In this webinar, we launch the twelfth edition of the Smart Centres Index (SCI 12). The SCI is designed to track the development of technology and financial centres across the world in their support for and readiness for new technology applications.Investors, entrepreneurs, scientists, media, academics, governments, and regulators can attune …

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Background: A regular speaker at the FS Club, EU Regulatory Expert David Doyle is back to give a new year update on the EU financial services regulatory agenda.He will be covering some of the most contentious and game-changing pieces of EU legislation in the financial services space, notably:TBCSpeaker:Dr David Doyle …

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Our Guide, Sam Jacobs, has lived and worked in the City of London for many years in the City of London, and will share insider stories about living, working, and having fun in the City. There'll be plenty of opportunities to explore the food and drink available in the City …

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Background:MAST is the UK’s leading charity in maritime archaeology in the country, the only organisation that conducts seabed to museum operations and has sufficient resources that enabled it to mount several large maritime archaeological rescue missions. It fills a void where the Government seems unable to fulfil its moral obligations …

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The Global Financial Centres Index has been tracking the development of the world’s financial centres since 2007 and is the authoritative guide to financial centre success.In this webinar, Z/Yen will formally launch the 39th edition of the index.Programme:09:00 Introduction & Welcome – TBC09:05 Opening Remarks - TBC09:15 GFCI 39 Results …

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Background: The seventeenth edition of the Global Green Finance Index provides the world’s most authoritative measure of the performance of financial centres in delivering green finance services.The report, assembled by combining the views of financial professionals from around the world, with quantitative data commissioned and curated from over 130 sources, …

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We will walk through the hidden and secret gardens which tell the story of the City of London.Including:A herbal garden associated with the Barber SurgeonsA wild field beside the Roman WallA park in the centre of the City dedicated to everyday heroesFlowers and shrubs flourishing around a destroyed church and …

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In this webinar, we launch the thirteenth edition of the Smart Centres Index (SCI 13). The SCI is designed to track the development of technology and financial centres across the world in their support for and readiness for new technology applications.Investors, entrepreneurs, scientists, media, academics, governments, and regulators can attune …

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Background:Quantum computing has seen record levels of investment from both the public and private sectors in the last two years, with the UK government alone committing $3.5 billion since 2023. As momentum builds, quantum is moving from theory to practice and finance stands to be one of the sectors most …

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The sixteenth edition of the Global Green Finance Index (GGFI 16) was published on 30 October 2025. GGFI 16 evaluates green finance offerings from 94 major financial centres around the world. The GGFI serves as a valuable reference into the development of green finance for policy and investment decision-makers. There …

The thirty-eighth edition of the Global Financial Centres Index (GFCI 38) was published on 25 September 2025. GFCI 38 provides evaluations of future competitiveness and rankings for 120 financial centres around the world. The GFCI serves as a valuable reference for policy and investment decision-makers.China Development Institute (CDI) in Shenzhen …

The Global Financial Centres Index is produced in partnership with the China Development Institute. We are very grateful to our colleagues at the Institute for their support and their assistance in translation of the GFCI 38 Report into Chinese.

Focus On AI & Fintech In Seoul 2025 provides an update on the progress being made in Seoul in its development as a financial centre and in particular its focus on AI and FinTech. Seoul Metropolitan Government (SMG) is a member of Z/Yen’s Vantage Financial Centres network. The aim of …

The China Financial Center Index (CFCI) has established a competitiveness evaluation system adapted to the development characteristics of Chinese financial centers. The system aims to track and study the development status of Chinese financial centers, in a bid to provide a basis for policy optimization for relevant decision-makers, and offer …

On December 27, 2024, Busan became the first metropolitan city in South Korea to be designated as an "Opportunity Development Zone" for the second time. Following its initial financial-focused designation in June 2024, the newly designated zone covers 57.5 million square meters and targets advanced industries such as power semiconductors, rechargeable batteries/secondary cells, and auto parts. More than 40 companies have already plan to invest approximately USD 4.79 billion in this zone. The "Opportunity Development Zones" provide substantial tax incentives, cash subsidies, and regulatory exemptions to attract investment. With two such zones in place, Busan is positioned as a prime destination for competitive businesses, expected to create new jobs and improve the local living conditions. The synergy between high-tech industries and the financial sector is expected to strengthen Busan’s standing as a global financial hub, driving economic growth and enhancing its competitiveness on the

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On March 5, the Taiwan Academy of Banking and Finance (TABF), in partnership with the Securities and Futures Institute (SFI) and the Taiwan Insurance Institute (TII), successfully hosted the 2nd Sustainable Finance Evaluation Awards Ceremony. The event highlighted Taiwan’s advanced evaluation framework, designed to accelerate financial institutions’ sustainability transformation. Dr. Jin-Lung Peng, Chairman of the Financial Supervisory Commission (FSC), underscored the financial sector’s pivotal role in driving sustainable finance and the net-zero transition. TABF President Dr. Yi-Cheng Kao recognized top-performing institutions for their leadership in ESG, climate governance, and financial innovation. With participation from 79 financial institutions, the awards celebrated excellence in green finance, corporate social responsibility (CSR), and sustainable investment strategies. Stay connected with TABF for more insights

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Taiwan's Financial Supervisory Commission (FSC) has unveiled a draft Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASP) Act, setting clear rules for the issuance and trading of stablecoins. Only domestic banks will be allowed to issue stablecoins, and they must be backed by fiat currencies (e.g., TWD, USD). Foreign stablecoins (like USDT) will be treated as commodities and must gain FSC approval before being listed on local exchanges. Existing VASPs must register by the end of March or cease operations. The draft law is expected to be submitted to the Executive Yuan by the end of June. Taiwan is moving toward a new era of regulated, innovative digital finance! Follow us on LinkedIn for more details.

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In early May 2025, the Taiwan Academy of Banking and Finance (TABF) signed Memorandums of Understanding with both the Frankfurt School of Finance & Management and the Chartered Banker Institute (CBI), expanding its global network of collaboration. These strategic partnerships reflect a shared commitment to advancing sustainable finance education, ethical banking, and financial resilience in response to global ESG priorities. The signing of both MoUs marks an important step in TABF’s ongoing efforts to enhance international engagement and reinforce Taiwan’s role in the global sustainable finance community. Follow us on LinkedIn to stay informed about our latest global partnerships and initiatives.

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Northeastern University London's master's degree apprenticeships for Artificial Intelligence Data Specialists, and Digital and Technology Solutions Specialists equip you and your team with the technical proficiencies required to stand out and progress. Fully funded places are available via the apprenticeship levy and government co-investment for those in suitable job roles, aligned to the apprenticeship. To apply for NU London's July intake for these masters degree apprenticeships, register your interest by 14th June. Find out more about these programmes at the link.

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Titled “Emerging Technologies and Finance: AI’s transformative impact on finance and innovation”. Produced in partnership with Asia House, the report explores how AI, blockchain, cloud computing and digital solutions are driving innovation, operational and cost efficiencies, financial inclusion, and sustainable growth for the global financial services industry. Informed by network-based research and candid discussions with industry leaders, this report uncovers how artificial intelligence and emerging technologies are rewriting the playbook for the global financial services industry. Download your copy here.

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GFT is delighted to have been a key sponsor of the recent Amazon Web Services (AWS) Financial Services Symposium 2025 in London – an incredible event that underscores the strength of our strategic partnership and the shared vision we have for driving innovation in financial services. It was a packed day of inspiring discussion and presentations from key clients, partners and colleagues, presenting transformative solutions across banking, payments, capital markets and insurance. We were inspired to hear how AI is helping to transform the future of financial services, including GFT’s new offering known as Wynxx, which is driving efficiency and accelerating the entire software development lifecycle. Latest press releases: GFT Acquires SAP Specialist Megawork to Accelerate Strategic Growth: GFT has agreed to acquire 100 percent of Megawork Consultoria e Sistemas Ltda. (Megawork), a leading Brazilian SAP consultancy, in a strategic move that aligns directly with GFT’s five-year strategy. Th

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This review explores the key trends shaping the commercial real estate market in Kazakhstan and internationally and provides an in-depth analysis of the development prospects for REIT funds. Commercial real estate is currently one of the key drivers of economic growth and investment appeal. Kazakhstan possesses significant potential for expansion and for strengthening its position in the commercial real estate sector. The introduction of modern investment instruments will unlock new opportunities for market participants. The AIFC is actively fostering the development of the commercial real estate market by providing a favourable environment for property owners, investors, and financial institutions. For more details please see the report.

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is a global networking platform aimed at exploring major issues and innovative technologies in the finance and fintech industries, as well as promoting the sustainable development of the fintech industry. This year, under the theme 'The Future of Fintech Innovation led by AI' the event will feature a variety of activities including Seoul Fintech Week 2025 Conference including Global Fintech Insight, Finovation Challenge Awards, the 2nd Seoul Fintech Lab Demo Day with NAVER Cloud, 2025 Seoul Fintech Week Demo Day with IBK Industrial Bank, Startup – Investor Matching Networking, OPEN TALK - Fintech Talk with Influencer and Seoul Future Forum on Digital Finance. The event, 'Seoul Fintech Week 2025,' is being held to enhance Seoul's competitiveness as a digital financial city and to foster innovation and growth in the fintech industry. We look forward to your great interest and participation. Click here for more details.

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The Financial Services Development Council released a research report, “Hong Kong: Showcasing how Impact Capital Makes a Difference”, at the AVPN Global Conference 2025. Hong Kong’s impact investing ecosystem is steadily taking shape. Key stakeholders—including asset owners, managers, corporates, family offices, and capacity builders—are adopting innovative solutions such as blended finance and impact-focused funds to deploy capital for measurable social and environmental returns. The report highlights the city’s momentum through local case studies featuring legal innovation, funding gap solutions, and climate adaptation strategies. Hong Kong is turning ambition into action and positioning itself as a leader in social innovation and cross-sector collaboration.

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for Level 7 apprenticeships ending in January 2026 for age 22+, Northeastern University London is opening an additional December cohort for two high-demand programmes: - AI Data Specialist with MSc in Artificial Intelligence and Data Science - Digital & Technology Solutions Specialist with MSc in Digital & Technology Solutions These programmes will equip your team with cutting-edge AI and technology skills to drive measurable organizational results. To find out more, you can book a complimentary consultation call here. Deadline to register your interest: Friday 7th November.

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The most critical means of maintaining service continuity is to protect an organisation’s backups first before anything else. Any failure to recognise that cyber-criminals comprehend see backups as any large, medium or small companies’ Achilles Heel, could lead to a significant amount of downtime and lost, irreplaceable data, rendering any organisation null and void. An article in Hacker News, published on 17th June 2025, ‘Backups Are Under Attack: How to Protect Your Backups’, writes: “Ransomware has become a highly coordinated and pervasive threat, and traditional defences are increasingly struggling to neutralise it.” “Today's ransomware attacks initially target your last line of defence — your backup infrastructure. Before locking up your production environment, cyber-criminals go after your backups to cripple your ability to recover, increasing the odds of a ransom payout.” The UK’s National Security Cyber Centre adds: “Backups are an essential part of an organisation’s response a

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to be hosted in Kigali, Rwanda, on 10–12 March 2026 at the Kigali Convention Centre. Following the successful second edition of the Forum held in Kigali in 2025, IFF 2026 anticipates hosting 3,000 delegates from Africa, Asia, Europe, and beyond, featuring world-class speakers, engaging discussions, and a high-level opening ceremony. On 09 October 2025, Rwanda and Hong Kong signed a Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA), marking a new chapter in strengthening financial and investment ties between the two jurisdictions. This milestone expands Rwanda’s treaty network and strengthens the Kigali International Financial Centre’s role as a trusted gateway for global investment and cross-border trade. On 15 October 2015, the #Rwanda Country Summit at AFSIC - Investing in Africa 2025 in London, co-hosted by the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) and the Kigali International Financial Centre, featured a high-level panel on “Capitalizing on Growth: Rwanda’s Role as Africa’s Rising Investment P

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The inaugural “Taiwan Weeks” concluded on October 23 after nine days of forums and exhibitions. The event marked a major step toward Taiwan’s vision of becoming an Asian Asset Management Center, bringing together over 27,000 participants, including representatives from global exchanges, institutional investors and industry leaders. Highlights included the Asian Asset Management Center Forum, Asia Capital Markets Summit, and other events featuring discussions on ESG, corporate governance, and innovation, underscoring progress in sustainability and cross-border collaboration. Read the full publication here. Follow TWSE on LinkedIn to stay informed https://www.linkedin.com/company/taiwan-stock-exchange-corporation/

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Date & Time: Tuesday, 25th November, 18:00-20:30 Venue: Bakers’ Hall (Harp Lane, London EC3R 6DP) Key Participants: Busan Finance Center, Z/Yen Group, Financial Supervisory Service, Korea Housing Finance Corporation In collaboration with Z/Yen Group, the Busan Finance Center will host an IR event on 25 November in London. The purpose of this event is to strengthen connections between Busan and London and to raise awareness of the Busan International Finance Center (BIFC) and key Korean financial institutions, including the Financial Supervisory Service (FSS) and the Korea Housing Finance Corporation (KHFC). Read the full publication here.

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The Financial Services Commission (FSC), Mauritius has issued Guidance Notes on the Responsible Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Financial Services to promote ethical and transparent AI adoption across the non-banking financial services sector. The Guidance outlines nine principles covering fairness, accountability, transparency, and data protection, encouraging licensees to embed sound AI governance aligned with their business scale and complexity. Reinforcing its forward-looking regulatory stance, the FSC Mauritius aims to foster innovation while ensuring sound governance and safeguarding consumer trust. The FSC Mauritius will continue to monitor global AI developments and update its framework to balance technological progress with prudent supervision.

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On September 30, the Taiwan Academy of Banking and Finance (TABF), in collaboration with Z/Yen Group and the Bankers Association of the Republic of China (BAROC), hosted the inaugural Taiwan International Financial Promotion Forum in London. The forum highlighted Taiwan’s growing ambition to become an Asian asset management center, built on industrial innovation, regulatory openness, and strong public-private collaboration. Opening remarks were delivered by Professor Michael Mainelli (Z/Yen), Dr. Yi-Cheng Kao (TABF), and Deputy Representative Dr. Christy Yachi Chiang, followed by a keynote from Director General Phil C.C. Tong (FSC) on Taiwan’s evolving policy landscape. Speakers explored how Taiwan’s industrial strengths and expanding financial talent pool are attracting global asset managers, with a closing panel examining key opportunities and challenges ahead.

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The summit brought together more than 300 global investors, policymakers, entrepreneurs and business leaders for a high-energy day of dialogue, networking and deal-making. Representatives from sovereign wealth funds, pension giants, private equity houses and venture capital firms from Canada, the US, Europe, Japan, China, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Qatar and Abu Dhabi descended on the Scottish capital, drawn by the country’s compelling investment story.

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