Fintech Surge 2024, the largest fintech event in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), launched today, bringing together leading minds from over 70 countries to discuss innovations in fintech, banking, and digital technology.
The event's inaugural day featured the "Future of Money" stage in Hall 10, focusing on strategic investments in the fintech sector. A keynote dialogue titled "2030, The Trillion-Dollar Year" explored the vast potential of fintech.
Charlie Graham-Brown, CIO and Co-Founder of Seedstars, emphasized that while the fintech market represents enormous opportunities, it currently captures only a small fraction of it. He stated,
"This indicates a significant growth potential...especially in emerging markets where financial inclusion is rapidly expanding."
The day's discussions also included a session on “Becoming IPO Ready,” featuring insights from Dr. Sabah al-Binali, Chief Capital Market Officer of Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX). He highlighted the conflict between the entrepreneurial mindset and regulatory challenges, stating that the best time for an IPO is when substantial funds are needed for expansion.
With the global fintech market valued at approximately US$226.71 billion in 2023, and expected to reach US$917.17 billion by 2032, a session titled “In Dialogue: Digital Money According to Global Investors in Emerging Markets” provided valuable insights into regional trends and investment strategies.
Alisha Golden, Investment Principal at TechStars, noted the trend towards embedded finance, where non-fintech companies will increasingly integrate financial services to enhance their value propositions.
Fintech Surge 2024 will host over 100 exhibitors, 120 speakers, and more than 1,200 investors during its four-day run, as part of the Expand North Star initiative powered by GITEX GLOBAL. Tomorrow’s agenda promises further cutting-edge discussions on digital banking and finance.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
