Friday, August 29, 2025
Financial Center News #117
End-of-summer updates from WAIFC member financial centers. Highlights from Abu Dhabi, Astana, Hong Kong, and Istanbul on digital finance, investment frameworks, and regulatory developments ahead of the autumn conference season.
World Alliance
We are proud to feature Hortense Mudenge, the newly appointed CEO of the Kigali International Financial Centre (KIFC). πβ¨
In her own words: π "It is a privilege to lead KIFC at such a pivotal moment for Rwanda and Africa's financial ecosystem."
This inspiring interview is part of the latest World Alliance Newsletter π°, where she shares her vision for advancing Rwanda's financial ecosystem and positioning Africa on the global stage.
π² Read the full interview here: https://lnkd.in/eGvQejXT
π Our August 2025 World Alliance Newsletter is out.
This edition features insightful voices and perspectives from across our global network:
π£οΈ Interview: Hortense Mudenge, newly appointed CEO of Kigali International Financial Centre (KIFC), shares her vision for advancing Rwanda's financial ecosystem. She highlights key priorities, including strengthening investor relevance, promoting sustainable finance, expanding fintech and innovation, and leveraging the World Alliance's global network for cross-border investment and skills development.
π‘ Opinions: Thomas Krantz examines Poland's ambitious green transition and the lessons it offers the world. π±β‘ Joe Moynihan, CEO Jersey Finance, reflects on the "polycrisis" shaping today's world and why international financial centers must remain resilient and competitive. ππΌ
π Plus: key updates from our members worldwide, new publications, and upcoming international events you won't want to miss.
π² Read the full newsletter: https://lnkd.in/e2bi7Rpn
Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM)
ADGM, ADGM Academy, TII Group, Hub71, and Aspire have come together to launch the UAE's first Quantum-Secure Communications Testbed β a pioneering initiative that positions Abu Dhabi at the forefront of global quantum innovation.
Powered by Quantum Key Distribution (QKD), the testbed acts as a living lab inside ADGM, enabling industry and government stakeholders to: - Experience tamper-proof, quantum-secure communications in real time - Test use cases for financial markets and digital asset ecosystems - Strengthen resilience against tomorrow's cyber and data privacy threats
By trialing QKD in a live commercial setting, ADGM is future-proofing digital infrastructure and setting new standards of trust and security in financial systems. https://lnkd.in/dzmNrThF
Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC)
Busan Finance Center (BFC)
#BFC Driving Busan's Rise as a Maritime Finance Hub
As Korean shipbuilders expand projects and scale up overseas operations, the demand for shipping finance continues to grow.
#BNK #BusanBank has recently resumed issuing a Refund Guarantee (RG) for HJ Heavy Industries, reaffirming support for domestic shipbuilders' competitiveness. Alongside this, BNK has launched the "Leap Forward #Fund", a dedicated initiative to strengthen financing for leading local and maritime companies.
Positioned at the core of this shift, #BFC is working to connect global capital with Busan's shipbuilding and maritime strengths, driving the city's rise as a leading #maritime #finance hub.
Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC)
ISA Solutions based in #DIFC and licensed by the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA), operates as a Managing General Agent (MGA) and reinsurance broker, serving partners across the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. #ISA delivers tailored insurance and reinsurance solutions with speed, expertise, and innovation, empowering insurers to thrive in a fast-changing world.
EDB Mauritius
[ Visit of a Delegation of Entrepreneurs from RΓ©union Island to Mauritius ]
A high-level delegation from RΓ©union Island, comprising the President and members of the Alliance des Entreprises OcΓ©an Indien (AEOI), conducted a visit to Mauritius from 14 to 18 August 2025. The mission, led by Nadine Angelie, also included representatives from Mayotte and Madagascar.
The visiting delegation featured entrepreneurs operating across diverse sectors, including construction materials manufacturing and trade, agro-industry, information technology, circular economy, electric vehicles and charging infrastructure, as well as innovative support services involving utility drones.
π Learn more: https://lnkd.in/dDMY-w9D
EnterpriseNGR
FinanceMalta (FM)
π Close Malta's Leadership Gap β Invest in Yourself Today
Malta's top executives agree: the next generation of leaders must master: β Effective Communication β Decision-Making Skills β Project Management
Now you can gain these skills with the Undergraduate Certificate in Leadership Skills, delivered by MCAST in collaboration with FinanceMalta.
π 165 hours of practical training π Individuals benefit from a 70% Get Qualified refund + 10% FinanceMalta discount π° Final cost for individuals: β¬405 (instead of β¬1,500)
π Learn more and apply here: financemalta.org/course
Frankfurt Main Finance (FMF)
Handelsblatt Banking Summit 2025 β on 3 and 4 September in Frankfurt.
As an event partner, Frankfurt Main Finance will be there when the financial industry comes together after the summer break to discuss the central topics of the second half of the year:
Geopolitics and resilience, disruption and efficiency, payments and digital infrastructures, consolidation in Europe and (gen/agentic) AI with real practical benefits.
The focus will also be on the Frankfurt financial centre. A strong #Finanzplatz is crucial for Germany's future. But what does a successful #Kapitalmarkt need? And is the #Regierung setting the right course for this?
This will be followed by a panel discussion on: Customs disputes, market turbulence, new governments β how does the (financial) location remain competitive? What role does the special fund play?
π Info & Tickets: https://lnkd.in/dHbKBhE
Future Finance Poland (FFP)
Join the Digital Payment Security Initiative!
Future Finance Poland and Mastercard are launching a new initiative within the Digital Payments Specialization β Digital Payment Security.
Goal: co-create systemic solutions that will make digital payments in Poland safer and more resilient.
First workshop: October 2025.
Who can join? Banks, PSPs, fintechs, infrastructure providers, regulators.
Sign up: info@futurefinancepoland.com
FSA Oman
π’ The Financial Services Authority announces job vacancies. π Apply now: www.fsa.gov.om
Hong Kong FSDC
Geopolitical shifts, changing capital flows and diverging regulatory models are redrawing the region's banking map. Institutions must find a way to adapt to these changes and embrace digital transformation to stay competitive.
Download the FT Live report for a timely, in-depth look at the forces reshaping the banking industry and how institutions adapt: https://bitly.cx/R0yb
To continue the conversation, join the FT Banking Summit Asia, supported by the FSDC this year, on 11 September in Hong Kong. Use code FSDC for 20% off: https://bitly.cx/L7ly
Istanbul Financial Center (IFC)
TΓΌrkiye is a strong address for investors. With its geographical advantage, attractive incentives, young population and strong infrastructure, it offers a solid ground for long-term investments. The Istanbul Finance Center brings the finance world together at the center of this potential.
Jersey Finance (JF)
When global fragmentation grows, trust and stability become strategic assets. In his latest blog, Joe Moynihan reminds us how Jersey's regulated, dependable platform is key to supporting its clients through volatility. From our Vision 2050 initiative and streamlined regulatory landscape, to our fund regime enhancements and reforming the Sound Business Practice Policy, Jersey signals its commitment to remaining future-ready.
Read the full blog on our website: https://jsy.fi/3Jm3j49
Kigali International Financial Centre (KIFC)
This week, we were delighted to engage with the Executive Master's students from Rome Business School Nigeria during their international study tour.
Discussions centered on how Rwanda is positioning itself as a leading financial services hub in Africa and explored avenues for collaboration to strengthen the continent's investment landscape.
Luxembourg for Finance (LFF)
McGill University, in conjunction with support from ABBL and ALFI β Association of the Luxembourg Fund Industry, is bringing its world-class Master of Management in Finance (MMF) program to Luxembourg.
This new part-time international offering is designed for professionals who want to advance their careers in one of Europe's leading financial hubs.
Led by Professors Patrick Augustin and Vadim di Pietro, the program combines: βοΈ Hands-on industry experience βοΈ A strong academic foundation βοΈ Strategic location at the heart of Europe's finance sector
Whether you're looking to accelerate your career in finance or expand your global network, the MMF Luxembourg is your gateway to new opportunities in the European financial landscape.
Learn more: mcgill.ca/mmf
Qatar Financial Centre (QFC)
We were honoured to take part in the Qatar Finance and Business Academy (QFBA) Future Assets Graduation Ceremony. Our Chief Marketing & Corporate Communications Officer, Yousef Fakhroo, delivered a speech encouraging the next generation as they embark on their professional journeys. π§βπ
At QFC, we believe that empowering youth is vital for building a resilient and innovative future. By supporting their growth, we are investing in the talent and vision that will drive Qatar's sustainable development and long-term economic success. π€
Stuttgart Financial (SF)
By Finance Accelerator
π Soon the time has come: Our BW Startup Award in the amount of β¬10,000 will be presented at the Finance Summit | 18.09.2025 of the Boerse Stuttgart Group and Stuttgart Financial. Five innovative start-ups are allowed to pitch on our Venture Day stage and thus have the chance to win the prize money.
One of these start-ups is PRELIQX. The start-up around founders Mehdi Manoochehri and Prof. Dr. med. Georg Weber is developing new diagnostic procedures for organ damage and oncology. The goal is to revolutionize molecular diagnostics through innovative and affordable technologies specifically designed for early detection and personalized treatment strategies.
You can find all information about PRELIQX here: https://www.preliqx.com/
We are looking forward to the pitches and are curious to see which start-up will convince the jury. In the next few days, you will find out which other four start-ups will π be on stage
TheCityUK
π Yorkshire and the Humber: A Financial Services Powerhouse π
We're excited to be bringing our National Conference 2025 to Leeds this year β a city at the heart of Yorkshire and the Humber's thriving financial and related professional services.
According to our latest 'Enabling growth across the UK 2025' report: π₯ 149,000 people are employed in the industry across the region. π· The industry contributed Β£13.9bn to the regional economy β 9.2% of Yorkshire and the Humber's gross value added (GVA) β in 2023. ποΈ Leeds alone employs over 42,000 people, contributing Β£6.2bn to the city's GVA.
π Join us at The Queens Hotel, Leeds on Thursday, 27 November 2025 for a day of insights and networking. π Save the date! π Register now: https://lnkd.in/eVCd4eDn
Read the full newsletter on LinkedIn
All content published via LinkedIn Pulse
Read Full Issue on LinkedIn βIssue Details
- Issue Number
- #117
- Published
- Friday, August 29, 2025
- Centers Featured
- 19
- Sections
- 20
In This Issue
- World Alliance
- Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM)
- Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC)
- Busan Finance Center (BFC)
- Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC)
- EDB Mauritius
- EnterpriseNGR
- FinanceMalta (FM)
- Frankfurt Main Finance (FMF)
- Future Finance Poland (FFP)
- FSA Oman
- Hong Kong FSDC
- Istanbul Financial Center (IFC)
- Jersey Finance (JF)
- Kigali International Financial Centre (KIFC)
- Luxembourg for Finance (LFF)
- Qatar Financial Centre (QFC)
- Stuttgart Financial (SF)
- TheCityUK
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