Singapore FinTech Association (SFA)

🇹🇭 Kicking off 2025 with a bang in Bangkok! Our first SFA mission trip of the year has been an action-packed whirlwind—filled with insightful conversations, fresh perspectives, and a deep dive into Thailand’s evolving financial landscape. 💰💼✨ Here are some key takeaways from our meetings with Thailand’s top financial players: 🔹 At the Thailand Board of Investment (BOI): 💡 Thailand hit a record-high investment value in 2024, thanks to policies allowing 100% foreign ownership and strong industry support. 💡 High-potential startups can tap into THB 20-50M in matching funds—as long as they secure at least THB 15M from VC/CVCs. 💡 Special visas and work permits are attracting global talent. 💡 Our delegation members had the chance to network with key stakeholders and explore exciting investment opportunities. 🔹 At Bualuang Ventures (Bangkok Bank's Investment Arm): 💡 Bualuang Ventures is fully owned by Bangkok Bank and invests in FinTech, health & wellness, consumer businesses, and IT services. 💡 Their sweet spot? International startups in the USD 5M - 15M range, with a strong focus on regional growth. 🔹 At KASIKORNBANK (KBank) & KASIKORN Business-Technology Group [KBTG] 💡 KBank’s K-strategy is all about innovation and productivity. 💡 KBTG, the bank’s tech arm, is driving digital transformation across the group. 💡 Unita Capital Company Limited, KBank’s digital asset arm, is shaping the future of FinTech in Thailand. 🔹 At Beacon Venture Capital & Fuchsia Venture Capital: 💡 Beacon VC expanded its investment fund to $255M in 2024, focusing on early-to-growth stage tech startups. 💡 Fuchsia VC, Muang Thai Group’s venture arm, remains committed to InsurTech and HealthTech investments. 🔹 At ttb bank: 💡Their latest focus? Consumer-driven digital transformation with a strong retention strategy. 💡 Launched gamification in Q4 2024 to encourage early loan repayments. 💡 Their GenAI chatbot now resolves 50% of consumer queries—a game-changer for AI in banking! 🔹 At Krungsri Bank: 💡 Beyond banking! Krungsri is expanding regionally and diving into tech collaborations. 💡 Stellar by Krungsri is innovating in wealth, AI chatbots, and spam detection—with 2025 goals set on productivity and efficiency. 💡 Krungsri Finnovate, the bank’s CVC arm, is fueling strategic investments. 🔹At SCBX: 💡Our delegates engaged in 1-on-1 deep dives, tailoring discussions to fit each company’s needs. With more exciting days ahead, we look forward to more in-depth conversations and opportunities to connect with Thailand’s top financial players. Stay tuned for more insights! 🤩 Shadab Taiyabi | Khai Lin Sng | Chye Kit Chionh | Scott Krivokopich | Adrian Ang | Adrian Chng | Bernard Chan | Matthew Lovatt | Pauline Sim | Shi Mei Chin | Tan Chun Hao | Reuben Lim | Shakeel Rashid | Swati Sodhani | Adeline, Bee Yen Lau (ACII) | Sylvia Saw McKaige | Gwendolyn Loh | Sheryl A. | Christine Chua | Samantha Soong | Kayleen Tan

#CapitalCurrents Episode 28: Next-Gen Investors in Singapore This episode, Ritesh Ganeriwal shares insights on the evolving landscape of investing in Singapore, uncovering the key trends shaping the next generation of investors. 📈💼 From tech-savvy platforms that empower smarter decisions to personalised financial services tailored to individual needs, and a global perspective that opens doors to international opportunities—discover how these trends are revolutionising the way investors approach wealth management.💰 ▶️ This video is a must-watch for anyone looking to stay ahead and understand the future of investing in a digital-first world! #Investing #WealthManagement #TechSavvyInvestors #FinancialTrends #SingaporeInvestors #PersonalisedFinance #DigitalPlatforms #AIandBigData #GlobalInvesting #NextGenInvestors Laksh Gangwani | Girish Pandit | Hagen Rooke | Willie Chang | Ritesh Ganeriwal | Gerard Tan | Wanyi Wong | Vineet A. | Laurens Koppelaar | Thomas Q Hansen | Farooq Lone | S. Alice Chen | Rajeev Tummala Shadab Taiyabi | Khai Lin Sng | Chye Kit Chionh | Scott Krivokopich | Adrian Ang | Adrian Chng | Bernard Chan | Matthew Lovatt | Pauline Sim | Shi Mei Chin | Tan Chun Hao | Reuben Lim | Shakeel Rashid | Swati Sodhani | Adeline, Bee Yen Lau (ACII) | Sylvia Saw McKaige | Gwendolyn Loh | Sheryl A. | Christine Chua | Samantha Soong | Kayleen Tan

With Germany’s FinTech landscape thriving, we were delighted to explore its potential in a recent webinar, hosted in collaboration with Germany Trade & Invest. Thank you to all who joined us for this insightful session! The key takeaways: ✅ Thriving Ecosystem: Germany is home to 1,400 banks, 500+ insurance institutions, and key EU bodies like the European Central Bank (ECB) and EU Anti-Money Laundering Authority (AMLA). With EU Passporting, it’s a gateway for seamless expansion across Europe. ✅ Progressive Regulation: Germany’s framework integrates EU and national laws, fostering a secure and innovative FinTech ecosystem. This alignment ensures regulatory clarity, support, and a strong foundation for scaling across the EU market. ✅ Innovation Hub: Germany’s dynamic ecosystem has fostered unicorns like N26, Solaris, TradeRepublic, and Wefox. With progressive regulations supporting blockchain innovation, AI advancements, and B2B growth, Germany is a key FinTech hub in Europe. The rising demand for diverse FinTech verticals, government support, and a skilled talent pool make it an attractive market for startups and scaling businesses. Germany’s financial sector is rapidly evolving, solidifying its position as a leading FinTech hub in Europe. With its strong economy, skilled talent pool, and demand for cutting-edge solutions, it’s an ideal market for FinTech looking to expand. 📈 🎥 Missed the webinar? Watch the full recording here: https://lnkd.in/gKwty3xE #GermanyFinTech #EUMarketEntry #FintechRegulations #DigitalBanking #BlockchainInnovation #PaymentsRevolution #FinTechEcosystem Yao Tang 唐瑶 | Sarah Weber | Mahika R. Shadab Taiyabi | Khai Lin Sng | Chye Kit Chionh | Scott Krivokopich | Adrian Ang | Adrian Chng | Bernard Chan | Matthew Lovatt | Pauline Sim | Shi Mei Chin | Tan Chun Hao | Reuben Lim | Shakeel Rashid | Swati Sodhani | Adeline, Bee Yen Lau (ACII) | Sylvia Saw McKaige | Gwendolyn Loh | Sheryl Aw | Christine Chua | Samantha Soong | Kayleen Tan

Tokyo is calling! 🇯🇵 Just a few weeks away from GFTN Forum Japan 2025 (3-7 March, Tokyo), where industry leaders will deep-dive into the latest breakthroughs in Agentic AI, Quantum, Tokenization, and Climate Tech. 🌏 Key discussions include: 🔹 Emerging financial corridors – Unlocking capital, technology, and business opportunities from Japan to Southeast Asia, India, the US, and the UK. 🔹 Government-led innovation – How policymakers are shaping the next wave of growth in financial services, technology, and startup ecosystems. 🔹 Strategic investment opportunities – Connecting with the right partners to fuel the future of finance. Join us in Tokyo for an unmissable week of insights, networking, and collaboration. Let’s shape the future together! 📅 Date: 3 - 7 March 2025 📍 Location: Tokyo, Japan 🎟 Apply code: GFJ-P-SFA for 50% off your pass 👉 Register now: https://lnkd.in/d75M2MMN #FGTN #IndustryLeaders #InvestmentOpportunities #Networking #AgenticAI #Quantum #Tokenization #ClimateTech Global Finance & Technology Network Shadab Taiyabi | Khai Lin Sng | Chye Kit Chionh | Scott Krivokopich | Adrian Ang | Adrian Chng | Bernard Chan | Matthew Lovatt | Pauline Sim | Shi Mei Chin | Tan Chun Hao | Reuben Lim | Shakeel Rashid | Swati Sodhani | Adeline, Bee Yen Lau (ACII) | Sylvia Saw McKaige | Gwendolyn Loh | Sheryl Aw | Christine Chua | Samantha Soong | Kayleen Tan

#CapitalCurrents Episode 27: Blockchain and DLT – Revolutionising Private Market Accessibility Rajeev Tummala dives into the transformative power of blockchain and Distributed Ledger Technology (DLT) in private markets. Discover how these cutting-edge innovations are reshaping accessibility, streamlining operations, and opening doors for greater investor participation. 🌐💡 Learn how: ✅ Blockchain and DLT address long-standing accessibility challenges in private markets. ✅ These technologies streamline operations, reduce inefficiencies, and enhance transparency. ✅ The regulatory landscape is evolving to support these advancements while ensuring market integrity. Rajeev also explores the future potential for liquidity in private asset markets and why these innovations are a game-changer for investors and institutions alike. Tune into this episode to understand how blockchain and DLT are revolutionizing private markets and what it means for the future of investing! 🔮 #Blockchain #DLT #PrivateMarkets #WealthManagement #FinancialInnovation #InvestorAccess #FinTech #DigitalAssets #RegulatoryTech #FutureOfFinance Laksh Gangwani | Girish Pandit | Hagen Rooke | Willie Chang | Ritesh Ganeriwal | Gerard Tan | Wanyi Wong | Vineet A. | Laurens Koppelaar | Thomas Q Hansen | Farooq Lone | S. Alice Chen | Rajeev Tummala Shadab Taiyabi | Khai Lin Sng | Chye Kit Chionh | Scott Krivokopich | Adrian Ang | Adrian Chng | Bernard Chan | Matthew Lovatt | Pauline Sim | Shi Mei Chin | Tan Chun Hao | Reuben Lim | Shakeel Rashid | Swati Sodhani | Adeline, Bee Yen Lau (ACII) | Sylvia Saw McKaige | Gwendolyn Loh | Sheryl A. | Christine Chua | Samantha Soong | Kayleen Tan

Last week, SFA’s Capital Market Services (CMS) Subcommittee hosted the “2025 Forecast: Economic Outlook and Investment Strategies” event. Industry experts Juliana Lee, Charu Chanana, Willie Chang, and Adrian Chng shared insights on the 2025 macroeconomic outlook and actionable investment strategies across bonds, equities, tokenized securities, and crypto.💼📈 Key takeaways: 1️⃣ A Mixed Economic Outlook: Effects of tariff threats are juxtaposed against promises of deregulation, tech push and macro policy support under Trump 2.0. Investors should prepare for volatility and geopolitical uncertainty. 2️⃣ Bonds as a Safe Haven: Shorter-term treasury yields (e.g. 2-year) may offer attractive income potential. Corporate bond spreads are tight and quality may be preferred. 3️⃣ Tokenization on the Rise: Asset tokenization is gaining traction, with regulators like MAS supporting initiatives like Project Guardian. Benefits include improved efficiency, lower costs, and enhanced liquidity. 4️⃣ Bitcoin’s Growth: Bitcoin’s upward trend is expected to continue, driven by favorable regulations, growing retail interest, and its recognition as a store of value. The event also provided a great networking opportunity for capital market professionals. Thank you to our speakers, participants, and partners for making it a success! #CapitalMarkets #InvestmentStrategies #EconomicOutlook #Bonds #Equities #Tokenization #Crypto #Blockchain Girish Pandit | Hagen Rooke | Ritesh Ganeriwal | Gerard Tan | Wanyi Wong | Vineet A. | Laurens Koppelaar | Thomas Q Hansen | S. Alice Chen | Rajeev Tummala Shadab Taiyabi | Khai Lin Sng | Chye Kit Chionh | Scott Krivokopich | Adrian Ang | Adrian Chng | Bernard Chan | Matthew Lovatt | Pauline Sim | Shi Mei Chin | Tan Chun Hao | Reuben Lim | Shakeel Rashid | Swati Sodhani | Adeline, Bee Yen Lau (ACII) | Sylvia Saw McKaige | Gwendolyn Loh | Sheryl A. | Christine Chua | Samantha Soong | Kayleen Tan

🔥 Raw, real, and inspiring. Last week, we stepped into the unfiltered reality of female entrepreneurship—and it was nothing short of electrifying. The room was teeming with wisdom, grit, and candid conversations you won’t find in textbooks. Key takeaways from our powerhouse female founders: ✅ Being a founder is tough—but worth it. The highs, the lows, the hustle—it’s all part of the journey, and none of them would trade it for anything else. ✅ Fundraising is a marathon, not a sprint. A great product and a compelling story can get you there, but expect rejections along the way. The key? Resilience. ✅ Thinking about taking the leap? Start small. Build, test, listen to your customers, and see if this is your calling. You don’t need all the answers—just the willingness to start. A huge thank you to our incredible founders S. Alice Chen, 🥬 Vanessa Chen, and Regina Tan for sharing their raw experiences, and to Rachel Freeman for being a fantastic moderator. To everyone who joined us: thank you for contributing to the real talk, real connections, and real takeaways. Let’s keep breaking barriers and rewriting the rules together. 🤝   🙏 Our heartfelt gratitude to Nium for being an amazing host and sponsor for the event, and to Fintech Nation for their unwavering support. #FemaleFounders #Entrepreneurship #TruthBombs #StartupLife #WomenInFintech Tawishi Singh｜Eelee Lua ｜Chandrima Das｜Dyane Blythe Uy｜Vanessa Ho Shadab Taiyabi | Khai Lin Sng | Chye Kit Chionh | Scott Krivokopich | Adrian Ang | Adrian Chng | Bernard Chan | Matthew Lovatt | Pauline Sim | Shi Mei Chin | Tan Chun Hao | Reuben Lim | Shakeel Rashid | Swati Sodhani | Adeline, Bee Yen Lau (ACII) | Sylvia Saw McKaige | Gwendolyn Loh | Sheryl A. | Christine Chua | Samantha Soong | Kayleen Tan

Germany has solidified its position as a leading financial hub in Europe, driven by its embrace of innovation and technology. With a strong economy, robust infrastructure, and growing demand for FinTech solutions, Germany offers immense opportunities for companies looking to expand into the European market. Join the Singapore FinTech Association for an exclusive session exploring Germany’s dynamic FinTech ecosystem. This event is designed for B2B and B2C FinTech players aiming to enter the EU market. Key Highlights: ✅ Germany’s Financial Market: Insights into its consumer landscape, financial institutions, and economic potential. ✅ Fintech Landscape: Discover emerging hubs in blockchain, digital banking, payments, and InsurTech. ✅ Regulatory Trends: Learn about compliance standards, licensing, and growth opportunities. ✅ Key Stakeholders: Identify regulators, industry associations, and networks to accelerate market entry. ✅ Opportunities for Singaporean Firms: Access to a large consumer base, strong economic prospects, and a strategic EU location. Event Details: 📅 Date: 20 February 2025, Thursday 🕒 Time: 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM SGT / 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM CET 📍 Platform: Zoom 👉 Register Now to secure your spot and gain valuable insights from industry experts: https://lnkd.in/gFpGVnr3 #GermanyFinTech #EUMarketEntry #FintechRegulations #DigitalBanking #BlockchainInnovation #PaymentsRevolution Shadab Taiyabi | Khai Lin Sng | Chye Kit Chionh | Scott Krivokopich | Adrian Ang | Adrian Chng | Bernard Chan | Matthew Lovatt | Pauline Sim | Shi Mei Chin | Tan Chun Hao | Reuben Lim | Shakeel Rashid | Swati Sodhani | Adeline, Bee Yen Lau (ACII) | Sylvia Saw McKaige | Gwendolyn Loh | Sheryl A. | Christine Chua | Samantha Soong | Kayleen Tan

#CapitalCurrents Episode 26: Key Roles in ETF Markets 📈 Ritesh Ganeriwal breaks down the essential roles of ETF issuers and market makers in ensuring efficient market functioning and investor access. 🛠️💡 Learn how: ✅ ETF issuers create ETFs, manage portfolios, and meet regulatory standards. ✅ Market makers provide liquidity, maintain tight bid-ask spreads, and support smooth trading. Discover why these roles are crucial for a liquid and efficient ETF market and how they ultimately benefit investors. 🌐📊 Don’t miss this insightful episode to understand the backbone of ETF markets! 🎥🔍 #ETF #FinancialMarkets #Investing #MarketLiquidity #PortfolioManagement #ETFIssuers #MarketMakers #StockMarket #InvestmentEducation #Finance Laksh Gangwani | Girish Pandit | Hagen Rooke | Willie Chang | Ritesh Ganeriwal | Gerard Tan | Wanyi Wong | Vineet A. | Laurens Koppelaar | Thomas Q Hansen | Farooq Lone | S. Alice Chen | Rajeev Tummala Shadab Taiyabi | Khai Lin Sng | Chye Kit Chionh | Scott Krivokopich | Adrian Ang | Adrian Chng | Bernard Chan | Matthew Lovatt | Pauline Sim | Shi Mei Chin | Tan Chun Hao | Reuben Lim | Shakeel Rashid | Swati Sodhani | Adeline, Bee Yen Lau (ACII) | Sylvia Saw McKaige | Gwendolyn Loh | Sheryl A. | Christine Chua | Samantha Soong | Kayleen Tan