Financial Center News #125

WAIFC Newsletter – October 2025 📩

Our October edition is live. From inspiring voices to global events, here's what you'll find inside:

🎙️ VOICES Hear from Vivi Yuwei LIAO, the 2025 WAIFC Young Academic Award winner 🏆, on how sustainable finance can drive climate adaptation and empower emerging markets. Her journey in Frankfurt with IFC leaders highlights the transformative role of research in shaping global change. 🌱💡

💭 OPINIONS Thomas Krantz shares why Hong Kong stands out as a leader in sustainability 🌏, with its Climate Action Plan 2030+ and thriving green bond market.

📰 NEWS ✅ NIFC Africa joins WAIFC 🌍 ✅ Africa & EU Roundtables in Frankfurt 🤝 ✅ Young Academic Award 2025 winners announced 🏅 ✅ AGM highlights: New members, new board leaders, and global AI report in progress 🤖

🤝 NEWS FROM OUR MEMBERS From Casablanca Finance City's carbon market partnership 🌿 to DIFC's entrepreneurship program empowering 10,000 Emiratis — members are shaping the future of global finance.

📅 EVENTS Save the dates for upcoming milestones, including Warsaw Finance Week by Future Finance Poland 🇵🇱 (Nov 3–5), Hong Kong FinTech Week by Financial Services Development Council 🇭🇰 (Nov 3–7), FinanceMalta Annual Conference 🇲🇹 (Nov 19), and Abu Dhabi Finance Week by ADGM 🇦🇪 (Dec 8–11).

👉 Subscribe now if you received this newsletter from a colleague or friend and don't miss future updates. 📲Read more: https://lnkd.in/ebd9awee

Our MD, Jochen Biedermann, will speak at the Hong Kong FinTech Week about "AI & Finance: Redefining Talent in the Digital Age – Skills, Ethics, and the Future Workforce" on Monday, November 3, 10:30 am, by invitation of our member, the Hong Kong Financial Services Development Council.

Please join him in hall 5E for this conversation with Joseph HL Chan, Alvin Kwock, Neil Tan 🌐, moderated by Aveline San.

We thank the #FSDC and Finoverse for the invitation and excellent preparation and look forward to a fantastic #HKFTW25.

At the heart of Abu Dhabi, ADGM is driving a new era of responsible artificial intelligence across commercial and financial sectors. As one of the world's largest financial districts and the fastest-growing financial centre in the region, ADGM continues to build a dynamic environment for emerging technologies that combines innovation with trust and governance.

Through the combined efforts of its Registration Authority (RA) and Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA), ADGM has established a responsive, technology-enabled regulatory framework that supports AI-driven business models while maintaining the highest standards of integrity. The RA's Emerging Technologies Section and the FSRA's supervisory approach to AI ensure that firms working in areas such as AI, blockchain, and digital assets are empowered from day one.

ADGM's AI Taskforce is advancing the centre's transformation through automation, analytics, and enhanced customer experience. In partnership with leading institutions such as MBZUAI and through engagement with global networks including IOSCO and WAIFC, ADGM is strengthening Abu Dhabi's position as a trusted global hub where innovation and regulation advance together.

Aligned with the UAE's National AI Strategy 2031, ADGM remains committed to shaping the future of finance — where technology, governance, and purpose converge to drive sustainable growth and impact.

Read more: https://lnkd.in/dmbE6PVH

🚀The Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC) has been recognised by the International Organization of Securities Commissions - IOSCO among the world's leading jurisdictions implementing global standards for regulating crypto and digital asset markets. The recognition follows the IOSCO Thematic Review "Assessing the Implementation of IOSCO Recommendations for Crypto and Digital Asset Markets". Out of more than 130 member jurisdictions, only 20 were selected for this global assessment representing the most advanced frameworks for investor protection, market integrity, and responsible innovation.

Renat Bekturov, CFA, AIFC Governor: "The AIFC has been recognised among the four leading jurisdictions in the world successfully implementing IOSCO recommendations in the regulation of digital assets. We will continue to consistently develop this area. Our key goal is to ensure the most comfortable, transparent, and secure environment for all users of digital assets."

The AIFC was identified among those demonstrating the highest level of progress, with all ten priority IOSCO recommendations fully implemented. This places Kazakhstan among the top jurisdictions globally for establishing transparent and secure regulation of digital assets.

The IOSCO report contains over 30 positive references to the AIFC's digital asset regulatory framework, including five examples where it is cited as a best practice in implementing international recommendations.

Casablanca Finance City, in partnership with Morocco's 40 under 40, is hosting an exclusive gathering for Moroccan professionals based in France.

This event offers a unique opportunity to connect, exchange ideas, and explore how collective expertise and networks can contribute to Morocco's development, while also uncovering exciting opportunities for career advancement and value creation.

Don't miss this opportunity to connect and make an impact.

Reserve your spot today: https://lnkd.in/eK2XiPGt

#DIFC, in partnership with S&P Global Ratings, will host the 15th Annual Islamic Finance Conference, a leading platform shaping the future of global Islamic finance.

The event will feature insights from Alya Al Zarouni, Chief Operating Officer, DIFC; Dr Adnan Chilwan, Group CEO, Dubai Islamic Bank; Charles Haresnape, CEO, Gatehouse Bank; Dr Mohamed Damak, Managing Director, S&P Global Ratings; and Jessica Tan, Director, S&P Global Dow Jones Indices.

The conference will bring together senior executives, investors, and policymakers to discuss the outlook for Islamic finance, GCC credit conditions, sukuk market growth, and the rising role of sustainable finance.

As the region's leading financial hub, DIFC continues to advance the Islamic finance ecosystem, fostering innovation, resilience, and global collaboration across the industry.

Register here: https://lnkd.in/dj82rmQ6

Mauritius Rings the Market Closing Bell at LSEG

The Honourable Minister of Financial Services and Economic Planning, Dr. The Hon. Jyoti Jeetun rang the market closing bell at the London Stock Exchange Group (LSEG) in London in the presence of leaders and key stakeholders in banking and finance.

This prestigious event is emblematic of Mauritius's national vision to position the Mauritius International Financial Centre (IFC) as the strategic hub connecting Africa and Asia.

Africa is the land of opportunities and attracting significant investments. Mauritius IFC is a safe and secure jurisdiction with robust regulatory environment.

Discussions with LSEG team to allow high-growth regional companies to first list on a Mauritian Exchange for initial growth capital and regulatory experience, providing a de-risked transition for a subsequent listing on the LSE for global scale and exposure.

We look forward to building on our longstanding relationship with LSEG and collaborating to ensure seamless access to global capital for the continent's most promising enterprises.

Dr Jeetun stated "Mauritius is the eastern most part of Africa with strong historical and cultural ties with the continent as well with India and China. We ambition to become the leading IFC for investment flows between Africa and Asia. Besides, the latest GFCI 38 Index ranks Mauritius first in Africa."

Join the World Alliance of International Financial Centers (WAIFC) at its insightful Masterclass featuring Mark Freed, Co-Founder of Men for Inclusion, on October 21, 2025.

Discover how inclusion fuels performance, creativity, and innovation, and gain practical strategies for driving lasting cultural transformation within organisations.

Event Details: 📅 Date: October 21, 2025 💻 Venue: Online (Virtual Session) 🎙️ Speaker: Mark Freed, Co-Founder, Men for Inclusion 🔗 Register here for free: https://lnkd.in/dsYkicTS

🎉 45 Stellar Sponsors Powering the FinanceMalta Annual Conference 2025!

As we gear up for the FinanceMalta 18th Annual Conference, "Redefining Finance: A quality-driven future for Malta", we proudly celebrate a record-breaking 45 sponsors who have placed their trust in our vision of excellence.

From visionary institutions to innovative disruptors, these partners are the driving force behind Malta's continued growth as a leading financial centre. Your support fuels our mission to connect, inspire, and elevate the financial services industry to new heights.

🎟️ Have you bought your ticket yet? Not yet? Now's your chance! ⏰ 📅 19–20 November 2025 📍 Hilton Malta 👉 Buy Tickets Now: https://lnkd.in/eKsEDY4G

A heartfelt thank you to our stellar sponsors who are making this event possible through their continued trust and support in Malta's financial sector: Calamatta Cuschieri Moneybase Dominion AQA Capital Ltd Finco Trust Services Limited Systemic Malta Stock Exchange plc Bank of Valletta plc Investors Europe (Malta) Ltd LifeStar Insurance plc AUDENTIA CAPITAL Group Mediterrania Capital Partners Reed Recruitment Malta Trustform CSB Group FinXP ICT Solutions Forvis Mazars in Malta Ganado Advocates Lockton PwC Malta KPMG Malta Deloitte EY Malta Profile Software Services Camilleri Preziosi Advocates FJVA Polixis SA Atlas Insurance Alter Domus Sparkasse Bank Malta plc Bank Diaman Partners Ltd Finance Incorporated Ltd Malta Digital Innovation Authority GamingMalta Antes Insurance Brokers Limited Malta Business Registry - MBR Malta Enterprise IWG TalentBet: iGaming & Fintech Recruitment Experts! Swissquote Boston Link Knights College Motomania GB Legal Bolt Business

The #FSA congratulates Khalid bin Said Al Manji on being selected as the 'Employee of the Month' for September 2025, wishing him continued success and excellence in his professional journey.

🌍 Frankfurt on the global stage at the IMF and World Bank Annual Meetings in Washington

The Frankfurt financial centre was all over the place at this year's International Monetary Fund and The World Bank Annual Meetings in Washington: Federal Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil, Christian Sewing (Deutsche Bank), Bettina Orlopp (Commerzbank AG), Stefan B. Wintels (KfW), Cornelius Riese (DZ BANK AG BANK) – and Frankfurt Main Finance itself – showcased Frankfurt and Germany on the international stage. FMF President Oliver Behrens and Managing Director Hubertus Väth were on site, engaging in numerous meetings and discussions to highlight Frankfurt's strengths: stability, innovation, and capital market expertise.

The interest in Germany is tremendous – and so are the opportunities: Around €900 billion in planned public investments, expected to be leveraged four to five times by private capital, underline the scale of what's ahead. With €4.5 trillion in assets under management, Germany remains a powerful magnet for global capital and ideas.

Frankfurt is ready to help shape this momentum – as the leading financial centre in continental Europe. 💪

⏰ Only a few days left to apply for your invitation to the Future Finance Summit!

The full agenda is ready — packed with world-class speakers, inspiring debates, and fresh perspectives on the future of finance. But stay tuned — we still have a few pleasant surprises coming your way! ✨

Join us at CIC Warsaw on November 4–5 for the flagship event of Warsaw Finance Week, gathering leaders from business, finance, public administration, and innovation across 17 countries.

And don't miss our exciting side events: 💠 Digital Asset Day 🛡️ Financial Crime Fighters 🚀 Pitch the Future: FinTech & Innovation Challenge 🌍 Berlin Calling: Fintechs Without Borders

Plus, two invitation-only events: 🎙️ Opening Session – a symbolic start to the week bringing together distinguished guests and partners 🌆 Closing Session – a networking finale celebrating connections and shared ideas

🎟️ Apply for your invitation now and be part of the conversations shaping the financial landscape of tomorrow 👉 https://lnkd.in/dKAnYJwH

#FSDC Unveils a Bold Vision: Showcasing Hong Kong as the World's Premier Destination for Capital Growth and Preservation

Today, we launched a bold global campaign reaffirming Hong Kong's status as the world's pre-eminent #IFC. As Mr Benjamin Hung, Chairman of the FSDC, noted: "Hong Kong shapes capital flows in ways no other financial centres can. This campaign boldly affirms our distinctive edge in global finance."

The campaign personifies "Money" as "Capital" — a dynamic protagonist finding its ideal home in Hong Kong. Ms Amy Lo, JP, Convenor of the FSDC Market Development Committee, shared, "This video captures Hong Kong's essence as a financial powerhouse — ambition meets funding, and capital is protected by trusted rules and robust frameworks. We are delivering a clear message that Hong Kong works for capital."

Our heartfelt thanks to Mr Benjamin Hung and Ms Amy Lo, JP for their leadership and support, as well as to our Committee Members, Ms Luanne Lim, Ms Sally YW Wan, and Mr Arthur Shek, and our Executive Director, Dr King Au, for attending the event and supporting our collective efforts to promote Hong Kong as a leading global financial hub.

We also extend our sincere gratitude to our Vice Chairman, Mr Andrew Weir, and our Committee Members, Mr Ronald Chan, Ms Catherine Leung, Mr Fred Ngan, and Ms Serina Wong, for their strategic insights and invaluable contributions in shaping this impactful campaign.

📽️ Watch the full campaign series and discover how Hong Kong empowers capital to thrive: https://lnkd.in/gcZVfypH

Press Release: https://lnkd.in/gA3wVjRK

The architecture of Istanbul Financial Center transforms with the rhythm of the city. The timeless elegance and cutting-edge design set a new benchmark for financial districts worldwide. The Istanbul Financial Center is a symbol of resilience, creativity and forward looking ambition.

Discover the details: https://lnkd.in/dxA9i6YC

Trust is the currency of reputation. Trust isn't built overnight; it's earned through consistency. In an increasingly complex world, trust is the foundation on which everything else stands. As our CEO, Joe Moynihan, highlights in his latest blog, it is the consistency of our actions that secures trust - from regulators, clients, investors and international partners alike.

For Jersey, that means: 🔹 upholding robust regulation and transparency 🔹 acting responsibly in global markets 🔹 consistently delivering on our promises

Reputation stems from trust and trust, in turn, stems from action. In today's interconnected world, jurisdictions that actively maintain integrity will inspire lasting confidence.

🔗 Read insights: https://jsy.fi/4osHAGQ

Today, our CEO, Hortense Mudenge, welcomed Michael Roux, Consulate General of the Republic of Rwanda in Australia, and Member of the Presidential Advisory Council, for a courtesy visit.

Discussions centered around KIFC's mandate and value proposition, as well as growing interest from Australian investors looking to invest in Rwanda.

🌿💼 Luxembourg offers some of the highest average salaries in Europe, driven by its strong financial centre, thriving tech ecosystem, and international workforce. But what makes Luxembourg really special isn't just its economic strength, it's how that prosperity translates into an exceptional quality of life.

Within minutes of the capital, you'll find forests and scenic cycling routes that make it easy to disconnect after work. A culture that values work-life balance means, people here make time for sport, family, and community. Whether you're running in the Pétrusse Valley, playing tennis in the city parks, or cycling at Moselle, Luxembourg's lifestyle invites balance and wellbeing.

It's a place where you have time to enjoy life.

💡 You do the math.

Early detection changes everything. 🎀

In Qatar, 1 in 13 women are at risk of developing breast cancer - but when found early, treatment success rates rise to 98-100%. We placed something unexpected in our lobby to spark curiosity and to remind our staff, clients, and visitors of the power of early screening, and the hope behind these numbers.

Learn more about early detection through Qatar Cancer Society.

Tomorrow, our Sustainable Finance Roundtable will take place on the topic "More than public finance? Ways to a sustainable and affordable transformation of the transport sector" will take place and there are still a few free places for all those who decide at short notice.

Register now and join the discussion on how sustainable mobility can succeed!

📅 21. October 2025 🕝 4:45 – 8:00 p.m. (admission from 4:15 p.m.) 📍 L-Bank Rotunda, Stuttgart 👉 To the agenda: https://lnkd.in/eV3nt-SM 👉 Directly to registration: https://lnkd.in/eYJgS_4b

We're proud to support the British American Finance Alliance (BAFA)'s new paper, 'Finance for growth: A shared US–UK prosperity agenda'.

The paper calls on both governments to accelerate regulatory cooperation — a move that could unlock widespread economic benefits, from job creation and consumer savings through to business growth and increased innovation. It also highlights the opportunity for the new US–UK Transatlantic Taskforce for Markets of the Future to facilitate this enhanced cooperation and ensure systematic input from industry.

🔗 Read the full paper here https://lnkd.in/edbfNbiM

Sustainable prosperity is the foundation of resilient economies.

At TRIFIC SEZ, we attract enterprises committed to ESG values balancing growth with responsibility. Our ecosystem emphasizes renewable energy, ethical practices, skills empowerment, and inclusive community initiatives.

Early results are already showing impact: 1. New jobs fueling local economies 2. Businesses aligned with sustainable growth 3. Partnerships advancing societal progress

This is prosperity built for what's next long-term value creation for people, planet, and profit.