The Africa and Middle East Depositories Association (AMEDA) is set to host its 41st annual forum in Lagos, Nigeria, from April 23 to 25, 2025. It will bring together key stakeholders to discuss the future of financial markets and infrastructures in fostering economic growth across the region. Organised in collaboration with the Central Securities Clearing System (CSCS) Plc, this year's conference is themed, Shaping the Future: Financial Markets & Infrastructures as Catalysts for Transforming Economies. The three-day event will serve as a platform for dialogue on innovation, regulatory evolution, and the transformative potential of market infrastructure in the digital era. Abdulla Abdin, President of AMEDA, emphasized the significance of this year's forum, noting its relevance amid ongoing shifts in global and regional financial landscapes. "The 41st edition of the AMEDA Conference provides an exceptional platform to explore the challenges and opportunities presented by infrastructure for achieving digital transformation and economic growth in the region," he said. Abdin added that the event will delve into critical issues such as regulatory developments, cybersecurity, and emerging technologies. The conference will also focus on strengthening regional partnerships and sharing best practices among securities markets in Africa and the Middle East. AMEDA Secretary General Riham Khedr highlighted the importance of strategic cooperation among member states. "This forum represents an important opportunity to highlight the latest global standards in central depository practices, enabling knowledge transfer and capacity building among members," she said. Khedr also stressed the need for innovation in financial services and the role of infrastructure in fostering long-term economic resilience. In his remarks, Wael Al-Sersawi, Assistant Secretary-General for Legal Affairs and Government Relations, reiterated AMEDA's commitment to aligning with international best practices. He pointed to the organisation's continuous efforts in developing regulatory and legislative frameworks that support sustainable growth, economic integration, and innovation among member states. Founded in 2005, AMEDA is a non-profit body comprised of Central Securities Depositories and Clearing Houses from over 30 countries in Africa and the Middle East. With more than 40 members, the organization is dedicated to enhancing cooperation, strengthening financial systems, and supporting economic development across the region. As anticipation builds for the Lagos 2025 Conference, industry leaders and market participants alike are expected to gather to shape the dialogue on the future of financial markets and the infrastructures that underpin them. Attribution: Amwal Al Ghad English
