Fintech
Sayward Capital Corp. and Midex Resources Ltd. Enter into Letter of Intent
Calgary, Alberta–(Newsfile Corp. – February 27, 2023) – Sayward Capital Corp. (TSXV: SAWC.P) (“Sayward” or the “Company“), a capital pool company as defined under TSX Venture Exchange (“TSXV” or the “Exchange“) policies, is pleased to announce it has entered into a non-binding letter of intent dated February 24, 2023 (the “LOI“) with Midex Resources Ltd. (“Midex“), a corporation organized under the laws of Ontario, in respect of a proposed business combination that would result in the reverse take-over of Sayward by Midex and its shareholders to form the resulting issuer (the “Resulting Issuer“) which will continue on the business of Midex (the “Proposed Transaction“). Sayward anticipates that the Proposed Transaction will constitute its Qualifying Transaction pursuant to Policy 2.4 – Capital Pool Companies of the Exchange (“Policy 2.4“), as such term is defined in the policies of the Exchange.
Terms of the Proposed Transaction
The material terms and conditions outlined in the LOI are non-binding on the parties and the LOI is, among other things, conditional on the execution of a definitive merger, amalgamation, share exchange agreement or other similar form of transaction agreement (the “Definitive Agreement“) to be negotiated between the parties. There is no assurance that a Definitive Agreement will be successfully negotiated or entered into.
The LOI was negotiated at arm’s length. The terms and conditions outlined in the LOI are expected to be superseded by the Definitive Agreement. The Company currently has 8,000,000 issued and outstanding common shares (the “Sayward Shares“). It is anticipated that 800,000 additional Sayward Shares are reserved for issuance under stock options and will be exercised in connection with the Proposed Transaction. Additionally, 500,000 Sayward Shares are reserved for issuance under agent’s warrants.
There are currently 73,668,960 common shares of Midex (“Midex Shares“) issued and outstanding and other than 8,189,453 warrants and options to purchase Midex Shares equal up to 10% of the Midex Shares, there will be no securities convertible into or exchangeable for, or other rights to acquire, Midex Shares.
Completion of the Proposed Transaction is subject to a number of conditions, including, but not limited to, receipt of applicable regulatory and stock exchange approvals, including the approval of the Exchange for the Proposed Transaction, completion of satisfactory due diligence and the execution of the Definitive Agreement and related transaction documents.
Finder’s Fee
In connection with the Proposed Transaction, the Company has entered into a finder’s fee agreement whereby 1000406106 Ontario Corp. will be paid a finder’s fee in the amount of $87,500 (“Finder’s Fee“) on closing of the Proposed Transaction, in connection with introducing Sayward to Midex. The Finder’s Fee is subject to TSXV acceptance in accordance with the policies of the TSXV. Midex shall have the option, at its sole discretion, to pay all or part of the Finder’s Fee in such number of common shares of the Resulting Issuer, which is the result of dividing all or part of such fee by $0.10.
Operations of the Resulting Issuer
It is anticipated that the Resulting Issuer will continue the business of Midex under a new name that is expected to be “Midex Resources Ltd.”, or such other name as the board of directors of the Resulting Issuer shall determine and as may be approved by the TSXV and any other relevant regulatory authorities (the “Name Change“).
It is intended that the Resulting Issuer will be listed on the TSXV as a Tier 2 Mining Issuer, subject to TSXV approval.
Proposed Directors and Officers
It is anticipated that all of the current directors and officers of Sayward will resign from their respective positions with Sayward in connection with the closing of the Proposed Transaction. It is anticipated that upon closing of the Proposed Transaction, the board and management of the Resulting Issuer shall consist of David Jamieson, Glenn Baldwin, John Cullen, Andres Tinajero, Terry Harbort, and Glenn Rochon. Management is expected to include David Jamieson as Chief Executive Officer, Doug Harris as Chief Financial Officer, Scott Young as Vice President Corporate Development, and Tammy Lehtinen as Vice President Environmental, Social and Governance. The following are brief descriptions of the currently proposed directors and officers of the Resulting Issuer:
David Jamieson – Director, President and CEO
David Jamieson, co-founder of Midex, has over 35 years’ experience providing geological expertise to the Canadian mineral exploration industry. David’s early career experience includes 10 years with Agnico Eagle and related companies, with a focus on the Abitibi Greenstone Belt in Ontario and Quebec where he co-discovered the Victoria Creek lode gold deposit. Wide ranging exploration experience in many of the greenstone belts of N.W. Ontario, discovering a significant gold zone at Sandy Lake, and guiding early underground exploration of the Island Gold deposit.
Glenn Baldwin – Director
Glenn Baldwin is a global senior mining executive with over 30 years in the mining industry. He initially moved to South Africa with Anglo American, held executive positions with Ivanhoe Nickel and Platinum and Gold Fields, and later in Saudi Arabia with Ma’aden. Glenn has also garnered significant experience in international business and finance during his time as an investment banker and has led companies through transformative acquisitions and divestments. Glenn is currently the Chief Executive Officer of Singapore-based Mongold, which operates an underground mine and several exploration projects in Mongolia. Glenn is a mining engineer and has held numerous Board directorships with both private and public companies over the past 15 years.
John Cullen – Chairman
John Cullen has 30+ years experience in public company financing, corporate/capital structuring and management, including 20+ years corporate experience in Guyana petroleum exploration. He has founded several public international resource companies following 15 years in the Canadian investment industry.
Terry Harbort – Director
Terry Harbort holds a Ph.D In Structural Geology and Tectonics. He was a senior member of the discovery team of AngloGold’s Ashanti’s La Colosa and Gramalote deposits and the current CEO of Talisker Resources Ltd., Director, Millennial Precious Metals Corp. and Sable Resources Ltd. and former Chief Geoscientist, Barkerville Gold Mines Ltd.
Doug Harris – CFO
Doug Harris is a chartered accountant and a chartered business valuator with over 20 years of experience in the financial services sector. Doug has worked in accounting, corporate finance, private equity and mergers and acquisitions. He has participated in over $2 billion of transactions. Doug holds an MBA (Accounting) from the Rotman School of Management at the University of Toronto and a BSc. from the University of Guelph.
Tammy Lehtinen – Vice President Environmental, Social and Governance
Tammy Lehtinen has over a decade of diverse industry experience, centered in strategic corporate social responsibility planning, and Indigenous and government relations. Ms. Lehtinen’s experience in the junior mining space as well as with mid-tier producers has provided invaluable experience and knowledge, and a holistic understanding of the critical metrics required to be successful in the mining industry. Ms. Lehtinen is a respected stakeholder relations advisor, who is trusted to lead risk assessments, prevention process and provide crisis resolution guidance. She has guided corporations in developing Corporate Social Responsibility policies and industry best practices to enhance internal and external company relations.
Glenn Rochon – Director
Glenn Rochon has over 40 years experience in the resource industry, starting his career as a fixed wing and helicopter pilot working closely with numerous exploration companies planning logistics including drill/geological crew moves and exploration camp logistics. He has founded several public international resource companies.
Andres Tinajero – Director
Andres Tinajero holds an MBA and is a Member of the Canadian Institute of Chartered Professional Accountants, the Certified Practicing Accountants of Australia and a Certified member of the Institute of Corporate Directors. He has served as CFO and Vice President of Finance of several medium sized public companies across Canada.
Scott Young – Vice President Corporate Development
Scott Young has over 20 years in corporate development, fund raising strategy and tactical planning. He has successfully helped fund companies in a number of diverse industries including natural resources (mining and oil and gas), biotech, medtech and the cannabis industries. He has a comprehensive institutional financing network that spans North and South America, Europe and Asia. He has delivered investment results for various private or public entities.
Principals or Insiders of the Resulting Issuer
If any further Principals or Insiders (as those terms are defined in TSXV policies) are proposed in connection with the Resulting Issuer, such other persons will be disclosed in the subsequent press release of the Company.
Certain common shares of the Resulting Issuer to be issued pursuant to the Proposed Transaction are expected to be subject to restrictions on resale or escrow under the policies of the TSXV, including the securities to be issued to Principals, which will be subject to the escrow requirements of the Exchange.
Selected Financial Information
The following table sets forth certain select annual and interim unaudited financial information of Midex for the periods indicated.
| As of December 31, 2022 (Audited) |
As of December 31, 2021 (Audited) |
As of December 31, 2020 (Audited) |
|
| Total assets | $2,596,987 | $2,306,316 | $1,608,868 |
| Total liabilities | $257,570 | $297,535 | $97,826 |
| Shareholders’ equity | $2,339,417 | $2,008,781 | $1,511,042 |
| Revenues | NIL | NIL | NIL |
| Net Profits / Losses | ($1,416,586) | ($1,362,161) | ($641,008) |
Sponsorship of the Proposed Transaction
The Company intends to make an application for exemption from the sponsorship requirements of the TSXV in connection with the Proposed Transaction; however, there is no assurance that the TSXV will exempt the Company from all or part of applicable sponsorship requirements.
Trading Halt
In accordance with the policies of the TSXV, trading in the Sayward Shares has been halted and is not expected to resume trading until completion of the Proposed Transaction or until the TSXV receives the requisite documentation to resume trading.
Proposed Qualifying Transaction
As the Proposed Transaction is not a “Non-Arm’s Length Qualifying Transaction” (within the meaning of Policy 2.4 of the Exchange), the Proposed Transaction does not require approval of the shareholders of Sayward (the “Sayward Shareholders“). However, the Name Change, the Resulting Issuer director appointments, and any such other matters as may reasonably be agreed upon by Midex and the Company, including any consolidations, continuances or amendments to the constating documents of the Company to be held in connection with the Proposed Transaction, will require the approval of Sayward Shareholders at an annual and special meeting of Sayward Shareholders (the “Sayward Meeting“), that is expected to be held prior to the completion of the Proposed Transaction. Further details with respect to the matters to be approved at the Sayward Meeting will be contained in the information circular prepared in connection with Sayward Meeting and available for review on Sayward’s SEDAR profile at www.sedar.com.
Additional Information
Additional information concerning the Proposed Transaction and any connected transactions of the Company, Midex and the Resulting Issuer, will be provided in subsequent news releases and in the Company’s management information circular or filing statement to be prepared in connection with the Proposed Transaction, to be filed in connection with the Proposed Transaction, which will be available under Sayward’s SEDAR profile at www.sedar.com.
All information contained in this press release with respect to the Company and Midex was supplied by or from the respective party 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.
Completion of the Proposed Transaction 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, the completion of a Definitive Agreement and closing conditions customary to transactions of this nature. Where applicable, the Proposed Transaction cannot close until the required shareholder approval is obtained. There can be no assurance that the Proposed Transaction 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 Proposed Transaction, any information released or received with respect to the Proposed Transaction 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 TSX Venture Exchange Inc. has in no way passed upon the merits of the Proposed Transaction and has neither approved nor disapproved the contents of this press release.
The Proposed Transaction will not constitute a “Non-Arm’s Length Qualifying Transaction” (as such term is defined in the policies of the TSXV). Accordingly, it is not anticipated that the Proposed Transaction will be subject to the approval of the Midex shareholders.
About Sayward
Sayward is incorporated under the Business Corporations Act (Alberta) and is a capital pool company within the meaning of the policies of the Exchange. Sayward has not commenced operations and has no assets other than cash. Sayward’s principal business is the identification and evaluation of assets or businesses with a view to completing a “Qualifying Transaction” under Policy 2.4.
About Midex
Midex is a Canadian junior exploration company that currently holds a 100% interest in Ontario mining claims totaling over 50,000 ha in the Favourable Lake Greenstone Belt. Over 28,000 ha of this land package is adjacent to or on strike with the world class Frontier Lithium PAK Project, in potentially the largest known spodumene pegmatite belt in Ontario. Midex also holds 100% interest in another 9,000 ha of highly prospective lithium claims in the Allison Lake, Onion Lake and Case Lake areas of Ontario. Midex’s large property portfolio hosts past producing gold and silver assets with numerous occurrences of other critical minerals, including copper, molybdenum, and zinc.
For more information on Midex, visit https://midexresources.com.
Further Information
Sayward Capital Corp.
Luke Caplette, Director
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 403-831-6968
Midex Resources Ltd.
David Jamieson, President and CEO
Email: [email protected]
Scott Young, V.P. Corporate Development
Email: [email protected]
Forward-Looking Information
This press release contains forward-looking statements and forward-looking information (collectively, “forward-looking statements“) 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 statements. More particularly and without limitation, this press release contains forward looking statements concerning the Proposed Transaction, the Finder’s Fee, the Sayward Meeting, 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 Proposed Transaction, the proposed structure by which the Proposed Transaction is to be completed, the ability of the Company and Midex to meet the conditions of the Proposed 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. The Company 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 the Company and Midex, including expectations and assumptions concerning the Company, Midex, the Resulting Issuer, the Proposed Transaction, the negotiation of the Definitive Agreement on satisfactory terms, the timely receipt of all required shareholder, court and regulatory approvals (as applicable), including the acceptance of the TSXV, the satisfaction of other closing conditions in accordance with the terms of the Definitive Agreement, as well as other risks and uncertainties.
The reader is cautioned that assumptions used in the preparation of any forward-looking statements 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 the Company. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements. 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 the Company 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 shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities in any jurisdiction.
Neither TSXV nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release.
NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO U.S. NEWSWIRE SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES.
To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/156279
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.
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