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NextGen Payments & RegTech Forum
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“Trust, intelligence, and speed are no longer trade-offs. They’re the new standard.”
QUBE Events
On 19 February 2026 at the Hilton Malta, senior leaders in payments, banking compliance, regulation, AI, fraud and risk will come together for a focused, high-impact fintech and payments conference.
The NextGen Payments & RegTech Forum Malta is a senior-level regulatory compliance and payments conference where banks, payment providers, fintech innovators, policy leaders and regulators align on what is next - from instant payments and account-to-account (A2A) transactions to AML, KYC, DORA / NIS2, PSD3, MiCA and AI-enabled compliance.
This high-level fintech event in Malta is built for decision-makers who are shaping the future of payments, RegTech, financial crime prevention and digital finance across the EU, UK and wider international markets.
Across keynote presentations, strategic panel discussions, real-world case studies and invite-only roundtables, delegates will gain direct insight into:
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The technologies reshaping payments and transaction flows: instant payments, cross-border payments, A2A, digital wallets, embedded finance and payment initiation
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The evolving regulatory environment: PSD3, MiCA, DORA / NIS2, AML and KYC obligations, and what supervisors now expect from banks, PSPs, fintechs and iGaming operators
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The new standard for financial crime prevention: fighting fraud, scams and mule activity while protecting user experience and conversion
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AI in production: how AI is already being deployed at scale in onboarding, transaction monitoring, fraud detection, customer protection and operational resilience - with governance, audit trails and accountability
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How Malta is positioning itself as a trusted payments, fintech and compliance hub, with credible supervision and an increasingly mature regulatory framework
Beyond on-stage content, this is also about access.
The Forum is engineered for senior dialogue, policy clarity and commercial opportunity. Delegates can connect through curated one-to-one meetings with vetted counterparts, focused working lunches and private networking sessions - designed to open relationships, shape partnerships and accelerate deals.
Join us in Malta - a growing hub for payments, fintech, compliance innovation and digital finance — for a day of intelligence, collaboration and deal-making.
Secure your place at the NextGen Payments & RegTech Forum Malta 2026 and be part of the conversation defining the future of payments, regulatory compliance, AML / KYC and financial services in Europe.
PAST SPONSORS
PAST SUPPORTING PARTNER
PAST SPEAKERS
PAST CONTRIBUTORS
WHAT'S COMING UP
1. Innovation in Payment Technologies
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Emerging Payment Solutions: Explore the latest advancements in payment methods, including contactless payments, digital wallets, and cryptocurrency integrations that are reshaping consumer behaviour and business models
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AI and Automation in Payment Processing: Understand how artificial intelligence and automation are being utilised to enhance efficiency, security, and customer experience in payment transactions
2. Navigating Regulatory Challenges
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Understanding Global Compliance Frameworks: Gain insights into the various regulatory environments affecting payments globally, including PSD2/3, GDPR, and AML regulations, and how businesses can adapt to comply
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Risk Management and Compliance Strategies: Discuss effective strategies for managing compliance risks and developing robust frameworks to safeguard against regulatory violations and associated penalties
3. Fraud Prevention and Security Measures
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Identifying Trends in Payment Fraud: Analyze the latest trends and tactics used by fraudsters in the payments sector and how to stay ahead of evolving threats
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Implementing Effective Security Protocols: Learn about best practices for securing payment systems, including multi-factor authentication, encryption, and continuous monitoring to protect against breaches
PAST AGENDA
19 FEBRUARY | MALTA
20 FEBRUARY 2025
08:30-09:00
REGISTRATION & WELCOME COFFEE
Sponsored by Andaria and Deloitte
09:00-09:05
WELCOME ADDRESS
Lilly Pavlou, Executive Director at QUBE Events
09:05-09:10
CHAIRMEN OPENING ADDRESS
Robert Courtneidge, Payment Industry Expert
Rich Wagner, CEO at Zempler Bank
09:10-09:40
PANEL DISCUSSION + Q&A
Cryptocurrency and Payments: Navigating the Evolving Landscape
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Regulatory Frameworks in Europe: Exploring the varying regulatory approaches across European nations regarding cryptocurrency usage, focusing on compliance, taxation, and consumer protection
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Impact of CBDCs on Traditional Payments: Analysing how the introduction of Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs) is reshaping existing payment systems, potentially improving efficiency and security in transactions
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Integration of Crypto Payments: Discussing the growing acceptance of cryptocurrencies as payment methods and the challenges and opportunities this poses for merchants and financial institutions in adapting to consumer preferences
Moderator: Robert Courtneidge, Payment Industry Expert
Julian Goffin, Co-founder and CEO at Alunafi
Justine Scerri Herrera, Partner at MK Fintech Partners Ltd
Giovanni Cunti, CEO at Gate.MT
Luis Teles, Head of Operations Department at BNF BANK
09:40-10:05
KEYNOTE SESSION + Q&A
AI’s Transformative Role in the Economy: Navigating the Future
This visionary keynote session will highlight AI’s transformative impact on payments and RegTech, focusing on four key trends: digitisation, driving data-driven decisions; dematerialisation, reshaping user interfaces; demonetisation, cutting costs through automation; and democratisation, scaling innovation. Gege will explore the societal and ethical implications of AI, offering actionable insights for leveraging technology to lead in these evolving sectors.
Gege Gatt, CEO at EBO
10:05-10:35
PANEL DISCUSSION + Q&A
Successful Payment Strategies in 2025
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Leading Fintech Innovations: We will examine successful case studies showcasing how fintech companies are pioneering payment innovations, such as instant cross-border payments and the integration of blockchain technology
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Regulatory Alignment: Identifing best practices for aligning payment strategies with evolving regulations, ensuring compliance while optimizing operational efficiency and customer experience
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Customer-Centric Approaches: Exploring strategies that prioritise user experience and security, including the adoption of biometric authentication and personalised payment solutions, to enhance customer trust and retention
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2025 Updates on Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL): Trends and Considerations
The (BNPL) landscape is evolving with widespread adoption among consumers, increased regulatory scrutiny for better consumer protection, and strategic partnerships between businesses and BNPL providers to enhance customer experiences while promoting responsible lending practices
Moderator: Andrew Doukanaris, Chief Executive Officer at Flotta Consulting Ltd
Christian Reinheimer, Director Payments Product & Technology at LeoVegas Group
Theresia Mallia, Head of Payment Product at Kindred Group
Axel Contreras, Payments Operations Manager at Nium
Bob Reid, CEO and Co-Founder at Everest
Andrew Christodoulou, Financial Services Expert and Business Development Manager at Worldline
10:35-11:00
KEYNOTE SESSION + Q&A
Commercial Perspectives of our Regulatory Landscape; A CEO’s Perspective of Opportunities for the UK and Impacts for European Banks
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What are the key regulatory activities for banks and payment institutions in UK to focus on in 2025
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How can the industry (and CEOs) shape the National Payment Vision for the UK and the rest of Europe
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What should CEOs and Senior Executives prioritise now and influence for the future of payments and banking
Rich Wagner, CEO at Zempler Bank
11:00-11:15
KEYNOTE SESSION
Malta's Fintech Ecosystem: A Thriving Landscape for Innovation and Growth
Ian Gauci, Managing Partner at GTG - Representing Finance Malta
11:15-11:45
NETWORKING COFFEE BREAK + ONE-TO-ONE MEETINGS
Sponsored by Finance Malta and UMCA Technologies
11:45-12:15
PANEL DISCUSSION + Q&A
Evolving Threats and Innovations in Financial Crime
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Exploring how AI and machine learning are transforming fraud and AML detection and prevention
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A look at the latest emerging threats in financial crime such as Cybercrime, Ransomware, and Digital Fraud
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Discussion on the Cross-Border Collaboration and Regulatory Harmonisation in fighting financial crime, including the role of international frameworks, data-sharing agreements, and technology-driven compliance solutions to combat global money laundering and fraud
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AI Adoption in FinCrime prevention: Top challenges and real-life use cases
Moderator: Robert Courtneidge, Payment Industry Expert
Catalin Romeo Barbu, VP Compliance & MLRO, Europe at Shift4
Annabel Pisani, Head of Risk at MoneyBase Ltd
Mark Falzon, Deputy MLRO at Bank of Valletta plc
Maja Andreevska-Blazhevska, Head of Financial Crime Compliance & MLRO at Finance Incorporated Limited
Tim Khamzin, CEO at Vivox.AI
12:15-12:40
KEYNOTE SESSION + Q&A
MICA is Here - Behind the Scenes and Beyond! An EU and Local Perspective
Justine Scerri Herrera, Partner at MK Fintech Partners Ltd
12:40-13:10
PANEL DISCUSSION + Q&A
Navigating the Evolving Regulatory Landscape
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Exploring the key regulatory challenges and opportunities that lie ahead
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Developing frameworks to ensure responsible and ethical use of AI and ML
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Developing a coherent framework for regulating emerging digital assets
Moderator: Damian Mifsud, Fintech / Regtech Entrepreneur
Vlad Karols, Chief Compliance Officer at ZBX Crypto Exchange
Jürg Baltensperger, Managing Director at JayBee Ltd
Annalise Vassallo Seguna, Managing Legal Officer at MDIA
Wayne Pisani, Partner at Grant Thornton
13:10-14:10
NETWORKING LUNCH
Sponsored by Complyradar
14:10-14:40
PANEL DISCUSSION + Q&A
Open Finance and Beyond
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Scaling up for a new era of open innovation
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Exploring the new business model opportunities in open finance
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Panelists discuss embedded payments and Open Finance trends, focusing on compliance, consumer experience, and the opportunities for fintech partnerships in Malta and beyond
Moderator: Robert Courtneidge, Payment Industry Expert
Gerasimos Papaleventis, First Vice President Treasury - Head of Control and Monitoring at FIMBank plc
Keith Cortis, AI Lead, KPMG Islands Group
Ian Gauci, Managing Partner at GTG
Ivan Zammit, Chief Operations Officer at MFSA
14:40-15:10
PANEL DISCUSSION + Q&A
Driving Innovation in Cross-Border Payments: Enhancing Efficiency, Security, and Compliance
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Exploring new technologies and partnerships that streamline cross-border payment processes while maintaining security and compliance, fostering a more efficient global payment infrastructure
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Emergence of Blockchain Solutions: Leveraging blockchain technology to facilitate faster, more secure cross-border transactions while reducing costs associated with intermediaries
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Collaboration with Fintech Startups: Forming strategic partnerships with innovative fintech companies to develop agile payment solutions that can swiftly adapt to regulatory changes and consumer demands
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Integration of AI and Machine Learning: Utilising AI-driven analytics to improve fraud detection, streamline compliance processes, and enhance the overall security of cross-border payment systems
Moderator: Andrew Doukanaris, Chief Executive Officer at Flotta Consulting Ltd
Monica Orlandi, Senior Commercial Manager at Swift
Erika Borg, Head of Product (ComplyRadar) at Computime FinTech
Simon Vella, Managing Director at Bamboo Payment Europe
Rolands Grancovskis, Head of Payments at The Lotter Group
Ludwig Mallia, Head of Agile and Value Stream Delivery at Bank of Valetta
15:10-15:40
NETWORKING COFFEE BREAK + ONE-TO-ONE MEETINGS
Sponsored by VIVOX and Smart Technologies Ltd
15:40-15:55
KEYNOTE SESSION + Q&A
From Vision to Execution: A Leadership Playbook
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Transforming a crystal-clear vision into actionable results. This talk explores how a purpose-driven vision and clarity on brand values can act as a guiding force to align teams, foster a shared sense of direction, and build a strategic roadmap
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Discover how to drive momentum and ensure big ideas translate into impactful outcomes with precision and purpose
Peter-Jan Grech, Founder and CEO at BRND WGN
15:55-16:25
PANEL DISCUSSION + Q&A
Reimagining Embedded Finance
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Transforming Consumer Interactions: Embedded finance is enhancing customer journeys by integrating financial services into everyday platforms for improved convenience and personalisation
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Driving Innovation through Technology: The latest advancements in AI, blockchain, and APIs are being leveraged to create innovative financial solutions across various sectors
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Navigating Regulatory and Security Landscapes: Businesses face evolving regulatory and security challenges when embedding financial services, requiring effective compliance and risk management strategies
Moderator: Andrew Doukanaris, Chief Executive Officer at Flotta Consulting Ltd
Sam Boboev, Product Manager at TPF | The Payments Factory
Reno Scerri, Vice President of Strategic Projects at Weavr
Kurt Azzopardi, CTO at Andaria
16:25-16:45
KEYNOTE SESSION + Q&A
Risk - DORA and Outsourcing in Fintech - The Challenges of Scaling Up To a Global Fintech Operation
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Impact of DORA on Scaling Fintech Operations: DORA provides a framework for operational resilience, ensuring compliance and customer trust as fintechs expand globally
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Managing Operational Risks: A centralised approach to risk management, driven by DORA principles, is essential for navigating the complexities of diverse regulatory landscapes
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Building a Resilient Framework: Developing a flexible operational strategy and strong partnerships with third-party providers is crucial for maintaining resilience during global expansion
Fiorentina D'Amore, Managing Director Malta, UAE at Bitpanda
16:45-17:10
KEYNOTE SESSION
Share Options: Addressing Human Resource Challenges in the Payments Sector
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How can share options improve employee retention and engagement
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What are the key attributes of a share option scheme
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Alternative implementation options to achieve company objectives
Luca Pace, Senior Manager, Tax & Legal at Deloitte
17:10-17:40
PANEL DISCUSSION + Q&A
Navigating Malta's Business Landscape: Future Opportunities and Emerging Challenges
This panel aims to explore:
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Malta’s Position as a Global Financial Hub
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The expected potential of the financial sector in Malta’s growth
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Challenges and opportunities
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Looking ahead
Moderator: Fani Pedoulou, Head of Sales at TFI Markets
Kristian Camenzuli, CFA, Managing Director at Dominion Fiduciary Services Malta Ltd
Ramon Bondin, Chief Executive Officer at Dolfin Asset Services Limited
Albert Cilia, Managing Director - Malta at Trident Trust
Geoffrey Fichte, CEO at HSBC Malta plc
17:40-17:50
CHAIRMEN CLOSING COMMENTS
Robert Courtneidge, Payment Industry Expert
Rich Wagner, CEO at Zempler Bank
17:50-19:00
NETWORKING DRINKS RECEPTION
A closing networking reception to foster connections among attendees featuring local drinks & snacks
Sponsored by Infocredit Group
19:30-22:30
MK FINTECH PARTNERS LTD - NETWORKING PARTY
Join us for an evening of drinks, canapés, and live music at the Royal Malta Yacht Club. Don’t miss the chance to connect and unwind with fellow industry professionals!
Sponsored by MK FINTECH PARTNERS LTD
PAST MEDIA PARTNERS
PAST EVENT VIDEO
KEY BENEFITS FOR PARTICIPATING
Interactive Hybrid Platform
Hybrid events enable you to put a virtual face to your organisation or come actually face-to-face by speaking to your viewers, attending meetings and networking
Build Thought Leadership
Showcase expertise and establish yourself as an industry thought leader
Generate Leads
It is the most cost-effective way to generate qualified leads of key B2B decision makers
Targeted Audience
Meet & engage with your target group
Global Reach
Hybrid events enable you to connect with your target audiences both locally and globally
New Prospects
Engage with new prospects and support existing relationships thus helping to drive leads into your sales funnel
BECOME A SPONSOR
Partnering with the NextGen Payments & RegTech Forum Malta 2026 places your brand directly in front of senior decision-makers.
It is a senior-level, highly curated environment built to accelerate meaningful conversations, warm introductions and commercial opportunities.
As a Sponsor, you will:
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Present your solutions to a concentrated audience of qualified senior stakeholders across payments, compliance, risk, fraud, regulation and digital finance
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Build meaningful relationships through curated one-to-one meetings with vetted prospects aligned to your growth targets
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Elevate your brand by contributing thought leadership on stage and in media, positioning your company as a strategic partner in payments, RegTech, compliance and financial crime prevention for the EU, UK and Malta markets
Our sponsorship packages are built around outcomes - visibility, credibility and deal flow - and shaped to your objectives.
Packages can include:
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A 20–30 minute keynote presentation or participation in a high-level industry panel
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Access to the Meeting Point: pre-qualified, pre-scheduled one-to-one meetings with senior buyers and partners
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A fully integrated international marketing and branding campaign
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Global social media amplification across QUBE channels and partner networks
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Branded presence in premium onsite locations (booths, demo areas, meeting lounges)
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High-profile PR and interview opportunities with international media
Establish your organisation as the trusted partner of choice.
MEANINGFUL NETWORKING
Finally we are back with in-person events! The time to connect with our colleagues and peers in the Payments and RegTech sector is here! Our aim with the NextGen Payments & RegTech Forum Malta 2026 is to facilitate key discussions and create a platform for meaningful networking. No spamming, no irrelevant conversations, just quality conversations that promote business growth.
