Fintech
LIBF’s Mission to Transform Financial Education in the MENA Region

As financial technology continues to transform the financial industry, professionals must embrace continuing education and professional development to stay ahead. With rapid technological advances, it is essential that individuals regularly update their skills to effectively leverage new financial technologies.
Ehsan Razavizadeh, CEO of MENA and Asia at LIBFis a passionate believer in the transformative power of education in shaping the future of fintech. He emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and professional development for a dynamic banking and finance industry.
In this discussion, Razavizadeh highlights how LIBF is making a significant impact on the banking industry through pioneering educational initiatives. She also explores the evolution of the institution and the promising future that awaits LIBF in the MENA region.
Ehsan Razavizadeh, Managing Director MENA & Asia at LIBF
Can you provide an overview of LIBF MENA and its mission in the region?
LIBF MENA provides education and training for banking and financial services professionals across the MENA region. Founded in the City of London in 1879, LIBF remains the only professional body in the banking and financial sector with degree-awarding powers.
Our mission is to empower people around the world with the most personalized education, enabling them to grow both personally and professionally. The vision is for everyone to have access to education to thrive. Our Abu Dhabi office supports the development of tailored skills in finance, offering professional qualifications such as the Certificate in International Trade and Finance (CITF) and advanced degrees such as the MSc Banking and Finance.
What are the key fintech trends that professionals in the MENA region should be aware of?
Banking was one of the first to embrace the benefits of computerization, in the 1960s, when they introduced centralized ledgers on mainframes. Banking and finance are still at the forefront of digital advances. Think digital payments and the disappearance of cash. Think banking apps on your phone. Both have brought enormous efficiencies that we already take for granted, but there are also many other developments that are less obvious. The use of generative AI and machine learning will accelerate work within companies that consumers don’t (and shouldn’t) think about, including preventing fraud, increasing compliance with financial regulation, and simplifying code development.
We are adopting Artificial intelligence in education, making quality and innovative education accessible to all. Our digital and fintech courses help industry professionals improve their skills in these areas.
What are the biggest challenges in promoting financial education in the MENA region and how has LIBF addressed them?
The rapidly evolving fintech landscape requires professionals who understand both technology and traditional banking principles. LIBF addresses these challenges by offering courses taught by industry expert faculty and providing attendees with access to industry guest speakers and current case studies. This approach ensures that the bankers of the future can effectively support financial inclusion and business growth.
How does LIBF ensure that its fintech courses remain relevant in a rapidly evolving industry?
With over 140 years of tradition, LIBF is at the forefront of thought leadership in the banking and finance industry. Our deep industry roots and expert faculty ensure that our courses remain cutting edge. We actively participate in major fintech events in the MENA region, keeping abreast of global trends and sharing our insights. A key innovation is our partnership with International University of Applied Sciences IU, introducing Syntea, an AI-powered learning companion. Syntea engages students in Socratic dialogue, delivering personalized, interactive learning experiences that reflect the latest advances in the industry.
What advice would you give to someone who wants to improve their skills at LIBF and is considering a career in fintech?
Choosing LIBF means embarking on a transformative educational journey that combines comprehensive theoretical knowledge with in-depth industry insights. We emphasize hands-on experience and extensive networking opportunities, which are essential to understanding and thriving in the banking industry.
Our programs and qualifications enable participants to integrate diverse skills and knowledge to address real-world challenges. Additionally, our range of offerings is designed to foster innovation, critical thinking and adaptability, giving participants a unique edge in their careers. By interacting with industry leaders and participating in dynamic projects, our participants are well-prepared to become future leaders in fintech.
Fintech
US Agencies Request Information on Bank-Fintech Dealings

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.
SUBSCRIBE TO THE NEWSLETTER
And get exclusive articles on the stock markets
Fintech
What changes in financial regulation have impacted the development of financial technology?

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.
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.
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.
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.
CEO & Co-Founder, Leverage Planning
Related Articles
Fintech
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.
Fintech
Scottish financial technology firm Aveni secures £11m to expand AI offering

By Gloria Methri
Today
- To come
- 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.”
Previous Article
Network International and Biz2X Sign Partnership for SME Financing
IBSi Daily News Analysis
SMBs Leverage Cloud to Gain Competitive Advantage, Study Shows
IBSi FinTech Magazine
- The Most Trusted FinTech Magazine Since 1991
- Digital monthly issue
- Over 60 pages of research, analysis, interviews, opinions and rankings
- Global coverage
subscribe now
-
DeFi9 months ago
DeFi Technologies Appoints Andrew Forson to Board of Directors
-
Fintech9 months ago
US Agencies Request Information on Bank-Fintech Dealings
-
News9 months ago
Block Investors Need More to Assess Crypto Unit’s Earnings Potential, Analysts Say — TradingView News
-
DeFi9 months ago
Switchboard Revolutionizes DeFi with New Oracle Aggregator
-
News9 months ago
Bitcoin and Technology Correlation Collapses Due to Excess Supply
-
DeFi9 months ago
Is Zypto Wallet a Reliable Choice for DeFi Users?
-
Fintech9 months ago
What changes in financial regulation have impacted the development of financial technology?
-
Fintech9 months ago
Scottish financial technology firm Aveni secures £11m to expand AI offering
-
Fintech9 months ago
Scottish financial technology firm Aveni raises £11m to develop custom AI model for financial services
-
Videos2 months ago
“Artificial intelligence is bringing us to a future that we may not survive” – Sco to Whitney Webb’s Waorting!
-
News11 months ago
ValueZone launches new tools to maximize earnings during the ongoing crypto summer
-
Markets11 months ago
Crypto Expert Provides Analysis of Top Altcoins, Market Sees Slight Rise