Bahrain is preparing for the second annual Fintech Forward event, scheduled for October 2-3 at Exhibition World Bahrain. This premier event, part of the 2024 Transformation Agenda series, is organized by Economist Impact and hosted by the Bahrain Economic Development Board (Bahrain EDB). It is also supported by the Central Bank of Bahrain (CBB) and Bahrain FinTech Bay (BFB).
The two-day conference will feature a series of panel discussions, bringing together leading global fintech experts, financial institutions, governments, and regulators. Discussions will focus on key issues such as generative AI, blockchain technologies, cybercrime, open banking, changing consumer behaviors, the impact of new regulations, and the importance of sustainable financial practices. Fintech Forward aims to foster strategic collaborations and networking opportunities with key regional and international players.
The CBB, as Bahrain’s sole financial regulator, continues to boost the competitiveness of the financial sector by developing new regulations and innovative platforms like the Regulatory Sandbox. Simultaneously, Bahrain EDB plays a crucial role in attracting investments to priority sectors, enhancing the business-friendly climate with progressive legislation.
Bahrain’s financial services ecosystem, which includes a mix of traditional banking institutions and new players like crypto asset service providers and digital payment providers, has positioned the country as a leading fintech hub in the Middle East and North Africa.
Following last year’s successful debut, which drew attendees worldwide, Fintech Forward has established itself as a vital platform for industry leaders to exchange ideas, collaborate on solutions, and build connections. This year’s event promises to showcase Bahrain’s significant strides in digital transformation, expanding its fintech landscape, and nurturing a skilled workforce to support the growing industry.