AIFC Explained: Astana’s Gateway To Central Asia & Beyond
Webinar

Background: The Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC) is an international financial and business hub operating under a legal framework based on principals of English common law, with its own independent court, arbitration centre, financial regulator and exchange. Strategically located at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, AIFC connects international businesses and investors with opportunities in Kazakhstan and the wider region.

Join Renat Bekturov, Governor of AIFC, and Sergio Gironella Barrera, TEP, Executive Director for the CIS Region at Amicorp Group, for a fireside conversation exploring:

  • AIFC's value proposition: How its legal and regulatory framework supports international business and investment.
  • Market opportunities: Capital markets, financial services and fintech.
  • Practical business insights: Establishing companies, structuring investment funds and accessing opportunities through AIFC.

Moderated by Mike Wardle, CEO of Z/Yen Group, the discussion will combine strategic perspectives with practical business experience, followed by a live audience Q&A.

Speakers:

Sergio Gironella has been with Amicorp Group for 15 years and currently serves as Executive Director for the CIS region, where he was actively involved in establishing the Astana office. He brings extensive experience in business development, particularly in emerging markets, with a strong focus on supporting clients through tailored fund and corporate structuring solutions. Sergio holds a Finance Degree from Edinburgh Napier University, a Trust and Estate Planning (TEP) diploma, and is fluent in Russian, English, Spanish, Italian, and Catalan. Sergio Gironella, TEP | LinkedIn

Renat Bekturov assumed the role of the Governor of AIFC in January 2023. Renat, ex-Director and CEO of Astana International Exchange, previously held the position of Head of the Asset management development department of AIFC Authority. He has over 18 years of experience in financial services industry.

Prior to joining AIFC Authority he was head of Treasury at the National Investment Corporation of the National Bank of Kazakhstan.

Renat also worked at the Development Bank of Kazakhstan and was involved in a number of the landmark debt capital market transactions, such as the first sukuk issue in the CIS region.

Renat holds MSc degree in Banking and Finance with Distinction from University of Leicester and is a CFA Charter holder. Renat Bekturov | LinkedIn

Date
Wednesday, 02 December 2026

Time
11:00 - 11:45 GMT

Cost
Free

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Speaker(s):
  • Sergio Gironella Barrera
    Sergio Gironella
    Executive Director, CIS Region
    Amicorp Group
  • Renat Bekturov
    Renat Bekturov
    Governor
    AIFC
Chairman:
  • Mike Wardle Colour
    Mike Wardle
    CEO
    Z/Yen Group

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