Latest news with #Belatik
Biz Bahrain
26-06-2025
- Business
- Biz Bahrain
CIBAFI Launches GIBS 2025 Report on AI and Data Analytics and the Digital Momentum Guide
The General Council for Islamic Banks and Financial Institutions (CIBAFI), the global umbrella of Islamic financial institutions, successfully held today a webinar titled 'AI and Data Analytics: Revolutionizing Islamic Banking Operations and Services,' marking the soft launch of the tenth edition of the Global Islamic Bankers' Survey (GIBS) 2025 Report. This edition of the GIBS Report explores the expanding role of artificial intelligence (AI) and data analytics in transforming Islamic banking operations, service delivery, and risk management. It captures insights from 105 executives across 29 countries, providing valuable regional perspectives and industry benchmarks. The webinar opened with remarks from Dr. Abdelilah Belatik, Secretary General of CIBAFI, who stated: 'Marking the 10th anniversary of the GIBS initiative, this year's findings reflect an industry on the brink of a technological shift. While AI adoption is still early, its strategic value is increasingly recognized. CIBAFI's role is to support this transition through dialogue, research, and capacity building. We hope this milestone report will guide Islamic financial institutions in shaping effective, forward-looking AI strategies.' Following Dr. Belatik's remarks, Ms. Jenni Denniston, Director of Business Development at Ivey Business School, announced the upcoming Joint Executive Programme with CIBAFI, aimed at equipping executive managers with strategic leadership skills in AI and digital transformation within Islamic banking. Dr. Muhammad Bilal, Project Manager – Research & Regulatory Affairs, shared insights from the GIBS, such as the growing strategic importance of AI in Islamic banking. He noted that adoption remains limited due to high costs, lack of expertise, and concerns over cybersecurity and credit risks. The webinar also featured expert insights from distinguished speakers, including Mr. Peter Casey, Consultant; Dr. Ahmed Tahiri Jouti, Founder of NeuronAIze and Managing Partner at Green For South; and Mr. Yasser Rahrovani, Associate Professor, Information Systems, Ivey Business School, who shared practical perspectives on the evolving digital landscape in Islamic finance. The session was moderated by Mr. Rachid Ettaai, Business Development Manager, CIBAFI. CIBAFI extends its sincere appreciation to its Supporting Partner, DDCAP Group, for their valuable contribution to the successful launch of the GIBS 2025 Report and continued support in promoting innovation in the Islamic financial services industry. In conjunction with the webinar, CIBAFI also launched the Digital Momentum Guide: Impact on Islamic Banks and Guidelines for Adaptability, which offers practical insights and strategies for Islamic banks to remain agile, innovative, and Shariah-compliant in an evolving digital landscape. To download Digital Momentum: Impact on Islamic Banks and Guidelines for Adaptability, click here.
Biz Bahrain
27-02-2025
- Business
- Biz Bahrain
Charting the Future of Islamic Finance in Russia: CIBAFI and TIDA Host Strategic Session and Training Programme
The General Council for Islamic Banks and Financial Institutions (CIBAFI), in collaboration with the Tatarstan Investment Development Agency (TIDA), successfully hosted a high-level strategic session titled 'Prospects for Islamic Finance in the Russian Federation' in Kazan, Tatarstan. The session brought together key stakeholders, industry leaders, and policymakers to shape the strategic direction of Islamic finance in the region and explore collaboration between the Russian Federation and established Islamic financial markets. The event was inaugurated by Dr. Abdelilah Belatik, Secretary General of CIBAFI, and Mrs. Taliya Minullina, CEO of TIDA. Dr. Belatik stated: 'Islamic finance has strong growth potential, and collaboration between Russia and countries where it is well established can accelerate its development. It offers opportunities for economic growth by supporting real economic activities and promoting ethical finance. CIBAFI remains committed to this progress through advocacy, capacity building, and industry engagement. By strengthening human capital and refining regulations, we can drive sustainable growth that benefits the financial sector and the broader economy' Ms. Minullina stated: 'Our companies are actively working with Islamic countries, and while the use of Islamic financial instruments is still in its early stages, there is noticeable progress and significant potential for growth. It is crucial for us to establish a comprehensive infrastructure to accelerate this process. Today, we have launched a new training phase aimed at deepening the knowledge of our specialists and enhancing their capabilities for the future development of Islamic banking in Russia. It is important to note that this training is conducted by global experts with international professional standards.' Following the opening remarks, Dr. Belatik provided a briefing on CIBAFI's activities, emphasizing its role in advancing Islamic finance through advocacy, research, and capacity-building initiatives. The session then featured a panel discussion, where experts examined key challenges, opportunities, and regulatory considerations for the industry's growth in Russia. As part of its ongoing efforts, CIBAFI also launched a three-day Orientation Programme in Islamic Finance, offering a comprehensive understanding of Islamic finance principles, key financial products, and Shariah-compliant structures. The programme, facilitated by Dr. Ayman Sami Homoud, Group Chief Executive Officer, FEH Consulting combined theoretical knowledge with practical applications in Islamic finance, addressing emerging trends and regulatory developments. In conjunction with the strategic session and training programme, Dr. Belatik held a productive meeting with H.E. Rustam Nurgaliyevich Minnikhanov, President of the Republic of Tatarstan, in Kazan. The meeting was also attended by Ms. Taliya Minullina, CEO of the TIDA, who represented the interests of the region's investment and development initiatives. Discussions focused on key initiatives and potential avenues for collaboration in supporting Islamic finance and raising public awareness. The meeting concluded with strategic plans set to be implemented in the coming period. This initiative reaffirms CIBAFI's commitment to strengthening Islamic finance globally through capacity-building and industry collaboration.
