Financial Center News #131

📣 New insights from our World Alliance members DIFC & ADGM

Two of our members released major thought-leadership reports that highlight how next-generation financial centers are shaping the future of global finance ⬇️

📘 DIFC – "Next-generation financial cities: New models for attracting global capital" "Next-Generation Financial Cities: New models for attracting global capital" This new DIFC report shows how emerging hubs are developping through: 🌐 innovative governance ⚖️ regulatory clarity 💼 talent attraction 🏙️ world-class infrastructure

🛡️ ADGM – " Beyond Technology: The Four Dimensions of the Human Firewall" Produced with Rabdan Academy (RA) and supported by UQ Cyber, this report is based on: 🔎 extensive research 💬 interviews with 18 senior IT security managers 🏛️ insights from 12 UAE-based financial institutions It provides a deep look at the cyber threats facing the UAE's financial sector, with a clear call for: 🤝 stronger collaboration 🔐 enhanced resilience 🌍 global partnerships A valuable contribution to the global conversation on financial-sector cybersecurity.

As global financial centers evolve, our World Alliance members continue to lead with research, innovation, and strategic vision. 📄 Full reports available here: 📲 DIFC - "Next-generation financial cities: New models for attracting global capital": https://lnkd.in/dvGBdg7z 📲 ADGM - "Beyond Technology: The Four Dimensions of the Human Firewall": https://lnkd.in/eSqMExEr

📣 Our Members FinanceMalta and Busan Finance Center released important analyses that address two critical pillars of competitiveness for modern financial hubs: 🔹 Regulatory resilience and innovation 🔹 Legal frameworks and international investor confidence

📘 Strategic Update 2024: "Securing Our Future as a Resilient and Efficient Jurisdiction"

FinanceMalta Malta has released a comprehensive strategic update outlining Malta's roadmap to strengthen its position as a resilient, future-ready, and innovation-driven financial jurisdiction.

The update highlights: 🛡️ reinforced regulatory resilience ⚙️ modernized supervisory frameworks 💡 a strong commitment to digital innovation 🌍 alignment with international best practices MFSA's roadmap emphasizes risk-based supervision, operational excellence, and ecosystem collaboration — key pillars supporting Malta's ambition to remain a trusted and competitive European financial center.

📲 https://lnkd.in/eYsmDBc5

🏛️ Busan Finance Center (BFC): "Common Law Competitiveness Analysis – Presented at the 14th Busan International Financial Forum."

Our member Busan Finance Center has published a new analysis exploring how introducing a common law framework — similar to London, New York, or Singapore — could significantly accelerate Busan's development as a global financial hub.

Key insights include: ⚖️ greater predictability & flexibility for international finance 🤝 increased trust and legal familiarity for global investors 🌐 stronger integration into global capital markets 📈 improved competitiveness against established hubs The report outlines several implementation pathways, including partial adoption within designated financial zones and specialized international dispute-resolution mechanisms. A forward-looking perspective on how legal infrastructure can shape the competitiveness of emerging financial centers.

📲https://lnkd.in/ewJUAZ72

The latest edition of the LINK Networking Series offered a welcome moment to step away from the pace of the workday and reconnect with peers across the ADGM community. Hosted in partnership with J.P. Morgan, this month's gathering brought together professionals from across our ecosystem to exchange ideas, share updates and strengthen relationships beyond the day-to-day.

As we look ahead, the next time we come together will be on an even bigger stage — ADFW 2025. We look forward to seeing you all there as the community grows stronger with every new voice around the table!

⚡ Join AIFC Connect: Abu Dhabi on 9 December

🗺️ AIFC Connect will bring together senior leaders from sovereign funds, investment firms, financial institutions and regulators to strengthen Kazakhstan–UAE cooperation and explore new avenues for cross-border capital flows.

🔎 The programme will cover co-investment opportunities in priority sectors, fintech and digital assets (including tokenisation, custody and regulatory sandboxes), and the development of capital markets through cross-listings, fund domiciliation and investor access across Central Asia and the MENA region. A dedicated dialogue will focus on deepening financial collaboration between the two countries.

The event is supported by the Embassies of Kazakhstan and the UAE and delivered in partnership with GWM Capital Ltd.

📌 Registration closes on 5 December.

Secure your place to join at this strategic gathering.

✔️ Register: https://lnkd.in/gmVksN4y

📅 9 December 2025 📍 Rosewood Abu Dhabi

BFC in London

🌏⚓ From the historic heart of the City of London to Korea's maritime finance capital Busan, the conversation on global finance is getting deeper and more connected.

On 25th November, at Bakers' Hall, the FS Club and Z/Yen Group Limited in partnership with Busan Finance Center, hosted an evening focused on Busan's journey to become one of Asia's most compelling #financial hubs. The room was filled with senior leaders and professionals exploring why Busan is rapidly emerging as Northeast Asia's leading maritime and financial centre.

📍 Key highlights from the Busan side: Dr. Soongoo Ahn, Director of BFC, shared our strategic roadmap for maritime finance and the creation of a world-class financial hub in Busan. #Seonghoon Yoon from Korea Housing Finance Corporation (KHFC) introduced KHFC's expanding international activities and expertise in securitisation and covered bonds #Hyunwoo You, from the Financial Supervisory Service (FSS) provided expert insights on regulatory collaboration between Korea and the UK and the policies strengthening Korea's global competitiveness

🙏 We are grateful to Z/Yen Group, the FS Club community, Michael Mainelli, Mike Wardle and all participants in #London for engaging with Busan's story and exploring new avenues of collaboration. This is just the beginning of a deeper partnership between #Busan and global financial centres

On 28 November in Rabat, Casablanca Finance City had the pleasure of participating in a high-level fireside chat during the Africa Investment Forum, hosted by the African Development Bank.

The session, brilliantly moderated by Babajide Sodipo, Acting Executive Secretary of the Alliance of African Multilateral Financial Institutions, brought together: - Lamia MERZOUKI, COO of Casablanca Finance City Authority - Dr. Abdul B Kamara, General Manager, Nigeria Country Office, African Development Bank

Together, they discussed how to turn the AfCFTA from a policy framework into a catalyst for real business opportunities and how investment hubs such as CFC can accelerate Africa's economic integration.

Key insights from the discussion included: - The AfCFTA's transformational potential for a market of 1.5 billion people and a projected 52% increase in intra-African trade by 2035. - The role of financial centers and business hubs in channeling capital, de-risking projects, and connecting public and private actors across the continent. - The importance of strengthening infrastructure, regional value chains, and financial integration to unlock "Made in Africa" opportunities. - How CFC, as Africa's leading financial center, supports investors through a competitive regulatory framework, strategic intelligence, and a community of 250+ companies active in 50 African countries.

This exchange was a strong reminder that building a unified, resilient African market requires coordinated action, and that platforms like CFC and the AfDB are central to driving this momentum forward.

A warm thank you to our partners and co-panelists for this insightful conversation. We look forward to deepening our collaboration to make the AfCFTA a tangible accelerator for Africa-led growth.

CapitaLand Investment (CLI), a global real asset investment manager operating in 45 countries and 270 cities, has chosen #DIFC to strengthen its regional presence and connect with one of the world's most international financial ecosystems.

Supported by 400+ investment and asset management professionals worldwide, CapitaLand Investment continues to scale its global portfolio while benefiting from DIFC's advanced regulatory framework and strategic access to global capital. WeChoseDIFC John Woo Olivier Ghattas

⭐With a stellar score of 47.5, Mauritius provides an unparalleled environment for global investors, HNWI's, entrepreneurs, and global citizens.

The prestigious Nomad Capitalist Freedom Index 2025 has ranked Mauritius number one – tying with Monaco for the top spot.

This latest report notes that "Mauritius matches that score [with Monaco] with sensible taxation, a robust legal system and near-zero violent crime, giving investors a stable bridge between Africa and Asia."

The index, a comprehensive global benchmark, evaluates jurisdictions based on their appeal to globally-minded individuals seeking the best places to live, invest, and do business.

🌐 Learn more - https://lnkd.in/djN8bg2Y

EnterpriseNGR unites Financial and Professional Service (FPS) institutions under one purpose—to build a thriving, resilient, and inclusive economy.

Through strategic advocacy, thought leadership, and collaboration, we amplify our Members' voices and champion policies that drive sustainable growth across sectors.

Join the institutions powering Nigeria's financial future.

Click the link in bio to become a Member.

Malta is outperforming Europe.

Since 2015 our economy grew 74 percent vs the Eurozone's 13.4 percent. A+ credit rating. Largest shipping registry in Europe. Exclusive SCC legislation for insurance. 900+ aircraft registered. A fast growing fintech and startup ecosystem backed by real incentives.

Malta is a trusted, well regulated and globally connected financial jurisdiction with access to the EU's single market.

This is only the beginning. Vision 2050 is pushing growth further and expanding opportunities across seven strategic sectors.

‏The #FSA‬ participated in the Extraordinary General Meeting of the Association of National Numbering Agencies (ANNA) held in Muscat, presenting a paper titled:

‏"The Non-Banking Financial Sector in the Sultanate of Oman: Shaping the Future and Building Trust Through Technology."

‏The paper highlighted the role of non-banking finance as an enabler of Oman's economic development.

‏The #FSA‬ participated in the Extraordinary General Meeting of the Association of National Numbering Agencies (ANNA) held in Muscat, presenting a paper titled:

‏"The Non-Banking Financial Sector in the Sultanate of Oman: Shaping the Future and Building Trust Through Technology."

‏The paper highlighted the role of non-banking finance as an enabler of Oman's economic development.

🎄 #FrankfurtLife – Frankfurt and the Rhine-Main region in the magic ✨ of Christmas

In our FrankfurtLife series, we take you with us into the festive Advent season in Frankfurt am Main and the region.

When the lights shine, the scent of cinnamon and roasted almonds wafts through the streets and historic squares and modern rooftop spots shine brightly, Frankfurt shows its most festive side. Whether classic Christmas markets in the city centre, creative alternative markets or atmospheric Advent destinations in the Rhine-Main area - here everyone will find the perfect place for contemplative moments, enjoyment and unforgettable experiences.

👉 Discover all the highlights of the Christmas season in Frankfurt and the surrounding area: https://frankfurt-main-finance.com/en/christmas-season-in-frankfurt-and-the-surrounding-area/

Poland is emerging as a digital finance powerhouse in the EU. The numbers speak for themselves.

Is scale the only metric that matters? Or is innovation the true currency of future financial centres? Together with Deloitte, we are proud to present the findings of the "EU Financial Centres Power Index" – a deep dive into the real performance of European markets.

The results for Poland are clear: we are no longer just an operational back-office. We are a driving force of digital transformation.

🚀 Key findings for Poland: ✅ #1 in the EU for mobile and online transactions (driven by the phenomenal success of BLIK). ✅ #4 in the EU for employment in the financial sector (466k professionals), just behind Germany, France, and Italy. ✅ #6 in value added to GDP. ✅ Home to 7 "Unicorns", placing us in the EU top 10.

While we lead in technology and talent, the report also honestly identifies our challenges – specifically in corporate financing and the depth of the capital market.

📥 Read more and download the report here: https://lnkd.in/dRXKxskV

The past few days have been a sombre period for Hong Kong as we confront the tragedy of the Tai Po fire. To our business partners and friends around the world: while the Financial Services Development Council's operations continue, we are acutely aware that business as usual is a world away from the reality for the families who have endured unimaginable loss.

This tragedy has prompted deep reflection on how we, in our various capacities, can extend meaningful support to those affected. I know many in my network, from Board members and running groups to colleagues, are seeking trusted avenues to help. Based on the widespread relief efforts and our experience from earlier research, here are some established efforts that receive donations -- money or blood -- without incurring high administrative fees: - The HKSAR Government-led "Support Fund for Wang Fuk Court". Donations can be sent to the BOCHK account number # 01287521901597. - Yan Chai Hospital has set up a fund free of administrative charge, Yan Chai Hospital YEAR Fund. Donations can be sent to HSBC account number # 031-375-0-002766-8 or BOCHK account number # 580-118800-002. - The Hong Kong Red Cross would welcome blood donation.

In times of crisis, our collective action can provide a foundation for healing and recovery. Our donations serve as a starting point to address the immediate physical and safety needs of those affected. Going forward, we will need to provide emotional and psychological support, as well as rebuild lives and infrastructure. We will see how collaborations with such organisations as 仁愛堂 Yan Oi Tong/Ronald Chan, Sustainable Finance Initiative/Katy Yung, Social Impact Partners Limited/Lillian LI, and others can help.

Let's channel our sorrow into resilience and support for our community.

Benjamin Hung Christopher Hui Joseph HL Chan Daniel Fung Chen DING Andrew Weir Edward Au Ronald Chan Ben Chan Adrian Cheng Damien Green Jeremy Lam Luanne Lim Amy Lo, JP Aveline San Jennifer Tan Tony Xiaodong Tang Daisy Yeung

King Wivinia Joyce Mickey Erica Morris Jessie Kendrew Rena Sau-Wai Karrie Christina Natalie

Türkiye's ability to secure 11.4 billion dollars in foreign investment in just nine months highlights its competitiveness within the global marketplace. The steady increase in inflows signals strong investor appetite and showcases Türkiye's evolving role as a dynamic regional investment hub.

Jersey's early move into virtual asset regulation laid a foundation that continues to pay dividends. Nearly 10 years on, our international finance centre (IFC) has progressed in tokenisation and stablecoins - keeping Jersey ahead as a flexible, forward-thinking IFC. Sustained momentum, collaboration and skills investment will shape our next chapter. The digital future is here and Jersey's IFC is prepared.

Our CEO, Joe Moynihan, shares his views on this topic in his latest blog: 'Tech Your Marks, Get Set…' https://jsy.fi/4pIAUVt

As KIFC enters its fifth year of impact, the past five years tell a story of steady, purposeful progress built on a strong foundation. A legal and regulatory framework aligned with global standards has created the certainty and confidence investors seek.

Investment attraction has grown consistently, with an increasing number of international investors choosing Kigali as a strategic home for their investments across Africa. Strategic partnerships have also expanded, deepening collaboration and opening new pathways for growth.

What a show and turnout! Last night, we hosted the inaugural physical edition of our Outlook event, in the presence of Minister Gilles Roth and with leading industry voices - Lize-Mari Barnes, Merete Clausen, Claude Marx - looking ahead at what the upcoming year will bring for the European economy, financial markets, global risks, the regulatory environment and our financial centre. We also had the immense pleasure of having Tim Harford with us, economist and author of 10 books, self-proclaimed data nerd, senior columnist at the Financial Times, presenter, podcaster and all round superstar, who gave an absolute tour de force of a speech on economic forecasting. Thank you to our sponsors for making it happen and to Judith Bogner for her role as master of ceremonies, fantastic as always, and to the entire Luxembourg for Finance team for the outstanding work. By the way, it was also the inaugural event for the AAAle IPA that we brewed at our team outing this summer (photo evidence below).

Yesterday, NIFC CEO Daniel Mainda participated in an insightful panel discussion alongside Simba Corporation Limited, KRA(KENYA REVENUE AUTHORITY), Jubilee Insurance & the The Micro and Small Enterprises Authority (MSEA) at the #BDOPowerBreakfast.

The conversation focused on the realities shaping today's economic landscape, from rising fiscal pressures to shifting global dynamics, as well as what these changes mean for businesses across East Africa.

Key themes from the panel included: - Understanding current economic headwinds - Fiscal policy shifts and their implications - Strategies for Kenyan companies to remain resilient and competitive

Thank you to BDO East Africa for facilitating a timely and engaging discussion on how organisations can navigate uncertainty and position themselves for long-term growth.

The NIFC remains firmly committed to fostering predictability and stability in the Kenyan market, ensuring that businesses can operate and invest with confidence.

QFC hosted the Family Office Forum, bringing together leading voices to examine how global governance trends, innovation, and evolving investment strategies are shaping the future of family wealth. 👏

Under the theme "Preserving Legacy, Empowering Future Leadership," the Forum highlighted Qatar's growing role in the global wealth landscape, with discussions spanning succession planning, structuring family offices, and cross-border investment approaches.🇶🇦

Through panel sessions and curated breakouts, the programme provided practical insights for family offices navigating the next era of growth and generational transition.

Europe's Capital Market – and the Overdue Fundamental Reform of the German Pension System

Back in Berlin for the Finanzmarktklausur #fmk25 organised by the Wirtschaftsrat der CDU e.V... A timely event at a moment when Europe's future economic success and resilience depend more than ever on a strong capital market – a fact which has been neglected for much too long in European discourse.

So, Klaus Wiener MdB, Frank Schönherr, Ralf Brunkow, and I, moderated by Angela Wefers, debated the role of the capital market for the financing of the European and German economy.

While there was no immediate agreement on all points (which is a good thing; I like controversial debates, let the better argument win), one point was uncontested: The European capital market needs many more private investors. In particular, German private investors.

Which brings us to the German pension system. A system which is way beyond end-of-life cycle in its current state.

Across OECD countries, pension systems (across all pillars) invest an amount close to 100 percent of their respective GDP in the capital market. In Germany, however, the figure is at a disappointing 12 percent.

I find this crass. This gap is not just striking; it is sobering. It shows that German pensioners (in fact, Germans in general) do not benefit sufficiently from the growth of the global economy. Put demographics in the mix – it becomes clear that this is not sustainable.

We can already see it today: While the German pension system is heavily subsidized by taxpayers, German pensioners still have lower pension levels than most other Europeans.

Our pension system needs a fundamental reform. It needs to go beyond the current pay-as-you-go logic and build much more on the capital market – across all three pillars.

Building on our attendance at COP30 Brazil, and the productive conversations and meetings we had, we recently held a post-COP30 webinar in partnership with Global Ethical Finance Initiative (GEFI) and LSEG. This was a chance to explore the key outcomes from Belém and what they mean for the private sector and the future direction of climate policy. A huge thank you to our panellists for their valuable insights.

Following the session, Jessica Skedd, our Senior Policy Manager, Sustainability, reflects on key themes emerging from COP30 in her latest blog. Jess looks at the shift from ambition to implementation and how this new phase creates an opportunity for our industry to play a central role in delivering scalable climate solutions and accelerating progress.

📘 Read the blog here: https://lnkd.in/edRmMHiu

By BPOAK - Business Process Outsourcing Association, Kenya

We are delighted to announce that Brenda Mbathi, CEO of Two Rivers International Finance & Innovation Centre (TRIFIC SEZ), will be joining us as a speaker at the BPOAK & KEPSA Networking Breakfast on 5th December 2025.

Brenda is one of the most respected leaders in Kenya's private sector ecosystem, bringing 35+ years of executive experience, deep sector insight, and a strong legacy of championing growth, competitiveness, and strategic partnerships across the region.

Her leadership journey includes serving as: • CEO, GE East Africa, driving digital industrial transformation and strategic localization • President, AmCham Kenya, advancing US–Kenya trade relations • Vice Chair, Kenya Private Sector Alliance (KEPSA), where she continues to shape national private sector priorities • Governor, MPESA Foundation Academy, supporting youth transformation and leadership • CEO, TRIFIC SEZ, where she leads the development of one of the country's most strategic economic zones; driving innovation, investment, and talent development

Brenda's perspective on ecosystem collaboration, investment attraction, and the future of digital and service-led industries will be invaluable to the BPO and GBS community.

We are honoured to have her join us for this important conversation. ✨ Follow the conversation and secure your slot: 👉 RSVP here: https://lnkd.in/dMz47ycX