Fintech
Futu reinforces its financial ecosystem with decade of relentless efforts
Organized by Financial Services and the Treasury Bureau (FSTB) and InvestHK, Hong Kong FinTech Week 2022 (HKFTW), the fintech industry’s flagship event, commenced on 31 October. Futu Holdings Limited (“Futu” or the “Company”) (Nasdaq: FUTU), a leading technology company in providing investment and wealth management services, is invited to deliver a speech on Digital Financial Ecosystem: Reshaping the future of the capital markets onsite. The Company’s CFO, Mr. Arthur Chen, shared Futu’s insights on the implications of cultivating a vibrant financial ecosystem to the financial services industry during the past decade.
The past ten years marked a decade of significant changes in an ever-evolving financial world, so to Futu, who just celebrated its 10th Anniversary. Arthur mentioned in his speech that the financial market had transformed businesses toward a user-first approach. Founded with the aspiration to offer better user experience and access to capital markets for all, the Company understands well that investing could be intimidating, leaving many investors feeling clueless, helpless, and tedious. Building a tech-empowered platform has been crucial in closing the asymmetry gaps in accessing market information and promoting financial participation among the broader population. Hence, Futu became the pioneer in using technology as a transformative catalyst to cultivate a platform for connecting users, retail and institutional investors, listed companies, and media.
Leverage technology to better serve unmet users’ needs, nurturing a digitalized financial ecosystem
Arthur said in his speech, facing the ever-changing capital markets, “We’re aware that financial services have to cater to the demand of investors through connecting users, retail and institutional investors, listed companies, and media. Building a tech-empowered platform has been crucial in closing the asymmetry gaps in accessing market information and promoting financial participation among the broader population.” He continued, “We’re glad to see the entire financial services industry is transitioning from a product orientation to a user-centered one, focusing on delivering a differentiated user experience in client acquisition and retention. And it is the reason why Futu can stand out among its peers.”
Better serve unmet demands with agility, empowering the ecosystem to thrive
As one of the industry leaders, Futu has been striving to streamline operations with technology and bring better services and products to the market. Futu is the first local brokerage to offer online account-opening services in Hong Kong, transformed the traditional approach, which often takes 2-3 working days to process. In the first half of 2022, Futu completed 130 version iterations and updated the characteristics of products 5301 times. One of the proud features was launching a customized color palette to enable users with Deuteranopia, or a red-green color deficiency, to improve their viewing experience of stock movements. The application of technology and strong R&D capabilities allow Futu to serve better-diversified users’ needs in an agile and effective manner.
The customized user experience has become the core competitiveness of Futu in winning new market share in such a crowded market landscape. With nearly 20 million user bases, the ecosystem has attracted more and more international stakeholders to participate, fostering a self-reinforcing ecosystem.
Showcasing in the FinTech Week event to share innovative, tech-driven solutions
This year, Futu first exhibits in the FinTech Week event to showcase its innovative solutions for business development, corporate service, and product extension. The booth has attracted many investors, founders from start-ups, global leaders, and various financial practitioners and has become one of the hottest booths in the venue.
Leveraging on its vibrant financial ecosystem, comprehensive business model and over a decade of industry experience, Futu I&E, the corporate & institutional services brand under Futu Group, is well positioned to provide one-stop enterprise solutions throughout pre and post-listing. Futu I&E offers IPO distribution for HK & US stocks, one-stop Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) solutions, directed share program & international placement, investor relations & public relations, block trade & stock selling/repurchase, and institutional accounts and trading services[1]. As of the second quarter of 2022, Futu I&E served over 600 corporations, becoming the trusted partner of numerous well-known companies and institutions. Futu I&E reveals the industry is transforming in the age of digitalization, unlocking more business opportunities from new economies and innovative business scenarios.
Fintech
Fintech Pulse: Your Daily Industry Brief (Chime, ZBD, MiCA)
As we close out 2024, the fintech industry continues to deliver headlines that underscore its dynamism and innovation. From IPO aspirations to groundbreaking regulatory milestones, today’s updates highlight the transformative power of fintech partnerships, regulatory evolution, and disruptive technologies. Here’s what you need to know.
Chime’s Quiet Step Toward Public Markets
Chime, the U.S.-based financial technology startup best known for its digital banking services, has taken a significant step by filing confidential paperwork for an initial public offering (IPO). As one of the most valuable private fintechs in the U.S., Chime’s move could potentially signal a renewed appetite for fintech IPOs in a market that has been cautious following fluctuating valuations across the tech sector.
With a valuation that reportedly exceeded $25 billion in its last funding round, Chime’s IPO could set a new benchmark for the industry. Observers note that its strong customer base and revenue growth may make it an appealing choice for investors seeking to capitalize on the digital banking boom. However, the timing and success of the IPO will depend on broader market conditions and the regulatory landscape.
Source: Bloomberg
ZBD’s Pioneering Achievement: EU MiCA License Approval
ZBD, a fintech company specializing in Bitcoin Lightning network solutions, has made history by becoming the first to secure an EU MiCA (Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation) license. This landmark approval by the Dutch regulator positions ZBD at the forefront of compliant crypto-fintech operations in Europe.
MiCA, which aims to harmonize the regulatory framework for crypto-assets across the EU, has been a focal point for industry players aiming to establish legitimacy and expand their offerings. ZBD’s achievement not only validates its operational rigor but also sets a precedent for other fintech firms navigating the evolving regulatory landscape.
Industry insiders view this as a strategic advantage for ZBD as it broadens its footprint in Europe. By leveraging its regulatory approval, the company can accelerate its product deployment and establish trust with institutional and retail users alike.
Source: Coindesk, PR Newswire
The Fintech-Credit Union Synergy: A Blueprint for Innovation
The convergence of fintechs and credit unions continues to reshape the financial services ecosystem. Collaborative initiatives, such as the one highlighted in the recent partnership between fintech innovators and credit unions, are proving to be a potent force in delivering tailored financial solutions.
This “dream team” approach allows credit unions to leverage fintech’s technological expertise while maintaining their community-focused ethos. Key areas of collaboration include digital payments, personalized financial management tools, and enhanced loan processing capabilities. These partnerships not only enhance member engagement but also enable credit unions to remain competitive in an increasingly digital-first financial environment.
Industry analysts emphasize that such collaborations underscore a broader trend of traditional financial institutions embracing fintech-driven solutions to bridge service gaps and foster innovation.
Source: PYMNTS
Tackling Student Loan Debt: A Fintech’s Mission
Student loan debt remains a pressing issue for millions of Americans, and a Rochester-based fintech aims to offer relief through its cloud-based platform. This innovative solution is designed to simplify loan management and provide borrowers with actionable insights to reduce their debt burden.
The platform’s features include repayment optimization tools, personalized financial education, and seamless integration with loan servicers. By addressing the complexities of student loan management, this fintech is empowering borrowers to make informed decisions and achieve financial stability.
As the student loan crisis continues to evolve, solutions like this highlight the critical role fintech can play in addressing systemic financial challenges while fostering financial literacy and inclusion.
Source: RBJ
Industry Implications and Takeaways
Today’s updates underscore several key themes shaping the fintech landscape:
- Regulatory Milestones: ZBD’s MiCA license approval exemplifies the importance of regulatory compliance in unlocking growth opportunities.
- Strategic Partnerships: The collaboration between fintechs and credit unions demonstrates the value of combining technological innovation with traditional financial models to drive customer-centric solutions.
- Market Opportunities: Chime’s IPO move reflects a potential revival in fintech public offerings, signaling confidence in the sector’s long-term prospects.
- Social Impact: Fintech’s ability to tackle systemic issues, such as student loan debt, showcases its role as a force for positive change.
The post Fintech Pulse: Your Daily Industry Brief (Chime, ZBD, MiCA) appeared first on News, Events, Advertising Options.
Fintech
SPAYZ.io prepares for iFX EXPO Dubai 2025
Leading global payments platform SPAYZ.io has confirmed it will be attending iFX EXPO Dubai 2025 on 14 to 16 January. Exhibiting at Stand 64 at Trade Centre Dubai, SPAYZ.io’s team of professionals will be on hand providing live demonstrations of its renowned payment services for payment providers. Attendees will also receive exclusive insight into SPAYZ.io’s plans for 2025 alongside early early access to its upcoming plans for the new year.
SPAYZ.io delivers a host of payment solutions that leverage the latest technological innovations and open access to the fastest growing emerging markets across Africa, Europe and Asia. Over the past year, there has been huge demand for its Open Banking and local payment method services, alongside bank transfers, mass payouts, online banking and e-wallets.
Yana Thakurta, Head of Business Development at SPAYZ.io commented: “We look forward to once again participating at iFX Dubai to expand our network of partners and clients. It’s a fantastic way to kick off the year, connecting with thousands of industry leaders from FOREX platforms to trading companies, and everything in between.
“Our key goal for iFX Dubai EXPO 2025 is to expand our portfolio of solutions and geographies. We’re using this as an opportunity to partner with like-minded entities who share our ambition to provide payment solutions that are truly global.”
Come meet SPAYZ.io’s team at the Trade Centre Dubai at Stand 64. You can also book a meeting slot with a member of a team.
The post SPAYZ.io prepares for iFX EXPO Dubai 2025 appeared first on News, Events, Advertising Options.
Fintech
Airtm Enhances Its Board of Directors with Two Strategic Appointments
Airtm, the most connected digital dollar account in the world, is proud to announce the addition of two distinguished industry leaders to its Board of Directors: Rafael de la Vega, Global SVP of Partnerships at Auctane, and Shivani Siroya, CEO & Founder of Tala. These appointments reflect Airtm’s commitment to innovation and financial inclusion as the company enters its next phase of growth.
“We are thrilled to welcome Rafael and Shivani to Airtm’s Board of Directors,” said Ruben Galindo Steckel, Co-founder and CEO of Airtm. “Their unique perspectives and proven track records will be invaluable as we continue scaling our platform to empower individuals and businesses in emerging markets. Together, we’ll push the boundaries of financial inclusion and innovation to create a more connected and equitable global economy. Rafael and Shivani bring a wealth of experience and strategic insight that will strengthen Airtm’s mission to connect emerging economies with the global market.”
Rafael de la Vega, a seasoned leader in fintech global partnerships and technology innovation, is currently the Global SVP of Partnerships at Auctane. With a proven track record of delivering scalable, impactful solutions at the intersection of fintech, innovation, and commerce, Rafael’s expertise will be pivotal as Airtm continues to grow. “Airtm has built a platform that breaks down barriers and opens up opportunities for people in emerging economies to connect to global markets. I am excited to contribute to its growth and help further its mission of fostering financial inclusion on a global scale,” said Rafael.
Shivani Siroya, CEO and Founder of Tala, is a pioneer in financial technology, renowned for empowering underserved communities through access to credit and essential financial tools. Her leadership in leveraging data-driven innovation aligns seamlessly with Airtm’s vision of creating more equitable financial opportunities. “Empowering underserved communities has always been at the core of my work, and Airtm’s mission resonates deeply with me. I’m thrilled to join the Board and work alongside such a dynamic team to expand access to financial tools that truly make a difference in people’s lives,” said Shivani.
The post Airtm Enhances Its Board of Directors with Two Strategic Appointments appeared first on News, Events, Advertising Options.
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