WAIFC Strengthens Its Global Presence Through High-Level Engagements Across Asia and Europe
Over the past weeks, the Alliance has participated in major international forums, conferences, and member-led events, highlighting its commitment to advancing collaboration, innovation, and the development of global financial centers.
From Southeast Asia to Europe and Hong Kong, WAIFC continues to bring its voice, insights, and expertise to key discussions shaping the future of finance.
Vietnam Future Economy Summit 2025: Exploring Vietnam’s Path to Becoming a Global Capital Hub
At the Vietnam Future Economy Summit 2025, held at Thiskyhall Sala in Ho Chi Minh City, WAIFC took part in the Investment Forum to discuss Vietnam’s ambition to establish itself as an international financial center.
In a panel titled “Vietnam to Become a Global Capital Hub,” WAIFC Managing Director, Dr. Jochen Biedermann, joined Quang Huynh, Chief Country Officer of Deutsche Bank Vietnam, under the moderation of Bloomberg Businessweek Vietnam.
The session examined Vietnam’s unique opportunity to position itself as a gateway for global capital, while addressing the challenges and reforms needed to realize this vision. Promoted by Bloomberg Businessweek Vietnam, the forum brought together decision-makers, investors, and global experts to explore how Vietnam can accelerate its integration into the world’s financial landscape.
Warsaw Finance Week: Spotlight on Poland’s Evolving Financial Center
In Europe, WAIFC was represented at Warsaw Finance Week, an event which took place from November 3 to 6, 2025.
During the program, Dr. Jochen Biedermann engaged in an on-stage exchange with Pawel Widawski, President of Future Finance Poland, one of WAIFC’s active members. Their conversation highlighted Poland’s dynamic financial sector and explored how international cooperation within the WAIFC network continues to strengthen innovation, competitiveness, and connectivity among financial centers worldwide.
This appearance further reinforced Poland’s growing role within the global financial ecosystem and underscored the importance of member-driven initiatives across Europe.
Hong Kong FinTech Week: Redefining Talent in the Age of AI
At Hong Kong FinTech Week 2025, WAIFC participated in a forward-looking panel hosted by the Financial Services Development Council (FSDC).
The session, titled “AI & Finance: Redefining Talent in the Digital Age – Skills, Ethics, and the Future Workforce,” featured leading voices from Hong Kong’s financial and technology communities. Dr. Jochen Biedermann joined industry leaders including Aveline San (Citi Hong Kong & Macau), Joseph HL Chan (FSTB), Alvin Kwock (AIFT), and Neil Tan (AIHK).
The discussion emphasized the transformative power of artificial intelligence and the increasing importance of trusted, ethical, and human-centered frameworks within global financial centers. Key themes included responsible AI governance, multilingual global talent, and the evolution of workforce skills in the digital era — all central pillars of WAIFC’s mission.
Asia House Webinar: Shaping the Next Generation of Financial Cities
WAIFC was also featured in the “Next-Generation Financial Cities” webinar hosted by Asia House and supported by the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC).
The session, which took place in November 18, 2025, gathered global experts as part of the launch of the sixth Future of Finance report. Speakers include Dr. Jochen Biedermann, Michael Mainelli (Z/Yen Group), Wolfgang Engel (IIF), and Salmaan Jaffery (DIFC).
The panel explored how innovation in governance, regulation, talent attraction, and quality of life is reshaping the next wave of leading global financial hubs.
A Global Network in Action
These engagements reflect WAIFC’s ongoing commitment to fostering collaboration across continents and supporting the strategic ambitions of its member financial centers. Whether through events led by WAIFC members or global forums bringing together public and private leaders, the Alliance continues to champion stronger, more interconnected financial ecosystems worldwide.
As the financial landscape evolves rapidly — driven by technology, talent, and cross-border capital flows — WAIFC remains dedicated to advancing dialogue, knowledge-sharing, and global cooperation among the world’s leading financial centers.