The Global Finance & Technology Network (GFTN), an initiative poised to redefine the future of financial ecosystems, has officially announced the esteemed members of its Board of Directors and International Advisory Board. This landmark announcement signifies a crucial step forward for GFTN, reinforcing its commitment to leveraging technological advancements and fostering innovation through strategic global partnerships. The network's overarching mission is to cultivate financial ecosystems that are not only more efficient and resilient but also significantly more inclusive for all stakeholders.
Shaping Governance: The Board of Directors
The Board of Directors is entrusted with the critical responsibilities of governance and oversight, ensuring GFTN operates with transparency, integrity, and strategic foresight. This foundational body comprises individuals with extensive experience across finance, regulation, and public policy, reflecting the multifaceted nature of GFTN's objectives and its dedication to sound leadership. Their collective expertise will be pivotal in guiding GFTN's strategic direction and ensuring the network's initiatives align with its core mission to improve global financial infrastructure.
Leading this distinguished group is Ravi Menon, currently Singapore's Ambassador (Climate Action) and the former Managing Director of the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS). Mr. Menon's leadership brings a wealth of experience in financial regulation, a deep understanding of monetary policy, and a clear vision for sustainable financial development. He is supported by two highly capable Deputy Chairs:
- Leong Sing Chiong, Deputy Managing Director at the Monetary Authority of Singapore, whose deep insights into financial market development and supervision will be invaluable in navigating complex regulatory landscapes.
- Neil Parekh, a Nominated Member of Parliament in Singapore and Non-Executive Chairman of Tikehau Capital, offering a unique blend of legislative understanding, private sector investment acumen, and a public-spirited approach to governance.
Members Contributing Diverse Expertise:
The full Board of Directors further benefits from a broad spectrum of expertise, crucial for addressing the diverse challenges and opportunities within global finance and technology:
- Iqbal Jumabhoy, Chief Executive Officer of ProsperCap Corporation Limited, bringing entrepreneurial drive and strategic financial leadership in capital markets.
- Professor Lam Khin Yong, Vice President (Industry) at Nanyang Technological University Singapore and Senior Advisor to the Hungarian Minister of Culture and Innovation, contributing academic rigor, technological foresight, and a focus on industry-academia collaboration.
- Andrew Lim, Partner at Allen & Gledhill, providing crucial legal and regulatory perspectives essential for navigating complex financial landscapes and ensuring compliance.
- Jessica Tan, Group Executive Vice President and President, Sunlife Canada, who offers extensive experience in large-scale financial services operations, digital transformation, and international market penetration.
- Sopnendu Mohanty, the Group Chief Executive Officer-Designate of GFTN and Chief FinTech Officer at the Monetary Authority of Singapore, whose direct leadership and deep understanding of fintech innovation will be central to GFTN's operational success and strategic implementation.
Global Guidance: The International Advisory Board
Complementing the Board of Directors, GFTN has established an International Advisory Board. This eminent group consists of public and private sector leaders celebrated for their demonstrated commitment to the public interest and their profound global insights. Their role is to offer strategic guidance, a broader international perspective, and valuable counsel, ensuring GFTN's initiatives are resonant and impactful across diverse international contexts and adhere to global best practices.
Distinguished Advisors Guiding the Path:
The International Advisory Board includes a formidable array of thought leaders:
- Dominic Barton, Chairman of LeapFrog Investments and Rio Tinto, and former Global Managing Partner at McKinsey & Company, whose strategic acumen in global business and economic development is widely recognized.
- Hon. Paula Ingabire, Minister of ICT and Innovation for the Republic of Rwanda, bringing a vital perspective on technology-driven national development, digital inclusion, and policy-making from an emerging market context.
- Eric Jing, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Ant Group and Chairman of Ant International, offering unparalleled insights into large-scale digital payment and financial technology platforms, and their global expansion.
- Dr. Patrick Njoroge, former Governor of the Central Bank of Kenya, whose extensive experience in central banking, economic policy, and financial stability in Africa will be crucial for understanding diverse financial landscapes.
- Dr. Veerathai Santiprabhob, former Governor of the Bank of Thailand, providing expertise in monetary policy, financial stability, and digital currency innovations from Southeast Asia.
- Dr. Axel Weber, Advisor at Raisin, former Chairman of the Board of UBS Group AG, and former President of Deutsche Bundesbank, contributing extensive knowledge in European banking, financial markets, and global economic governance.
A Unified Vision for Global Impact
The collective expertise and leadership embodied by these two distinguished boards form the bedrock of GFTN's ambitious agenda. Their combined wisdom will be instrumental in navigating the complexities of the global financial landscape, identifying emerging technological opportunities, and addressing critical challenges such as financial exclusion, climate finance, and cross-border digital payments. By fostering innovation and facilitating meaningful partnerships, GFTN aims to catalyze economic growth, strengthen the resilience of financial systems against future shocks, and ultimately improve lives worldwide through more equitable and accessible financial services.
Mr. Ravi Menon articulated the collective enthusiasm and forward-looking vision, stating, "I am honoured to be joined by an outstanding group of individuals on the Board of Directors and International Advisory Board. I look forward to welcoming more members to both the Board of Directors and the International Advisory Board as we expand GFTN's work in harnessing innovation in financial ecosystems to create economic opportunity, strengthen resilience, improve people’s lives, and secure a more inclusive and sustainable future for all." This sentiment underscores GFTN's commitment to a dynamic and expanding future, dedicated to creating a more equitable and technologically advanced global financial environment for the benefit of all.
