CrowdStrike has launched the third annual Cybersecurity Startup Accelerator with Amazon Web Services (AWS) and NVIDIA, expanding the program worldwide through NVIDIA’s Inception initiative. The accelerator supports early-stage companies developing AI-driven cloud security solutions through mentorship, technical guidance, funding, and go-to-market support. Applications are open until 15 November, with the eight-week program running from 5 January to 3 March 2026. It will conclude with a Demo Day at the AWS Startup Loft in San Francisco on 24 March 2026, during the RSA Conference. Outstanding participants may be considered for investment from the CrowdStrike Falcon Fund. Since its launch, the accelerator has supported 59 startups that collectively raised more than US$730 million and achieved several acquisitions. Alumni include Onum, acquired by CrowdStrike; Remedio (formerly GYTPOL), winner of the 2023–2024 cohort; and Terra Security, winner of the 2024–2025 cohort, both of which secured additional funding after the program. Daniel Bernard “Our Cybersecurity Startup Accelerator has quickly become the home for founders who are eager to change the game, redefining how security and AI come together in the cloud. Together with AWS and NVIDIA, we’re building a global ecosystem of innovators driving the future of cybersecurity. The impact of our past cohorts shows how much can be achieved when the world’s leading technology companies and bold entrepreneurs unite to secure tomorrow.” said Daniel Bernard, Chief Business Officer, CrowdStrike. NVIDIA noted that AI is now central to cybersecurity innovation, and startups need access to advanced infrastructure and expertise to scale effectively. The accelerator will help founders leverage accelerated computing and agentic systems to meet evolving enterprise security needs. Chris Grusz “Startups are driving innovation across every layer of the cybersecurity stack. Together with CrowdStrike and NVIDIA, we’re helping founders use the scalability of AWS and the expertise of our partners to accelerate their growth and bring new cloud and AI security solutions to market faster.” said Chris Grusz, Managing Director of Technology Partnerships, AWS Marketplace. Startups can apply on CrowdStrike’s website. Participation runs through NVIDIA’s Inception program, which provides Deep Learning Institute credits, preferred pricing on select hardware and software, and expert technical guidance to support product development and scaling.     Featured image: Edited by Fintech News Singapore, based on image by Frolopiaton Palm via Freepik   The post CrowdStrike, AWS, and NVIDIA Expand Cybersecurity Startup Accelerator Globally appeared first on Fintech Singapore.

Singapore’s financial regulator says a person’s past record in drug rehabilitation won’t automatically affect their eligibility for roles in the financial sector. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade and Industry Gan Kim Yong, who also chairs the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS), said in Parliament on 4 November that admission to a Drug Rehabilitation Centre does not automatically disqualify an individual from working in the industry. Gan was replying on behalf of the Prime Minister and Minister for Finance to a question from Associate Professor Jamus Jerome Lim, Member of Parliament for Sengkang GRC. The question asked whether an individual who has attended a Drug Rehabilitation Centre would be regarded as not meeting the “fit and proper” criteria for a career in financial services. He explained that under MAS’ Guidelines on Fit and Proper Criteria, financial institutions should assess various factors when considering applicants with a past record. These include the seriousness and circumstances of the conduct, the time that has passed since the incident, and the responsibilities of the role being considered. Gan added that financial institutions are also expected to apply their own hiring standards, such as evaluating candidates’ experience, qualifications, and skills relevant to the position. He emphasised that each case should be assessed based on its own merits, and that a history of rehabilitation does not automatically preclude someone from pursuing a career in Singapore’s financial sector.     Featured image: Edited by Fintech News Singapore, based on image by MAS The post Drug Rehab Record Not an Automatic Bar to Finance Careers, MAS Clarifies appeared first on Fintech Singapore.

The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) is reviewing new anti-scam safeguards introduced by banks to ensure they protect customers without unnecessarily slowing legitimate transactions. The question, raised by Aljunied GRC MP Sylvia Lim, asked whether MAS would ease safeguards in “whitelist” situations, such as transfers to a customer’s own account or to government agencies. Gan Kim Yong In a written reply, Deputy Prime Minister and MAS Chairman Gan Kim Yong said the regulator has worked with banks to implement stronger protections, particularly for accounts with balances of at least S$50,000 that are being rapidly emptied. Under the measure, banks will delay further transfers to give customers time to confirm if the transactions are genuine. Gan noted that some transactions are whitelisted and exempt from these delays. These include recurring standing instructions, GIRO or eGIRO payments, and bill payments to organisations such as government agencies that are recognised as billing entities by banks. However, banks currently cannot determine whether the recipient account at another bank belongs to the same customer. He added that MAS and banks will continue to monitor and refine these measures to reduce disruptions while maintaining strong protection against scams. Other initiatives already introduced include the MoneyLock feature and the gradual phasing out of SMS one-time passwords. Gan said some inconvenience in payment transactions is necessary to safeguard consumers, and advised customers to plan ahead for large-value transfers.     Featured image: Edited by Fintech News Singapore, based on image by tsyhun via Freepik The post MAS Says Routine Bill and Recurring Payments Remain Unaffected by Anti-Scam Rules appeared first on Fintech Singapore.

Loyalty and travel rewards platform HeyMax has made its first international launch in Hong Kong, partnering with Cathay to connect more users and merchants across the region. The Singapore-based company said the move supports its goal of building Asia’s leading open loyalty ecosystem. The expansion follows its July acquisition of Hong Kong fintech firm krip and is part of plans to quadruple its team and strengthen regional partnerships. HeyMax reported fivefold year-on-year revenue growth and an annualised revenue run rate of US$6 million as of May. It aims to reach one million users and issue over two billion Max Miles across the region by the end of 2026. Hong Kong users can now earn Max Miles through more than 300 merchants including Watsons, Trip.com, Klook, Starbucks, and foodpanda, and redeem them for flights, hotels, and rewards from over 30 loyalty programs such as Cathay, ALL Accor, and Qatar Airways. Cathay members in Hong Kong and Southeast Asia, including Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, the Philippines, and Vietnam, can convert Max Miles into Asia Miles and redeem them for flights on Cathay Pacific, partner airlines, and over 800 partners worldwide. HeyMax’s FlyAnywhere feature lets users redeem Max Miles for any flight on any airline worldwide. Users can also earn miles when purchasing digital vouchers from local retailers such as HKTVmall, 7-Eleven, JHC, and Starbucks. The company is working with regional partners including MoneyHero, Octopus, Preferrd, and Visa, which are integrating Max Miles into their rewards and customer engagement programs. Joe Lu Joe Lu, CEO and Co-founder, HeyMax, said, “As one of the world’s leading travel hubs, Hong Kong plays a pivotal role in connecting global travellers. With both strong outbound and inbound demand, it’s a key market in building our global traveller network. HeyMax is well-positioned to help consumers turn everyday spending into meaningful travel experiences, while enabling businesses in Hong Kong to tap into the travel economy as a powerful way to engage their customers and members.” Jonathan Ng “As a premium travel lifestyle brand, partnering with HeyMax enables us to further strengthen our lifestyle ecosystem beyond our home hub of Hong Kong, giving our community of travellers across Southeast Asia more ways to turn everyday spending into meaningful travel experiences. This partnership reflects our ongoing commitment to delivering greater flexibility, value, and choice to our members, wherever they are in their travel journey.” said Jonathan Ng, Cathay Regional Head of Customer Travel & Lifestyle for Southeast Asia and Oceania.     Featured image: Edited by Fintech News Singapore, based on image by Freepik   The post HeyMax Debuts in Hong Kong, Partnering with Cathay to Drive Regional Growth appeared first on Fintech Singapore.

Scammers and their local money mules could now face caning under new amendments passed by Singapore’s Parliament, part of efforts to curb online fraud and dismantle networks that enable transnational syndicates. The Criminal Law (Miscellaneous Amendments) Bill, passed on 4 November, introduces caning as a new penalty for scam-related offences. Courts may impose the punishment at their discretion to reflect each offender’s level of culpability, particularly among money mules. The maximum number of strokes prescribed under the new law is 12, which the Ministry of Home Affairs said was sufficient for now. Senior Minister of State for Home Affairs and Foreign Affairs Sim Ann said the amendments aim to deter those who knowingly or recklessly assist scam syndicates by providing bank accounts, SIM cards or Singpass credentials. She said the approach is calibrated, giving courts room to consider intent and involvement. Sim added that financial hardship cannot justify participation in scams, which often leave victims with lasting financial and emotional harm. She said stronger penalties form part of a broader “whole-of-society approach” that also involves education, technology and enforcement. Curbing Online Scams and Digital Exploitation Several members of Parliament raised questions about deterrence, proportionality and scope. Sim clarified that the enhanced penalties apply only to offences committed after the law takes effect and that sentencing will follow established judicial guidelines. She also confirmed that caning will not apply to offenders aged above 50. The government does not plan to review this limit, and courts may impose up to 12 months of imprisonment instead. Sim said the enhanced penalties target deceit carried out mainly through remote communication, such as online or phone-based scams, which allow syndicates to reach victims without entering Singapore. In the first half of 2025, scammers used online platforms to approach victims in about 82% of all cases. Authorities have directed companies such as Meta to remove fraudulent ads and impersonation accounts, with further legislative action possible if platforms fail to comply. International cooperation has also intensified. Under the Frontier+ initiative, which now spans 13 jurisdictions, joint operations between May and June 2025 led to 1,800 arrests and the recovery of more than S$26 million. Sim Ann Sim said the amendments reflect Singapore’s ongoing effort to keep its laws effective and fair. “The government regularly reviews our criminal laws to ensure that they remain effective, fair and responsive to the changing environment,” she told Parliament.     Featured image: Edited by Fintech News Singapore, based on image by user36718402 via Freepik   The post Singapore Introduces Discretionary Caning for Scam Offenders with Maximum 12 Strokes appeared first on Fintech Singapore.

Indian investment platform Groww raised ₹2,984.5 crore (≈US$336.7 million) from 102 anchor investors ahead of its IPO, The Economic Times reported. It issued 29.84 crore shares at ₹100 (≈US$1.13) each. About half the allocation went to domestic mutual funds through 17 fund houses, while global investors such as the Government of Singapore, Norway’s GPFG, ADIA, Goldman Sachs, Wellington, and Amundi also participated. Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella is among Groww’s notable backers, having invested in a personal capacity in 2022. The ₹6,632.3 crore (≈US$748.7 million) IPO includes a ₹1,060 crore (≈US$119.7 million) fresh issue and a ₹5,572.3 crore (≈US$629 million) offer for sale by Peak XV Partners, Y Combinator, and Ribbit Capital. Shares are priced at ₹95–₹100 (≈US$1.07–US$1.13). The offer opened 4 November, with allotment on 10 November and listing expected 12 November 2025. Proceeds will fund marketing, cloud upgrades, brand initiatives, and capitalisation of subsidiaries Groww Creditserv Technology and Groww Invest Tech for margin-trading expansion. Founded in 2016 by former Flipkart executives Lalit Keshre, Harsh Jain, Neeraj Singh, and Ishan Bansal, Groww has over 18 million users. It has expanded from a mutual-fund app into a full investment platform covering equities, derivatives, mutual funds, and fixed income. In FY2025, Groww reported ₹1,819 crore (≈US$205 million) profit on ₹4,056 crore (≈US$458 million) revenue and targets a valuation near US$7 billion.     Featured image: Edited by Fintech News Singapore, based on image by Groww The post Groww Raises Over US$336 Million from Anchor Investors Ahead of IPO appeared first on Fintech Singapore.

Amazon Web Services (AWS) and OpenAI have entered a multi-year partnership to run and scale advanced artificial intelligence (AI) workloads on AWS infrastructure. The US$38 billion commitment gives OpenAI access to hundreds of thousands of NVIDIA GPUs, including Amazon EC2 UltraServers, with the ability to scale to tens of millions of CPUs. The collaboration will support the development of next-generation AI models and help millions of users continue to get value from ChatGPT. AWS said the partnership draws on its experience managing secure, large-scale AI systems. The infrastructure clusters NVIDIA GB200 and GB300 GPUs on Amazon EC2 UltraServers to deliver low-latency performance and efficient processing across interconnected systems. Sam Altman “Scaling frontier AI requires massive, reliable compute. Our partnership with AWS strengthens the broad compute ecosystem that will power this next era and bring advanced AI to everyone.” said OpenAI co-founder and CEO Sam Altman. Matt Garman “As OpenAI continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible, AWS’s best-in-class infrastructure will serve as a backbone for their AI ambitions. The breadth and immediate availability of optimized compute demonstrates why AWS is uniquely positioned to support OpenAI’s vast AI workloads.” said Matt Garman, CEO of AWS. The collaboration builds on earlier work between the two companies. OpenAI’s open-weight foundation models are available on Amazon Bedrock, giving AWS customers additional model options for tasks such as coding, data analysis, and scientific research. Deployment of the new compute capacity is expected to be completed by the end of 2026, with further expansion planned through 2027.     Featured image: Edited by Fintech News Singapore, based on images by JASON REDMOND / AFP via Getty Images, and vart_dant via Freepik The post OpenAI Partners with AWS in US$38 Billion Deal to Scale AI Infrastructure appeared first on Fintech Singapore.

Singapore Gulf Bank has partnered with Fireblocks to secure its digital asset custody and treasury operations. The fully licensed digital wholesale bank, regulated by the Central Bank of Bahrain, will use Fireblocks’ enterprise platform for custody, settlement, trading operations, and stablecoin payments. The system automates treasury workflows, manages liquidity across multiple accounts and venues, and safeguards digital assets. SGB also plans to use Fireblocks for on- and off-ramps and stablecoin issuance. Founded by the privately held Singaporean investment firm Whampoa Group and backed by Bahrain’s sovereign wealth fund Mumtalakat, SGB serves global corporate and retail clients through unified banking solutions that bridge traditional finance and digital assets. Fireblocks provides multi-layered wallet security through Multi-Party Computation cryptography and secure hardware to protect against attacks, collusion, and human error. Shawn Chan Shawn Chan, CEO of Singapore Gulf Bank, said, “By using Fireblocks, we’re able to automate processes, reduce operational risk, and most importantly offer clients faster, safer access to digital asset services like crypto treasury, on and off ramps, and stablecoin transactions. This helps in supporting trading firms, exchanges, and payment providers with the type of banking experience they need to operate in a regulated environment.” SGB joins more than 2,400 fintechs, PSPs, banks, and exchanges on the Fireblocks Network for secure on-chain transactions and stablecoin payments. It is also among the first providers supporting the Fireblocks Network for Payments, which enables cross-border treasury, remittances, and settlements across fiat and blockchain rails. Stephen Richardson “SGB is enhancing options in banking by providing secure, reliable access to financial services for digital asset businesses. With Fireblocks’ enterprise-grade infrastructure, SGB is well positioned to streamline operations, mitigate risk, as well as enable real-time on-chain financial services as demand accelerates.” said Stephen Richardson, Chief Strategy Officer and Head of Banking at Fireblocks. The partnership follows the launch of SGB Net in May 2025, a real-time multi-currency clearing network serving digital asset firms including exchanges, market makers, and stablecoin issuers.     Featured image: Fireblocks CEO Michael Shaulov (left) and SGB CEO Shawn Chan (right)    The post Fireblocks to Power Digital Asset Custody and Treasury for Singapore Gulf Bank appeared first on Fintech Singapore.

TymeBank has appointed Cheslyn Jacobs as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective 1 January 2026. Jacobs will succeed Karl Westvig, who has been part of the bank’s leadership since 2023 and will remain in an advisory role to support its continued growth. A founding member of TymeBank, Jacobs brings extensive institutional knowledge and leadership experience, having played a key role in the bank’s development since its inception. His appointment signals a new phase for the bank, focusing on innovation, customer experience, and sustainable expansion. Thabani Jali “Cheslyn’s deep understanding of our customers, strategy, and people uniquely positions him to lead TymeBank into its next era,” said Thabani Jali, Chairman of TymeBank Holdings Limited. “It’s time to compete even harder for market share as we mature as a business. Under Cheslyn’s leadership, and with our talented team reshaping banking for all South Africans, TymeBank is geared to create even greater value for our customers and partners.” Since launching in 2019, TymeBank has grown its customer base to over 11 million, establishing itself as one of South Africa’s leading digital banks. Jali also acknowledged outgoing CEO Westvig’s role in strengthening the bank’s commercial offering, enhancing its small business focus, and integrating Retail Capital into the Tyme ecosystem. Jacobs and Westvig will work together over the next three months to ensure a smooth transition. Cheslyn Jacobs “TymeBank has always been about challenging convention and making banking more accessible for all South Africans,” Jacobs said. “As we move into this next chapter, marked by a sharper focus on customer experience, I’m excited to build on the strong foundation our team has created.” Jacobs holds a BCom in Industrial Psychology from the University of the Western Cape and a Postgraduate Diploma in Business Management from the Gordon Institute of Business Science (GIBS), University of Pretoria. His prior experience includes roles at Standard Bank and Deloitte. He joined Tyme in 2012, became Head of Sales and Services in 2019, and was appointed Chief Commercial Officer in 2022, overseeing revenue generation and business growth.   Featured image credit: Edited by Fintech News Singapore, based on image by mrsiraphol via Freepik The post TymeBank Names Cheslyn Jacobs as New CEO appeared first on Fintech Singapore.

Ripple is expanding its institutional custody business with the acquisition of Palisade, a company that provides secure digital asset wallet infrastructure. Financial details of the deal were not disclosed. The acquisition strengthens Ripple’s custody offering for banks, fintechs, corporates, and crypto-native firms managing digital assets, stablecoins, and tokenised real-world assets. Palisade’s wallet-as-a-service model supports high-frequency transactions, payments, and multi-chain operations. Ripple said Palisade’s architecture combines governance and security features such as multi-party computation, zero-trust design, and DeFi integration. The technology will be built into Ripple Payments to support fast, secure transactions, including subscription payments and fund collections. Ripple Custody, already used by institutions such as DBS, Absa Bank, BBVA, and Societe Generale’s FORGE, acts as a secure vault for institutional crypto assets. It offers a tamper-proof audit trail, cryptographic approvals, and integrations with compliance providers Chainalysis and Elliptic. With more than 75 regulatory licenses and registrations globally, Ripple said it is positioned to bridge traditional and decentralised finance. The deal follows Ripple’s recent expansion in digital asset infrastructure, including acquisitions of prime broker Hidden Road (now Ripple Prime), stablecoin payments platform Rail, and treasury management provider GTreasury. Ripple said it has invested about US$4 billion in the crypto ecosystem through acquisitions and strategic investments. Monica Long “Corporates are poised to drive the next massive wave of crypto adoption. Just as we’ve seen major banks go from observing to actively building in crypto, corporates are now entering the market, and they need trusted, licensed partners with out-of-the-box capabilities. The combination of Ripple’s bank-grade vault and Palisade’s fast, lightweight wallet makes Ripple Custody the end-to-end provider for every institutional need, from long-term storage to real-time global payments and treasury management.” said Monica Long, President of Ripple.     Featured image: Edited by Fintech News Singapore, based on image by Freepik The post Ripple Acquires Palisade to Expand Institutional Crypto Custody Capabilities appeared first on Fintech Singapore.

The Singapore Fintech Festival (SFF) is returning this year from November 12 to 14, to celebrate its 10th anniversary and a decade of growth and innovation in fintech. This year’s festival is expected to once again bring together thousands of global leaders in finance, technology, and policy to explore the future of finance, focusing particularly on the key themes of artificial intelligence (AI), tokenization, and quantum computing. Beyond the main conference, SFF 2025 will offer a rich lineup of networking sessions, masterclasses, and matchmaking opportunities. These events will provide participants with valuable avenues to connect, collaborate, and build partnerships. Investors and mentors sessions SFF 2025 will feature specially curated lounges where investors and mentors will dedicate their time for one-on-one meetings. Participants will get to gain guidance and advice on startup ideas, funding, business growth, product-market fit, sales strategies, marketing strategies, careers advice and professional development. From November 12 to 14, the festival’s Investor Lounge will host a series of expert-led masterclasses and matchmaking sessions. On November 12, the Charting Your Next Exit, an Investor & Founder Workshop, organized by the Singapore Venture Capital and Private Equity Association (SVCA), will take place from 11:30am to 12:30pm, equipping venture capitalists (VCs) and growth investors with actionable insights on timing, structuring, and executing exits, from trade sales to initial public offerings (IPOs). Participants will hear from seasoned investors representing Quona Capital, Teja Ventures, Eurazeo, and CXA Group, who have navigated successful deals and gain practical perspectives on maximizing value. At 1:00 pm, the Turning Bad to Good: Navigating Down Rounds, an Investor Masterclass will address how investors and founders can handle challenging funding scenarios through effective dilution management and restructuring. This session will equip participants with actionable insights managing down rounds, common challenges and solutions, and secondary sales. On November 13, AWS and Endowus will host the Building and Scaling Modern Data Architectures for Fintechs in the AI Era session from 11:30am to 12:30pm. This session will share practical frameworks for designing and operating AI-enabled data platforms that support rapid innovation, resilience, and compliance in today’s competitive financial markets. The presentation will reveal considerations for AI-ready data architecture and using AWS to build a unified data and AI platform, enabling fast deployment of intelligent financial solutions and empowering their teams to deliver global products while maintaining local regulatory compliance. Attendees will gain actionable insights on leveraging AWS services to drive data quality, accelerate development, and support cost-efficient scaling, essential for fintech navigating both local and international expansion. They will also explore key architectural, operational, and strategic decisions behind scaling a leading wealthtech firm worldwide with an AI-ready data foundation. From 1:00 to 2:00 pm, the Mastering the Fundraise: From Term Sheets to Closing, a Startup Masterclass, hosted by Carta, will walk founders and investors through the entire fundraising journey, from valuation to due diligence. On November 14, the Mastering Start-Up Foundations: Legal and Economic Essentials for Founders Masterclass will empower founders with the essential knowledge to navigate the critical early stages of funding and building a startup. Participants will gain important insights into how to secure working capital but still maintain the flexibility they need to operate and scale their business. Through an interactive walkthrough of core concepts such as founder rights, protections, and term sheets, participants will develop a practical understanding of the legal considerations from incorporation through the first priced equity fundraise, the importance of adopting a set of shareholder terms that will allow founders to fundraise effectively across multiple fundraising rounds, and how dilution works and how to align economic incentives between investors and builders. Over these three days, the Investor Hours: Startup-Investor Matchmaking session will take place from 2:00pm to 5:00pm, allowing participants to connect directly with the startup community. Founders will get to showcase their startups to interested investors, gain valuable feedback and explore funding possibilities, while investors will get to engage with ambitious founders and discover potential investment opportunities. Pay-It-Forward sessions Running daily between November 12 and 14 at the Pay-It-Forward Lounge will be the Pay-It-Forward sessions. These events, scheduled from 1:00 to 5:00 pm, will connect aspiring fintech professionals with experienced mentors, aiming to nurture the next generation of fintech leaders through shared knowledge and collaboration. Participants will get to gain insights from experienced mentors and gain practical advice on building a career in domains such as product management, risk and compliance, AI and data, Web3, environmental, social and governance (ESG) standards, and ecosystem partnerships. They will also get to book 20-minute mentorship sessions for personalized advice. GFTN regional networking sessions Another recurring series on November 12 and 13 will be the Global Fintech Network (GFTN) Regional Networking and Market Insights sessions, spotlighting global fintech ecosystems and opportunities for cross-border collaboration. GFTN is an organization established by the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) in 2024 to expand Singapore’s fintech ecosystem globally. On these two days, GFTN will host a series of sessions at Hall 4’s GFTN Lounge, bringing together key players from the ecosystem from around the world including regulators, sponsors, exhibitors, and industry partners to explore opportunities and build meaningful connections. On November 12, sessions will focus on Africa at 2:00 pm, the Middle East at 4:00 pm, and Asia at 5:00 pm. On Thursday, November 13, discussions will shift to India at 2:00 pm, China at 3:30 pm, and Europe at 5:00 pm. Each event will provide participants with first-hand insights into regional fintech developments and pathways for partnership or investment. Country delegations and international engagements This year again, several international delegations will participate in SFF. In particular, Switzerland will have a dedicated exhibition area, dubbed the Swiss Pavilion, to promote Swiss innovation. Organized by Switzerland Global Enterprise and the Swiss Business Hub South East Asia Pacific, this pavilion will showcase Swiss fintech companies and their global leadership. Ahead of the main conference, Swiss banking giant UBS will host a Swiss fintech networking event at 9 Penang Road on November 11, featuring a delegation from Switzerland. This event will emphasize knowledge sharing and networking. On November 13, the SIX Community Event will further highlight Swiss leadership within the global fintech ecosystem. Casual networking sessions Beyond formal networking sessions, SFF attendees can also look forward to a series of more relaxed networking opportunities. On November 12, Fintech News Singapore will host the Breaking News (and Drinks) networking event. Taking place from 5:00 to 7:00 pm at BLVD Changi, this event will offer a relaxed evening for founders, investors, and industry professionals to share insights and connections in an informal setting. The networking event is designed to serve as a bridge between the end of Day  Singapore Fintech Festival sessions and the evening events around town. It’s just a 5-minute walk from the event hall, so instead of waiting an hour for a taxi, join us for a drink. (Registration is required.) Right after that, SFF participants will get to attend the SFF After Hours @ Boat Quay. Between 7:00 and 10:00 pm, attendees will get to unwind and connect with industry peers, thought leaders, and innovators along the Singapore River. Bar and restaurants will offer complimentary drinks and exclusive discounts for SFF 2025 participants. Finally, on November 14, Founders ROCK will take place at the MarketPlace @ EXPO. From 6:00 to 8:00 pm, this celebratory finale will bring together founders, regulators, and business leaders for a one-of-a-kind networking session, wrapping up SFF 2025 with an evening of live music performances, celebration, and community spirit.   Featured image: Edited by Fintech News Singapore, based on image by ake1150sb via Freepik The post Top Networking Sessions and Events to Join at the Singapore Fintech Festival 2025 appeared first on Fintech Singapore.

KPay has partnered with Flagright to automate risk detection and enhance AML controls across its payments platform. The partnership will see KPay adopt Flagright’s AI-native, no-code compliance platform to monitor transactions in real time and use AI forensics to trace complex transaction trails. The move strengthens oversight across KPay’s pay-in and pay-out network. KPay provides payment services for merchants, including smart POS and QR payments, payment links, gateways, and business accounts for SMEs that support express settlements and cross-border transfers. The company’s business account also offers express T+0 settlement and streamlined supplier payments. “We were looking for speed, accuracy, and auditability in one solution. With Flagright we can configure rules quickly, automate our customer risk profiles, streamline investigations with AI forensics, and document decisions end-to-end.” said Alan Wong, Director of Risk and Compliance at KPay. Baran Ozkan “We are excited to support KPay as they power payments for businesses across APAC. Together we will safeguard every transaction with modern, efficient financial crime controls.” said Baran Ozkan, Co-founder and CEO of Flagright.     Featured image: Edited by Fintech News Singapore, based on image by Frolopiaton Palm via Freepik The post KPay Partners with Flagright for Real-Time Payments Risk Monitoring appeared first on Fintech Singapore.

Global fintech firm Airwallex has achieved a major financial milestone, surpassing US$1 billion in annualised run rate (ARR) revenue in October. The company said it took nine years to reach its first US$500 million in ARR, while the next US$500 million was achieved in just over a year. Airwallex attributed the accelerated growth to rising adoption among businesses using multiple products, with about half of its customers now doing so, and the increasing number of “born-global” companies expanding across markets from day one. Jack Zhang CEO Jack Zhang said the milestone is tangible proof that businesses are moving beyond outdated financial systems. “It represents the trust that our customers place in us and our ability to address the needs of modern businesses as they scale across markets, currencies, and borders,” he said in a blog post. Among its clients is Turing, a San Francisco-based AI research accelerator that works with more than four million global experts. By consolidating its global payouts through Airwallex, Turing was able to replace multiple regional providers, speed up payments via local rails, and reduce operational costs through automation. Airwallex’s revenue is now more geographically diversified, with the Americas and EMEA contributing 35% compared with almost none three years ago. The firm plans to deepen its presence in Europe, North America, and key Asian markets while moving further upmarket to serve larger and more complex enterprises. Zhang said Airwallex’s decade-long investment in building proprietary financial infrastructure now allows it to build meaningful value with AI. “Fintechs that have invested in real infrastructure – licenses, payment networks, compliance, and data at scale – are best positioned to win the AI race in the CFO’s office,” he said. At its current annual growth rate of about 90%, Airwallex expects to double its ARR and surpass US$2 billion within the next 12 months. Zhang added that the next decade will focus on building brand equity and earning the trust of businesses globally, noting that brand creates “the deepest kind of compound value” as the company continues to expand worldwide.     Featured image: Edited by Fintech News Singapore, based on image by Freepik The post Airwallex Surpasses US$1 Billion in Annualised Revenue Amid Global Expansion appeared first on Fintech Singapore.

Travellers from China can now pay Thai merchants directly using Alipay, UnionPay, or WeChat Pay, as Thailand rolls out its long-awaited cross-border QR payment linkage. The Bank of Thailand (BOT) said the initiative connects the retail payment systems of both countries to support trade, investment, and tourism. It allows Chinese visitors to use familiar mobile payment apps to scan Thai QR codes at local merchants, making transactions faster and more convenient. The linkage was developed through collaboration between the National ITMX (NITMX) and the three Chinese payment providers, with Bangkok Bank and Krungthai Bank serving as the Thai settlement banks for cross-border transactions. At launch, participating Thai banks include Bangkok Bank, Krungthai Bank, Kasikornbank, Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (Thai), Siam Commercial Bank, and the Bank for Agriculture and Agricultural Co-operatives. Additional institutions such as Bank of Ayudhya, Government Savings Bank, Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation, and TMBThanachart Bank will join in the coming months. The BOT said the initiative reflects ongoing efforts to expand real-time cross-border payment linkages, offering consumers and businesses a secure, efficient, and cost-effective retail payment option. Thailand now has similar QR payment connections with Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, Japan, and Hong Kong.     Featured image: Edited by Fintech News Singapore, based on image by Freepik The post Thailand and China Officially Launch Cross-Border QR Payment Linkage appeared first on Fintech Singapore.

The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) has appointed Phua Wee Ling as Assistant Managing Director for Organisation and People Development, effective 1 January 2026. Currently Executive Director of Financial Centre Development, Phua will oversee the Organisation and People Development Group, which covers the People Development, Organisation Development and Communications, Legal, and Corporate Services departments, along with the MAS Academy. She succeeds Wong Zeng Yi, who will be seconded to Enterprise Singapore as Assistant Managing Director (Manufacturing) to support industry and enterprise development. Wong, who has led the group since 2021, introduced functional competency frameworks, launched a mentoring programme, and promoted upskilling in AI and data capabilities. He also strengthened product management functions, supported leadership development, and advanced MAS’s sustainability agenda through emission reduction targets and energy efficiency measures. Phua joined MAS in 2006 and has held roles across prudential policy, markets infrastructure, and financial centre development. Before that, she worked at Citibank Singapore and the Central Provident Fund Board.     Featured image: Edited by Fintech News Singapore, based on image by EyeEm via Freepik   The post MAS Appoints New Head to Lead Organisation and People Development Group appeared first on Fintech Singapore.

Indian payments platform Pine Labs has scaled back the size of its initial public offering, according to its latest filing with India’s market regulator as reported by Reuters. The offer will open on 7 November and close on 11 November 2025. Existing shareholders will now sell 82.3 million shares instead of the 147.8 million proposed in June, cutting the offer for sale by about 44 percent. The company will also issue fewer new shares, targeting 20.8 billion rupees, down roughly 20 percent from 26 billion rupees earlier. This translates to about US$236.6 million versus US$295.8 million previously planned. Investors trimming their stakes include Peak XV Partners, PayPal and Mastercard, along with Actis and Singapore’s Temasek. The filing does not state the reason for reducing the issue size. Pine Labs had earlier sought a valuation of up to US$6 billion when it filed in June. A separate Reuters report on the company’s price band of 210 to 221 rupees per share indicated the revised offering now values Pine Labs at up to 254 billion rupees (about US$2.9 billion). Pine Labs provides merchants with point-of-sale and digital payment solutions and competes with Paytm and Walmart-owned PhonePe.     Featured image: Edited by Fintech News Singapore, based on image by thanyakij-12 via Freepik The post Indian Fintech Pine Labs Trims IPO by Over 40% Ahead of November Launch appeared first on Fintech Singapore.

Singapore police have seized more than S$150 million in assets linked to Cambodian businessman Chen Zhi and his Prince Holding Group, after an island-wide operation on 30 October, according to The Straits Times. The Commercial Affairs Department said the seizure, connected to suspected money-laundering and forgery offences, covered six properties, bank and securities accounts, and cash. Other assets, including a yacht, 11 cars and bottles of liquor, were also placed under prohibition orders. Police confirmed that Chen and his known associates were not in Singapore when the enforcement took place. Investigations began in 2024 after the Suspicious Transaction Reporting Office received intelligence on Chen and his network. Singapore worked with foreign authorities to gather evidence as the suspected offences occurred abroad. Information from the U.S. and Britain on 14 October, following sanctions and charges against Chen and related parties for alleged forced-labour scam operations in Cambodia and the alleged laundering of illicit proceeds, prompted the operation. The enforcement was coordinated through the Anti-Money Laundering Case Coordination and Collaboration Network (AC3N), jointly led by the police and the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS). MAS said financial institutions had earlier filed suspicious-transaction reports and, in some cases, closed accounts linked to the group to prevent larger sums from entering Singapore’s financial system. The regulator added that it will conduct supervisory reviews of institutions connected to the case. Commercial Affairs Department director David Chew said the investigation involves a large transnational fraud network that exploits digital and financial infrastructure across jurisdictions. He said authorities will continue working with foreign and domestic partners to dismantle such organised networks. MAS assistant-managing director Loo Siew Yee said tackling financial crime requires global cooperation and strong public-private partnerships. She said MAS works closely with the police, international counterparts and financial institutions to safeguard Singapore’s financial system and remain alert to money-laundering risks. Investigations are ongoing. Former Malaysian central-bank governor Muhammad Ibrahim, who serves as an independent non-executive chairman at Prince Bank, previously emphasised that his role at the organisation is limited to governance, risk oversight and compliance under Cambodian regulations.     Featured image: Edited by Fintech News Singapore, based on image by Prince Group  The post Singapore Seizes S$150 Million After Global Authorities Act on Prince Group Case appeared first on Fintech Singapore.

DECTA, a global payment processing industry leader, has announced the expansion of its world-renowned Fintech Fast Track program to the APAC region. The news comes as DECTA will participate as an exhibitor at the Singapore Fintech Festival 2025 from 12 to 14 November 2025. Fintech Fast Track is a quarterly pilot program that helps high-potential fintechs in card issuing and acquiring scale faster through access to DECTA’s payment infrastructure, reduced pricing, and dedicated support. Selected fintech companies gain exclusive access to DECTA’s direct connections with major card networks—Visa, Mastercard, UnionPay International, and extensive networking opportunities. Gabriel Stefanak “We’re thrilled to bring Fintech Fast Track to the Asian territory and empower the next generation of fintech pioneers across the region. The APAC region is one of the fastest-growing markets for fintech in the world today. Thus, we believe this program’s resources are just what they need to expedite their route to market.” said Gabriel Stefanak, Payment Expert at DECTA DECTA will support licensed Electronic Money Institutions (EMIs), Payment Institutions (PIs), and other qualified fintechs across APAC by providing regulatory support, expedited infrastructure launch, low-scrutiny configuration and implementation fees, and vital competitive advantage positioning. Subsequently, one issuer and one acquirer are chosen quarterly to take part in the program. How to Apply for the Fintech Fast Track Fintech companies interested in joining the Fintech Fast Track program can submit their applications through DECTA’s official website. Applicants must hold or be in the process of obtaining an EMI, PI, or similar license and present a clear business plan focused on innovation in the fintech space. The application process involves: 1. Online Application – Complete the short application form on DECTA’s website. 2. Eligibility Review – DECTA’s team, together with the Mastercard and Visa teams, will review regulatory status, operational readiness, and business goals to make a joint selection. 3. Consultation – Selected applicants may be invited to a consultation with a DECTA specialist to explore partnership potential. 4. Program Enrollment – Successful applicants will be onboarded into the Fintech Fast Track program for the upcoming quarterly cohort. To apply or learn more, visit the Fintech Fast Track page. DECTA at the Singapore Fintech Festival The Singapore FinTech Festival is the world’s largest fintech event, attracting global leaders, regulators, and innovators from across the financial ecosystem. As an exhibitor, DECTA not only showcases its payment solutions but also offers expert-level sessions to connect with fintechs, regulators, and investors interested in opportunities in Asia. In addition, exclusive networking will take place at the European Fintech Forum 2025 on 11 November at The Capitol Kempinski Hotel in Singapore, bringing together senior executives, policymakers, and innovators from Europe and Asia for an evening of high-level discussions and collaboration. “The Singapore Fintech Festival is a perfect venue for DECTA to connect with the fintech community across APAC and share our insight into how collaboration can accelerate innovation,” added Stefanak.     Featured image: Edited by Fintech News Singapore, based on image by EyeEm via Freepik The post DECTA Expands Fintech Fast Track to Asia, Joins Singapore Fintech Festival 2025 appeared first on Fintech Singapore.

Nium has strengthened its presence in Latin America after receiving a payment institution license from the Central Bank of Brazil. The license allows Nium to offer locally regulated services, including PIX, TEDs, boletos, and prepaid card issuance once operational. Already serving Brazilian clients through global licenses, Nium can now onboard and operate directly in Brazil, improving efficiency and enabling faster domestic and cross-border transactions. The company is integrating with PIX, forming partnerships with local financial institutions, and plans to apply for a foreign exchange license to expand its cross-border reach. Nium said that while USD remains dominant in global B2B flows, over 95% of its payments now run on local rails, improving speed, transparency, and cost efficiency. Latin America accounted for 18% of Nium’s total transactions in 2025. Prajit Nanu Prajit Nanu, Founder and CEO of Nium, said, “Securing regulatory approval from the Central Bank of Brazil validates our commitment to building deeply local solutions in the world’s fastest-growing markets. This license gives us the foundation to deliver seamless domestic and international money movement for businesses in Brazil, doing so with the speed and compliance they expect from a global partner.”     Featured image: Edited by Fintech News Singapore, based on image by Freepik   The post Nium Secures Payment Institution License to Expand Direct Operations in Brazil appeared first on Fintech Singapore.

Singapore authorities have arrested 38 people for their suspected involvement in selling or renting out YouTrip accounts to scam syndicates, according to the Singapore Police Force (SPF). Channel News Asia reported that the arrests followed a surge in scam cases across September and October, during which victims were deceived into making payments through fraudulent PayNow QR codes generated via the YouTrip app. The suspects, aged between 15 and 52, were taken into custody during a four-day islandwide operation conducted from October 28 to 31. Nine others, aged 16 to 55, are also assisting in investigations. Preliminary findings suggest that scammers may have used these accounts to facilitate various types of fraud, including e-commerce, job, rental, investment, and impersonation scams. Victims were reportedly instructed to scan PayNow QR codes, resulting in funds being transferred directly into the scammers’ YouTrip wallets. Police said some of those arrested are believed to have provided their payment cards and login credentials, allowing syndicates to withdraw money. In several instances, the funds were allegedly withdrawn from overseas ATMs or transferred online shortly after the scams took place. Investigations also found that a 55-year-old woman, one of those arrested, was herself a victim of an internet love scam who had opened a YouTrip account under instructions from scammers and lost about S$300,000. Telegram Used to Recruit Suspected YouTrip Money Mules YouTrip stated that PayNow QR codes generated through its platform are intended only for topping up a user’s own wallet, not for transferring money to others. The police noted that some suspected money mules were recruited through Telegram messages offering quick cash in exchange for renting or selling payment accounts. Since September, more than 300 such Telegram accounts have been disrupted. The suspects are being investigated for offences including cheating, facilitating unauthorised access to computer material, and money laundering. Cheating carries a jail term of up to three years, a fine, or both. Facilitating unauthorised computer access may result in up to two years’ jail, a fine, or both, while money laundering carries a similar penalty. New measures introduced in October restrict access to financial, telecommunications, and digital identity services for individuals identified as scam mules. Depending on their assessed risk, they may be barred from making ATM withdrawals, using online banking, or opening new accounts. The SPF reminded the public not to share bank or payment account details with others, warning that account holders may still be held accountable if their accounts are linked to criminal activities.     Featured image: Edited by Fintech News Singapore, based on image by fukume via Freepik The post Singapore Police Arrest 38 Over Alleged Sale, Rental of YouTrip Accounts to Scammers appeared first on Fintech Singapore.