Latest news with #FinTech
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
RBC joins Massachusetts Institute of Technology's (MIT) CSAIL fintech research initiative on the role of AI in the future of finance
TORONTO, July 18, 2025 /CNW/ - RBC today announced its membership in FinTechAI@CSAIL, an initiative at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology's (MIT) Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory (CSAIL), a premier research institution for computing and artificial intelligence (AI). CSAIL's fintech initiative, FinTechAI@CSAIL will examine AI's role in the future of finance. RBC recently announced its ambition to generate $700 million to $1 billion in value derived from AI by 2027 and is recognized as an AI leader in the financial space, ranking third among 50 global banks for AI maturity in the Evident AI index. "We believe Canada's future as a world leader in artificial intelligence requires us to work together as a community to bolster and grow the full AI ecosystem from institutes and universities to start-ups and companies," added Foteini Agrafioti, SVP Data & AI, RBC. "This collaboration reflects RBC's commitment to collaborate with leading research institutions that drive real-world value while upholding the bank's responsible AI principles which ensure that high standards of accountability, fairness, privacy and security, and transparency continue to be upheld in all of RBC's AI efforts." The MIT membership will provide RBC with access to talent, including CSAIL's graduate students, increased recruitment opportunities as well as participation in technical briefings and educational workshops. During its three-year membership, RBC will have early access to cutting-edge research across areas critical to the future of financial services including machine learning, predictive analytics, secure computation, cybersecurity, and data science. RBC will participate in executive boards, research reviews, and innovation pilots, helping to inform the direction of emerging technologies while building stronger links between academia and industry. RBC and FinTechAI@CSAIL will conduct machine learning research in areas such as explainability, bias mitigation, and LLM safety – key pillars of responsible AI – as well as emerging applications in cyber security and financial crime prevention. "RBC is constantly exploring ways to connect research with real-world impact," says Greg Mori, VP, RBC Fellow, RBC Borealis. "Working with FinTechAI@CSAIL allows us to access early-stage innovations that can help us build better, smarter, and more secure financial solutions. This collaboration between AI scientists in RBC Borealis and MIT will create technologies that will help shape the future of financial services and FinTechAI@CSAIL's leading edge research in responsible AI will be critical to the advancement of the field." MIT CSAIL Director Professor Daniela Rus says, "I am excited to work with our initiative members to advance the foundations of AI and enable new capabilities for the fintech industry sector. Together, we aim to develop intelligent, trustworthy, and transformative fintech AI solutions that can shape the future of global finance." About RBCRoyal Bank of Canada is a global financial institution with a purpose-driven, principles-led approach to delivering leading performance. Our success comes from the 97,000+ employees who leverage their imaginations and insights to bring our vision, values and strategy to life so we can help our clients thrive and communities prosper. As Canada's biggest bank and one of the largest in the world, based on market capitalization, we have a diversified business model with a focus on innovation and providing exceptional experiences to our more than 19 million clients in Canada, the U.S. and 27 other countries. Learn more at We are proud to support a broad range of community initiatives through donations, community investments and employee volunteer activities. See how at For more information, please contact:Briana D'Archi, RBC Corporate Communications SOURCE RBC View original content to download multimedia: Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Zawya
2 days ago
- Business
- Zawya
Ghana: President Mahama welcomes London Mayor
President John Dramani Mahama on Thursday reaffirmed Ghana's firm commitment to international trade and investment, outlining the wide-ranging reforms actively fostering economic transformation and better governance. He was speaking during a courtesy call from the Mayor of London, Sir Sadiq Khan. The President stated that these strategic reforms, begun just six months into his administration, are already showing tangible results. He spoke about the renewed business confidence, the relative appreciation of the Cedi, and a decreasing inflation rate as important signs of economic stability and progress, especially after recent global challenges and inherited public debt burdens. 'We are striving to cultivate a new sense of thinking, a fresh approach to doing things, and to ensure that we effectively serve the people who elected us to lead,' President Mahama stated. He elaborated on key government initiatives, including the '24-Hour Economy' policy, drawing inspiration from London, a city he described as 'never sleeping.' The President explained, 'We've launched a 24-Hour Economy initiative to harness Ghana's vibrant youthful population and address the challenges of rapid urbanisation by promoting continuous economic activity and opportunities.' President Mahama further emphasised Ghana's burgeoning digital landscape, indicating the country's readiness to fully integrate into the global FinTech community with numerous digital services and innovative companies emerging across the country. He also reiterated the government's strong focus on agriculture and agribusiness as vital sectors for creating more opportunities, particularly for young people. Discussions between the two leaders also delved into the deep historical and business ties connecting Accra and London. President Mahama acknowledged Accra's rapid growth and expressed Ghana's keen interest in learning from London's extensive expertise in urban planning, efficient transport systems, modern waste management solutions, and effective flood control strategies. 'For a city like London, the efficiency of your transport system, even with perceived challenges, is truly remarkable,' the President noted, adding, 'We aspire to develop similar reliable systems where punctuality is the norm for our citizens.' In his remarks, Mayor Sir Sadiq Khan congratulated President Mahama on his re-election and commended the positive signals his administration is sending to the international community regarding Ghana's potential. He praised the invaluable contributions of Londoners of Ghanaian origin, who are enriching various sectors of the city's economy and public life, from healthcare and transport to the arts. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Presidency, Republic of Ghana.
Globe and Mail
3 days ago
- Business
- Globe and Mail
EPIC 2025 Outdid Itself with Record-High 1,200 Applications
Doubled from last year with 87% entering the Hong Kong startup competition from overseas Hong Kong SAR--(Newsfile Corp. - July 17, 2025) - EPIC 2025, organised by Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP), has reached new heights with the 9 th edition seeing an influx of global applications hitting close to 1,200, entering from more than 70 economies, setting a record for the I&T arena gaining global recognition, and regional representation for the development of I&T ecosystems. EPIC 2025 received 1,200 applications from 70+ economies. To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: With the application period open from March to June, the response to participating in one of Asia's largest innovation arenas has been taken by storm. Where global startups with solutions in Digital Health Tech, FinTech, and Green Tech will be seen at 60-second pitches to get through to an unprecedented US$100M targeted investment funding and US$240,000 cash prizes, backed by 20 global financial and corporate partners that manage collectively of an AUM close to US$100B and operate across Asia, Europe and North America. Monetary payoff aside, business matching and investment opportunities, as well as an extensive experience will be made available throughout EPIC Week --putting innovative solutions on display for potential investors and corporate decision makers with Tech Spotlight, and pulling a glimpse into the vast opportunities of the cities with Greater Bay Area Exploration guided tour--the series of highlights entailing complimentary flight and accommodation sponsored (* T&C applies) to contestants overseas, are set to enable mid- to late-stage startups to grow from indigenous names to international labels. "First time ever that we're met with over a thousand applications, it's a feat right off the bat--we're expecting to see more aspiring tech gurus and their auspicious ideas rise to this year's shifts," said Albert Wong, CEO of HKSTP. Currently in the works, multiple regional pitching sessions will be held July to August, for the best and brightest in US, Europe, APAC and Hong Kong, to show and tell a story of their visions, where only the top 100 will be making it to the next round into the finals, taking place in November at Kai Tak Cruise Terminal, Hong Kong's former international airport furbished to be a runway for an expedition in tech. Please visit for more details. The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. HKSTP Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP) was established in 2001 to create a thriving I&T ecosystem grooming 13 unicorns, more than 15,000 research professionals and over 2,300 technology companies from 25 countries and regions focused on developing healthtech, AI and robotics, fintech and smart city technologies, etc. Our growing innovation ecosystem offers comprehensive support to attract and nurture talent, accelerate and commercialise innovation for technology ventures, with the I&T journey built around our key locations of Hong Kong Science Park in Pak Shek Kok, InnoCentre in Kowloon Tong and three modern InnoParks in Tai Po, Tseung Kwan O and Yuen Long realising a vision of new industrialisation for Hong Kong, where sectors including advanced manufacturing, micro-electronics and biotechnology are being reimagined. Hong Kong Science Park Shenzhen Branch in Futian, Shenzhen plays positive roles in connecting the world and the mainland with our proximity, strengthening cross-border exchange to bring advantages in attracting global talent and allowing possibilities for the development of technology companies in seven key areas: Medtech, big data and AI, robotics, new materials, microelectronics, fintech and sustainability, with both dry and wet laboratories, co-working space, conference and exhibition facilities, and more. Through our R&D infrastructure, startup support and enterprise services, commercialisation and investment expertise, partnership networks and talent traction, HKSTP continues to contribute in establishing I&T as a pillar of growth for Hong Kong. More information about HKSTP is available at
Yahoo
3 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
EPIC 2025 Outdid Itself with Record-High 1,200 Applications
Doubled from last year with 87% entering the Hong Kong startup competition from overseas Hong Kong SAR--(Newsfile Corp. - July 17, 2025) - EPIC 2025, organised by Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP), has reached new heights with the 9th edition seeing an influx of global applications hitting close to 1,200, entering from more than 70 economies, setting a record for the I&T arena gaining global recognition, and regional representation for the development of I&T ecosystems. EPIC 2025 received 1,200 applications from 70+ economies. To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: With the application period open from March to June, the response to participating in one of Asia's largest innovation arenas has been taken by storm. Where global startups with solutions in Digital Health Tech, FinTech, and Green Tech will be seen at 60-second pitches to get through to an unprecedented US$100M targeted investment funding and US$240,000 cash prizes, backed by 20 global financial and corporate partners that manage collectively of an AUM close to US$100B and operate across Asia, Europe and North America. Monetary payoff aside, business matching and investment opportunities, as well as an extensive experience will be made available throughout EPIC Week--putting innovative solutions on display for potential investors and corporate decision makers with Tech Spotlight, and pulling a glimpse into the vast opportunities of the cities with Greater Bay Area Exploration guided tour--the series of highlights entailing complimentary flight and accommodation sponsored (*T&C applies) to contestants overseas, are set to enable mid- to late-stage startups to grow from indigenous names to international labels. "First time ever that we're met with over a thousand applications, it's a feat right off the bat--we're expecting to see more aspiring tech gurus and their auspicious ideas rise to this year's shifts," said Albert Wong, CEO of HKSTP. Currently in the works, multiple regional pitching sessions will be held July to August, for the best and brightest in US, Europe, APAC and Hong Kong, to show and tell a story of their visions, where only the top 100 will be making it to the next round into the finals, taking place in November at Kai Tak Cruise Terminal, Hong Kong's former international airport furbished to be a runway for an expedition in tech. Please visit for more details. The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. HKSTP Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP) was established in 2001 to create a thriving I&T ecosystem grooming 13 unicorns, more than 15,000 research professionals and over 2,300 technology companies from 25 countries and regions focused on developing healthtech, AI and robotics, fintech and smart city technologies, etc. Our growing innovation ecosystem offers comprehensive support to attract and nurture talent, accelerate and commercialise innovation for technology ventures, with the I&T journey built around our key locations of Hong Kong Science Park in Pak Shek Kok, InnoCentre in Kowloon Tong and three modern InnoParks in Tai Po, Tseung Kwan O and Yuen Long realising a vision of new industrialisation for Hong Kong, where sectors including advanced manufacturing, micro-electronics and biotechnology are being reimagined. Hong Kong Science Park Shenzhen Branch in Futian, Shenzhen plays positive roles in connecting the world and the mainland with our proximity, strengthening cross-border exchange to bring advantages in attracting global talent and allowing possibilities for the development of technology companies in seven key areas: Medtech, big data and AI, robotics, new materials, microelectronics, fintech and sustainability, with both dry and wet laboratories, co-working space, conference and exhibition facilities, and more. Through our R&D infrastructure, startup support and enterprise services, commercialisation and investment expertise, partnership networks and talent traction, HKSTP continues to contribute in establishing I&T as a pillar of growth for Hong Kong. More information about HKSTP is available at Media Contact: Sam To view the source version of this press release, please visit
Arabian Post
3 days ago
- Business
- Arabian Post
EPIC 2025 Outdid Itself with Record-High 1,200 Applications
Doubled from last year with 87% entering the Hong Kong startup competition from overseas HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 17 July 2025 – EPIC 2025, organised by Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP), has reached new heights with the 9th edition saw an influx of global applications hitting close to 1,200, entering from more than 70 economies, setting a record for the I&T arena gaining global recognition, and regional representation for the development of I&T ecosystems. EPIC 2025 received 1,200 applications from 70+ economies. With the application period open from March to June, the response to participating in one of Asia's largest innovation arenas has been taken by storm. Where global startups with solutions in Digital Health Tech, FinTech, and Green Tech will be seen at 60-second pitches to get through to an unprecedented US$100M targeted investment funding and US$240,000 cash prizes, backed by 20 global financial and corporate partners that manage collectively of an AUM close to US$100B and operate across Asia, Europe and North America. ADVERTISEMENT Monetary payoff aside, business matching and investment opportunities, as well as an extensive experience will be made available throughout EPIC Week––putting innovative solutions on display for potential investors and corporate decision makers with Tech Spotlight, and pulling a glimpse into the vast opportunities of the cities with Greater Bay Area Exploration guided tour––the series of highlights entailing complimentary flight and accommodation sponsored (*T&C applies) to contestants overseas, are set to enable mid- to late-stage startups to grow from indigenous names to international labels. 'First time ever that we're met with over a thousand applications, it's a feat right off the bat––we're expecting to see more aspiring tech gurus and their auspicious ideas rise to this year's shifts,' said Albert Wong, CEO of HKSTP. Currently in the works, multiple regional pitching sessions will be held July to August, for the best and brightest in US, Europe, APAC and Hong Kong, to show and tell a story of their visions, where only the top 100 will be making it to the next round into the finals, taking place in November at Kai Tak Cruise Terminal, Hong Kong's former international airport furbished to be a runway for an expedition in tech. Please visit for more #HKSTP The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. HKSTP Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP) was established in 2001 to create a thriving I&T ecosystem grooming 13 unicorns, more than 15,000 research professionals and over 2,300 technology companies from 25 countries and regions focused on developing healthtech, AI and robotics, fintech and smart city technologies, etc. Our growing innovation ecosystem offers comprehensive support to attract and nurture talent, accelerate and commercialise innovation for technology ventures, with the I&T journey built around our key locations of Hong Kong Science Park in Pak Shek Kok, InnoCentre in Kowloon Tong and three modern InnoParks in Tai Po, Tseung Kwan O and Yuen Long realising a vision of new industrialisation for Hong Kong, where sectors including advanced manufacturing, micro-electronics and biotechnology are being reimagined. Hong Kong Science Park Shenzhen Branch in Futian, Shenzhen plays positive roles in connecting the world and the mainland with our proximity, strengthening cross-border exchange to bring advantages in attracting global talent and allowing possibilities for the development of technology companies in seven key areas: Medtech, big data and AI, robotics, new materials, microelectronics, fintech and sustainability, with both dry and wet laboratories, co-working space, conference and exhibition facilities, and more. Through our R&D infrastructure, startup support and enterprise services, commercialisation and investment expertise, partnership networks and talent traction, HKSTP continues to contribute in establishing I&T as a pillar of growth for Hong Kong. More information about HKSTP is available at
