PR Newswire
The Fintech-Credit Union Synergy: A Blueprint for Innovation
The convergence of fintechs and credit unions continues to reshape the financial services ecosystem. Collaborative initiatives, such as the one highlighted in the recent partnership between fintech innovators and credit unions, are proving to be a potent force in delivering tailored financial solutions.
This “dream team” approach allows credit unions to leverage fintech’s technological expertise while maintaining their community-focused ethos. Key areas of collaboration include digital payments, personalized financial management tools, and enhanced loan processing capabilities. These partnerships not only enhance member engagement but also enable credit unions to remain competitive in an increasingly digital-first financial environment.
Industry analysts emphasize that such collaborations underscore a broader trend of traditional financial institutions embracing fintech-driven solutions to bridge service gaps and foster innovation.
Source: PYMNTS
Tackling Student Loan Debt: A Fintech’s Mission
Student loan debt remains a pressing issue for millions of Americans, and a Rochester-based fintech aims to offer relief through its cloud-based platform. This innovative solution is designed to simplify loan management and provide borrowers with actionable insights to reduce their debt burden.
The platform’s features include repayment optimization tools, personalized financial education, and seamless integration with loan servicers. By addressing the complexities of student loan management, this fintech is empowering borrowers to make informed decisions and achieve financial stability.
As the student loan crisis continues to evolve, solutions like this highlight the critical role fintech can play in addressing systemic financial challenges while fostering financial literacy and inclusion.
Source: RBJ
Industry Implications and Takeaways
Today’s updates underscore several key themes shaping the fintech landscape:
- Regulatory Milestones: ZBD’s MiCA license approval exemplifies the importance of regulatory compliance in unlocking growth opportunities.
- Strategic Partnerships: The collaboration between fintechs and credit unions demonstrates the value of combining technological innovation with traditional financial models to drive customer-centric solutions.
- Market Opportunities: Chime’s IPO move reflects a potential revival in fintech public offerings, signaling confidence in the sector’s long-term prospects.
- Social Impact: Fintech’s ability to tackle systemic issues, such as student loan debt, showcases its role as a force for positive change.
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Fintech
SPAYZ.io prepares for iFX EXPO Dubai 2025
Leading global payments platform SPAYZ.io has confirmed it will be attending iFX EXPO Dubai 2025 on 14 to 16 January. Exhibiting at Stand 64 at Trade Centre Dubai, SPAYZ.io’s team of professionals will be on hand providing live demonstrations of its renowned payment services for payment providers. Attendees will also receive exclusive insight into SPAYZ.io’s plans for 2025 alongside early early access to its upcoming plans for the new year.
SPAYZ.io delivers a host of payment solutions that leverage the latest technological innovations and open access to the fastest growing emerging markets across Africa, Europe and Asia. Over the past year, there has been huge demand for its Open Banking and local payment method services, alongside bank transfers, mass payouts, online banking and e-wallets.
Yana Thakurta, Head of Business Development at SPAYZ.io commented: “We look forward to once again participating at iFX Dubai to expand our network of partners and clients. It’s a fantastic way to kick off the year, connecting with thousands of industry leaders from FOREX platforms to trading companies, and everything in between.
“Our key goal for iFX Dubai EXPO 2025 is to expand our portfolio of solutions and geographies. We’re using this as an opportunity to partner with like-minded entities who share our ambition to provide payment solutions that are truly global.”
Come meet SPAYZ.io’s team at the Trade Centre Dubai at Stand 64. You can also book a meeting slot with a member of a team.
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