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Ankh Capital Inc. Announces Letter of Intent for Proposed Business Combination with Quetzal Copper Limited

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Vancouver, British Columbia–(Newsfile Corp. – March 1, 2023) – Ankh Capital Inc. (TSXV: ANKH.P) (“Ankh” or the “Company“) is pleased to announce that it has entered into a binding letter of intent (“LOI“) dated February 22, 2023, to enter into a business combination (the “Transaction“) with Quetzal Copper Limited (“Quetzal Copper“). It is expected that upon completion of the Transaction, the combined entity (the “Resulting Issuer“) will meet the listing requirements for a Tier 2 Mining issuer under the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange (the “TSXV“).

General Information on Ankh

Ankh was incorporated under the Business Corporations Act (British Columbia) on November 30, 2020. The Company was formed for the primary purpose of completing an initial public offering on the TSXV as a Capital Pool Company (as such term is defined in TSXV Policy 2.4 – Capital Pool Companies (the “Policy“)). The Company has not commenced operations and has no significant assets. The principal business of the Company is the identification and evaluation of assets or businesses with a view to completing a Qualifying Transaction (as such term is defined in the Policy), and it is intended that the Transaction will constitute such Qualifying Transaction. The Company’s head office and registered and records office is 250 Howe Street 20th Floor, Vancouver, BC, V6C 3R8. The common shares of Ankh (“Ankh Common Shares“) are currently listed on the TSXV and Ankh is a reporting issuer in the provinces of British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan and Ontario.

Ankh currently has 16,220,000 Ankh Common Shares issued and outstanding and securities exercisable or exchangeable into 2,562,000 Ankh Common Shares, being: (i) 1,562,000 director’s options exercisable at a price of $0.10 per Ankh Common Share (the “Ankh Options“); and (ii) 1,000,000 agent’s warrants exercisable at $0.10 per Ankh Common Share (the “Ankh Warrants“).

General Information on Quetzal

Quetzal was incorporated under the Business Corporations Act (British Columbia) on April 29, 2021. Quetzal’s head office is located at Suite 401 – 353 Water Street, Vancouver, BC V6B 1B8.

Quetzal is a private copper exploration company which has a portfolio of four drill ready copper properties. Quetzal has assembled its discovery pipeline over the last two years to come to market with mix of open copper intercepts and new drill targets in near mine locations.

In British Columbia, Quetzal has options to acquire an interest in three properties.

  • The Princeton copper project (the “Princeton Project“) is located immediately northeast of the Copper Mountain Mine in southern British Columbia.1 Despite the proximity to an operating mine, the Princeton Project has seen limited drilling. New geophysics studies have defined four targets with proximal copper mineralisation and/or geochemical anomalies. Quetzal has an option to acquire an 80% interest in the Princeton Project.
  • The Big Kidd project (the “Big Kidd Project“) is located in southern British Columbia, halfway between the Copper Mountain and New Afton mines.1 The Big Kidd Project is a large breccia/porphyry system, with previous work intersecting significant copper and gold mineralisation. Two new priority targets, with coincident geochemical and geophysical anomalies, are ready for drilling. Quetzal has an option to acquire a 100% interest in the Big Kidd Project.
  • The DOT matrix project (the “DOT Project“) is located approximately 35km south of the Highland Valley Mine in southern British Columbia1 and contains a historic, non-compliant indicated resource of 4.0Mt at 0.53% copper and 3.0Mt at 0.56% copper inferred resource (the “Historical DOT Resource“) at a 0.3% copper cut-off, which was prepared for Dot Resources Ltd. (“Dot Resources“).2,3 Historic drillholes include 62.2m grading 0.75% copper. Quetzal has an option to acquire a 100% interest in the DOT Project.

In Mexico, Quetzal has an option to acquire one property.

  • The Cristinas project (the “Cristinas Project“) is located in the Chihuahua state, which is in the middle of a belt of Carbonate Replacement Deposit.1 The Cristinas Project has never previously been recognised as this deposit type despite shallow mining down to approximately 50 metres depth. The two deepest holes (~80m below surface) from a twelve-hole program in 2012 intersected 4.3m true width grading 3.2% copper and 2.54m true width grading 3.0% copper. These holes are the only drilling completed on the Cristinas Project. These intercepts are open along strike and at depth. An electromagnetic survey completed by Quetzal suggests this mineralization is open to depth over 350m below surface and extends along strike. Quetzal has an option to acquire a 100% interest in the Cristinas Project.

Quetzal currently has 7,130,053 common shares (“Quetzal Common Shares“) issued and outstanding and 713,005 options exercisable at a price of $0.15 per Quetzal Common Share (the “Quetzal Options“).

Terms of the Transaction

The Transaction is expected to be completed by way of a three-cornered amalgamation, share purchase, share exchange or alternate transaction to be determined with input from the legal and tax advisors to each of Ankh and Quetzal, which will result in Quetzal becoming a wholly-owned subsidiary of Ankh.

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Upon the satisfaction or waiver of the conditions set out in the definitive transaction agreement to be entered into by Ankh and Quetzal (the “Definitive Agreement“), the following, among other things, will be completed in connection with the Transaction:

  • Ankh will consolidate (the “Consolidation“) all of the then issued and outstanding Ankh Common Shares on the basis of one post-Consolidation Ankh Common Share for each previously outstanding two Ankh Common Shares and each Ankh Option and Ankh Warrant will be adjusted in accordance with their respective terms to account for the Consolidation;
  • Quetzal will subdivide (the “Subdivision“) all of the then issued and outstanding Quetzal Common Shares on the basis of three post-Subdivision Quetzal Common Shares for each previously outstanding Quetzal Shares and each Quetzal Option will be adjusted in accordance with its terms to account for the Subdivision;
  • the holders of Quetzal Common Shares, as adjusted for by the Subdivision, will receive one common share of the Resulting Issuer (on a post-Consolidation basis) in exchange for their Quetzal Common Shares, at a ratio to be determined based on a valuation of Quetzal determined in connection with the Private Placement (as defined below) in the context of the market (the “Exchange Ratio“);
  • all outstanding Quetzal Options, as adjusted for by the Subdivision, will be replaced with equivalent convertible or exchangeable securities of the Resulting Issuer entitling the holders thereof to acquire common shares of the Resulting Issuer in lieu of Quetzal Common Shares adjusted to reflect the Exchange Ratio, and otherwise bearing the same terms of the securities they replace;
  • the management and board of directors of the Resulting Issuer will be determined by Quetzal and announced in further press releases; and
  • Ankh will change its name to such name as determined by Quetzal in its sole discretion, in compliance with applicable law and as may be acceptable to the TSXV.

The Transaction is not expected to constitute a Non-Arm’s Length Qualifying Transaction or a related party transaction pursuant to the policies of the TSXV.

Private Placement Financing

In connection with and as a condition to the Transaction, Quetzal intends to complete an equity financing of Quetzal Common Shares for minimum gross proceeds of $3,000,000 (the “Private Placement“). It is expected that the issue price per Quetzal Common Share will be a minimum of $0.20 (as adjusted for the Subdivision). The Quetzal Common Shares are expected to be sold to “accredited investors” and other exempt parties pursuant to exemptions from prospectus requirements under Canadian securities laws.

The Private Placement is intended to be completed prior to or concurrently with closing of the Transaction. The net proceeds of the Private Placement will be used for exploration and development of the Resulting Issuer’s properties and working capital and general corporate purposes.

The ultimate structuring of the Private Placement is subject to receipt of tax, securities law and corporate law advice. The parties agree that if the Private Placement is completed at a price of less than $0.20 (as adjusted for the Subdivision), then the applicable consolidation ratio of the Consolidation will be adjusted accordingly.

Conditions of the Transaction

Completion of the Transaction is subject to the satisfaction of customary closing conditions, including: (i) the satisfactory completion of due diligence by each of Ankh and Quetzal; (ii) receipt of all required approvals and consents relating to the Transaction, including without limitation any approvals of the shareholders of Ankh and Quetzal (which is not currently anticipated to be required), as required by the TSXV and under applicable corporate or securities laws; (iii) completion of the Private Placement; and (iv) the TSXV’s approval for listing the shares of the Resulting Issuer.

Finder’s Fee

In connection with the Transaction, Ankh has agreed to pay a finder’s fee to PI Financial Corp. (the “Finder“), an arm’s length party to Ankh. Ankh has agreed to issue the Finder Ankh Common Shares equal to 1% of the shares issued upon closing of the Transaction to the current shareholders of Quetzal, subject to the approval by the TSXV.

Bridge Loan

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Ankh has agreed to, subject to all regulatory approvals, lend Quetzal $200,000 by way of a secured bridge loan (the “Bridge Loan“) at an annual interest rate of 8%. The Bridge Loan will be forgiven by Ankh upon completion of the Transaction. The Bridge Loan will be repayable within six months of termination of the Definitive Agreement in accordance with its terms. Final terms of the Bridge Loan will be set out in a definitive loan agreement and related security documentation, which will contain such terms as are customary in comparable transactions. The Bridge Loan is subject to the approval of the TSXV and will be advanced in accordance with the policies of the TSXV.

The Bridge Loan will be used by Quetzal for working capital and general corporate purposes.

Sponsorship of Transaction

The Transaction will be subject to the sponsorship requirements of the TSXV unless a waiver or exemption from the sponsorship requirement is available. If required, a sponsor will be identified at a later date and will be announced in a subsequent news release. Ankh intends to apply for a waiver of the sponsorship requirement in connection with the Transaction.

Trading Halt

Trading in Ankh Common Shares on the TSXV will remain halted in compliance with the policies of the TSXV in connection with the announcement of the Transaction, and is expected to remain halted pending the review of the Transaction by the TSXV, and satisfaction of the conditions of the TSXV for resumption of trading. It is not expected that trading in the Ankh Common Shares will resume prior to the Closing.

Filing Statement

In connection with the Transaction and in compliance with the policies of the TSXV, Ankh will file on SEDAR a filing statement which will contain details regarding the Transaction, Ankh, Quetzal and the Resulting Issuer.

Additional Information

If and when a Definitive Agreement is executed, Ankh will issue a subsequent press release in accordance with the policies of the TSXV containing details of the Definitive Agreement and additional terms of the Transaction, including information relating to sponsorship, summary financial information in respect of Quetzal, and to the extent not contained in this press release, additional information with respect to the Private Placement, history of Quetzal and the proposed directors, officers, and insiders of the Resulting Issuer upon completion of the Transaction.

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Technical Notes

  1. Mineralization hosted on adjacent and/or nearby and/or geologically similar properties is not necessarily indicative of mineralization hosted on Quetzal’s properties.
  2. Source: “Technical Report on a Diamond Drill Program and Mineral Resource Estimate for Dot Resources Ltd.’s Dot Property”, prepared by Ronald James Robinson of Aurora Geosciences Ltd., prepared for Dot Resources with an effective date of November 30, 2010. Key assumptions in the report include a Reporting Cutoff = 0.10 Cu-Equivalent (lowcuts: Cu=0.10%, Ag=1.0g/t, Au=0.05g/t, Mo=0.005%). Metal Prices: Copper: $3.00/lb, Silver: $18.00/oz, Gold: $1,200/oz, Molybdenum Trioxide: $14/lb. The resulting CuEQ. value assumes 100% recovery of all metals.

  3. The Historical DOT Resource is considered historical in nature and as such is based on prior data and reports prepared by previous property owners. The reader is cautioned not to treat it, or any part of it, as current mineral resources or reserves. Quetzal has determined the Historical DOT Resource is reliable given that it is based on data collected with modern drilling and sampling methods and was completed by Dot Resources, and relevant to be included here in that it simply demonstrates the mineral potential of the DOT Project. A qualified person has not done sufficient work to classify the Historical DOT Resource as a current resource and Quetzal is not treating the Historical DOT Resource as a current resource. Significant data compilation, re-drilling, re-sampling, data verification and a site visit may be required by a qualified person before the Historical DOT Resource can be classified as a current resource. There can be no assurance that any of the historical mineral resources, in whole or in part, will ever become economically viable. In addition, mineral resources are not mineral reserves and do not have demonstrated economic viability. Even if classified as a current resource, there is no certainty as to whether further exploration will result in any inferred mineral resources being upgraded to an indicated or measured mineral resource category. The Historical DOT Resource relating to inferred mineral resources was calculated using prior mining industry standard definitions and practices for estimating mineral resource and mineral reserves. Such prior definitions and practices were utilized prior to the implementation of the current standards of the Canadian Institute of Mining for mineral resource estimation and have a lower level of confidence.

Qualified Person

Mike Brown, CEO of Quetzal, is a “qualified person” in accordance with National Instrument 43-101 – Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects and has reviewed and approved the technical information contained in this news release. Mike Brown is a Member of the Australian Institute of Geoscientists.

For further information please contact:

Ankh Capital Inc.
Roger Milad, CEO and CFO
Phone: (604) 690-2680

Quetzal Copper Limited
Mike Brown, CEO
Phone: (778) 822-4345

All information in this press release relating to Quetzal has been provided by Quetzal and is the sole responsibility of Quetzal.

Cautionary Note

Completion of the Transaction is subject to a number of conditions, including but not limited to, TSXV acceptance and if applicable pursuant to TSXV requirements, majority of the minority shareholder approval. Where applicable, the Transaction cannot close until the required shareholder approval is obtained. There can be no assurance that the 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 transaction, any information released or received with respect to the 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 TSXV has in no way passed upon the merits of the Transaction and has neither approved nor disapproved the contents of this press release.

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Neither the TSXV nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSXV) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release.

Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains “forward-looking information” within the meaning of applicable securities laws relating to the exploration and development of Quetzal’s properties, the exercise by Quetzal of options to acquire properties, the proposal to complete the Transaction and associated transactions, including statements regarding the terms and conditions of the Transaction (including the Consolidation and the Subdivision), the Exchange Ratio, the name change of the Company, the Private Placement, the use of proceeds of the Private Placement, the Bridge Loan and the proposed directors and officers of the Resulting Issuer. The information about Quetzal contained in the press release has not been independently verified by Ankh. Although Ankh believes in light of the experience of its officers and directors, current conditions and expected future developments and other factors that have been considered appropriate that the expectations reflected in this forward-looking information are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on them because Ankh can give no assurance that they will prove to be correct. Readers are cautioned to not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. Actual results and developments may differ materially from those contemplated by these statements depending on, among other things, the risks that the parties will not proceed with the Transaction, the name change of the Company, the Private Placement, the appointment of the proposed directors and officers of the Resulting Issuer and associated transactions, that the ultimate terms of the Transaction, the Private Placement, the appointment of the proposed directors and officers of the Resulting Issuer and associated transactions will differ from those that currently are contemplated, and that the Transaction, the name change of the Company, the Private Placement, the appointment of the proposed directors and officers of the Resulting Issuer and associated transactions will not be successfully completed for any reason (including the failure to obtain the required approvals or clearances from regulatory authorities). The terms and conditions of the Transaction may change based on Ankh’s due diligence (which is going to be limited as Ankh intends largely to rely on the due diligence of other parties of the Transaction to contain its costs, among other things) and the receipt of tax, corporate and securities law advice for both Ankh and Quetzal. The statements in this press release are made as of the date of this press release. Ankh undertakes no obligation to comment on analyses, expectations or statements made by third-parties in respect of Ankh, Quetzal, their securities, or their respective financial or operating results (as applicable).

Not for distribution to U.S. Newswire Services or for dissemination in the United States of America. Any failure to comply with this restriction may constitute a violation of U.S. Securities laws.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/156752

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Asian Financial Forum held next week as the region’s first major international financial assembly of 2025

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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 HuiSecretary 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.

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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 SpectrumDialogues 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

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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 Pulse: Your Daily Industry Brief (Chime, ZBD, MiCA)

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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

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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:

  1. Regulatory Milestones: ZBD’s MiCA license approval exemplifies the importance of regulatory compliance in unlocking growth opportunities.
  2. 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.
  3. Market Opportunities: Chime’s IPO move reflects a potential revival in fintech public offerings, signaling confidence in the sector’s long-term prospects.
  4. 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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SPAYZ.io prepares for iFX EXPO Dubai 2025

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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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