Syed Moheeb Kamarulzaman’s Post

The National Bank of Bahrain (NBB) recently launched its digitalised treasury bills (T-Bills), marking a transformative step in the evolution of Bahrain’s capital markets infrastructure. The new digital process enables end-to-end issuance, settlement, and management of T-Bills through a secure and automated platform. Accessible through NBB’s Digital Banking platform, the solution allows customers to select from a range of investment opportunities. Users can subscribe to, manage, and monitor their T-Bill portfolios anytime and anywhere through a secure and fully digitalised experience. Commenting on the announcement, NBB head of wealth management Ali Janahi said, “At NBB, our mission is to put customers at the heart of everything we do. This launch is a testament to our commitment to building strong partnerships with all our customers and potential investors to grow together. It also underscores our focus on driving innovation, enhancing operational efficiency, and delivering tailored solutions that raise the bar for investor experience.” Omar Al Adhami, head of retail digital banking at NBB added, “This initiative represents a key milestone in our digital-first strategy, aimed at delivering every customer a seamless and secure digital experience tailored to their financial needs. Through NBB Digital Banking, customers can conveniently access a new investment opportunity in addition to the comprehensive suite of products and services, all in one place, making NBB Digital their trusted one-stop shop for all their banking requirements.” The launch is aligned with NBB’s broader strategy to integrate customer-centric digital solutions across its investment banking offerings, while supporting national objectives for digital advancement and sustainability. The platform is underpinned by a robust and compliant digital infrastructure that safeguards client data and ensures the integrity of all transactions. It also contributes to the bank’s ESG agenda by reducing reliance on paper-based processes. Read more: https://lnkd.in/dJDPu48d

Smarter Banking Isn’t Just a Trend—It’s a Transformation Cornerstone Advisors’ Smarter Bank Report 2025 lays out a bold vision for the future of financial services. Whether you're a credit union, bank, or fintech, the message is clear: the institutions that thrive will be those that embrace intelligence, agility, and data-driven execution. Here are 5 pillars that define the Smarter Bank/FI—and why they matter to you: 1. Hyper-Efficient Credit unions and banks are under pressure to do more with less. Automation and digital self-service are no longer optional—they’re essential to reduce costs and improve member experience. 2. Data-Driven Fintechs are leading the way in turning data into action. Traditional institutions must break down silos and use real-time insights to personalize services and make faster decisions. 3. Nimble Speed wins. Whether launching new products or adapting to market shifts, financial institutions must operate with a “release mentality” and reduce reliance on legacy systems. 4. Differentiated With two-thirds of small businesses seeking new banking relationships, standing out is critical. Niche strategies, embedded finance, and personalized offerings are key to relevance. 5. Opportunistic M&A, fintech partnerships, and new market entries are reshaping the landscape. The most successful institutions aren’t just reacting—they’re creating opportunities. At MeridianLink, we help financial institutions modernize their operations, unlock data, and deliver seamless digital experiences. Whether you're looking to scale, differentiate, or innovate—we’re here to support your journey. If you're exploring how to become a Smarter Bank, Credit Union, or Fintech Partner, let’s connect. For the full article- https://lnkd.in/grnvHDqr

The National Bank of Bahrain (NBB) recently launched its digitalised treasury bills (T-Bills), marking a transformative step in the evolution of Bahrain’s capital markets infrastructure. The new digital process enables end-to-end issuance, settlement, and management of T-Bills through a secure and automated platform. Accessible through NBB’s Digital Banking platform, the solution allows customers to select from a range of investment opportunities. Users can subscribe to, manage, and monitor their T-Bill portfolios anytime and anywhere through a secure and fully digitalised experience. Commenting on the announcement, NBB head of wealth management Ali Janahi said, “At NBB, our mission is to put customers at the heart of everything we do. This launch is a testament to our commitment to building strong partnerships with all our customers and potential investors to grow together. It also underscores our focus on driving innovation, enhancing operational efficiency, and delivering tailored solutions that raise the bar for investor experience.” Omar Al Adhami, head of retail digital banking at NBB added, “This initiative represents a key milestone in our digital-first strategy, aimed at delivering every customer a seamless and secure digital experience tailored to their financial needs. Through NBB Digital Banking, customers can conveniently access a new investment opportunity in addition to the comprehensive suite of products and services, all in one place, making NBB Digital their trusted one-stop shop for all their banking requirements.” The launch is aligned with NBB’s broader strategy to integrate customer-centric digital solutions across its investment banking offerings, while supporting national objectives for digital advancement and sustainability. The platform is underpinned by a robust and compliant digital infrastructure that safeguards client data and ensures the integrity of all transactions. It also contributes to the bank’s ESG agenda by reducing reliance on paper-based processes. Read more: https://lnkd.in/d4qXPVu5

Bank Windhoek has emerged as a pioneer in Namibia by introducing instant wallet-to-wallet transfers, enabling customers to transact without a traditional bank account. This innovation aligns with the Payment System Management Act of 2023 and PSD-3 regulation issued by the Bank of Namibia in March 2025, which set clear rules for e-money issuance to enhance safety, efficiency, and financial inclusion. The Payment System Management Act, 2023 establishes a secure and efficient national payment system and regulates electronic money issuance. Key provisions include licensing of payment service providers, mandatory trust accounts to safeguard customer funds, consumer protection through fee transparency and dispute resolution, and promotion of interoperability and innovation. This framework aligns with Namibia’s obligations under the SADC Treaty 1992  (Articles 21 and 22) and the Protocol on Finance and Investment (2006), supporting regional financial integration. Impact on Consumers: The Act delivers greater choice through wallets and mobile payments, stronger protection via regulated fees, improved convenience with real-time transfers, and expanded access for unbanked populations. Impact on Banks The Act reshapes the banking landscape, creating new market opportunities but also introducing competition from non-bank entrants such as MTC. It opens access to underserved segments like SMEs and the informal sector, which contributed 12% of GDP in 2024. Banks face pressure to innovate as non-interest revenue declines and must integrate with the Instant Payment Platform (IPP) for real-time transfers. Future revenue will shift toward digital transaction fees and value-added services, requiring accelerated digital transformation and strategic partnerships. Namibia’s Digital Banking Landscape By 2024, Namibia had 1.7 million active bank accounts, supported by 20,669 POS devices, 1,300 ATMs, and mobile penetration exceeding 100%. E-money transactions totaled N$43.7 billion across 86 million transactions. The sector’s total assets reached N$186.7 billion, with banks contributing N$1.9 billion annually in taxes

DFCC Bank at 70: Reimagining Customer Experience in a New Era of Banking Having served Sri Lanka for seven decades, DFCC Bank is entering a new era of purpose-led service and digital transformation. For DFCC Bank, customer service has never been a transaction. It is the quiet strength that transforms numbers into stories and banking into a relationship built on trust. The Bank’s journey mirrors Sri Lanka’s own path of progress. Since the 1950s, DFCC Bank has financed industries, empowered entrepreneurs, and now leads the way in shaping digital futures. Yet, even as technology advances, the Bank believes that the essence of service remains human. “Service is the foundation on which relationships are built. The quiet strength transforms transactions into connections, numbers into stories, and a bank into an anchor in people’s lives,” said Shamindra Marcelline, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of DFCC Bank. This belief is reflected across every area of the Bank’s work. Through DFCC Aloka, more than 100,000 women have gained access to credit, mentorship, and peer networks. Through initiatives such as Vyapara Hamuwa and Thirasara Athwela, DFCC Bank supports small and medium businesses by strengthening skills, building sustainable models, and helping entrepreneurs thrive. Digital innovation has become an equally important pillar of this service philosophy. The DFCC ONE App now allows customers to onboard and transact fully online, while DFCC iConnect gives corporates real-time control over liquidity and payments. However, the Bank continues to see technology as a human enabler. As Marcelline notes, “Digital is often seen as the opposite of human. We see it differently. For us, technology is service with a pulse, designed to remove friction, not feeling.” Behind these innovations are more than 2,500 employees guided by the Bank’s PACCE values – Passion, Authenticity, Courage, Collaboration, and Excellence. Through continuous learning and training at the DFCC Learning Academy, they embody the Bank’s belief that service is not a department, but a way of being.

Challenger banks are not just catching up. They are lapping the old guard. Europe shows what happens when great product + instant payments + trust = scale. Pakistan is next. Why I am wildly optimistic about Pakistan’s digital banking moment (and why HugoBank is built for it): • Rails are ready. Raast processed nearly 496 million instant payments in FY24, with volumes still accelerating every quarter. Real-time, low-cost, and everywhere. • Distribution is digital first. Pakistan now has 140 million 3G/4G users and over 90% population coverage for mobile networks. The market for mobile banking is already in everyone’s pocket. • Inclusion gap = growth upside. Only 1 in 5 adults has a formal bank account. That is not a weakness, it is a massive runway. • Wallet behavior is mainstream. Branchless banking accounts have crossed 123 million, with hundreds of thousands of active agents. Cash habits are shifting from counter to phone. • Regulatory clarity is here. State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) created a digital bank framework, issued five NOCs (including HugoBank). Execution is now the differentiator. What this means for HugoBank 🇵🇰 We are building for Pakistan’s reality, not copying someone else’s model. 1. Go-where-people-are distribution: A world-class app backed by on-ground reach through our consortium strengths. Meeting consumers and SMEs where they already work, shop, and get paid. Trust scales when presence does. 2. Instant-first money movement: Raast as the default. Every journey - onboarding, P2P, bill pay, merchant pay - assumes real-time settlement and near-zero cost. That is how digital beats cash. 3. SME-first economics: Credit and cash-flow tools for real businesses, not just cards. Think collections, payouts, and embedded working capital that ride instant rails. Growth comes from financing activity, not just parking funds. 4. Safety by design: Tiered KYC, strong fraud controls, and friction only where it matters. 5. Product velocity over branch density: Ship weekly, learn fast, scale faster. The upshot 🚀 Europe’s map shows what happens when challengers get compounding right. Pakistan now has the rails, reach, and regulatory clarity to do it at scale. The prize is not just market share, it is moving millions from cash to confidence. HugoBank’s intent is simple: build the most trusted daily-use bank in Pakistan - instant by default, everywhere by design, and relentlessly pro-SME. #DigitalBanking #Pakistan #Raast #FinancialInclusion #SME #HugoBank #Fintech #Payments

🚀 Considering #agency banking as a business model for domestic growth.   🏦 As domestic markets saturate due to intense competition, relatively lowered entry barriers in terms of regulations and as various customer segments gain maturity leading to high expectations, there are two potential paths for growth (increase in customer base, revenue, margins, brand strength etc.), that banks (and fintech) can consider - ✈️ 1️⃣ #Expand beyond domestic borders, following the customers, mostly corporates and institutions segments. 🧗♀️ 2️⃣ Find ways to #grow in the domestic market, by entering new segments while improving current operations and margins.   🏭 🌏 There could be multiple possible options that can be derived from the above two considerations. An option that plays well into the strength of a commercial banks is agency banking, essentially becoming an aggregator of payments services in the country, leveraging its regulatory and operational strengths. Serving an increasing demand due to globalized nature of operations for banks and fintech.   🏛️ ⏳ This also opens up an opportunity for domestic scheme operators to offer these services with the objective of increasing adoption of systemic payments schemes in the country. 🌐 🏗️ Considering the two points above, banks have been growing their presence in the international markets. A regional or global reach for a bank is a representation of its #distribution advantage, which is difficult to replicate. 🪢 But as they enter these markets, regulators allow them, in most cases, to access the clearing and settlement systems for a country. Though resources required to comply do present challenges. Hence leveraging a direct participant into the national payments infrastructure is a viable solution.   🀄 Foreign banks that already exist and have a relationship, struggle with compliance of new schemes and payments infrastructure.   📱 Fintech are essential parts of the value chain, encouraged in an economy, by policies to reduce the entry barriers and create an environment of innovation and competition. Government policies will most likely keep them going, but to be effective, fintech need banks.   🎼 🎛️ Approach for agency/aggregator banking - 🏄 An important consideration is to separate domestic payments operations from aggregator operations, as the needs, speed of change management and risks involved are expected to be different. Risking domestic operations may not be an appropriate path. 💸 The entire flow or major parts of the model should be disconnected to keep things separate; some parts of the existing infrastructure can be reused though. An ability to continuously evolve, accommodating needs of a diverse set of in-direct participants is important. Considering substantial scale (relative to the size of country) this could be a lucrative business to get into.   🎢 Payments technology stack will be an important differentiation for growth. Temenos can help.   #payments #strategy

Transforming Banking in India: Embracing Change with GDP Growth, UPI, and Digitalization: As India elevates its position in the global GDP rankings, the dynamics of banking are undergoing a profound transformation. The integration of technology and innovative solutions is not just changing how we Bank but is reshaping the entire financial landscape. Here are some key changes observed: 1. Enhanced Accessibility: With the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) at the forefront, banking services have become more accessible than ever. UPI's seamless transaction capabilities empower millions, allowing instant payments and financial transactions without the need for traditional banking hours. 2. Digitalization Revolution: The shift towards digital banking is accelerating. Banks and financial institutions are leveraging technology to offer user-friendly mobile apps, ensuring that services are available 24/7. From account management to loan approvals, digital platforms enhance customer experience and convenience. 3. Financial Inclusion: Enhanced digital infrastructure has paved the way for increased financial inclusion. More citizens can now access Banking facilities, enabling them to participate in the economy, save, and invest, which directly contributes to the GDP growth. 4. Innovative Financial Products: With a growing economy comes the demand for personalized financial solutions. Banks are innovating their offerings, introducing tailored products that cater to diverse customer needs, from retail to SMEs. 5. Data-Driven Insights: The digitization of banking provides invaluable data insights. Banks are utilizing big data and AI to better understand consumer behavior, assess credit risks, and personalize service, ensuring that they remain competitive in a fast-evolving marketplace. In conclusion, the interplay of improved GDP rank, the rise of UPI, and a commitment to digitalization is revolutionizing the Banking sector in India. As we continue to embrace these changes, the future of banking looks promising and full of potential. Let’s continue to drive innovation and create an inclusive financial ecosystem for all!

The Future of Banking: Precision over Scale The Global Banking Annual Review 2025 by McKinsey & Company delivers a clear message: the future of banking won’t be defined by size, it will be defined by precision. Even after a record-breaking year, with global bank profits reaching $1.2 trillion in 2024, valuations remain 70% below other industries. Investors see strength, but not yet sustainability. 🔹 The next growth curve will be captured by banks that act with surgical focus, embedding precision in four dimensions: 1️⃣ Technology: applying AI where it drives measurable productivity and engagement 2️⃣ The new consumer: moving from segmentation to personalization (“a customer segment of one”) 3️⃣ Capital efficiency: optimizing line by line, client by client 4️⃣ Targeted M&A: deals that fill capability gaps, not just add scale 🌎 Latin America: Leading in Profitability, Competing in Precision Despite global headwinds, Latin America continues to lead global profitability with an average ROE of 16.5%, the highest among all regions. Brazilian banks, in particular, are proving that high returns and digital transformation can coexist. Among Latin American players, Itaú Unibanco stands out as the only incumbent bank with ROE above 23%, while Nubank has achieved over 28%, becoming one of the most profitable digital banks in the world. This dual success, a century-old incumbent and a digital-native challenger, shows how Brazil has become a global benchmark for financial innovation. 🇧🇷 Brazil’s Competitive Edge in Financial Innovation Brazil’s banking ecosystem is one of the most advanced in the world. Open Finance and PIX have redefined how consumers interact with money, enabling interoperability, instant payments, and transparent competition. The country’s digital penetration is among the highest globally, with more than 70% of Brazilians using mobile banking as their primary channel. Fintech-driven inclusion has accelerated bancarization: millions of previously unbanked consumers now access credit, savings, and investments through digital-first banks. This transformation has also inspired new markets. In Mexico, Nubank’s rapid expansion is fueling a similar inclusion wave, bringing millions of first-time users into the formal financial system, much like Brazil’s journey five years ago.

Digital Transformation: A New Era for Urban Co‑operative Banks At Yuktivest LLP, we’re closely watching a recent shift in India’s financial ecosystem that holds significant implications for the co‑operative banking sector. According to a report in The Economic Times, the National Urban Co‑operative Finance & Development Corporation (NUCFDC) has launched two major digital initiatives ‑ Sahakar DigiPay and Sahakar DigiLoan ‑ aimed at equipping nearly 1,500 urban co‑operative banks (UCBs) with advanced digital tools. Here are the key take‑aways: DigiPay will help UCBs cut down UPI transaction switch charges to as low as ₹0.01–₹3 (vs ₹0.50–₹5 previously) — boosting cost efficiency. DigiLoan introduces a digital loan origination platform, enabling online processing, verification, and sanctioning of loans — enabling faster turn‑around and better member servicing. More than just tech upgrades: There’s also a strong push on cyber‑insurance, fraud management, regional language access, and stronger data protection for customers of UCBs. Why this matters to Yuktivest LLP and our clients At Yuktivest, we believe financial inclusion and efficiency go hand‑in‑hand. Strengthening UCBs through digital means aligns with our mission to support robust financial ecosystems across India. For stakeholders in the co‑operative banking sector, this is a call to action: the landscape is shifting, and banks that adapt will gain a competitive edge. For borrowers MSMEs-this means better access, faster decisions, and smoother servicing. The report underscores MSMEs as a key focus for the NUCFDC’s transformation push. What we at Yuktivest LLP recommend Embrace the digital mindset: UCBs should adopt and integrate platforms like DigiPay / DigiLoan, but also plan for ongoing evolution (AI‑based credit models, customer interfaces). Strengthen cybersecurity: With digital tools comes digital risk — banks must ensure they adopt fraud‑detection, identity‑theft controls, and insurance mechanisms proactively. Focus on member experience: Regional language accessibility, user‑friendly interfaces, faster turn‑arounds will differentiate co‑ops in crowded finance markets. Partner with fintechs & ecosystem players: As the NUCFDC’s “Bharat Coopathon” concept suggests, collaboration with fintechs can enable faster innovation and scale. In short: This “digital thrust” isn’t just about software upgrades — it’s a strategic transformation for the co‑operative banking sector in India. At Yuktivest LLP, we’re excited by these developments and stand ready to support stakeholders in navigating and capitalising on this new era. Let’s connect if you’re in the co‑operative banking space and want to explore how best to leverage these digital shifts for growth, efficiency and member value. #DigitalBanking #CoopBanks #Fintech #FinancialInclusion #YuktivestLLP #BankingTransformation #MSMEFinance #InnovationInBanking