Astana Finance Days 2021
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Draft agenda as of 18-Jun-21 Astana Finance Days 2021: Restoring Growth July 1-3, 2021 www.astanafindays.org www.aifc.kz [email protected]
Transcript of Astana Finance Days 2021
Draft agenda as of 18-Jun-21
Astana Finance Days 2021: Restoring Growth
July 1-3, 2021
www.astanafindays.org
www.aifc.kz
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About Astana Finance Days 2021
On July 1-3, the Astana International Financial Centre will host its 4th annual Astana Finance Days
conference (AFD). We will convene to discuss the conference's central theme: Restoring Growth. We
will ask what we should do to fight the crisis and enable growth and why we should think differently to
ensure that this growth is both sustainable and inclusive.
AIFC main stakeholders and partners will present innovative products and services that will help our
markets in post-crisis recovery.
During Astana Finance Days, we will share recent development and highlight key pivots for revival. We
will explore the challenges that an increasingly disrupted world poses for emerging markets, brainstorm
on new solutions and instruments, and share successful cases and valuable tools.
Under the overarching theme "Restoring Growth", Online AFD 2021 will feature discussions on a range
of events:
❖ Fin&Tech Summit:
• Visa Sessions
• Mastercard Sessions
• Fin & Tech
❖ Business Connect Forum
❖ Green Growth Forum
❖ Macroeconomic Forum
❖ Women's Economic Empowerment Forum
❖ EdTech Forum
❖ AIFC Law Conference
❖ ISFB-AIFC Seminar on Islamic Capital Market
And other
Speakers and participants will include representatives of local and foreign governments, international
organisations, business circles, professionals and academia, and others.
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ASTANA FINANCE DAYS 2021 PARTNERS
ASTANA FINANCE DAYS 2021 CO-ORGANISERS
ASTANA FINANCE DAYS 2021 MEDIA PARTNERS
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Online ASTANA FINANCE DAYS 2021: Restoring Growth
July 1-3, 2021
1st DAY – JULY 1ST, THURSDAY ...................................................................................................................................................... 6
10:00-11:50 – AFD OPENING SESSION: PRESENTATION OF AIFC PRODUCTS ........................................................... 6
12:00-12:50 – STRENGTHENING INVESTOR PROTECTION IN THE ISLAMIC CAPITAL MARKETS .......................... 6
12:00-12:50 – ACCELERATING SHIFT TO CASHLESS ECONOMY IN CENTRAL ASIA .................................................. 6
13:00-13:50 – ENHANCING TRANSPARENCY IN THE SUKUK MARKET ...................................................................... 7
13:00-13:50 – SUPPORTING SME IN CENTRAL ASIA .................................................................................................... 7
14:00-14:50 – EFFECTIVE DISCLOSURES FOR ISLAMIC COLLECTIVE INVESTMENT SCHEMES (ICIS) ................... 7
14:00-14:50 – STRATEGIC INVESTMENT AGREEMENT AS A NEW INVESTMENT INSTRUMENT FOR STRATEGIC
INVESTORS ........................................................................................................................................................................ 8
15:00-15:50 – SAFEGUARDING INVESTORS IN A CHALLENGING GLOBAL ENVIRONMENT ..................................... 8
15:00-15:50 – MINING CLUB: AMENDMENTS IN MINING INDUSTRY LEGISLATION ................................................ 9
16:00-16:50 – LEGAL TALKS: THE FUTURE AIFC LEGAL SERVICES REGULATORY FRAMEWORK .......................... 9
16:00-16:50 – MINING CLUB: DEVELOPMENT OF MINING GEOLOGY IN KAZAKHSTAN ........................................ 10
17:00-17:50 – PROMOTING KAZAKHSTAN TRADE AND INVESTMENT .................................................................... 10
17:00-18:50 – CAREC ECONOMIC AND FINANCIAL STABILITY CLUSTER HIGH-LEVEL POLICY DIALOGUE ON
COVID-19 PANDEMIC AND FINANCIAL INCLUSION .................................................................................................... 10
17:00-17:50 – MINING CLUB: FUNDING FOR EXPLORATION PROJECTS .................................................................. 11
18:00-18:50 – CLOSING THE GENDER GAP .................................................................................................................. 12
19:00-19:50 – WOMEN IN FINANCE ............................................................................................................................. 12
19:00-19:50 – RESTORING AND RECALIBRATING NATION`S GROWTH PROSPECTS ............................................. 12
20.00-21.00 – FROM CORRIDOR TO ECONOMIC PLATFORM: THE NEW TRADE LINKS .......................................... 13
20.00-21.00 – FROM HIGH SCHOOL TO THE BOARDROOM ........................................................................................ 13
2nd DAY – 2nd JULY, FRIDAY ........................................................................................................................................................ 14
10:00-10:50 – EDTECH FORUM OPENING PANEL SESSION ....................................................................................... 14
10:00-10:50 – E-COMMERCE IN KAZAKHSTAN DURING THE BOOM ........................................................................ 14
11:00-11:50 – ALPHARABIUS: YOUR FUTURE – YOU CHOOSE! ................................................................................. 15
11:00-11:50 – OPEN BANKING: GLOBAL USE CASES AND KAZAKHSTAN MARKET INSIGHTS .............................. 15
12:00-12:50 – PLATFORMISATION AS A TREND IN PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT ............................................ 16
12:00-12:50 – INSTITUTIONALISING EURASIAN INTEGRATION INITIATIVES ........................................................ 16
13:00-13:50 – AIFC-EU PERSPECTIVES OF ALTERNATIVE INVESTMENT FUNDS ................................................... 17
13:00-13:50 – OFFICIAL LAUNCH OF THE AFFILIATE CENTRE FOR THE 4TH INDUSTRIAL REVOLUTION WORLD
ECONOMIC FORUM IN KAZAKHSTAN ........................................................................................................................... 18
14:00-14:50 – MOBILIZING FINANCE FOR NET ZERO KAZAKHSTAN AND FISCAL POLICIES ................................ 18
14:00-14:50 – PRESENTATION OF THE BOOK “THE LAW OF THE AIFC” ................................................................. 18
15:00-15:50 – GREEN INVESTMENT PRINCIPLES FOR THE BELT AND ROAD ......................................................... 19
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15:00-15:50 – THE ROLE OF FINANCIAL CENTRES TO DE-RISK FDI PROJECTS ...................................................... 19
16:00-16:50 – GREEN FINANCE AWARDS CEREMONY ............................................................................................... 20
16:00-16:50 – INTERNATIONAL AVIATION HUB AT THE AIFC ................................................................................. 20
17:00-17:50 – ASTANA FINANCE DAYS PLENARY SESSION: RESTORING GROWTH ............................................... 20
17:00-17:50 – WORKSHOP ON APPLICATION OF AIFC JURISDICTION IN M&A ....................................................... 21
18:00-18:50 –WOMEN, PEACE AND SECURITY ........................................................................................................... 21
18:00-18:50 – THE ROLE OF INTERNATIONAL FINANCIAL CENTRES IN ATTRACTING INTERNATIONAL
CAPITAL ........................................................................................................................................................................... 22
19:00-19:50 – BUILDING BACK BETTER: CENTRAL BANKING IN A NEW ERA? ....................................................... 22
19:00-19:50 – FINTECH MARKET: PROMISING DIRECTIONS FOR FINTECH DEVELOPMENT IN KAZAKHSTAN . 22
20:00-21:00 – IS CORPORATE GOVERNANCE 4.0 EMERGING? .................................................................................. 23
20:00-21:00 – RESEARCH-BASED POLICY MAKING: AIFC RESEARCH PROJECTS HIGHLIGHTS ......................................... 23
3rd DAY – 3 JULY, SATURDAY ....................................................................................................................................................... 25
10:00-10:50 – CORPORATE INNOVATIONS: CASES OF SUCCESSFUL COOPERATION BETWEEN FINTECH
STARTUPS AND CORPORATIONS .................................................................................................................................. 25
10:00-10:50 – PRESS CONFERENCE WITH AIFC COURT REGISTRAR ....................................................................... 25
11:00-11:50 – MICROSOFT MASTER CLASSES FOR EDTECH STARTUPS .................................................................. 25
11:00-12:50 – AIFC PARTICIPANTS SUPPORT ............................................................................................................. 25
12:00-12:50 – MICROSOFT MASTER CLASSES FOR EDTECH STARTUPS .................................................................. 26
13:00-13:50 –DIGITALISATION AS A NEW TREND OF THE GLOBAL MOBILITY IN POST-PANDEMIC PERIOD .... 26
13:00-13:50 – MANAGING INVESTMENT FUNDS IN AIFC .......................................................................................... 27
14:00-14:50 – SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS MODELS AND DATA TRANSPARENCY ...................................................... 27
14:00-14:50 – CRYPTO INDUSTRY TRENDS, CBDC STATUS ....................................................................................... 28
15:00-15:50 – SECTOR PERSPECTIVE: ENERGY EFFICIENT BUILDINGS .................................................................. 28
15:00-15:50 – INVESTMENTS IN DATA CENTRES ....................................................................................................... 28
16:00-16:50 – ROLE OF EDUCATION AND SOCIETY IN PROPELLING CLIMATE ACTION ........................................ 29
16:00-16:50 – THE AIFC COURT & IAC: 3 YEARS ON ................................................................................................... 29
17:00-17:50 – GREEN TALKS ......................................................................................................................................... 30
17:00-17:50 – INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES OF CENTRAL ASIA AND CAUCASUS ............................................... 30
18:00-18:50 – ROLE OF VENTURE CAPITAL IN ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ........................................................... 30
18:00-18:30 – DECLARATION ON AIFC LAW CONFERENCE 2021 ............................................................................. 31
19:00-19:50 – OFFICIAL LAUNCH OF THE 1ST REAL ESTATE CROWDFUNDING PLATFORM ................................. 31
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1st DAY – JULY 1ST, THURSDAY
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
10:00-11:50 – AFD OPENING SESSION: PRESENTATION OF AIFC PRODUCTS
At the Astana Finance Days Opening Session, AIFC main stakeholders and partners will present innovative products and
services that will help our markets in post-crisis recovery.
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
12:00-12:50 – STRENGTHENING INVESTOR PROTECTION IN THE ISLAMIC CAPITAL MARKETS
IFSB-AIFC Seminar on Islamic Capital Market
COVID 19: Investor Protection and Transparency in Islamic Capital Market
The seminars' main objectives are to:
❖ Address Islamic finance-specific issues in relation to investor protection.
❖ Discuss best practices for investor protection in the ICM and the elements of a robust investor protection framework.
❖ Highlight best practices and guidelines on disclosure requirements for ICM products, specifically for Sukuk and Islamic
collective investment schemes (ICIS).
❖ Identify issues arising from the current global environment and share policy actions taken by various regulators and
policy makers to address emerging challenges and issues.
Audience: Senior Management from Regulatory and Supervisory Authorities and Market Players
Welcoming remarks:
• Mukhtar Bubeyev, CEO, Astana International Financial Services Authority
• Dr. Bello Lawal Danbatta, Secretary General, Islamic Financial Services Board
The session's main objectives are to:
o Overview of the global Islamic capital markets and trends;
o Overview of regulatory issues and the key principles of investor protection;
o The role of product governance, conduct of business requirements (including client assets, best execution, and
conflicts of interest etc.), and good practices in relation to investor redress and investor education; and
o Emerging investor protection issues in the Islamic capital markets in the context of the current global environment
Speaker
• Aminath Amany Ahmed, IFSB (confirmed)
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
12:00-12:50 – ACCELERATING SHIFT TO CASHLESS ECONOMY IN CENTRAL ASIA
Sponsored by Visa
Fin&Tech Summit
The panel session is devoted to the discussion of the development of the cashless economy in the countries of Central Asia.
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The session's main objectives are to discuss:
o the experience of Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan in the transition to cashless, the dynamics of the last 2 years
o digitalization of which industries most contributes to cashless
o which new technologies contribute to cashless, and which of them are already available in the region
o barriers to cashless, typical for the region, ways to overcome them
o new products in markets that contribute to cashless
Speakers
Vira Platonova, Senior vice-president, GCM for CISSEE, Visa (confirmed)
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
13:00-13:50 – ENHANCING TRANSPARENCY IN THE SUKUK MARKET
IFSB-AIFC Seminar on Islamic Capital Market
COVID 19: Investor Protection and Transparency in Islamic Capital Market
The session's main objectives are to:
o Overview of key regulatory considerations and specificities of Sukuk
o Principles of transparency and disclosure for Sukuk practices
o Role of transparency and disclosure in protecting Sukuk
o Addressing emerging issues and challenges for Sukuk through better informed investors
Speaker
• Peter Casey, IFSB (confirmed)
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
13:00-13:50 – SUPPORTING SME IN CENTRAL ASIA
Sponsored by Visa
Fin&Tech Summit
The panel session is devoted to the discussion of support initiatives for small and medium-sized businesses in different directions.
Particular attention will be paid to initiatives for the development of women's entrepreneurship.
The session's main objectives are to discuss:
o The condition and prospects of SMEs in Kazakhstan, comparison with other countries
o State priorities in SME development, impact on the economy
o SME digitalization
o SMEs and e-commerce
o Women entrepreneurship in Kazakhstan and Central Asia, Visa She’s Next program
o SME innovation sector - start-ups, technology companies working for export
o Existing and missing support measures
Speakers
Cristina Doros, Vice-president, Country Manager for Central Asia and Azerbaijan, Visa
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
14:00-14:50 – EFFECTIVE DISCLOSURES FOR ISLAMIC COLLECTIVE INVESTMENT SCHEMES
(ICIS)
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IFSB-AIFC Seminar on Islamic Capital Market
COVID 19: Investor Protection and Transparency in Islamic Capital Market
The session's main objectives are to:
o Overview of key regulatory considerations and specificities of ICIS
o Principles of transparency and disclosure for ICIS and regulatory best practices
o Role of transparency and disclosure in protecting ICIS investors
o Addressing emerging issues and challenges for ICIS through better informed investors
Speaker
• Peter Casey, IFSB (confirmed)
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
14:00-14:50 – STRATEGIC INVESTMENT AGREEMENT AS A NEW INVESTMENT INSTRUMENT
FOR STRATEGIC INVESTORS
AIFC Law Conference
In 2020 the new investment instrument for strategic investors – strategic investment agreement was introduced as one of the
measures for the economic recovery of Kazakhstan. The session will provide information on how strategic investors can benefit
from the AIFC Jurisdiction.
Moderator
• Yerkin Budenov, Managing Director – Director of Legal Support Department, AIFC Authority
Speakers
• Alisher Abdykadyrov, Vice-Minister of National Economy (confirmed)
“How to enter a strategic agreement with the Government? Overview of priority activities for investment agreements”
• Alida Tuyebekova, Director of Service Support Department, "Kazakh Invest" JSC (confirmed)
"Investment incentives and preferences available for strategic investors"
• Richard Spooner, Representative of Valmont Industries in Kazakhstan (confirmed)
"Valmont's experience in entering into a strategic investment agreement and registering in the AIFC"
Q&A
______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
15:00-15:50 – SAFEGUARDING INVESTORS IN A CHALLENGING GLOBAL ENVIRONMENT
JOINT IFSB-AIFC ICM SEMINAR
COVID 19: INVESTOR PROTECTION AND TRANSPARENCY IN ISLAMIC CAPITAL MARKET
The session's main objectives are to:
o Implications of the COVID-19 pandemic for the Islamic capital markets
o Policy actions taken by regulators to mitigate the impact of the pandemic
o Key investor protection issues arising from the unprecedented economic and financial market conditions and
addressing these issues;
o Promoting investors' confidence in an uncertain environment through greater market transparency, assessment and
information.
o Q&A on specific considerations and policy issues unique to the Islamic capital market and the way forward.
Speakers
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• Representative of IFSB (TBC)
• Representative of Agency of the Republic of Kazakhstan for Regulation and Development of Financial Market (TBC)
• Representative of Ministry of finance of the Republic of Uzbekistan (TBC)
• Representative of Security Commission of Malaysia (TBC)
• Representative of International Islamic Liquidity Management Corporation/ World Bank (TBC)
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
15:00-15:50 – MINING CLUB: AMENDMENTS IN MINING INDUSTRY LEGISLATION
Sponsored by the Mining Club
Business Connect Forum
The purpose of the webinar is to discuss amendments in mining industry legislation. Industry experts will share their insights
on key results of the reform, amendments in taxation in terms of subsoil use, new environmental realities for geological
exploration and strategic vision of the industry development.
Audience: local investors and businesses, consultants, local media, banks, Private funds
Moderator:
• Yevgeniy Bolgert, Director General of the Association of Freight Rail Carriers, Independent Director, Member of the
Board of Directors of KTZ Express JSC (confirmed)
Speakers
• Ruslan Baimishev, Vice-Minister of Industry and Infrastructure Development of the Republic of Kazakhstan
(confirmed)
The results of the reform for 3 years. New challenges and goals
• Almas Aidarov, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan (confirmed)
Strategic vision of the industry development (confirmed)
• Timur Odilov, Partner at Haller Lomax (confirmed)
Key changes in the subsurface resource's legislation since March 1
• Arman Bigazin, Partner at Haller Lomax (confirmed)
New environmental realities for geological exploration since July 1 - introduction of the new Environmental Code
Discussion
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
16:00-16:50 – LEGAL TALKS: THE FUTURE AIFC LEGAL SERVICES REGULATORY FRAMEWORK
AIFC Law Conference
The future regime will be discussed and explained to the AIFC and Kazakhstan legal community. The objectives, principles and
strategy will be presented by the AIFC Advisory Panel on Legal Regulatory Matters.
Moderator:
• Chris Kenny, Chief Executive at MDDUS
Speakers:
• Alison Hook, Director and co-founder of Hook Tangaza (confirmed)
• Iain Miller, Partner in Kingsley Napley LLP (confirmed)
• David Gallo, Director of the AIFC Academy of Law (confirmed)
• Ishaq Burney, Chief Legal Officer of AFSA (confirmed)
• Aigoul Kenjebayeva, Member of the Management Board of KazBar Association, Kazakhstan and Central Asia
Managing Partner at Dentons, Member of the International Council of the Supreme Court of the Republic of
Kazakhstan (Confirmed)
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Q&A
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
16:00-16:50 – MINING CLUB: DEVELOPMENT OF MINING GEOLOGY IN KAZAKHSTAN
Sponsored by the Mining Club
Business Connect Forum
The webinar aims to raise awareness among participants of the mining sector and other interested parties about the
instruments of the Astana International Financial Center, Kazakhstani mining geology current state and prospects for
development.
Moderator:
• Arman Batayev, Deputy director of Investments department, AIFC Business Connect Ltd. (confirmed)
Speakers
• Serikkali Brekeshev, Vice minister of ecology, geology and natural resources of the Republic of Kazakhstan
(confirmed)
The current state of geology. Exploration program for 2021-25, infrastructure issues
• Anvar Boranbayev, Chairman of JSC "NMC "Qazgeology" (TBC)
Development and launch of the National Database, timing and problems
• Barry Davis, Managing Director, International Mining Services (confirmed)
• Said Sultanov, Partner of Aurora Minerals Group (confirmed)
Practice and problems of conducting geological exploration
Discussion
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
17:00-17:50 – PROMOTING KAZAKHSTAN TRADE AND INVESTMENT
Business Connect Forum
This event, which will be moderated by AIFC, offers the opportunity for Investment bodies from the Republic of Kazakhstan to
promote their cooperation and services. There will also be some overview of the new Investment Taskforce.
As an introduction - we can offer the Kazakh Ambassador to the UK a keynote welcome
Moderator:
• James Martin, AIFC Chief Investment Officer
Speakers:
TBC
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
17:00-18:50 – CAREC ECONOMIC AND FINANCIAL STABILITY CLUSTER HIGH-LEVEL POLICY
DIALOGUE ON COVID-19 PANDEMIC AND FINANCIAL INCLUSION
Hosted by Asian Development Bank, International Monetary Fund, World Bank
The CAREC Secretariat is inviting officials from relevant ministries, central banks, regulatory authorities, and other senior
officials in CAREC region to share their experiences on dealing with financial inclusion challenges posed by the pandemic, and
discuss about innovations as drivers of financial inclusion. ADB, IMF, and the WB will also share their insights, explore
innovations in financial inclusion, and emphasize the role of regional cooperation.
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Audience: High level government officials including finance ministries, central banks, financial sector regulators, and policy
makers from CAREC region, private sector players in financial inclusion and fintech, ADB, IMF, World Bank, and other
development partners.
Opening remarks:
• AZE representative (TBC)
Welcome remarks:
• Mr. Yevgeniy Zhukov, Director General, Central and West Asia Department, ADB (confirmed)
Keynote presentation:
• Ms. Lalita Moorty, Regional Director, Europe and Central Asia, World Bank (confirmed)
Closing remarks and summary:
• Mr. Jihad Azour, Director, Middle East and Central Asia Department, IMF (confirmed)
Moderator: Session 1
• Mr. Tariq Niazi, Director, Public Management, Financial Sector, and Trade Division, Central and West Asia
Department, ADB (confirmed)
Moderator: Session 2
• Dr. Junkyu Lee, Chief of Finance Sector Group, ADB (confirmed)
Panelists
• CAREC member representatives (TBC)
• Mr. Syed Shakeel Shah, Director, CAREC Institute (confirmed)
• Mr. Jihad Azour, Director, Middle East and Central Asia Department, IMF (confirmed)
• Mr. Ilias Skamnelos, Practice Manager, Europe and Central Asia, World Bank (confirmed)
• Dr. Bob Chakravorti, the Chief Economist, Ripple (confirmed)
• Representative from VISA (TBC)
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
17:00-17:50 – MINING CLUB: FUNDING FOR EXPLORATION PROJECTS
Sponsored by the Mining Club
Business Connect Forum
To watch the 3rd session within Mining Club series of the Business Connect Forum, please click the link to be shared during the 2nd
session.
The purpose of the webinar: to raise awareness among the participants of the mining sector and other interested parties
about the instruments of the Astana International Financial Center, measures of state support for the development and
implementation of mining projects, and practical tips when attracting investment in mining projects.
Moderator
• Nariman Absametov, Chief Business Development Officer, Tau-Кen Samruk National Mining Company (TBC)
Speakers
• Malik Nishanbayev, Head of Mining of AIX (confirmed)
Eurasian Exchange. Conditions for entering the IPO
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• Kanat Kudaibergen, Chairman of the Board, Member of Board of Directors of JSC «Tau-Кen Samruk» National Mining
Company (confirmed)
Junior mining program. Working with partners
• Kanat Dosmukametov, Chief Executive Officer of Polymetal Eurasia (TBC)
Practical tips for putting a company on an IPO
• Galim Khusainov, Chairman of the Management Board, Member of the Board of Directors of JSC Bank CenterCredit
(confirmed)
Bank financing of geological exploration projects. Risks and challenges
Discussion
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
18:00-18:50 – CLOSING THE GENDER GAP
Women's Economic Empowerment Forum
The session will discuss World Economic Forum's "Closing the Gender Gap" accelerator that is aimed at creating system
changes globally and at the national public-private level of each participant country to narrow the existing gender inequality
worldwide.
The session will focus on Kazakhstan joining the global network of the Closing the Gender Gap Accelerator and present key
public partners and the local coordinator of the program.
Moderator:
• Wiebke Schloemer, Director, Europe and Central Asia - International Finance Corporation (IFC)
Speakers:
• Anar Omarova – Senior Advisor to the Governor, AIFC (confirmed)
• Saadia Zahidi – Managing Director, World Economic Forum (confirmed)
• Lazzat Ramazanova – Member of the Parliament of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Chairperson of the Commission on
Women's Affairs, Family and Demographic Policy under the President of the RK, Chairperson of the Council of
Businesswomen of NCE RK "Atameken" - (confirmed)
• Dr. Rania A. Al-Mashat – Minister of International Cooperation - Arab Republic of Egypt – Confirmed
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
19:00-19:50 – WOMEN IN FINANCE
Women's Economic Empowerment Forum
The session provides insights on the programs promoting women's economic empowerment organized by financial
institutions globally as well as an overview of open-access educational programs in business for women worldwide.
The speakers will also discuss further global network-building and investment-attraction opportunities.
_______________________________________________________________________________________
19:00-19:50 – RESTORING AND RECALIBRATING NATION`S GROWTH PROSPECTS
As countries reopen, policymakers must lay the groundwork for recovery to rebuild stronger, more resilient, and more
inclusive economies. The panelists will explore these developments and the challenges ahead for the global economy, for
emerging markets and also Caucasus and Central Asia region, (the threat of economic scarring, the fiscal challenges financial
stability concerns as well as what might be the policy priorities to build a stronger recovery. Much remains to be done to beat
back the pandemic and avoid persistent increases in inequality within countries and divergence across economies. The agenda
for the region is now already clear:focus on green and sustainable recovery, greening of economy education, with particular
focus on youth and lifelong learning, helping to adjust to new realities and needs. The second driver is clearly digitalization,
promoting distance services as well as facilitating access to the global market; promoting diversification and sustainable local
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production, including supporting clean agriculture; focus on environment friendly quality tourism instead of mass tourism.
environment, improving the legal environment as well as enhancing long-term structural reforms. strengthening regional
economic cooperation and establishing regional market would significantly contribute in boosting economic development,
providing additional opportunities to the small and medium business, especially in the regions.
Opening remarks:
• Marc Uzan, Director, Reinventing Bretton woods committee
Speakers: • Sergey Glazyev – Minister of Economy, Eurasia Commission confirmed
• Brendan Duprey Director (Associate Professor)-Sustainable Kazakhstan Research Institute at Narxoz University
confirmed
• Romano Prodi, Former President European Commission Confirmed
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
20.00-21.00 – FROM CORRIDOR TO ECONOMIC PLATFORM: THE NEW TRADE LINKS
The need to diversify their economies, increasing and solidifying supply chain routes as well as creating opportunities for a
young population are a few of the similar challenges the MENA and Central Asia regions are facing. With a mandate to face
these issues, a growing focus by Sovereign Wealth Funds in co-investments has been noticeable especially in renewable
energy and food security. There is nevertheless an urgent need and unique opportunity to build this emerging corridor
between both regions. From cultural complementarity and a growing dynamic private sector there is a potential for greater
integration between these regions which can help face the challenges for the decades to come. This must translate in greater
support for the private sector in cross-regional financial resources, enhanced regulatory framework. The session will laid out
these new trends.
Speakers:
• Rauf Salahodjaev Lecturer of Westminster University, consultant of Uzbekistan government, World bank, UNICEF,
UNDP on economic and social development - confirmed
• TBC
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
20.00-21.00 – FROM HIGH SCHOOL TO THE BOARDROOM
The velocity of change makes it challenging for parents, adolescents, and professionals to make choices about study
orientation and careers. In its 'The Future of Jobs 2020' report, the World Economic Forum argues that the outlook for the
labour market is highly uncertain and that Covid-19 is accelerating the arrival of the future of work. This session will explore
several key underlying questions that many people – from high school students to professionals – face when making choices
for the future, including: 1) what are the major forces affecting the future of work?, 2) what competences are needed in the
future to remain relevant and avoid obsolescence?, 3) which jobs will be most in demand?, 4) what advice would you give to
adolescents and their parents about the educational choices they should make?, and 5) how can workers affected by
technological disruption reskill themselves?
Moderator:
• Prof. Alexander Van de Putte, Chairman of Corporate Governance & Stewardship and Chief Strategy Officer, AIFC
Panelists:
• Vikas Aggarwal, Regional Head of Policy – Emerging Markets, ACCA - confirmed
• Jochen Berbner, Managing Partner, Kazakhstan, McKinsey & Company - confirmed
• Prof. Pamela Burnard, Professor of Arts, Creativities and Educations, University of Cambridge - confirmed
• Stephen Phipson CBE, Chief Executive Officer, Make UK, The Manufacturers' Organisation – TBC
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2nd DAY – 2nd JULY, FRIDAY
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
10:00-10:50 – EDTECH FORUM OPENING PANEL SESSION
EdTech Forum
EdTech Forum is the third annual conference organized by the Bureau for Continuing Professional Development (BCPD ltd.)
as a part of Astana Finance Days..
EdTech Forum brings together well-known global leaders and local experts in the field of educational technologies,
professional communities, edtech projects, startups and industry representatives to combine best international practices with
local knowledge. Agenda includes issues of alternative education, edtech startups development, digital content and pedagogy,
knowledge economy, breakthrough edtech solutions, mass personalization of education, competencies frameworks and jobs
of the future.
EdTech forum establishes solid networks between all stakeholders such as students, teachers, partners, government and
technologies for better quality education in our region.
Last year, educators from around the world came together to discuss the international collaboration in EdTech: Global to
Local - Local to Global by offering solutions for modernisation issues and creating an innovative education ecosystem in the
context of open digital boundaries and technological inequality. This year we aim to present real actions, real products that
will improve education in the region.
The forum opening session will represent discussion on lifelong learning with global edtech leaders on alternative education,
digital content, knowledge economy, mass personalization of education, competencies frameworks and jobs of the future.
Moderator:
• Elmira Obry, Acting CEO, BCPD ltd.
Welcoming remarks:
• Yernur Rysmagambetov, CEO, AIFC Authority (TBC)
Speakers:
• Kanat Kozhakhmet, CEO, Educational IT alliance
• Microsoft TBC
• Coursera TBC
• CLANED TBC
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
10:00-10:50 – E-COMMERCE IN KAZAKHSTAN DURING THE BOOM
Sponsored by Mastercard
Fin&Tech Summit
In this session, key industry players will talk about the e-commerce market in Kazakhstan, the government's priorities in this
area, trends in online payments, what issues online SMEs face in the market, local and international marketplaces, how they
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work and how they differ, and They will also tell you what changes must occur in logistics for the effective development of e-
commerce in the country.
E-commerce mainly involves domestic transactions, linking suppliers and consumers through electronic platforms. However,
the cross-border segment of the market is growing much faster than domestic volumes. Forecasts (Ti, 2018) estimate cross-
border e-commerce growth around 17% between 2017 and 2022, compared with 12% for overall e-commerce (cross-border
and domestic). Cross-border purchases have been forecast at 20% of worldwide e-commerce by 2022, comprising some
US$627bn.
Audience: local businesses, entrepreneurs, SMEs, logistic companies and payment systems.
Speakers:
1. Natalya Lim, Partner, Consulting Services, PwC Kazakhstan - TBC
2. Assel Zhanassova, Vice-Minister, Ministry of Trade and Integration of RK – Confirmed
3. Rafal Trepka, General Manager, Mastercard Central Asia – Confirmed
4. Molder Ryssalieva , General Director, Lamoda Kazakhstan – Confirmed
5. Alexey Dukhanin , Director for International cooperation, Wildberries - Confirmed
6. Rula Raim, CEO, Froot.kz - Confirmed
7. Dmitry Komissar , General Manager, Forte Market – Confirmed
8. Alexey Lee, General Director, Arbuz.kz – TBC
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
11:00-11:50 – ALPHARABIUS: YOUR FUTURE – YOU CHOOSE!
EdTech Forum
Alpharabius – online learning platform for high school and university students of Bureau for Continuing Professional
Development.
Mission: support young generation of Kazakhstan and Central Asia in development of transferrable skills through technology
The session will be organized in the format of product pitch presentation, with participation of project team and partners.
Goal: presents consulting services and products of Alpharabius.kz
Target audience: teachers of schools, VETs, Universities, management of educational institutions.
Moderator:
• Alisher Akhmetov, Supervisor, Alphability project
Speakers:
• Diana Tsoy, Project Lead, Alpharabius.kz
• Elmira Obry, Acting CEO, BCPD (TBC)
• ProfDialogueSkillfolio
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
11:00-11:50 – OPEN BANKING: GLOBAL USE CASES AND KAZAKHSTAN MARKET INSIGHTS
Presentation of the market study prepared by Mastercard and Fintech Hub
Sponsored by Mastercard
Fin&Tech Summit
Open Banking is already being adopted around the world, driven by efforts to promote innovation, competition, data privacy,
cost efficiencies and financial inclusion. Although Open Banking is taking different shapes in each country, boosted locally by
either regulation or market initiatives, the impact on retail and SME banking seems to cut across geographies.
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The session will present the findings of the market study ‘Open banking: Global Use Cases and Kazakhstan Market
Insights’ prepared by AIFC and Mastercard.
The concept of Open Banking, the regulatory landscape, business models, and global use cases, as well as the results of
interviews with experts and market participants in Kazakhstan.
Audience: representatives of banks and fintech companies, traditional IT companies and vendors of the "new API wave",
representatives of regulators and industry associations
Moderator:
Speakers:
1. Welcome remark Kairat Kaliev (TBC)
2. Welcome remark Rafal Trepka, Mastercard (TBC)
3. Popov Sergey, Mastercard (confirmed)
4. Kondrashev Pavel, Mastercard (confirmed)
5. National Bank (TBC)
6. HSBC UK (TBC)
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
12:00-12:50 – PLATFORMISATION AS A TREND IN PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
EdTech Forum
Format: TedX
Description: the presentation will be pitched by team lead (timing 15 - 20 minutes), intro to marketplace, platform
capabilities, analytical tools, successful case studies (Claned provision)
The speech will be focused on the weaknesses and provision of solutions.
Goal: present the marketplace and platform as uniting digital environment connecting experts (attracting new partners,
clients)
Target audience: Corporate sector, HR, T&D, individuals
Workshop: Creation of professional development trajectory as a joint responsibility of HR's and employees'
Description:
The workshop is intended to provide practical instruments (assessment of competencies) that help individuals/employees
choose the right educational track in order to improve skills and become a professional in a chosen area. At the end of the
session experts will deliver mini training on the platform.
Goal: Introduction of Achieve/Develop platforms
Target audience: Individuals/professionals, HR
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
12:00-12:50 – INSTITUTIONALISING EURASIAN INTEGRATION INITIATIVES
In December of last year, the Eurasian Economic Union adopted Strategic directions of development of Eurasian economic
integration until 2025. In March of this year, the Commission approved an actional plan for its implementation. The Strategy
provides a system of solutions in the development of integration potential of the Union, including the creation of joint
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Eurasian companies, providing favorable conditions for increasing mutual trade and accessing markets of third countries,
expanding areas of economic cooperation and improving the institutions of the Eurasian Economic Union.
The use of potential of national and international development institutions operating on the territory of the EAEU, including
the “Astana” International Financial Center, as well as the Eurasian Development Bank will be an important tool for the
implementation of these tasks.
The President of Kazakhstan K.K. Tokayev, Chairman of the Supreme Eurasian Economic Council in his Address to the Heads
of the EAEU Member States stressed the importance of full implementation of the Strategic directions of development of the
Eurasian economic integration until 2025 in ensuring long-term economic priorities of the member countries.
In this regard, we propose to discuss the following topics regarding of Eurasian integration in the session:
1. On the role and possibilities of national and international development institutions in the promotion and realization
of the integration initiatives.
2. The role of EDB, as an international development institution, in expanding trade and economic ties of the EAEU
member states. What limits effective interaction between business and development banks?
3. New opportunities for increasing mutual and foreign trade of EAEU countries. Prospects of creating a Eurasian
reinsurance company. Impact of barriers and restrictions on the development of mutual trade.
4. Creation of joint ventures as a tool for cooperative ties. Prospective directions of industrial cooperation for possible
access to foreign markets.
5. Strategy of the EAEU until 2025. Economic effect in new areas of cooperation, provided for in the strategic directions
of development of Eurasian economic integration until 2025.
Moderator:
• Aidar Kazybaev, Head of the EAEU Cooperation Office
Speakers:
• Kairat Kelimbetov, Head of IFCA, Chairman of the Agency for Strategic Planning and Reforms;
• Nikolai Podguzov, Chairman of the Management Board, Eurasian Development Bank;
• Bakhyt Sultanov, Minister of Trade and Integration of the Republic of Kazakhstan;
• Artak Kamalian, Member of the Board (Minister) on Industry and Agro-industrial Complex of the Eurasian Economic
Commission;
• Sergey Glazyev, member of the Board (Minister) on Integration and Macroeconomics, Eurasian Economic
Commission;
• Danil Ibrayev, President of the Kyrgyz Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs, member of the Presidium of the
EAEU Business Council, Chairman of the Eurasian Center for Integration Studies and Communications
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
13:00-13:50 – AIFC-EU PERSPECTIVES OF ALTERNATIVE INVESTMENT FUNDS
Astana Financial Services Authority (AFSA)
Topics for discussion:
1. Introduction and scope of coverage of AIFMD directive;
2. Framework conditions for AIFC and EU fund managers to market and manage alternative investment funds in AIFC or
EU;
3. Choice of the Right Jurisdiction for Structuring alternative investment funds;
4. Recent Developments and perspective of the Alternative Investment Industry;
5. Private placement regimes, registration and authorisation;
6. the marketing in EU Member States without a passport of AIFs managed by a non-EU AIFMs.
Moderator:
• Gareth Ling, Chief Regulatory Officer, Astana Financial Services Authority (AFSA)
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Speakers:
• Mukhtar Bubeyev, Chief Executive Officer, AFSA
• Pierre Weimerskirch, Managing Director, LIS (Luxembourg)
• Sholpan Ainabayeva, CEO, SkyBridge Invest (AIFC, Kazakhstan)
• Emmanuel Doumas, Senior Policy Officer, ESMA
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
13:00-13:50 – OFFICIAL LAUNCH OF THE AFFILIATE CENTRE FOR THE 4TH INDUSTRIAL
REVOLUTION WORLD ECONOMIC FORUM IN KAZAKHSTAN
Fin&Tech Summit
Moderator:
• Zaure Rozmat, Founder of the Steppe (TBC)
Speakers:
• Kairat Kelimbetov, Governor, AIFC
• Borge Brende, President, World Economic Forum
• Bagdat Mussin, Miniter of digital development, Kazakhstan
• Jeremy Jurgens, Head of the Centre for 4th Industrial Revolution, San-Francisco
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
14:00-14:50 – MOBILIZING FINANCE FOR NET ZERO KAZAKHSTAN AND FISCAL POLICIES
Green Growth Forum
Without targeted intervention, such as direct financing interventions, commercial derisking and bringing in long-term investors,
businesses and consumers would likely make decisions different from those laid out in Kazakhstan's cost-optimal pathways
towards carbon neutrality.
New mechanisms to raise funds from both domestic and international sources are needed, and new possibilities for enhancing
government investment and blended finance should be explored.
How can green fiscal reforms help to ensure a more efficient transition to a carbon neutrality?
Moderator:
• Gaziz Abishev, Editor in Chief, Turan Times (confirmed)
Keynote:
• Dr. Ma Jun, Chairman of China Green Finance Committee, Founder and President of Beijing Institute of Finance and
Sustainability (confirmed)
Speakers:
• Kumi Kitamori, Head of Green Growth and Global Relations Division, Environment Directorate, OECD (confirmed)
• Akhmetzhan Primkulov, Vice Minister of Ecology, Geology and Natural Resources of Kazakhstan (TBC)
• Aidar Kazybayev, CEO, AIFC Green Finance Centre (confirmed)
• Zhanar Abdullayeva, Partner, Unicase (сonfirmed)
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
14:00-14:50 – PRESENTATION OF THE BOOK “THE LAW OF THE AIFC”
AIFC Law Conference
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This book has been authored by Mr Michael Blair QC, the Chairman of the AIFC Legal Advisory Council, Leading Counsel at 3
Verulam Buildings Barristers in London. The book consists of 4 parts and describes a brief history of the formation of the AIFC
legal regime, the reasons, and features of the choice of English common law as the basis for the AIFC Law, as well as its
advantages and application in practice.
Content for the presentation:
• What is the AIFC Law?
• Where is the boundary between the AIFC Acts and the national legislation of Kazakhstan?
• The AIFC Court's jurisdiction for resolving disputes.
Keynote speech:
• Igor Rogov, Member of the Academic Council of the AIFC Academy of Law; Member of the European Commission for
Democracy through Law (the Venice Commission)
Moderator:
• Professor Alexander Van de Putte, Chairman of the Academic Council of the AIFC Academy of Law
Speakers:
• Michael Blair QC, Chairman of AIFC Legal Advisory Council, Leading Counsel at 3 Verulam Buildings
• Christopher Campbell-Holt, Registrar and Chief Executive of AIFC Court and International Arbitration Centre
• Saniya Perzadayeva, Managing Partner at Unicase Law Firm
Q&A
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
15:00-15:50 – GREEN INVESTMENT PRINCIPLES FOR THE BELT AND ROAD
Green Growth Forum
Green Investment Principles developed by the Green Finance Committee of China and the City of London in collaboration with
international organizations were announced during the 2nd Belt and Road Initiative Forum in 2019. Principles were
established with the aim of creating an international network to improve environmental risk management of the Belt and
Road investment. The document is based on seven guiding principles at three levels: strategic, operational and innovation.
Principles are designed to ensure the sustainability of corporate governance, propose specific measures to minimize
environmental risks, and encourage the use of green finance instruments.
This session will explore opportunities for introduction of the GIP in the region of Central Asia and share the experience of
current GIP members with regional stakeholders.
Moderator:
• Cheng Lin, Head of GIP Secretariat Beijing Office (confirmed)
Keynote:
• Yaseen Anwar, Chairman of GIP Central Asia (confirmed)
Speakers:
• Tracy Wong Harris, Head of Sustainable Finance, Greater China & North Asia, Standard Chartered (confirmed)
• Chuluunkhuu Baatar, Head of Green Funding Office, International Banking Department, Trade and Development
Bank of Mongolia (TBC)
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
15:00-15:50 – THE ROLE OF FINANCIAL CENTRES TO DE-RISK FDI PROJECTS
There is no shortage of capital to finance sustainable projects around the world. Emerging markets, however, carry a risk
premium over developed countries to attract foreign direct investment (FDI). Financial centres need to contribute to reducing
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this risk premium. This webinar will explore the various levers and instruments that emerging markets financial centres can
use to attract FDI in sectors other than the extraction industries with the objective to drive sustainable economic development
Moderator:
• Dr Robert Barnes, CEO of Turquoise and Global Head of Primary Markets, London Stock Exchange Group -
confirmed
Panellists:
• Dr Kairat Kelimbetov, AIFC Governor and Chairman of the Agency of Strategic Planning and Reforms
• Prof. Michael Mainelli, Executive Chairman, Z/Yen Group and Sherriff of the City of London Corporation - confirmed
• Chris Campbell-Holt, CEO and Registrar of the AIFC Court and International Arbitration Centre
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
16:00-16:50 – GREEN FINANCE AWARDS CEREMONY
Green Growth Forum
AIFC Green Finance Centre, following the success of Green Growth Forum 2018, initiated the establishment of the AIFC Green
Finance Awards for the region of Central Asia, Eastern Europe, Caucasus and Mongolia, aimed at attracting attention and
popularizing among the general public the idea of transition to a green economy and respect for natural resources.
The ceremony will celebrate the winners in 5 categories covering the green banks, first green bonds, platforms for green
products, consultants and outstanding contribution to the development of green finance in the region.
MCs
• Assel Nurakhmetova, Advisor, AIFC Green Finance Centre (confirmed)
• Stephen Nolan, Managing Director, UN-convened Network for Financial Centres for Sustainability (FC4S)
(confirmed)
Speakers:
• James Zhan, Chair, Governing Board of UN Sustainable Stock Exchanges (confirmed)
• Kairat Aitekenov, First Deputy Chairman of AIFC Authority (confirmed)
• Renat Bekturov, CEO, AIX (confirmed)
• Sean Kidney, CEO and co-founder of Climate Bonds Initiative (confirmed)
• Aidar Kazybayev, CEO of AIFC Green Finance Centre (confirmed)
• Winner in the category of Best Green Investment Bank/Securities House
• Winner in the category of First Green Bond/Green Sukuk in Emerging Markets
• Winner in the category of Best Exchange Platform for Green Finance Instruments
• Winner in the category of Outstanding contribution to the development of Green Finance
• Winner in the category of Best Green Finance Consultancy
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
16:00-16:50 – INTERNATIONAL AVIATION HUB AT THE AIFC
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
17:00-17:50 – HIGH LEVEL PLENARY SESSION: RESTORING GROWTH
The Astana Finance Days conference is devoted to discuss and highlight the new and existing instruments to restore growth in
the region.
When talking about restoring growth, we must be aware that the world and global markets have changed profoundly in the
past couple of years. Therefore, restoring the growth would mean thinking differently and finding modern instruments and
pivots for further sustainable development. Whether it is ESG finance, tech solutions, new regulation, rules of international
cooperation, or other tools, it requires great attention from national and international policymakers.
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As the headliner event, the high-level plenary session will bring together key experts and leaders from multilateral
development institutions, government, and financial groups. They will convene to discuss the new ways and institutions to
fight the consequences of the crisis and create a foundation for further development.
Moderator:
• Jacob Frenkel, Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Group of Thirty (G30), Former Chairman of J.P. Morgan Chase
International, Member of AIFC Management Council
Panelists:
1. Dr Kairat Kelimbetov, Governor, AIFC; Chairman, Agency for Strategic Planning and Reforms.
2. Sir Suma Chakrabarti, Adviser to the Presidents of Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan; Chair of Overseas Development
Institute, UK;
3. Ms Georgina Baker, Vice President for Latin America and the Caribbean, and Europe and Central Asia, IFC;
4. Dr Liu Ti, Vice President, Shanghai Stock Exchange;
5. Mr Jihad Azour, Director, Middle East and Central Asia, IMF
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
17:00-17:50 – WORKSHOP ON APPLICATION OF AIFC JURISDICTION IN M&A
AIFC Law Conference
The pandemic has not stopped activity in the merger and acquisition (M&A) market, and the AIFC was no exception. One of
the recent examples includes the case of an amalgamation involving Unicorn Crops Ltd and Zeren Bidai Group LLP. This
workshop will cover practical aspects related to the application of the AIFC Jurisdiction and its Law.
Moderator
• Simon FT Cox, Member of AIFC Legal Advisory Council, Senior Consultant at Norton Rose Fulbright
Speakers
• Maksim Burak, Partner at Grata International
• Aruzhan Aimak, Senior Associate at Grata International
"Reconstruction involving the amalgamation in the AIFC Jurisdiction: Unicorn Crops Limited v Zeren Bidai Group LLP"
Q&A
__________________________________________________________________________________________
18:00-18:50 –WOMEN, PEACE AND SECURITY
Women's Economic Empowerment Forum
The session provides platform for open discussion of the issues of global importance as international peace and security and
women's participation and decision-making in public life.
Moderator:
• TBC
Speakers:
• Ayanat Ksenbai, Humanitarian, Founder of U.S.-Kazakhstan Women's Alliance Foundation – Confirmed
_______________________________________________________________________________________
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18:00-18:50 – THE ROLE OF INTERNATIONAL FINANCIAL CENTRES IN ATTRACTING
INTERNATIONAL CAPITAL
Business Connect Forum
This event is partnered with the ‘World Alliance of International Financial Centres’ (WAIFC) and will consist of a keynote from
the WAIFC Chairwoman, followed by a panel discussion with heads of leading financial centres from Europe / East Asia –
Russia / Africa – and AIFC. Discussing the role that international financial centres play in attracting international capital into
the countries and regions they serve.
Welcome:
• Jennifer Reynolds, Chairwoman of WAIFC, President and CEO of Toronto Finance International
Moderator:
• Dr. Jochen Biedermann - Managing Director, WAIFC
Panelists:
• James Martin, AIFC Chief Investment Officer
• Arif Amiri, CEO, Dubai International Financial Centre
• Ntoudi Mouelo, Chief Investment Officer, Kigali Finance Limited
• Miles Celic, CEO, TheCityUK
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
19:00-19:50 – BUILDING BACK BETTER: CENTRAL BANKING IN A NEW ERA?
The global economy is on the recovery path amid a still high level of uncertainty. While the level of recovery varies
significantly across countries and sectors, more economies are showing greater resilience. This possibly indicates an
increasing learning curve on how to adapt to a pandemic environment along with the improving roll-out of vaccines. As
countries gradually move towards a post-pandemic global economy, they are faced with lingering issues as well as new
challenges in the medium term. Some directly concern the central banks, but there are developments outside the traditional
ambit of central bank control that are becoming increasingly important due to their implications on central banking. The
shifting landscape makes relationships and interactions between and among monetary policy, financial policy, and fiscal
policy, including social welfare initiatives, climate change, and digitalization of money more interwoven yet less clear-cut— it
may not be as easy anymore to keep out of each other’s way by keeping to one’s traditional lanes exclusively. This high-level
session is a combination of panel discussions and lectures on these urgent issues post Covid.
Speakers:
• Athanasios Orphanides Professor of Economics MIT Business School confirmed
• Sayuri Shirai Professor of Economics Keio University confirmed
• Olga Yangol Head Emerging Markets Research and Strategy Credit Agricole , Americas confirmed
• Paul Sheard Research Fellow Mossavar-Rahmani Center for Business and Government, Harvard Kennedy School
confirmed
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
19:00-19:50 – FINTECH MARKET: PROMISING DIRECTIONS FOR FINTECH DEVELOPMENT IN
KAZAKHSTAN
Fin&Tech
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_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
20:00-21:00 – IS CORPORATE GOVERNANCE 4.0 EMERGING?
In 2015 and 2016, countries from around the world ratified the UN Sustainable Development Goals and the Paris Agreement,
respectively. This implies that countries have made commitments to mobilise $100 billion annually in climate finance until
2025 under the Paris agreement.
Between 2014 and 2017, ESG compliant investments resulted in annualised excess returns of 3.3% in North America, and a
remarkable 6.6% in Europe, compared to non-ESG compliant investments based on analysis conducted by Amundi, one of
Europe's largest asset managers. In addition to Amundi, other global asset managers – including Blackrock, BNP Paribas,
Vanguard, and Fidelity Investments – have launched ESG funds. In a departure from history, in August 2019 the prominent US
Business Roundtable announced that 181 CEOs of the most influential global companies were committed to the redefinition of
the purpose of the corporation. The CEOs pledged to deliver value to all stakeholders, for the future success of companies,
communities, and country. There seems to be a clear trend emerging that sustainable investment practices are increasingly
considered by both institutional investors and in the boardrooms of global corporations.
This panel will explore whether corporate governance 4.0 is emerging where company directors will have to consider building
inclusive, sustainable, and more resilient businesses for the benefit of humanity, and not just the shareholder and in the short
term.
Moderator:
• Prof. Alexander Van de Putte, Chairman of Corporate Governance & Stewardship and Chief Strategy Officer, AIFC -
confirmed
Panelists:
• Prof. Mervyn King SC, Patron and Founder, Good Governance Academy - confirmed
• Prof. Jonathan Michie, Director of the University of Oxford Department for Continuing Education and President of
Kellogg College - TBC
• Simon Osborne, Former Chief Executive, The Chartered Governance Institute, and chartered governance consultant -
confirmed
• William Russell, Lord Mayor, City of London Corporation - TBC
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
20:00-21:00 – RESEARCH-BASED POLICY MAKING: AIFC RESEARCH PROJECTS HIGHLIGHTS
The use of evidence and economic analysis in policymaking is on the rise, and country’s investment policy is not an exception.
Connecting research and policy enables better policy decisions, as more relevant information is taken into account, the better-
informed decisions are made with a more positive impact on people’s lives.
In face of new reality, Kazakhstan has taken a new development course focused on increasing productivity, complexity and
technological effectiveness of the economy. How to boost economic growth? How countries move into industries that offer
increased productivity? What are the prospects for Kazakhstan to join international value chains? These are among several
questions AIFC aims to research, and, most importantly, translate the insights from such analysis into more effective
policymaking. AIFC leverages its relationship with Growth Lab at Harvard University to bring over 60 years of expertise of its
team members in designing policies that bring change in developing countries.
Bridging the gap between researchers and policy makers is another important aspect of AIFC’s research endeavors that it
pursues together with Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST), the New Economic School (NES), and the
Moscow School of Management-SKOLKOVO. Partners will work towards ensuring high-level theoretical, empirical, and
applied research to make measured but decisive contributions to regional and international public policy debates as well as
business development.
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The session will also feature the launch of the first online platform in Kazakhstan which will allow investors to access all
projects in one click: solution to shorten the gap between investors and projects by matching their investment preferences
and financing needs.
Moderator
• Tolkyn Takishova - Head Of Research Project Office, BCPD Ltd.
Speakers
• Ricardo Hausmann – Director of the Center for International Development’s Growth Lab, Professor of the Practice of
Economic Development at the John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University
• Ruben Enikolopov - Rector, Full Professor at New Economic School
• Shlomo Weber - Full Professor of Economics, President at New Economic School
• Xiao Guangrui - Founder and CEO of Bridata, Asian Council Member of International Project Finance Association
(IPFA), Public-Private Partnership (PPP) expert recognized by both NDRC and Ministry of Finance of PRC
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3rd DAY – 3 JULY, SATURDAY
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
10:00-10:50 – CORPORATE INNOVATIONS: CASES OF SUCCESSFUL COOPERATION BETWEEN
FINTECH STARTUPS AND CORPORATIONS
Fin&Tech Summit
The panel discussion will focus on promotion and research, jointly with speakers, industry experts and the audience, on
successful cases of cooperation between startups and corporations in the financial sector.
During the panel session, the following aspects will be discussed:
▪ History of partnership, motivation, difficulties and benefits for both parties
▪ Success factors of cooperation between fintech startups and banks
▪ Overcoming cultural differences
▪ Portrait of an ideal partner from the point of both sides of view
Audience: local and international financial institutions and startups, mass media, startup ecosystem participants
Moderator:
• Sanjar Taromi, Corporate Partnership Manager, Plug & Play - awaiting for confirmation
Speakers:
• Amirkhan Chikanayev, Managing Director at Sberbank Kazakhstan - TBC
• Samal Abayeva, CEO Zan.bar - TBC
• Bank and startup from the Russian Federation
• Bank and startup from Germany
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
10:00-10:50 – PRESS CONFERENCE WITH AIFC COURT REGISTRAR
Participants:
• Christopher Campbell-Holt, Registrar and Chief Executive of AIFC Court and International Arbitration Centre
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
11:00-11:50 – MICROSOFT MASTER CLASSES FOR EDTECH STARTUPS
EdTech Forum
Goal: create unique content, develop and ecosystem for development of EdTech companies in the regions
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
11:00-12:50 – AIFC PARTICIPANTS SUPPORT
Business Connect Forum
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This event is organized with the aim of providing support to participants with registration and post-registration services.
Opening Remarks
• Aslan Kokayev, Head of Participants Support Department, AIFC Business Connect
Introduction to Post-registration
• Assem Akhanova, Participants Support Department, AIFC Business Connect
Overview office information
• Dilda Ismalilova, ACHIEVE Pillar, BCPD Ltd.
AIFC Employment Regulation
• Dinara Sagyndykova, Head of HR Administration Division, AIFC Authority
Comparison: Employment of the Republic of Kazakhstan and the AIFC
• Ainur Akhmetova, CEO and Director, Money Laundering Reporting Officer of Muratov Law Firm Limited
Q&A
Closing Remarks
• Aslan Kokayev, Head of Participants Support Department, AIFC Business Connect
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
12:00-12:50 – MICROSOFT MASTER CLASSES FOR EDTECH STARTUPS
EdTech Forum
Goal: create unique content, develop and ecosystem for development of EdTech companies in the regions
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
13:00-13:50 –DIGITALISATION AS A NEW TREND OF THE GLOBAL MOBILITY IN POST-
PANDEMIC PERIOD
Today global trends are constantly changing the world. Over the last 25 years society has been developed fundamentally,
which impacts on societal development and economic growth at the macro level, and on various spheres of life of each person
at the micro level. Three megatrends such as globalisation, digitalisation, and mobility are the most significant and influential
trends.
Adoption of digital technologies will enable the state, business, and society to interact effectively in becoming an increasingly
deeper and dynamic process.
During the post-pandemic period digitalisation approach is vital in all the spheres of our life, including high-level priorities,
such as healthcare, education, economy, business development and especially mobility. AIFC is also trying to contribute in
Kazakhstan development projects using its advanced framework and infrastructure to continue to conduct business, with all
possible measures taken to deliver the highest quality service, while at the same time mitigating respective impacts and
protecting the business community.
Audience: foreign/local investors and businesses, SMEs, consultants, state bodies, local media
Moderator:
• TBC
Speakers:
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• Kuanyshbek Bukeyev, Chief Digital Officer, AIFC - confirmed
• Magzhan Madiyev, CEO, Astana Hub - TBC
• Marlen Sihayev, Deputy Chairman of the Management Board, Zerde National Infocommunication Holding JSC–
confirmed
• Yerzhan Baltayev, Chairman of the Board, Astana Invest - confirmed
• Jandos Temirgali, Managing Director, Kazakh Invest - confirmed
• David Russell Gallo, Expert, AIFC - TBC
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
13:00-13:50 – MANAGING INVESTMENT FUNDS IN AIFC
Business Connect Forum
A webinar shall touch upon rules and process of licensing funds in the AIFC, benefits of registering investment funds within
the AIFC and share insights about investment opportunities of the local market. The purpose of the webinar is to promote
AIFC platform for registering and managing investment funds.
During webinar speakers will share valuable information about their experience of registering and managing funds in AIFC,
impact of amendments to tax legislation to their business and minimum requirements to apply for financing and items critical
for decision making (collateral, industry, holding %):
• Hedge fund – Movchan Management Ltd.
• Private equity fund – Provident Fiduciary Ltd.
• Venture fund – Most Invest Ltd.
Audience: local investors and businesses, consultants, local media, banks, Private funds, project holders
Moderator:
• Arman Batayev, Deputy Director of Deals sourcing, AIFC Business Connect - confirmed
Speakers:
• Asset Abdygapparov, CEO of Provident Fiduciary Ltd. - confirmed
• Andrey Movchan, Managing partner of Movchan's group - confirmed
• Alim Khamitov, Managing Partner of Central Asia venture fund MOST Ventures – confirmed
• Paul Pullinger, Partner at Ozara Services - confirmed
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
14:00-14:50 – SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS MODELS AND DATA TRANSPARENCY
Green Growth Forum
This session will discuss the challenges of the COVID-2019 pandemic and steps taken by the leading companies that can act as
a business model for entrepreneurs in Kazakhstan.
The speakers will answer the following questions:
• What actions should leaders take to create a sustainable future?
• Why is ESG playing a more important role now than ever?
• Regardless of whether the post-pandemic is called the "new normal", what does this mean for our future leaders?
Moderator:
• Vassiliy Kalabin, ESG expert, PwC Advisory (confirmed)
Speakers:
• Gonzalo Muñoz, High-Level Climate Action Champion COP26 (confirmed)
• Rafal Trepka, General manager at Mastercard Central Asia (confirmed)
• Eduard Kim, Chairman of the Board of Directors, "Technodom Operator" (confirmed)
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• Vladimir Gorchakov, Deputy Director of the Sustainable Development Risk Assessment Group ACRA (confirmed)
• Alexey Dukhanin, Director of International Cooperation at Wildberries (TBC)
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
14:00-14:50 – CRYPTO INDUSTRY TRENDS, CBDC STATUS
Fin&Tech
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
15:00-15:50 – SECTOR PERSPECTIVE: ENERGY EFFICIENT BUILDINGS
Green Growth Forum
Although achieving net-zero emissions will require sustained effort across sectors, some could meet the target more quickly
than others. According to a recent McKinsey report on EU decarbonization pathways, most of the technology required to
decarbonize the buildings sector is already available, such as drastically lowering gas usage in buildings and dwellings
increasing renewable heating sources to 100%. However, in Kazakhstan renovating large portions of the building stock is an
elephantine task. This session will explore opportunities for energy efficient buildings in Kazakhstan and the region, including
the development of standards and implementation of the projects.
Moderator:
• Alexandr Belyi, Manager of projects, UNDP Kazakhstan (confirmed)
Speakers:
• Timur Karagoishin, Chairman of Construction Committee, Ministry of Industry and Infrastructure Development
(TBC)
• Guy Eames, Chair, Russian Green Building Council (RUGBC) (confirmed)
• Aleksandar Dukovski, Chair, Group of Experts on Energy Efficiency (GEEE), UNECE (confirmed)
• Pieter van Genuchten, Senior Strategy and policy consultant, The Hague Energy Transition Programme (confirmed)
• Diaz Baiseitov, CEO of KazGBC, CEO of KunTech LLP, Country Coordinator of PFAN (confirmed)
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
15:00-15:50 – INVESTMENTS IN DATA CENTRES Business Connect Forum
A webinar is proposed to raise awareness of investment opportunities in Digital assets infrastructure.
Currently, cryptocurrency demand is driven not only by younger retail investors but also by institutional investors, such as
family offices and asset managers. Kazakhstan has 6% hashrate production in global digital mining.
We will discuss specifics of investing in data centers in Kazakhstan.
Audience: business entities, initiators of new projects, existing project holders, suppliers, investment funds (GPs, LPs),
consulting companies, and business developers
Moderator:
• Arman Batayev, Deputy Director of Deals sourcing, AIFC Business Connect - confirmed
Speakers:
• Saken Shayakhmetov, Deputy akim of Pavlodar region - confirmed
Investment opportunities for energy intensive projects in Pavlodar region
• Askhat Orazbek , Vice Minister of Digitalization, TBC
New opporunities for digital mining
• Alan Dorjiyev, President of Blockchain Association - confirmed
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Industry challenges
• Stephen Kelso, Head of Markets at ITI Capital, confirmed
Digital assets – rapidly growing new global asset class
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
16:00-16:50 – ROLE OF EDUCATION AND SOCIETY IN PROPELLING CLIMATE ACTION
Green Growth Forum
Environmental educators and researchers are currently focused on researching and promoting energy conservation behavior
with an emphasis on children and youth. It is important to adopt a vision and strategy for climate change and energy
education that more explicitly addresses the role of collective action, multiactor networks, and sociotechnical innovation in
shaping energy transition processes. What can we do now to increase "climate literacy" among young people, encourage
changes in their attitudes and behaviour, and help them adapt to climate change related trends?
Moderator:
• Sayasat Nurbek, CEO of BTS Education (confirmed)
Welcome Speech:
• Askhat Aimagambetov, Minister of Education and Science of the Republic of Kazakhstan (pre-recorded video) (TBC)
Speakers:
• Elmira Obry, acting CEO, BCPD (confirmed)
• Dr. Timirkhan Alishev, Vice-Rector for International Affairs, Kazan Federal University (confirmed)
• Nurmukhammed Dossybayev, Founder and CEO of Astana Garden School (confirmed)
• Aizhan Ryskulova, Coordinator, Kazakhstan Waste Management Association "KazWaste" (confirmed)
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
16:00-16:50 – THE AIFC COURT & IAC: 3 YEARS ON
The AIFC Court and IAC commenced operations on 1 January 2018. Since then, the AIFC Court and IAC have achieved
considerable results and continue to implement a sustained enhancement programme to ensure that they provide the most up
to date and user friendly international standard commercial dispute resolution that is independent, impartial, incorruptible
and in strict accord with the rule of law. During this webinar, participants will have an opportunity to hear first-hand from the
AIFC Court Chief Justice and IAC Chairman on the activities and future plans of the AIFC Court and IAC. Participants will also
hear from a Judge who has given judgments at the AIFC Court and from an Arbitrator who has given arbitration awards at the
IAC. The webinar will provide unique insight into how the AIFC Court and IAC work in practice at an everyday practical level.
Audience: local, regional, and international lawyers, business investors, local media
Moderator:
• Christopher Campbell-Holt, Registrar and Chief Executive, AIFC Court and IAC – confirmed
Speakers:
• The Rt. Hon. The Lord Mance, Chief Justice, AIFC Court - confirmed
• Barbara Dohmann QC, Chairman, IAC - confirmed
• Alexander Korobeinikov, Partner, Baker & McKenzie – TBC
• AIFC Court Judge – TBC
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
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17:00-17:50 – GREEN TALKS
Green Growth Forum
This session will address following questions:
• Opportunities presented by the shift to a sustainable economy.
• What are the social impacts of the climate policies in the context of Central Asia?
• Carbon border tax and how fair is it.
Moderator:
• Sean Kidney, CEO, and co-founder of Climate Bonds Initiative (confirmed)
Speakers:
• Ahlem Friga-Noy, Total Country Chair in Kazakhstan & Managing Director, Total E&P Kazakhstan (confirmed)
• Jan-Willem van de Ven, Head of Climate Finance and Carbon Markets, EBRD (confirmed)
• Victor Kovalenko, Director, Central Asia, Caucasus, Ukraine and Belarus, Climate Change and Sustainability Services,
EY (confirmed)
• Zhomart Mominbayev, Partner, Modern Innovative Technologies (confirmed)
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
17:00-17:50 – INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES OF CENTRAL ASIA AND CAUCASUS
Business Connect Forum
A webinar is proposed to raise awareness of investment opportunities of Central Asia and the Caucasus, inform about
government support measures and the role of the AIFC in attracting capital to the region.
During webinar CA and Caucasus-wise investment opportunities will be presented by national investment promotion
agencies.
Audience: business entities, initiators of new projects, existing project holders, suppliers, investment funds (GPs, LPs),
consulting companies, associations, embassies and business developers
Moderator
• Nurlan Yesmagambetov, Head of Investments, AIFC Business Connect – confirmed
Speakers
• Mr. Oibek Elmuratov, Deputy Director of Investment Promotion Agency under the Ministry of Investments and
Foreign Trade of the Republic of Uzbekistan – confirmed
• Mr. Yusif Abdullayev, Acting president of Azerbaijan Export and Investment Promotion Foundation (AZPROMO) -
confirmed
• Mr. Meirzhan Yussupov, Chairman of the Management Board of National Company KazakhInvest JSC – TBC
• Investment Promotion and Protection Agency of the Kyrgyz Republic – confirmed, speaker – TBC
• TajInvest SUE State Committee for Investments and State Property Management of Republic of Tajikistan –
confirmed, speaker – TBC
• National Development Agency of Mongolia – TBC
• “Enterprise Georgia” State Economic Development Agency under the Ministry of Economy and Sustainable
Development of Georgia - TBC
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
18:00-18:50 – ROLE OF VENTURE CAPITAL IN ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Fin&Tech
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
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18:00-18:30 – DECLARATION ON AIFC LAW CONFERENCE 2021
AIFC Law Conference
This session is strategically important for the legal and business community of the AIFC as it summarises the work
accomplished by the AIFC's Legal Councils and Legal Group since the last year's AIFC Law Conference. Besides, the
distinguished Chairpersons will discuss the next milestones, the ways to achieve them, and the main areas on which the
Councils will focus in 2021-2022.
As the Declaration of the AIFC Law Conference 2020 announced the views on strengthening the legal profession and enlarging
legal practice in the AIFC jurisdiction, this year's Declaration would set additional top priority areas for the near future. One of
them is the further development of LegalTech, which can help legal practitioners acquire more clients, better serve current
clients, and provide legal services more efficiently. The AIFC is committed to helping its participants to stay ahead of the curve
and has been working on the creation of a thriving LegalTech ecosystem.
Moderator:
• Michael Blair QC, Chairman of AIFC Legal Advisory Council, Leading Counsel at 3 Verulam Buildings
Speakers:
• Chris Kenny, Chairman of AIFC Advisory Panel on Legal Regulatory Matters • Mark Beer OBE, Chairman of AIFC Advisory Council on Development of LegalTech
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
19:00-19:50 – OFFICIAL LAUNCH OF THE 1ST REAL ESTATE CROWDFUNDING PLATFORM
