Fostering Fintech Innovation: MTU Hosts Engaging Event on Emerging Irish Funds
Munster Technological University (MTU) Bishopstown Campus recently hosted an insightful event titled Fostering Fintech Innovation in Funds and Financial Services. This event brought together prominent speakers from various sectors, including Enterprise Ireland, IDA Ireland, and the Central Bank of Ireland (CBI), to discuss the technological advancements reshaping the funds and financial services landscape.
The Importance of Collaboration in the Financial Sector
Now in its second year, this event highlighted the increasing significance of collaboration between academia and industry. It aligns with the Irish government’s emphasis on maintaining the nation’s competitive edge in asset management and fund operations. In a pivotal move, former Minister of Finance, Michael McGrath TD, announced a comprehensive examination of the fund sector in 2023, leading to the creation of the 2030 Fund Sector Framework. This framework aims to foster open, resilient, and progressive markets.
Key Insights on Technological Challenges and Opportunities
The discussions at the event focused on the challenges faced by the financial services sector, as well as the emerging opportunities driven by technological innovation. Speakers emphasized the necessity for decision-makers and regulators to understand and adapt to the evolving fintech landscape, ensuring Ireland remains at the forefront of financial services.
Esteemed Speakers Sharing Their Expertise
The event featured a lineup of industry leaders who shared their insights and experiences. The speakers included:
- Karl Aherne – Managing Director, Innovation and Ventures, Fexco
- Fiona Charles – CEO, Premfina Ireland
- John Redmond – Product Owner, Citco Document Intelligence, CITCO
- David Tighe – Innovation Strategy Manager, CBI Innovation Hub, Central Bank of Ireland
- Patrick Doyle – Regional Director of the Southwest, IDA Ireland
- Bernie Neville – Senior Development Advisor, Enterprise Ireland
Feedback from Organizers and Participants
Aisling O’Mahony, representing the Funds Academy at MTU, expressed her excitement about the successful collaboration with Irish Funds. She stated, “We are absolutely delighted to have collaborated with Irish Funds to bring this event to Cork for the second consecutive year. The project has opened doors for various tailored programs and events.”
Frank Carley from Irish Funds also shared his enthusiasm, noting, “We were thrilled with the success of the Irish event in the series of speakers focused on technology and innovation in the Irish fund sector. This marks the second consecutive year of our collaboration with the Funds Academy at MTU.”
The Role of the Funds Academy in the Industry
Established in March 2021 through collaboration between MTU and South East Technological University (SETU), the Funds Academy aims to enhance executive education within the fund industry, supported by funding from the Higher Education Authority’s HCI Pillar 3 initiative. This initiative seeks to foster talent and innovation crucial for the growth of the financial sector in Ireland.
Looking Forward: The Future of Fintech in Ireland
The Irish Funds Speakers Series serves as an engaging platform to connect experts, innovators, and thought leaders in the financial technology industry. As the representative body for the international investment fund and asset management community in Ireland, Irish Funds is dedicated to keeping the industry leaders informed and engaged in the rapidly changing financial landscape.
For more information about the Funds Academy and their initiatives, visit www.fundsacademy.ie.