Our managing partner joined a Fireside Chat at the Dubai FinTech Summit 2024

Our managing partner Jochen Biedermann participated in the Dubai FinTech Summit in May 2024. The Summit, organized by the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) and managed by Trescon, marked a significant milestone in the intersection of financial technology and global financial policies.

A standout moment was Jochen's Fireside Chat with Dr. György Matolcsy, Governor of the Magyar Nemzeti Bank (Central Bank of Hungary). The dialogue centred on the proactive role central banks play in promoting sustainability and supporting the burgeoning sector of financial technology. Governor Matolcsy shared his perspective on how these institutions are pivotal in fostering economic growth and stability in an increasingly digital world.

The discussion also delved into the opportunities and challenges posed by Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs), including the digital euro. These digital assets are becoming increasingly relevant in modern financial systems, offering potential benefits such as enhanced transaction efficiency and improved access to financial services — while also posing significant regulatory and operational challenges that must be carefully navigated.

Jochen and Governor Matolcsy also explored the role of central banks in fostering sustainability. In May 2021, the Hungarian Parliament gave the Magyar Nemzeti Bank a mandate to promote environmentally sustainable economic development and mitigate environmental risks — making it one of the first central banks in the world to receive a secondary legal mandate of this kind.

The conversation highlighted how central banks can leverage FinTech to drive eco-friendly initiatives and promote sustainable development globally. During the visit, Jochen also met with the DIFC leadership team, Trescon, and the MENA FinTech Association.