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Dyna.Ai focuses on Saudi Arabia’s fintech sector

FinCrypt Staff

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Dyna.Ai focuses on Saudi Arabia's fintech sector

RIYADH: As Saudi Arabia advances its Vision 2030 goals, the Kingdom’s central bank is at the forefront, spearheading a number of crucial initiatives and greenlighting various ventures in 2024. These actions reaffirm the nation’s commitment in promoting innovation and financial inclusiveness.

The Saudi Central Bank, known as SAMA, has ushered in a wave of programs and approvals this year, ranging from the introduction of safe account services to engaging in high-level discussions on reserve management and expanding efforts investment training.

Furthermore, it has issued licenses to strengthen payment and crowdfunding services, strengthening its key role in the Kingdom’s economic diversification.

Here are some of the significant developments and initiatives undertaken by SAMA this year:

Improve safety and accessibility

In May, SAMA announced the launch of a new initiative called “View My Bank Accounts” for individual bank account holders. The new service aims to improve reliability and reduce the risks of suspicious transactions, unauthorized account use and identity theft.

SAMA added that it is constantly working on the development of electronic financial transactions in accordance with international best practices.

Address macrofinancial challenges

In April, the apex bank convened a high-level meeting on reserve management, addressing the complexities of the current macro-financial environment. The event brought together reserve managers and central bank experts from the Middle East and North Africa region, along with participants from other top financial institutions, to delve into the latest trends in foreign exchange reserve management.

SAMA Governor Ayman Al-Sayari highlighted how the evolving global landscape introduces new challenges and opportunities for central bank reserve managers. He underlined the importance of such high-level meetings to address the complexities of the current macro-financial environment.

Investment Immersion Program

In another context, the Saudi Central Bank in April started the registration process for its fourth edition of the Investment Immersion Program, aimed at cultivating and employing local investment professionals.

Developed in collaboration with the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania, along with leading global banks and asset managers, this program offers a comprehensive curriculum with academic courses and hands-on training in various investment fields.

“The program offers an advanced technical course, on-the-job training at international banks and asset management companies, and job rotation in the position of investment delegate at the Saudi Central Bank under the supervision of experts in asset management and financial markets global,” SAMA said.

Additionally, participants will benefit from ongoing development programs aimed at enhancing their technical investment capabilities, as well as a number of distinctive employment benefits.

The program is aimed at Saudi citizens under the age of 27 who hold a bachelor’s or master’s degree in finance, accounting, economics, statistics or business-related fields from accredited national or international universities.

Driving financial stability

In February, the central bank, represented by SAMA Governor Al-Sayari, co-chaired the Financial Stability Board’s regional advisory group for the MENA region meeting in Riyadh.

Also present were Hassan Abdulla, governor of the Central Bank of Egypt, and Klaas Knot, president of the Financial Stability Board.

Discussions during the meeting focused on challenges related to global and regional financial stability vulnerabilities, including the implementation of the global regulatory framework for crypto-asset activities.

Furthermore, the meeting explored lessons learned from the turbulence affecting the global banking sector in 2023, along with financial risks arising from the high interest rate environment and non-bank financial intermediation.

Al-Sayari highlighted the emergence of the MENA region as a global development hub, driven by its strategic location and continued economic diversification efforts. He also highlighted the International Monetary Fund’s assertion in its Regional Economic Outlook that the MENA region is resilient to adverse macrofinancial risk scenarios.

Al-Sayari stressed the importance of developing plans that support financial stability by aligning with the economic and financial conditions of the region, promoting the interrelationship between its economies.

Members also received an update on the FSB’s work program for 2024 and discussed the FSB’s report on the first lessons learned from the banking turmoil in 2023.

The FSB Regional Advisory Group for the MENA region includes financial and regulatory authorities from Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and the United Arab Emirates, along with Bahrain, Oman and Qatar. Furthermore, it includes Egypt, Algeria and Jordan, as well as Lebanon, Morocco, Tunisia and Türkiye.

Promote financial innovation

Over the course of the year, the central bank was proactive in licensing various payment and crowdfunding service providers.

It began the year by authorizing Thara to offer debt-based crowdfunding solutions. At the same time, SAMA also granted licenses to Network International Arabia for point-of-sale payment services and to Barraq for e-wallet services.

HIGHLIGHTS

• The Saudi Central Bank, known as SAMA, has ushered in a wave of programs and approvals this year, ranging from the introduction of safe account services to engaging in high-level discussions on reserve management and the expansion of investment education efforts.

• SAMA Governor Ayman Al-Sayari stressed the importance of developing plans that support financial stability by aligning with the economic and financial conditions of the region, promoting the interrelationship between its economies.

“This decision reflects SAMA’s commitment to supporting the financial sector, increasing the efficiency of financial transactions and promoting innovative financial solutions for financial inclusion in Saudi Arabia. SAMA emphasizes the importance of dealing only with authorized financial institutions,” the apex financial institution said.

In February, the central bank extended permission for Alpha Arabia Finance Co. to engage in financing activities for small and medium-sized enterprises.

In April, SAMA licensed Funding Souq to provide debt-based crowdfunding solutions, bringing the total number of such companies operating in the Kingdom to 10.

Sohar International receives approval from SAMA

In January Sohar International, Oman’s second largest bank, received a no-objection certificate from SAMA as it planned to expand into Saudi Arabia.

This strategic move is in line with the bank’s growth strategy, demonstrating its ability to identify sustainable expansion opportunities.

The bank’s entry into the Saudi market is expected to help Omani companies seeking to enter the Kingdom’s market.

“At the heart of the bank’s strategic expansion is a synthesis of personalized, customer-focused offerings and cutting-edge services. These form the core of the bank’s overall strategy, which aims not only for growth but also for continuously improving customer experience in an ever-changing financial landscape,” said Ahmed Al-Musalmi, CEO of Sohar International.

Overall, SAMA’s proactive measures underline its commitment to supporting Saudi Arabia’s economic growth and resilience in an ever-changing global financial landscape.

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We are the editorial team of FinCrypt, where seriousness meets clarity in cryptocurrency analysis. With a robust team of finance and blockchain technology experts, we are dedicated to meticulously exploring complex crypto markets with detailed assessments and an unbiased approach. Our mission is to democratize access to knowledge of emerging financial technologies, ensuring they are understandable and accessible to all. In every article on FinCrypt, we strive to provide content that not only educates, but also empowers our readers, facilitating their integration into the financial digital age.

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US Agencies Request Information on Bank-Fintech Dealings

FinCrypt Staff

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Summer Trading Network 2016

Federal banking regulators have issued a statement reminding banks of the potential risks associated with third-party arrangements to provide bank deposit products and services.

The agencies support responsible innovation and banks that engage in these arrangements in a safe and fair manner and in compliance with applicable law. While these arrangements may offer benefits, supervisory experience has identified a number of safety and soundness, compliance, and consumer concerns with the management of these arrangements. The statement details potential risks and provides examples of effective risk management practices for these arrangements. Additionally, the statement reminds banks of existing legal requirements, guidance, and related resources and provides insights that the agencies have gained through their oversight. The statement does not establish new supervisory expectations.

Separately, the agencies requested additional information on a broad range of arrangements between banks and fintechs, including for deposit, payment, and lending products and services. The agencies are seeking input on the nature and implications of arrangements between banks and fintechs and effective risk management practices.

The agencies are considering whether to take additional steps to ensure that banks effectively manage the risks associated with these different types of arrangements.

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What changes in financial regulation have impacted the development of financial technology?

FinCrypt Staff

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Block Telegraph Staff

Exploring the complex landscape of global financial regulation, we gather insights from leading fintech leaders, including CEOs and finance experts. From the game-changing impact of PSD2 to the significant role of GDPR in data security, explore the four key regulatory changes that have reshaped fintech development, answering the question: “What changes in financial regulation have impacted fintech development?”

  • PSD2 revolutionizes access to financial technology
  • GDPR Improves Fintech Data Privacy
  • Regulatory Sandboxes Drive Fintech Innovation
  • GDPR Impacts Fintech Data Security

PSD2 revolutionizes access to financial technology

When it comes to regulatory impact on fintech development, nothing comes close to PSD2. This EU regulation has created a new level playing field for market players of all sizes, from fintech startups to established banks. It has had a ripple effect on other markets around the world, inspiring similar regulatory frameworks and driving global innovation in fintech.

The Payment Services Directive (PSD2), the EU law in force since 2018, has revolutionized the fintech industry by requiring banks to provide third-party payment providers (TPPs) with access to payment services and customer account information via open APIs. This has democratized access to financial data, fostering the development of personalized financial instruments and seamless payment solutions. Advanced security measures such as Strong Customer Authentication (SCA) have increased consumer trust, pushing both fintech companies and traditional banks to innovate and collaborate more effectively, resulting in a dynamic and consumer-friendly financial ecosystem.

The impact of PSD2 has extended beyond the EU, inspiring similar regulations around the world. Countries such as the UK, Australia and Canada have launched their own open banking initiatives, spurred by the benefits seen in the EU. PSD2 has highlighted the benefits of open banking, also prompting US financial institutions and fintech companies to explore similar initiatives voluntarily.

This has led to a global wave of fintech innovation, with financial institutions and fintech companies offering more integrated, personalized and secure services. The EU’s leadership in open banking through PSD2 has set a global standard, promoting regulatory harmonization and fostering an interconnected and innovative global financial ecosystem.

Looking ahead, the EU’s PSD3 proposals and Financial Data Access (FIDA) regulations promise to further advance open banking. PSD3 aims to refine and build on PSD2, with a focus on improving transaction security, fraud prevention, and integration between banks and TPPs. FIDA will expand data sharing beyond payment accounts to include areas such as insurance and investments, paving the way for more comprehensive financial products and services.

These developments are set to further enhance connectivity, efficiency and innovation in financial services, cementing open banking as a key component of the global financial infrastructure.

Sebastian Malczyk

General Manager, Technology and Product Consultant Fintech, Insurtech, Miquido

GDPR Improves Fintech Data Privacy

Privacy and data protection have been taken to another level by the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), forcing fintech companies to tighten their data management. In compliance with the GDPR, organizations must ensure that personal data is processed fairly, transparently, and securely.

This has led to increased innovation in fintech towards technologies such as encryption and anonymization for data protection. GDPR was described as a top priority in the data protection strategies of 92% of US-based companies surveyed by PwC.

Arid Islam

Financial Expert, Sterlinx Global

Regulatory Sandboxes Drive Fintech Innovation

Since the UK’s Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) pioneered sandbox regulatory frameworks in 2016 to enable fintech startups to explore new products and services, similar frameworks have been introduced in other countries.

This has reduced the “crippling effect on innovation” caused by a “one size fits all” regulatory approach, which would also require machines to be built to complete regulatory compliance before any testing. Successful applications within sandboxes give regulators the confidence to move forward and address gaps in laws, regulations, or supervisory approaches. This has led to widespread adoption of new technologies and business models and helped channel private sector dynamism, while keeping consumers protected and imposing appropriate regulatory requirements.

George Blandford

Co-founder, UK Linkology

GDPR Impacts Fintech Data Security

A big change in financial regulations that has had a real impact on fintech is the 2018 EU General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). I have seen how GDPR has pushed us to focus more on user privacy and data security.

GDPR means we have to handle personal data much more carefully. At Leverage, we have had to step up our game to meet these new rules. We have improved our data encryption and started doing regular security audits. It was a little tricky at first, but it has made our systems much more secure.

For example, we’ve added features that give users more control over their data, like simple consent tools and clear privacy notices. These changes have helped us comply with GDPR and made our customers feel more confident in how we handle their information.

I believe that GDPR has made fintech companies, including us at Leverage, more transparent and secure. It has helped build trust with our users, showing them that we take data protection seriously.

Dr. Rhett Stubbendeck

CEO & Co-Founder, Leverage Planning

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M2P Fintech About to Raise $80M

FinCrypt Staff

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M2P Fintech About to Raise $80M

Application Programming Interface (API) Infrastructure Platform M2P Financial Technology has reached the final round to raise $80 million, at a valuation of $900 million.

Specifically, M2P Fintech, formerly known as Yap, is closing a new funding round involving new and existing investors, according to entrackr.com. The India-based company, which last raised funding two and a half years ago, previously secured $56 million in a round led by Insight Partners, earning a post-money valuation of $650 million.

A source indicated that M2P Fintech is ready to raise $80 million in this new funding round, led by a new investor. Existing backers, including Insight Partners, are also expected to participate. The new funding is expected to go toward enhancing the company’s technology infrastructure and driving growth in domestic and international markets.

What does M2P Fintech do?

M2P Fintech’s API platform enables businesses to provide branded financial services through partnerships with fintech companies while maintaining regulatory compliance. In addition to its operations in India, the company is active in Nepal, UAE, Australia, New Zealand, Philippines, Bahrain, Egypt, and many other countries.

Another source revealed that M2P Fintech’s valuation in this funding round is expected to be between USD 880 million and USD 900 million (post-money). The company has reportedly received a term sheet and the deal is expected to be publicly announced soon. The Tiger Global-backed company has acquired six companies to date, including Goals101, Syntizen, and BSG ITSOFT, to enhance its service offerings.

According to TheKredible, Beenext is the company’s largest shareholder with over 13% ownership, while the co-founders collectively own 34% of the company. Although M2P Fintech has yet to release its FY24 financials, it has reported a significant increase in operating revenue. However, this growth has also been accompanied by a substantial increase in losses.

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Scottish financial technology firm Aveni secures £11m to expand AI offering

FinCrypt Staff

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Aveni, Investment Management, AI, NLP, UK

By Gloria Methri

Today

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  • Aveni Assistance
  • Aveni Detection

Artificial intelligence Financial Technology Aveni has announced one of the largest Series A investments in a Scottish company this year, amounting to £11 million. The investment is led by Puma Private Equity with participation from Par Equity, Lloyds Banking Group and Nationwide.

Aveni combines AI expertise with extensive financial services experience to create large language models (LLMs) and AI products designed specifically for the financial services industry. It is trusted by some of the UK’s leading financial services firms. It has seen significant business growth over the past two years through its conformity and productivity solutions, Aveni Detect and Aveni Assist.

This investment will enable Aveni to build on the success of its existing products, further consolidate its presence in the sector and introduce advanced technologies through FinLLM, a large-scale language model specifically for financial services.

FinLLM is being developed in partnership with new investors Lloyds Banking Group and Nationwide. It is a large, industry-aligned language model that aims to set the standard for transparent, responsible and ethical adoption of generative AI in UK financial services.

Following the investment, the team developing the FinLLM will be based at the Edinburgh Futures Institute, in a state-of-the-art facility.

Joseph Twigg, CEO of Aveniexplained, “The financial services industry doesn’t need AI models that can quote Shakespeare; it needs AI models that deliver transparency, trust, and most importantly, fairness. The way to achieve this is to develop small, highly tuned language models, trained on financial services data, and reviewed by financial services experts for specific financial services use cases. Generative AI is the most significant technological evolution of our generation, and we are in the early stages of adoption. This represents a significant opportunity for Aveni and our partners. The goal with FinLLM is to set a new standard for the controlled, responsible, and ethical adoption of generative AI, outperforming all other generic models in our select financial services use cases.”

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