The Africa and Middle East Depositories Association (AMEDA) participated in the highly anticipated TradingTech Summit MENA 2024, held in Bahrain on November 25. Organised by Bahrain Bourse in collaboration with the Arab Federation of Capital Markets, and A-Team Group, the summit brought together over 300 industry experts and professionals from stock exchanges, financial regulators, brokerage firms, financial advisory services, and trading technology providers. The summit focused on the latest advancements in trading technology, with a particular emphasis on the growing use of artificial intelligence in trading. Discussions also covered the implementation of voice and electronic trading surveillance systems, smart order routing, and updates to post-trading processes. These innovations are transforming how financial markets operate, improving both efficiency and transparency. Abdulla Abdin, Chief Operating Officer at Bahrain Clear B.S.C. and President of AMEDA, underscored the summit's strategic importance as a key platform for fostering technological innovation in the region's financial markets. The rapid advancements in financial technology have fundamentally reshaped trading practices, said Abdin. These changes not only enhance operational efficiency but also help investors gain more accurate insights into market trends. AMEDA's president also emphasised the increasing significance of financial markets in the Middle East and North Africa, driven by the adoption of cutting-edge tools such as artificial intelligence, blockchain technology, and big data solutions. He explained that AMEDA is committed to participating in events that promote investment and support mechanisms that will ensure the resilience and growth of these markets. The TradingTech Summit MENA provided an invaluable opportunity for knowledge sharing and the exchange of innovative solutions to the challenges and opportunities facing global financial markets, Abdin noted. It highlighted the technological tools that drive economic development and bolster investor confidence. Further reinforcing AMEDA's commitment to advancing financial markets, Abdin reiterated that his organisation is focused on improving the efficiency of member markets, advancing infrastructure, and fostering global integration. AMEDA's goal is to link its member markets with international financial hubs, attracting greater investment and ensuring their continued growth, he added. AMEDA's participation in the summit also aligns with the memorandum of understanding signed with the Arab Federation of Capital Markets, which promotes cooperation, partnerships, and information exchange. Abdin highlighted the Bahrain Summit's crucial role in sharing insights and staying updated on the latest developments to support the growth and success of AMEDA's member markets. Founded in 2005, AMEDA is a non-profit organisation composed of central securities depositories (CSDs) and clearing companies from across Africa and the Middle East. Its mission is to enhance market efficiency, improve infrastructure, and promote global integration. Today, AMEDA boasts 40 members from more than 30 countries, continuing to drive progress in the region's financial markets.
