Singapore, 3 November 2024 – Singapore FinTech Festival (SFF) 2024 is set to begin on November 6 and run through November 8 at the Singapore EXPO, presenting one of the world’s largest platforms dedicated to financial technology and innovation. Hosted by the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) in collaboration with the Global Finance & Technology Network (GFTN) and Constellar, the ninth edition of SFF will focus on the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and quantum technology in revolutionizing the financial sector. Attendees will gain unique insights into how these technologies are reshaping finance, from data security and digital transactions to sustainability and financial inclusion.

Theme Spotlight: Six Key Areas of Innovation

The festival will feature more than 900 speakers and over 400 sessions across six major themes, each exploring critical topics in financial technology and policy:

1. Roadmap for AI and Quantum: This theme will address the responsible use of AI and quantum technology in financial services, with sessions examining the challenges of implementing AI and the future of quantum solutions in finance. Thought leaders will delve into risk management, ethical frameworks, and how quantum computing can provide unparalleled data processing speed for complex financial algorithms.
2. Blueprint for Digital Assets: As digital assets continue to expand globally, this theme will focus on secure, scalable adoption, interoperability, and regulatory frameworks necessary to foster trust and stability. Sessions will cover the potential of digital currencies and blockchain solutions, as well as the role of central banks in regulating these assets to avoid financial instability.
3. Next-gen Transactions: This theme will discuss advances in global payments, focusing on cross-border payment solutions. Attendees can expect discussions on how regulatory alignment, innovations in distributed ledger technology (DLT), and mobile payment platforms can bridge global payment gaps, making international transactions more seamless and affordable.
4. Sustainability in Action: Recognizing the importance of green finance, this theme will highlight the role of ClimateTech, ESG data, and financial innovation in global decarbonization efforts. Experts will discuss innovations in financing mechanisms and how fintech can support companies and governments in reducing carbon footprints through sustainable financing options.
5. Bridging the Financial Inclusion Gap: This theme will explore how fintech can be harnessed to extend financial services to underserved communities. Sessions will cover digital financial products for low-income populations, the role of mobile banking, and partnerships between private and public sectors in advancing global financial inclusion.
6. Talent of Tomorrow: As the industry evolves, so do the skills needed. This theme will focus on how Generative AI is reshaping financial sector roles and the tech talent landscape. Panels will explore necessary skills, the impact of AI on job roles, and emerging career paths, providing guidance on building a career in the digital financial services era.

Curtain-Raiser Events: Insights Forum and Innovation Lab Crawl

Before the main conference, the Insights Forum™ will occur from November 4-5. It includes the Layer One Summit and the Green Circle Climate Forum—first-of-their-kind events that will bring together private and public sector leaders to address critical infrastructure and environmental challenges in finance. Additional private sector roundtables will also facilitate actionable discussions between corporate leaders and policymakers.

During the same pre-event days, the Innovation Lab Crawl will offer a glimpse into cutting-edge FinTech projects across 16 venues, including the Visa Innovation Centre, Bank Julius Baer Launchpad, and NUS FinTech Lab. Attendees can engage directly with the latest innovations, many of which are expected to reshape the industry.

Exhibition Hall: Showcasing Global Fintech and Talent Development

This year’s Exhibition Hall at SFF will feature over 600 exhibitors and 41 international pavilions organized into five thematic zones: Technology, Founders & Investors, ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance), Regulation, and Talent. This layout is designed to connect industry leaders, investors, and innovators, enabling global collaboration and innovation. Notably, the Talent Zone will be an important space for career development in FinTech, including access to new training and certification opportunities.

Educational Initiatives and Certification Programs

A major educational feature this year is the introduction of six certification programs by Elevandi Education, developed with global education and professional development partners. Among these is the Leadership in the Future of Finance executive education program, a collaboration with BondbloX, Elevandi, and the Singapore FinTech Association. Tailored for C-suite executives, this program covers critical knowledge areas: AI, Digital Assets, and Sustainability, equipping leaders to navigate the evolving landscape of finance.

Key Leaders and Notable Speakers

The festival will host high-profile speakers from both public and private sectors, including Hon. Caroline Pham (CFTC Commissioner), Dr. Ernest Addison (Governor, Bank of Ghana), Dr. Serey Chea (Governor, National Bank of Cambodia), and Piyush Gupta (CEO of DBS Bank). This year’s notable lineup emphasizes the event’s goal of uniting global voices to address shared challenges in finance and technology.

Statements from Key Organizers

Sopnendu Mohanty, MAS Chief FinTech Officer, expressed that “SFF 2024 will serve as a crucial platform for uniting innovators, industry leaders, and policymakers to shape a resilient, inclusive digital economy.” Paul Lee, Chief Executive (Markets) at Constellar, highlighted the role of emerging technologies, noting that the festival will feature “twice as many showcases of AI solutions” to build resilience in financial services.

A Truly Global Event for the Future of Finance

The Singapore FinTech Festival, since its inception in 2016, has grown to be one of the most important global FinTech events. With participation from over 66,000 attendees from 150 countries in previous years, SFF continues to set new benchmarks for international collaboration in finance and technology. This year, with a strong emphasis on AI and quantum technology, the festival is expected to significantly impact the global conversation on the future of financial services.

For more details and registration, visit the official website at Singapore FinTech Festival.