FinTech innovators from across the globe will today convene at the Innovate Finance Global Summit 2019 to celebrate the sector’s value and purpose to society.
The Summit, now in its fifth edition, takes place at the Guildhall, in the heart of London’s financial district.
The focus of IFGS will be on the vital role FinTech has to play in improving the inclusiveness of finance globally. Key themes will include ensuring that the UK remains an investment-friendly environment for FinTech, that it continues to attract and retain a diverse and global pool of talent, and that it is promoted as the home of progressive regulation.
Two important UK-wide initiatives will be highlighted at IFGS:
- The launch of The Fintech National Network – which will foster collaboration between the UK’s FinTech hubs and provide valuable connections to amplify their collective message.
- FinTech for Schools – Innovate Finance’s campaign designed to encourage young people to understand the increasing importance of digital skills in the workplace, with an emphasis on ensuring the sector is appealing to girls.
With delegations from 15 nations boasting some of the biggest FinTech markets, and Hubs from across the world speaking and exhibiting, IFGS 2019 will be a truly global Summit. It will kickstart UK FinTech Week 2019, a week-long series of nationwide events, showcasing the UK as the global centre for financial innovation. The events will explore, debate and try to solve some of the most important issues of our time and look at the ways technology is shaping our future.
On UK FinTech Week, Chancellor of the Exchequer Philip Hammond said:
“FinTech is revolutionising the way people manage their finances and this week is an opportunity to celebrate the UK companies leading the way.
“Last year, a record £15 billion was invested in the sector across the country. We’re already the top European destination for venture capital investment and London is predicted to overtake San Francisco as the city with the most FinTech unicorns in the near future.
“This government is determined that the UK will remain a trailblazer in this field, which is why we are supporting skills, facilitating capital raising, attracting talent and promoting international cooperation.”
Charlotte Crosswell, CEO of Innovate Finance said: “The UK FinTech ecosystem has all the key elements for a world-leading environment where FinTech can thrive, with startups, entrepreneurs and technological innovation in abundance.
“Every company working in FinTech, from the early-stage startup to the large corporate, has a part to play in improving the way our financial system operates. The challenges of financial inclusion, wellness and literacy are felt across societies and economies. FinTech has solved some of the most challenging problems facing consumers and businesses today. But we must push ourselves to go further.
“The future of finance is tantalisingly close and we have seen developments which would have been unthinkable only a few short years ago. It will be fascinating to see where we will be 5 years from today’s Global Summit.”
