Fintech
McFarlane Lake Mining Limited Completes Reverse Takeover Transaction
Sudbury, Ontario–(Newsfile Corp. – January 14, 2022) – McFarlane Lake Mining Limited (“McFarlane” or the “Company“) (formerly 1287401 B.C. Ltd. (“128“)) is pleased to announce the completion of its previously announced reverse takeover transaction (the “RTO” or “Transaction“) with McFarlane Lake Mining Incorporated (“MCFL“), a privately held mineral exploration company incorporated under the laws of the Province of Ontario, by way of a three-cornered amalgamation (the “Amalgamation“).
In connection with the completion of the Transaction, the NEO Exchange Inc. (the “Exchange“) has conditionally approved the listing of the MLM Shares (as defined below). The MLM Shares are expected to commence trading on the Exchange under the symbol “MLM” on or about January 26, 2022. Listing will be subject to the Company meeting all of the Exchange’s listing requirements. A further press release will be issued once trading has commenced.
The Transaction
Prior to the completion of the Transaction, the Company: (i) completed a share split of its issued and outstanding common shares on the basis of 1.20967742 post-split shares for each 1 pre-split share; and (ii) approved the name change from “1287401 B.C. Ltd.” to “McFarlane Lake Mining Limited” (the “Name Change“).
The Transaction was completed according to the terms of a business combination agreement dated January 12, 2022 (the “Business Combination Agreement“). Pursuant to the Business Combination Agreement, on the date hereof, MCFL and 1000034047 Ontario Inc. (“Subco“) (a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company incorporated under the laws of the Province of Ontario for the purpose of completing the Transaction) amalgamated in accordance with the provisions of the Business Corporations Act (Ontario) and continued operating under the name “McFarlane Lake Mining Incorporated” (“Amalco“).
In connection with the Transaction: (i) the holders of the 75,582,313 issued and outstanding common shares of MCFL (each a “Target Share“) received one common share of the Company (each a “MLM Share“) for each Target Share held; (ii) the holders of the 65,500 issued and outstanding common shares of Subco (each a “Subco Share“) received one MLM Share for each Subco Share held; (iii) as consideration for the issuance of the MLM Shares to effect the Amalgamation, the Company received one common share of Amalco for each MLM Share issued to holders of Target Shares and Subco Shares; and (iv) each Subco Share issued to the Company on incorporation was cancelled.
Additionally, the Company issued approximately 4,206,156 replacement warrants (the “MLM Warrants“) to existing holders of common share purchase warrants in MCFL and Subco on a 1:1 basis. Concurrently with the completion of the Transaction, the Company has: (i) granted an aggregate of 5,500,000 replacement options (“MLM Options“) to the directors and officers of MCFL, to purchase common shares (the “Option Shares“) of the Company, exercisable at a price of $0.10 per Option Share until May 31, 2026; and (ii) issued 834,575 replacement broker warrants and 262,500 replacement advisory warrants to Canaccord Genuity Corp. (“Canaccord“) on the same terms and conditions as the broker warrants and advisory warrants issued to Canaccord for services provided in connection with MCFL’s previously completed brokered and non-brokered offerings of units and flow-through common shares (together, the “Offerings“) (see the Company’s press release dated December 10, 2021 for further information regarding the Offerings).
In the near future, the Company plans on filing articles of continuance to continue from the Province of British Columbia into the Province of Ontario, subject to regulatory approvals.
A summary of material changes resulting from the Transaction are provided herein. For further information, readers are referred to the filing statement of the Company dated January 14, 2022 (the “Filing Statement“) which was prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Exchange and filed under the Company’s SEDAR profile at www.SEDAR.com. Included in the Filing Statement is a summary of the National Instrument 43-101 – Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects (“NI 43-101“) technical report prepared pursuant to NI 43-101, prepared by Sears, Barry & Associates Limited partner Seymour M. Sears titled “NI 43-101 Technical Report on the High Lake and West Hawk Lake, Canada” with an effective date of May 25, 2021 (the “Technical Report“). The full version of the Technical Report is also available on the Company’s SEDAR profile at www.SEDAR.com.
Board and Management
Immediately after the completion of the Transaction, the Company reconstituted its board of directors to consist of seven (7) nominees of MCFL, and all existing officers of the Company resigned and were replaced by nominees of MCFL.
Consolidated Capitalization
After completion of the Transaction, there are: (i) 79,397,813 MLM Shares issued and outstanding; (ii) 4,206,156 MLM Warrants issued and outstanding, with each MLM Warrant being exercisable for a MLM Share at an exercise price of $0.60 and having an expiry date of December 9, 2024; and (iii) 5,500,000 MLM Options, with each MLM Option being exercisable for a MLM Share at a price of $0.10 until May 31, 2026.
Escrowed Securities
Pursuant to the requirements of the Exchange, upon listing of the MLM Shares, all securities of the Company that are held by “principals” of the Company (collectively, the “Escrowed Securityholders“) will be placed into escrow. Upon completion of the Transaction, there are an aggregate of 30,345,400 MLM Shares, 131,250 MLM Warrants and 5,000,000 MLM Options (collectively, the “Escrowed Securities“) held in escrow pursuant to a security escrow agreement (“Resulting Issuer Escrow Agreement“) entered into among TSX Trust Company, as the escrow agent, the Company, and the Escrowed Securityholders.
Subject to the Resulting Issuer Escrow Agreement, 25% of the Escrowed Securities held by the Escrowed Shareholders shall be released from escrow on the date the MLM Shares are listed on the Exchange (“Listing“), 25% shall be released from escrow 6 months after Listing, 25% shall be released from escrow 12 months after Listing, and the remaining 25% shall be released from escrow 18 months following Listing.
Directors and Officers
In connection with the Transaction, the following individuals were elected to serve as members of the board of directors of the Company or appointed as officers. The following information is as furnished by such directors and officers.
Mark Trevisiol, 60 – Chief Executive Officer, President and Director
Mr. Trevisiol is a professional engineer with 30 years of experience in mineral processing, mining, capital projects and executive management. Mr. Trevisiol spent over 20 years with Glencore predecessor companies Falconbridge Ltd. and Xstrata Nickel, where he was General Manager of Business Development and Strategy, General Manager of the Sudbury Smelter Business Unit, Manager of Smelter Operations and Superintendent of the Kidd Creek Zinc Plant. More recently, Mark held a number of executive leadership and board positions, including CEO positions at Crow flight Minerals and Silver Bear Resources. During his career, Mr. Trevisiol has had responsibility in mining and mineral processing for teams of up to 300 people, with responsibility for operations, safety & environment, custom feed, engineering, maintenance and technology. He has worked across several commodities, including nickel, cobalt, zinc, copper, lithium, gold, and silver. Mr. Trevisiol holds an Engineering degree from the University of Waterloo.
Charles Lilly, 63 – Chief Financial Officer, Corporate Secretary and Director
Mr. Lilly is a partner in the public accounting firm of Sostarich, Ross, Wright & Cecutti, LLP. He has a B. Comm from Laurentian University, where he graduated Summa Cum Laude, and an M.B.A. from the University of Toronto. Mr. Lilly has served as an officer or a director of a number of public corporations listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange and the Toronto Venture Stock Exchange.
Roger Emdin, 63 – Chief Operating Officer and Director
Mr. Emdin is a Professional Mining Engineer with more than 30 years of global experience in Operations, Projects, Engineering and Sustainable Development in both base metal and gold mining environments. Mr. Emdin started out in gold with the Dome and Canamax Resources in Ontario before turning to base metals in Zambia, returning to Canada but working globally as a consultant. Joined Glencore (Falconbridge) filling various roles including, Engineering Superintendent, Mine Manager (Craig & Nickel Rim South) and of Manager Sustainable Development for Sudbury Operations before coming back to gold in 2015 as the Vice President of Operations for Harte Gold. Mr. Emdin served as the Industry Co-Chair for the Mining Legislative Review Committee for 7 years, was active in the Ontario Mining Association and served as the Chair of the Board of Directors for the Centre for Excellence in Mining Innovation (CEMI). Mr. Emdin also participated with the Ontario government as a member of the Advisory Group to the Mining Health and Safety Prevention Review and was a member of the Board for Cambrian College for six years including roles of Chair of the Audit Committee and Chair.
Perry Dellelce, 58 – Director
Mr. Dellelce is a founder and the managing partner of Wildeboer Dellelce LLP, one of Canada’s leading corporate finance and transactional law firms. Mr. Dellelce practices in the areas of securities, corporate finance and mergers and acquisitions. Mr. Dellelce serves on the boards of many of Canada’s leading businesses, including but not limited to, Mount Logan Capital Inc. and Lendified Inc. Mr. Dellelce is the past chair and a current member of the board of directors of the Sunnybrook Foundation and the current chair of the NEO Exchange Inc. and Canadian Olympic Foundation. Mr. Dellelce holds a BA from Western University, a LLB from the University of Ottawa and an MBA degree from the University of Notre Dame.
Amanda Fullerton, 41 – Director
Ms. Fullerton has been the Vice-President, Legal & Corporate Secretary of GCM Mining Corp. since March 25, 2019. She has also been the Corporate Secretary at Denarius Silver Corp. since February 2021. She was a Vice President, Legal (and prior thereto, Associate, Legal) of Macquarie Capital Markets Canada Ltd. from March 24, 2014, to March 22, 2019. Prior thereto, Ms. Fullerton was an associate with Fasken Martineau DuMoulin LLP from September 2008 to March 2011 and MacLeod Dixon LLP (now Norton Rose Fulbright LLP) from March 2011 to March 2014 and practiced in the areas of corporate finance, mergers and acquisitions and corporate/commercial law, focused primarily on the mining industry.
Guy Mahaffy, 50 – Director
Mr. Mahaffy is the managing director of W.G. Mahaffy Limited, a financial advisory firm. He holds the professional designations of Chartered Accountant, Chartered Professional Accountant and Chartered Financial Analyst. He has over 25 years of experience, with the past 15 years focused on the junior resource sector. He has served as an officer and director of mineral resources exploration companies on both the Toronto Stock Exchange and the TSX Venture Exchange, including previously having served as a director and as the chief financial officer of Manitou Gold Inc. from June 2009 to June 2012. Mr. Mahaffy was reappointed to the board of directors of Manitou Gold in 2015 and currently serves as the Chair of that company’s board of directors. He is also currently the Chief Financial Officer of SPC Nickel Corp.
Fergus Kerr, 79 – Director
Mr. Kerr is a Professional Mining Engineer and is currently self employed as a consultant. Mr. Fergus Kerr is a graduate of the Royal School of Mines and a mining engineer with over 35 years of experience, including 14 years at Denison Mine’s Elliot Lake uranium mine, where he served as General Manager for five years. Subsequent to Denison, Mr. Kerr served as Sector Director at Workplace Safety & Insurance Board, and Mine Manager, Sudbury Operations at Inco LLC Area Manager at Inco’s Sudbury operations. Mr. Kerr is sought after health and safety specialist consulting globally with recent assignments in Mongolia, Indonesia and Australia.
Robert Kusins, 66 – Vice President, Geology
Mr. Kusins B.Sc., P Geo has over 35 years of mining, exploration and consulting experience. Mr. Kusins has spent his career involved with exploring, developing, validating and mining of a number of deposits including the Golden Giant Mine (Newmont Canada), Holloway Mine (Newmont Canada), Tundra Project (Noranda), Timmins West Mine Complex (Lake Shore Gold – Pan American Silver) and most recently the Sugar Zone Mine (Harte Gold). Mr. Kusins has worked in the capacity of Chief Geologist, Chief Resource Geologist and Geology Manager at producing mines where he has co-authored several NI 43-101 Technical Reports. Previous to working for Harte, Mr. Kusins was employed by SRK as a Principal Consultant (Geology) in the Sudbury office. Proficient in GEOVIA GEMS with expertise in three-dimensional geological modeling, developing and managing exploration programs, data management and mineral resource estimation.
Exchange Approval
The MLM Shares are expected to be listed for trading on the Exchange on or about January 26, 2022. The Listing remains subject to the final approval by the Exchange and fulfillment of all the requirements of the Exchange in order to obtain such approval including, among other things, submission and acceptance of all documents requested by the Exchange in its conditional acceptance letter and payment of all outstanding fees to the Exchange.
Early Warning
In connection with the Transaction, each of Perry Dellelce and Mark Trevisiol acquired ownership, control, or direction over MLM Shares requiring disclosure pursuant to the early warning requirements of applicable securities laws.
Mr. Dellelce, in exchange for his holdings of Target Shares, acquired 11,550,000 MLM Shares representing approximately 14.55% of the Company’s issued and outstanding shares on a non-diluted basis. Mr. Trevisiol directly and indirectly owns or controls 12,350,000 MLM Shares, which represents approximately 15.55% of the Company’s issued and outstanding shares on a non-diluted basis.
The securities of the Company acquired by each of Mr. Dellelce and Mr. Trevisiol are presently being held only for investment purposes. Subject to regulatory approval, each holder may from time to time in the future increase or decrease their ownership, control, or direction over securities of the Company held by each of them, through market transactions, private agreements or otherwise, the whole depending on market conditions, the business and prospects of the Company and other relevant factors.
A copy of each early warning report (the “Early Warning Report“) will be filed by each of Mr. Dellelce and Mr. Trevisiol, respectively, pursuant to applicable securities laws in connection with the completion of the Transaction. A copy of each Early Warning Report to which this press release relates will be available under the Company’s profile on SEDAR www.SEDAR.com.
The MLM Shares acquired by each of Mr. Dellelce and Mr. Trevisiol are held in escrow pursuant to the Resulting Issuer Escrow Agreement described above under “Escrowed Securities“.
Additional information on McFarlane can be found by reviewing its profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com.
About McFarlane Lake Mining Limited
McFarlane’s wholly owned subsidiary McFarlane Lake Mining Incorporated, a corporation incorporated under the laws of the Province of Ontario, has entered into a definitive purchase agreement dated effective December 30, 2021 with Canadian Star Minerals Ltd. (“CSM“) to purchase all of CSM’s right, title and interest in the High Lake mineral property located immediately east of the Ontario-Manitoba border, the West Hawk Lake mineral property located immediately west of the Ontario-Manitoba border and the McMillan mineral property located 13km south of Espanola . In addition, McFarlane Lake Mining Incorporated holds options to purchase the Michaud/Munro mineral property and the Mongowin mineral property. McFarlane is a “reporting issuer” under applicable securities legislation in the provinces of British Columbia and Alberta.
Additional information on McFarlane can be found by reviewing its profile on SEDAR at www.SEDAR.com.
Qualified Persons
McFarlane engaged Sears, Barry & Associates Limited partner Seymour M. Sears (the “Author“) to prepare the Technical Report. The Author is a “qualified person” and considered “independent”, as such terms are defined in NI 43-101. All of the scientific and technical mining disclosure contained in this news release and the Filing Statement regarding the High Lake Property and West Hawk Lake Property has been reviewed and approved by the Author. The materials in Part IV – Information Concerning McFarlane – Material Mineral Project | High Lake – West Hawk Lake Project” in the Filing Statement comprise the “Summary” section of the Penouta Project Technical Report.
Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Information:
This news release contains “forward-looking information” and “forward-looking statements” (collectively, “forward-looking statements”) within the meaning of the applicable Canadian securities legislation. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements and are based on expectations, estimates and projections as at the date of this news release. Any statement that involves discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions, future events or performance (often but not always using phrases such as “expects”, or “does not expect”, “is expected”, “anticipates” or “does not anticipate”, “plans”, “budget”, “scheduled”, “forecasts”, “estimates”, “believes” or “intends” or variations of such words and phrases or stating that certain actions, events or results “may” or “could”, “would”, “might” or “will” be taken to occur or be achieved) are not statements of historical fact and may be forward-looking statements.
Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance, or achievements of McFarlane to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements are described under the caption “Risks and Uncertainties” in the Filing Statement dated as of January 14, 2022 which is available for view on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. Forward-looking statements contained herein are made as of the date of this press release and McFarlane disclaims, other than as required by law, any obligation to update any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, results, future events, circumstances, or if management’s estimates or opinions should change, or otherwise. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, the reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.
McFarlane’s operations could be significantly adversely affected by the effects of a widespread global outbreak of a contagious disease, including the recent outbreak of illness caused by COVID-19. It is not possible to accurately predict the impact COVID-19 will have on operations and the ability of others to meet their obligations, including uncertainties relating to the ultimate geographic spread of the virus, the severity of the disease, the duration of the outbreak, and the length of travel and quarantine restrictions imposed by governments of affected countries. In addition, a significant outbreak of contagious diseases in the human population could result in a widespread health crisis that could adversely affect the economies and financial markets of many countries, resulting in an economic downturn that could further affect operations and the ability to finance its operations.
Further Information
For further information regarding the Transaction, please contact:
Mark Trevisiol, Chief Executive Officer, President and Director
McFarlane Lake Mining Limited
[email protected]
Al Wiens
Wildeboer Dellelce LLP
[email protected]
To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/110310
Fintech
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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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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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.
The post SPAYZ.io prepares for iFX EXPO Dubai 2025 appeared first on News, Events, Advertising Options.
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