Xiamen, China – 13 September 2024 – Global FinTech Institute (GFI) proudly co-organized the “Fintech Innovation and Application Forum” in Xiamen, China, bringing together industry leaders to explore the growing impact of fintech and artificial intelligence (AI) on international business expansion.
The forum served as a pivotal platform for discussions on the latest trends and innovations in the fintech sector, with a focus on how these advancements are shaping global markets. The event featured a series of insightful presentations and discussions from distinguished speakers, including:
The forum highlighted the latest trends in fintech innovation, emphasizing its influence on global markets. The event featured a series of insightful presentations and discussions from distinguished speakers, including:
- Prof. David Lee, Founding Chairman of GFI, who provided an in-depth analysis of opportunities and challenges in fintech and Web3 technologies.
- Mr Chia Hock Lai, Co-Chairman of GFI, who shared key insights on emerging fintech trends in Southeast Asia.
- Dr. James Ong, from AIII International Research Institute, who addressed the importance of AI governance.
- Ms Lin Zhenya, Deputy Director of the Xiamen Municipal Bureau of Commerce, who emphasized the growing partnership between Xiamen and Singapore.
- Mr Cao Yunchuan, President of Xiamen International Bank, who presented cutting-edge innovations in cross-border payments.



The forum also featured a dynamic roundtable discussion where experts examined the role of fintech and AI in driving enterprise internationalization. The panel included:
- Prof. David Lee, Co-Chairman of the Global FinTech Institute
- Mr Chia Hock Lai, Co-Chairman of the Global FinTech Institute
- Dr. James Ong, Founder & Managing Director, AIII
- Mr Lian Ren, Deputy Director of the Xiamen Municipal Financial Supervision Bureau
- Mr Zhang Wei, CIO, Hua Mei International Investment Group & Hong Kong Jiaxin Financial Group
- Mr Zhang Hong, VP of Information, Xiamen International Bank

In addition, Ms Ong Suan Hwee, Executive Director of GFI, shared exciting updates about the Singapore FinTech Festival (SFF) scheduled for November 2024, where GFI will be a community partner.

This successful event underscores the growing significance of Xiamen and Singapore as major fintech hubs in Asia. The collaboration between these cities is set to strengthen ties and create new opportunities for innovation and growth in the global fintech landscape.
Looking ahead, GFI is thrilled to host a delegation of Xiamen businesses at the Singapore FinTech Festival 2024, further solidifying the connection between these key fintech centers.

About Global Fintech Institute
The Global FinTech Institute (GFI) is a non-profit think tank that fosters collaboration among regulatory authorities, corporations, and academic institutions. Based in Singapore, GFI addresses challenges in the Fintech landscape through research, whitepapers, and discussions that influence policy and industry standards. Our initiatives include the Chartered FinTech Professional (CFtP) program, which equips professionals with essential skills for the evolving fintech environment.
GFI is dedicated to advancing a more inclusive and efficient global financial system by supporting fintech standards and best practices. We empower stakeholders to innovate responsibly and integrate effectively into the global financial ecosystem.