Kia ora,
Last month, I discussed our continued engagement with Hon Andrew Bayley, marking a new high point for sector collaboration. We’re preparing for a third meeting to address key topics including reducing licensing barriers for digital banks, surcharge fees feedback and the possibility of developing a fintech sandbox with some incorporated thinking on identity verification, cryptocurrency and web3. As these discussions continue, we’re making progress and being heard.
In local news, Emerge raised $12 million in a Series A round, reflecting a strong collaborative funding ecosystem with the raise led by Altered Capital and background participation from NZFintech Fund and The Icehouse. Last week the NZBA announced the Confirmation of Payee services by retail banks. Congratulations to our member Raidiam and obconnect who developed this solution, further highlighting the importance of partnerships. We’re also looking forward to the release of the Aotearoa New Zealand Open Banking Ecosystem report and hope to make it available the very next day for our Annual Meeting on 6 November.
Have your say! The Reserve Bank of New Zealand (RBNZ) is reviewing its Exchange Settlement Account System (ESAS) policies with implications for open banking. Expanding access to ESAS will foster innovation, driving new opportunities for fintech development. Provide your feedback by 18 November. Learn more.
This week, we’re supporting Cyber Smart Week’s campaign encouraging us to all create long, unique passwords and use 2FA for additional security. Find out more.
Finally, if you’re a new or emerging fintech, take advantage of the pitching and display opportunities at our forthcoming FinTechNZ Hui Taumata (more below). We’re about to open applications and have 10 spots available.
Ngā mihi nui
Jason Roberts
Executive Director
Read the full news here: Power in partnership
