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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Fintech
Fintech Pulse: Your Daily Industry Brief (Bench, FinovateEurope, Airwallex, PayPal, KCB Bank, UnionPay)
Unpacking Today’s Fintech Headlines
The fintech landscape continues to evolve at a breakneck pace. Today, we explore key stories shaping the industry—from an ambitious startup’s downfall to groundbreaking expansions and investments. Below, we delve into these developments, offering analysis and insight for fintech professionals navigating this dynamic sector.
1. The Rise and Fall of Bench: Lessons for Fintech Startups
In a cautionary tale for startups, fintech company Bench, once hailed as a disruptor, has succumbed to financial woes. Court documents reveal the company accumulated over $65 million in debt before shuttering operations. Despite initial success and significant backing, Bench faced operational inefficiencies, scaling challenges, and mismanagement that ultimately led to its downfall.
Bench’s trajectory underscores the critical need for sound financial stewardship, particularly for startups managing substantial investor capital. The fintech sector is rife with competition, and any misstep can prove fatal. Leaders in this space must prioritize scalability and ensure a balance between growth ambitions and operational sustainability.
Source: TechCrunch
2. FinovateEurope 2025: A Showcase of Innovation
The upcoming FinovateEurope 2025 promises to spotlight cutting-edge fintech solutions. The first wave of demo companies includes innovators tackling challenges in payments, regtech, and embedded finance. This year’s event highlights a growing focus on ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) criteria, reflecting the industry’s alignment with global sustainability goals.
Startups and legacy firms alike will use this platform to showcase advancements in AI-driven analytics, blockchain applications, and open banking solutions. Such events provide a crucial ecosystem for networking, investment opportunities, and collaboration, all vital for driving innovation in fintech.
Source: Business Wire
3. Airwallex Ventures into Latin America
Global payments unicorn Airwallex has made a bold move into Latin America, targeting two key markets simultaneously. This dual-market entry reflects the company’s strategic vision to tap into emerging markets with high growth potential.
Latin America’s fintech scene is flourishing, driven by increasing digital adoption and a growing appetite for cross-border payment solutions. Airwallex’s entry aligns with broader trends of global fintech players recognizing the region’s potential. However, the competitive landscape includes strong local players, and Airwallex will need to tailor its offerings to address specific regional challenges, such as regulatory hurdles and infrastructure gaps.
Source: Fintech Magazine
4. PayPal Ventures Backs Insurtech Disruptor
PayPal Ventures has announced a significant investment in Ole Life, an insurtech startup redefining life insurance with data-driven, customer-centric solutions. This marks PayPal’s latest foray into the insurtech space, signaling growing interest in diversifying its fintech portfolio.
Ole Life’s mission to democratize life insurance resonates in an era where personalization is king. The insurtech’s emphasis on leveraging AI to create tailored policies could disrupt traditional insurance models, offering a more inclusive and efficient alternative. PayPal’s backing not only provides financial support but also strategic insights, which could accelerate Ole Life’s growth trajectory.
Source: FF News
5. KCB Bank and UnionPay Partner for E-Commerce Growth
Kenya’s KCB Bank has partnered with UnionPay to bolster e-commerce payment solutions across the region. This collaboration aims to simplify cross-border transactions, making it easier for businesses to participate in the global digital economy.
The deal is a testament to the growing importance of strategic partnerships in fintech. As e-commerce continues to boom in Africa, such alliances can drive financial inclusion, offering consumers and businesses greater access to digital payment infrastructure. However, scaling these solutions will require robust cybersecurity measures to protect against fraud and ensure user trust.
Source: PR Newswire
Final Thoughts: Navigating the Fintech Frontier
Today’s stories illustrate the dynamism and diversity of fintech—a sector where innovation meets relentless competition. For stakeholders, the takeaway is clear: adaptability and strategic foresight are essential for success. Whether it’s learning from Bench’s missteps, leveraging events like FinovateEurope for growth, or seizing opportunities in untapped markets, the future belongs to those who can anticipate and navigate change.
The post Fintech Pulse: Your Daily Industry Brief (Bench, FinovateEurope, Airwallex, PayPal, KCB Bank, UnionPay) appeared first on News, Events, Advertising Options.
Fintech
Fintech Pulse: Your Daily Industry Brief (Amazon, Axio, Bank of England, New York Fed, Curql, PhotonPay, Google Pay, Mastercard, Nuvei, Outpayce)
As the fintech industry continues its relentless pace of innovation, partnerships, acquisitions, and technological advancements are reshaping the financial landscape. Today’s briefing highlights some pivotal developments from around the globe. Here’s what’s shaping the future of fintech.
Amazon Expands Credit Ambitions with Axio Acquisition
Amazon’s strategic push into the credit space takes a significant leap forward with its planned acquisition of Indian fintech startup Axio. This move aligns with Amazon’s ongoing efforts to deepen its financial services offerings in key markets. Axio, known for providing credit services to underbanked populations in India, brings a wealth of expertise and local market knowledge to the table.
By acquiring Axio, Amazon aims to enhance its buy-now-pay-later (BNPL) capabilities and expand credit access for its vast customer base in India. This aligns with global trends where e-commerce giants are integrating financial services to offer seamless shopping experiences.
Source: TechCrunch
Central Bank Collaboration Goes High-Tech: Bank of England and New York Fed Team Up
In a significant step towards cross-border financial technology cooperation, the Bank of England and the Federal Reserve Bank of New York are delving into 3D technology to streamline international exchange processes. This initiative signals a commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technologies to enhance efficiency and reduce risks in financial transactions.
The collaboration explores advanced visualization and analytical tools, enabling central banks to better understand and mitigate systemic risks. Such partnerships highlight the critical role of technology in modernizing traditional banking infrastructure and fostering international financial stability.
Source: Computer Weekly
Curql Accelerate Opens Applications for Third Fintech Cohort
Curql Collective has announced the opening of applications for the third cohort of its fintech accelerator program, Curql Accelerate. This program is tailored to nurture innovative startups that address pressing challenges within the credit union sector. With a focus on collaboration, the accelerator provides participants with access to industry experts, mentorship, and strategic funding opportunities.
Startups selected for Curql Accelerate gain a unique platform to refine their solutions, establish partnerships, and scale their operations. This initiative underscores the growing emphasis on fostering innovation within niche financial sectors, ensuring that underserved communities receive tailored financial services.
Source: Fintech Futures
PhotonPay Brings Google Pay Support for Mastercard Users in Hong Kong
PhotonPay, a fintech innovator, has launched Google Pay support for Mastercard users in Hong Kong, marking a significant milestone in digital payment adoption. This integration simplifies transactions for consumers, enhancing convenience and security in everyday payments.
With digital wallets gaining traction globally, this development reinforces the importance of interoperability between payment platforms. PhotonPay’s initiative is poised to drive broader adoption of contactless payments in Hong Kong, further cementing its position as a leader in the fintech space.
Source: PR Newswire
Nuvei Partners with Outpayce to Enhance Payment Solutions
Nuvei, a leading payment technology provider, has partnered with Outpayce, a division of Amadeus, to deliver advanced payment solutions for the travel industry. This collaboration aims to streamline payment processes, reduce friction for travelers, and provide businesses with robust payment capabilities.
As the travel sector rebounds post-pandemic, efficient payment systems have become a priority. The Nuvei-Outpayce partnership exemplifies the synergies between fintech and travel technology, paving the way for seamless, customer-centric payment experiences.
Source: PR Newswire
The post Fintech Pulse: Your Daily Industry Brief (Amazon, Axio, Bank of England, New York Fed, Curql, PhotonPay, Google Pay, Mastercard, Nuvei, Outpayce) appeared first on News, Events, Advertising Options.
Fintech
Fintech Pulse: Your Daily Industry Brief (Plaid, Warner Bros., TransUnion, Monevo, FinVolution, CreditTech, Glenbrook Partners)
Op-Ed: The Dawn of a Fintech Spring
As the financial technology sector continues to navigate the complex post-pandemic landscape, recent developments suggest a revitalized period of growth and innovation. Key players are making bold moves, partnerships are forming, and underserved markets are gaining attention. In this briefing, we explore the latest headlines and what they reveal about the industry’s trajectory.
Plaid Reports Growth in Revenue and Usage Rates
Plaid, the connective tissue of the fintech ecosystem, has shown remarkable resilience and growth. The company’s CEO recently highlighted a surge in both revenue and usage rates, describing the current period as a “fintech spring.” This growth comes as consumer demand for seamless financial solutions remains high, despite macroeconomic challenges.
Plaid’s ability to maintain relevance is tied to its strategic partnerships and continuous innovation. By enabling applications like Venmo and Robinhood to thrive, Plaid underscores the importance of integration in fostering user trust and utility.
Source: Bloomberg
Warner Bros. Discovery Strengthens Board with Fintech Leadership
Warner Bros. Discovery is diversifying its board by bringing in SoFi CEO Anthony Noto and outgoing IAC Chief Executive Joseph Levin. This move signals the increasing influence of fintech expertise beyond traditional financial sectors. With Noto’s leadership in digital banking and Levin’s extensive background in technology-driven enterprises, Warner Bros. Discovery is positioning itself for a future that seamlessly blends media and financial technology.
This cross-industry synergy could lead to innovative offerings, bridging gaps between entertainment platforms and fintech applications, such as micro-investing and personalized financial recommendations for content consumers.
Source: Reuters
TransUnion to Acquire Monevo
Credit reporting agency TransUnion has announced its plans to acquire Monevo, a leading credit prequalification and distribution platform. This acquisition aims to enhance TransUnion’s capabilities in the credit technology space, allowing it to offer more personalized and accessible financial solutions to consumers.
By integrating Monevo’s platform, TransUnion is expected to provide lenders with advanced tools to better assess creditworthiness while empowering consumers with prequalified loan offers. This development is particularly timely as consumers increasingly seek transparency and efficiency in credit processes.
Source: TransUnion Press Release
FinVolution Highlights CreditTech Opportunities in Southeast Asia
Ming Gu, Senior Vice President of FinVolution, emphasized the transformative potential of CreditTech in Southeast Asia during his address at the Asian Financial Forum. With a significant portion of the region’s population still underserved by traditional financial institutions, CreditTech presents a unique opportunity to bridge the gap.
Gu pointed out that leveraging AI and data analytics can help tailor credit solutions for diverse needs, ultimately fostering financial inclusion and economic growth in these emerging markets. FinVolution’s insights reaffirm the critical role of fintech in empowering underserved communities.
Source: PR Newswire
Glenbrook Partners Launches On-Demand Learning Program
Payments consultancy Glenbrook Partners has introduced an on-demand learning platform designed to educate professionals in the payments industry. This initiative is expected to address the growing need for skilled talent as digital payment ecosystems expand globally.
The program offers modular content covering foundational and advanced topics, catering to professionals at various stages of their careers. By equipping individuals with in-depth knowledge, Glenbrook is contributing to the industry’s sustainability and growth.
Source: PR Newswire
Analysis and Takeaways
These stories collectively highlight a few key trends shaping the fintech landscape:
- Resilient Growth: Plaid’s trajectory reaffirms that consumer-centric innovations drive sector resilience even during economic uncertainties.
- Cross-Industry Integration: Warner Bros. Discovery’s board appointments underline fintech’s permeation into traditionally non-financial domains.
- Strategic Acquisitions: TransUnion’s acquisition of Monevo showcases how established players are leveraging fintech to enhance service offerings.
- Global Inclusivity: Efforts by FinVolution and others highlight the role of fintech in addressing global financial disparities.
- Education and Skill Development: Initiatives like Glenbrook’s program reflect a proactive approach to fostering a knowledgeable workforce.
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