Apparel Group and myZoi Forge Partnership to Drive Financial Inclusion for Over 4,000 Underbanked Employees

Apparel Group and myZoi Forge Partnership to Drive Financial Inclusion for Over 4,000 Underbanked Employees

  • Apparel Group Enhances Home Transfer Services through myZoi App
  • Apparel Group to extend myZoi’s payroll, domestic payments, home transfer, and financial education offering to its employees.
  • Together, myZoi and Apparel will advance the social elements of ESG.

In a significant announcement made at the Dubai Fintech Summit, Apparel Group, a leading global fashion and lifestyle retail conglomerate, and myZoi, a pioneering fintech incubated at SC Ventures, unveiled a strategic partnership set to redefine financial inclusion for low-income employees. This collaboration will deliver advanced digital payroll solutions and comprehensive financial literacy programs, directly benefiting over 4,000 employees of Apparel Group. The initiative was jointly announced by Syed Muhammad Ali, CEO of myZoi, and Neeraj Teckchandani, CEO of Apparel Group, marking a major step forward in leveraging financial technology to enhance workforce empowerment.

MyZoi, which has secured crucial licensing from the Central Bank of the UAE, including Stored Valued Facilities, Retail Payments Services, and Card Schemes licenses, is positioned to dramatically improve financial access and education for Apparel Group’s employees. This partnership not only addresses immediate payroll processing efficiencies but also aims at a broader impact, including improved financial wellbeing and security for a significant segment of Apparel Group’s workforce.

Neeraj Teckchandani, CEO of Apparel Group, said: “As leaders in the retail sector, we recognize our responsibility to not only drive business success but also foster substantial social change. This partnership with myZoi represents a transformative leap towards creating a more financially inclusive ecosystem. By equipping our team with essential financial skills and tools, we are investing in their future, ensuring they have the opportunities and resources necessary to prosper. We are proud to lead the charge in this critical aspect of social sustainability, aiming to inspire and ignite similar initiatives across industries.”

Syed Muhammad Ali, CEO of myZoi said: “We’re thrilled to welcome such a reputable and purpose driven partner on board who shares our mission of bringing simple, affordable, and safe financial solutions to employees that are under or unbanked. We’re excited to work on this agenda together and extend our financial solutions to Apparel’s employees and their families as we work together toward implementing the solution in the near future”.

The partnership reinforces Apparel Group’s commitment to its Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) goals, specifically focusing on enhancing economic inclusion and setting industry benchmarks in social responsibility through innovative financial technology

For further information: 
Asmik Akopyan
Head of Brand and Marketing
E-mail: asmik@myzoi.life

About myZoi

myZoi is committed to promote financial inclusion of every underbanked individual globally through tailored financial services, elevating their living standards over time. Headquartered in the UAE, myZoi is a wholly owned subsidiary of Standard Chartered Bank and a fintech backed by SC Ventures – the Bank’s innovation, fintech investment and ventures arm.

About Apparel Group LLC

Apparel Group is a global fashion and lifestyle retail conglomerate residing at the crossroads of the modern economy – Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Today, Apparel Group caters to thousands of eager shoppers through its 2200+ retail stores and 85+ brands on all platforms while employing over 22,000+ multicultural staff.

Apparel Group has carved its strong presence in the GCC and expanded thriving gateways to market in India, South Africa, Singapore, Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia, and Egypt. Additionally, clear strategies are in place to enter emerging markets such as Hungary and Philippines.

Apparel Group has created an omni-channel experience, operating brands originating from the USA, Canada, Europe, Australia, and Asia. The brands include leading names in fashion, footwear, and lifestyles such as Tommy Hilfiger, Charles & Keith, Skechers, Aldo, Nine West, Aeropostale, Jamie’s Italian, Tim Hortons, Cold Stone Creamery, Inglot, and Rituals.

Apparel Group owes its amazing growth to the vision and guidance of its dynamic Founder and Chairwoman, Mrs. Sima Ganwani Ved, who has taken the company from strength to strength since its inception in the last two decades.

About SC Ventures

SC Ventures is a business unit that provides a platform and catalyst for Standard Chartered to promote innovation, invest in disruptive financial technology and explore alternative business models.

For more information, please visit www.scventures.io and follow SC Ventures on LinkedIn.

About Standard Chartered

We are a leading international banking group, with a presence in 53 of the world’s most dynamic markets and serving clients in a further 64. Our purpose is to drive commerce and prosperity through our unique diversity, and our heritage and values are expressed in our brand promise, here for good.

Standard Chartered PLC is listed on the London and Hong Kong Stock Exchanges. For more stories and expert opinions please visit Insights at sc.com. Follow Standard Chartered on TwitterLinkedInInstagram and Facebook.

ITALIAFINTECH FORMS STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP WITH THE DUBAI FINTECH SUMMIT

ItaliaFintech led by General Manager Camilla Cionini Visani, who is also the Italian Ambassador for the Dubai Fintech Summit, is pleased to announce a strategic partnership with the Dubai Fintech Summit. This alliance aims to promote financial innovation by fostering synergies between the Italian and global fintech ecosystems. The partnership is an important step in driving technological progress and promoting financial empowerment through innovative solutions, promising new opportunities and developments for stakeholders in both regions and strengthening the Italian fintech ecosystem in the MENA region.

The Global Fintech Alliance Names Its Board of Directors

The Global Fintech Alliance Names Its Board of Directors

  • The founding members elected by vote to have a Chairman and Regional Board Members for Africa, Americas, Asia, and Europe.
  • This alliance brings together over 100 countries under the European Digital Finance Association (EDFA), the FinTech Alliance Iberoamerica (FIA), the Africa FinTech Network (AFN), and Digital ASEAN & Digital Philippines & IDEA.
  • The first General Assembly will take place in May during the Dubai FinTech Summit.

The Global Fintech Alliance (GFA) the world’s most extensive FinTech ecosystem, has named its board of directors as one important step after the first meeting of some of their founding members in Madrid (Spain). This groundbreaking alliance brings together over 100 countries and four major regional networks, including the European Digital Finance Association (EDFA), the FinTech Alliance Iberoamerica (FIA), the Africa FinTech Network (AFN), and Digital ASEAN & Digital Philippines & IDEA. In the short term more regions will be included.

Its primary aim is to connect the global digital finance industry, facilitating the globalization of businesses within the sector and the Financial Inclusion. By fostering collaboration across continents, the GFA strives to support the digital finance industry’s growth and innovation, making it a central hub for financial technology advancements globally. This global block of digital finance (fintech) business associations will be the counterpart for a wide diversity of stakeholders worldwide and the largest lab to test and implement validated policies, standards, and pathways of international cooperation.

The board of directors

Rodrigo García de la Cruz (https://www.linkedin.com/in/rodrigogarciadelacruz/) has been appointed as the Chairman of the GFA. He is also a founding member of the Global FinTech Alliance, Fintech Iberoamerica Alliance, the European FinTech Alliance, the Spanish Fintech and InsurTech Association, and the International Digital Economies Association (iDEA). Additionally, he is founder of Finnovating, a B2B Matching Platform connecting 30,000 tech companies from 160 countries.

Amor Maclang (https://www.linkedin.com/in/amor-maclang-59670a1/) will serve as the Board Member for Asia region in the GFA, representing Digital ASEAN, Digital Philippines, & IDEA. As a founding member of Digital Pilipinas and the International Digital Economies Association (iDEA), and as Founder and ChairFounder of Digital Pilipinas, she is a trailblazer in building digital ecosystems in ASEAN, committed to global digital connectivity.

Niklas Sandqvist (https://www.linkedin.com/in/sandqvist/) has been appointed as the Board Member for European region in the GFA. With an extensive background in the European industry, Niklas serves as co-Secretary General of the European Digital Finance Association and is recognized as a serial co-founder of various industry communities like Fintech Norway, Nordic Initiative and EDFA. His influence extends further through his involvement in various industry roles in Brussels.

Roberto Vargas (https://www.linkedin.com/in/robertovargasb/) will serve as the Board Member for Americas region in the Global FinTech Alliance, representing the Fintech Iberoamerica Alliance. He currently holds the position of President of the Fintech Iberoamerica Alliance and the Fintech Association of Peru, while also serving as CEO at Betriax. He is one of the promoters of GFA.

Segun Aina (https://www.linkedin.com/in/segunainalaw/) will serve as the Board Member for Africa Region in the Global FinTech Alliance, representing Africa Fintech Network. In the fintech space, he currently holds the position of President of Africa Fintech Network, Chairman of Board of Trustees at Fintech Association of Nigeria, Chairman of Fintech Associates Ltd and Chairman of the Board at Opolo Global Innovation.

General Assembly in Dubai in May

Following the inaugural meeting in Madrid this past February, attended by some of the founding members, the first general assembly of the GFA will convene in Dubai. This opportune timing coincides with the recent establishment of a global partnership with the Dubai FinTech Summit, scheduled for May 6th and 7th. Founding members of the GFA will not only have the chance to expand their membership base but also to network with other global leaders. This presents a unique opportunity to forge collaborative agreements with those who share a holistic vision of the fintech sector and digital finance.

About the Founding Members

Africa Fintech Network (AFN): AFN serves as a unifying platform for Africa’s fintech leaders, organizations, and stakeholders across over 40 countries, fostering innovation, advocacy, and coordinated regulatory interactions.

Digital ASEAN, Digital Philippines, & IDEA: Digital ASEAN and Digital Philippines champion technology as core advocacy tools, while IDEA unites industry leaders globally to shape a more connected and innovative digital landscape.

European Digital Finance Association (EDFA): EDFA advocates for innovative, affordable, and secure financial services across Europe, representing over 18 countries and thousands of members.

Ibero-American Fintech Alliance (FIA): Established in June 2017, FIA aims to advance fintech development globally, focusing on Latin America, the Caribbean and Spain, through initiatives promoting entrepreneurship, competitiveness, and financial inclusion across more than 18 countries.

By naming its board of directors and establishing strategic partnerships, the Global Fintech Alliance is poised to drive transformative change in the global digital finance landscape, fostering collaboration and innovation across borders.

More information: https://www.linkedin.com/company/global-fintech-alliance/?viewAsMember=true

Ajman Bank Appoints Adrian P.L. Hodges as Group Treasurer

Ajman Bank has announced the appointment of Mr. Adrian P.L. Hodges as the new Group Treasurer. With over three decades of robust experience in treasury and global markets, Mr. Hodges brings a wealth of expertise and a proven track record of strategic financial leadership to his new role. Prior to joining Ajman Bank, Mr. Hodges served as the Head of Global Markets Solutions at the Commercial Bank of Dubai, where he played a pivotal role in transforming the bank’s foreign exchange operations into a dynamic, solution-driven global markets service.

Making the announcement, Mr. Mustafa Al Khalfawi, Group CEO of Ajman Bank, stated, “Mr. Hodges’ appointment is a testament to Ajman Bank’s commitment to attracting top talent to foster our strategic objectives. His extensive experience and expertise will play a valuable role as we continue to enhance our financial services and client offerings in an ever-evolving banking landscape.”

Mr. Hodges said, “I am excited to join Ajman Bank and look forward to contributing to its distinguished trajectory in the financial sector. My focus will be on leveraging my global experience to enhance the treasury operations and to drive forward the bank’s strategic financial initiatives.”

Mr. Hodges’ career is distinguished by a robust track record of establishing client P&L businesses, leading organizational change, and achieving significant financial results within a precise vision and defined risk framework. Over the years, he has held many senior positions contributing to the success of several financial institutions such as President – Head of Structured Treasury Solutions, Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank; and Head Structuring & Sales, Treasury & Investments, National Bank of Dubai; among others.

Mr. Hodges holds a Bachelor’s degree in Economics from Southampton University in the United Kingdom and has enhanced his professional skills with several prominent certifications, including Strategic Asset-Liability Management from London Financial Studies and leadership training from INSEAD in Singapore. He continues to enhance his global experience with a hands-on approach that includes setting strategic agendas, regulatory compliance, and corporate governance, enriching his work and his new role at Ajman Bank.

Mr. Hodges is known for his dynamic personal qualities, ambition, and unique abilities in leadership, motivation, and team success, making him a successful and experienced leader amid the complexities and changes in today’s global financial markets.

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About Ajman Bank

Ajman Bank is an Islamic bank with an ambitious vision based on values of integrity, trust and transparency seeks to provide a wide range of Sharia-compliant and high-quality banking services to customers from individuals, companies and government institutions across the UAE. It is also keen to be updated with the latest technology that will ensure customers a distinctive experimental banking with the revival of human touch that is lost in the modern era of banking application.

Ajman Bank is headquartered in Ajman and enjoys the strong support of the Government of Ajman and is a key pillar in the emirate’s economic development strategy. The bank continues its tireless efforts to establish a prominent position in the banking sector as a sustainable Islamic banking institution, with an emphasis on the need to achieve an optimal balance in the community and caring staff, in order to provide real value for shareholders and customers alike. For more information visit http://www.ajmanbank.ae

For media contact:

Hina Bakht

Managing Director

EVOPS Marketing & PR

Mob: 00971 50 6975146

Tel: 00971 4 566 7355

Hina.bakht@evops-pr.com

www.evops-pr.com

Queen Elizabeth 2 Hotel in Dubai is All Set for a Strong Show at Arabian Travel Market Dubai

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The Queen Elizabeth 2 Hotel in Dubai has announced its participation in the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2024, set to take place from 6-9 May at the Dubai World Trade Centre. As the only floating hotel in Dubai, QE2 will be joining the ranks of the most unique exhibitors from across the world, showcasing its exceptional maritime heritage and experiences to the global travel trade community.

Ferghal Purcell, General Manager, Queen Elizabeth 2 Hotel, said, “The Queen Elizabeth 2 Hotel epitomizes the evolution of travel. Combining our storied past with modern comforts, we offer guests unparalleled experiences. At the Arabian Travel Market Dubai we plan to unveil our latest initiatives and services designed to enhance the guest experience. From innovative sustainability practices aimed at protecting the environment and conserving natural resources to the introduction of the latest technology enhancing guest interactions, at the QE2 we are committed to leading by example in the travel industry. Visitors to our booth will have the opportunity to explore the ship’s rich history, discover our wide range of facilities, and learn about the vessel’s journey from a legendary ocean liner to an iconic hotel in Dubai.”

The Arabian Travel Market 2024, held in conjunction with the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), Emirates, and other strategic partners, is the premier event for travel professionals. As it celebrates its 31st edition, ATM 2024 will continue to foster innovation, drive industry growth, and provide a platform for policymakers, industry leaders, and travel experts to forge new relationships and explore opportunities for the future.

Ferghal stressed, “At the QE2 we are honored to be part of an event that not only showcases the best of travel but also sets the stage for the future of the industry. We invite attendees to visit our booth to experience the unique blend of heritage and hospitality that the QE2 offers as well as know more about our green initiatives that are aimed at contributing to a more sustainable world. We believe together, we can create a future where nature thrives.”

Visitors can find Queen Elizabeth 2 Hotel at the Dubai Stand: ME1120

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About Queen Elizabeth 2 Hotel, Managed by Accor

Queen Elizabeth 2 Hotel, managed by Accor, is a historic gem and the only floating hotel in emirates. Located in Port Rashid, in close proximity to Dubai’s main attractions and shopping malls, its 447 renovated rooms and suites are carefully decorated, offering a peaceful retreat in which to relax and unwind.

Guests can experience a culinary journey with innovative menus onboard the QE2. The hotel’s dining outlets include Lido – an all-day dining restaurant; The Golden Lion – the oldest pub in Dubai; The Pavilion – an alfresco lounge; and the Queens Grill – serving Afternoon Tea.

For those seeking an event with a difference, the iconic QE2 offers multiple one-of-a-kind venues in Dubai. Included in its facilities are unique indoor and outdoor event spaces. Whether you are planning a birthday bash, an anniversary party, a wedding celebration, or any other social or corporate functions, the QE2 provides an inspiring and impressive backdrop that will delight your guests.

For reservations & Inquiries

Call +971 4 526 8888 or email Reservations.qe2@accor.com

Or visit https://www.qe2.com

For Media Inquiries contact:

Hina Bakht

Managing Director

EVOPS Marketing & PR

Mob: 00971 50 6975146

Tel: 00971 4 566 7355

Hina.bakht@evops-pr.com

www.evops-pr.com

Finvasia joins Dubai FinTech Summit as a Lead Sponsor

§  The collaboration reinforces Dubai FinTech Summit and Finvasia’s shared commitment to strengthen the global financial ecosystem through innovation and knowledge exchange.§  The partnership sets the stage for the transformative 2nd edition of the Dubai FinTech Summit empowering the FinTech ecosystem with the tools, resources, and networks needed to innovate and grow. Dubai, 1 May 2024: Finvasia, a global innovator leveraging engineering and technology, has joined the Dubai FinTech Summit (DFS), organised by Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), the leading global Financial Centre in the MEASA region, as a Lead Sponsor, underscoring its dedication to support businesses with a cost-effective, ethical and integrated ecosystem of products and services that inter-operate across various industry segments. Finvasia Group was established in Canada and India in 2009, with a vision to make financial markets easily accessible to the masses around the globe. Since its foundation, Finvasia has served over 5 million clients in more than 190 countries and has transacted trillions of USD worth in value through its 10+ brands combined. Its objective to create ethical, sustainable products that benefit stakeholders, leveraging economies of scale and scope to drive positive change in every industry Finvasia engages with. Sarvjeet VirkCo-founder & Manging Director Finvasia, said, “Dubai FinTech Summit serves as an international stage for us to display our advanced financial products and contribute to the global FinTech dialogue. At DFS 2024, we’ll spotlight our AI-based financial products and chat about how they make finance more inclusive for everyone. We’ll also dive into the exciting possibilities of using technology to revolutionize finance by leveraging these technologies for cross-border fintech integration, reinforcing the role of AI in shaping a future where financial inclusivity is the norm.“DFS is a  platform that allows us to foster technological exchanges and partnerships that transcend borders, particularly within the expanding domain of financial technology and highlighting the collaborative relationship between India and Dubai. The Dubai FinTech Summit serves as a crucial opportunity for us to demonstrate the capabilities of Indian FinTech on a global stage, advancing our mission towards creating a universally accessible financial environment led by technology.”In line with the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33) to position Dubai as the top four global financial hub by 2033, the 2nd edition of the Dubai FinTech Summit is designed to encourage cross-border collaboration and innovation, pivotal to transforming the global FinTech sector. It presents a unique opportunity to explore emerging FinTech trends and their potential to drive financial progress in the MEASA region. The Dubai FinTech Summit, scheduled for May 6-7, 2024, at Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai, will see an unprecedented gathering of over 8,000 decision-makers, over 300 thought leaders and over 200 exhibitors showcasing cutting-edge technologies. #Difc #DifcInnovationHub #DFS2024 #Fintech #Finvasia #AI # #artificialintelligence #InnovationInFinance #EthicalFinTech #FinancialInclusion #TechForGood #GlobalEnterprise #FinTechDisruptionEND About Dubai FinTech Summit Dubai FinTech Summit is an annual mega event organised by the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), the leading global financial centre in the Middle East, Africa and South Asia (MEASA) region. The 2nd edition of the Dubai FinTech Summit will bring together over 8,000+ global industry leaders, 1,500+ investors and policy makers, signalling increased appetite for growth opportunities in the region.Dubai FinTech Summit signals new wave of financial innovation, opportunity, transformation, and growth for the international financial services sector.  As a rising FinTech hub, Dubai is also spearheading the evolution of the financial services industry, with investments in FinTech projected to grow by 17.2 per cent CAGR to USD949 bn from 2022 to 2030. The summit aligns with the Dubai Economic Agenda D33’s strategic goal of propelling Dubai into the ranks of the top four global financial hubs by 2033. The expanded programme of Dubai FinTech Summit is set to exceed expectations by delving into key tracks, including the future of FinTech, embedded and Open Finance, climate finance, Web3 and digital assets. The summit stands as a thought leadership-driven platform, addressing industry challenges head-on and championing innovation. To register for the event, visit www.dubaifintechsummit.comVisitors can purchase tickets for the Dubai FinTech Summit 2024. For further enquiries, please contact: Samia AhmadAssistant Manager, Marketing at DIFC Innovation HubM: +971529980096E: samia.ahmad@difc.ae Or Shadi DawiDirector of PR & Strategic PartnershipsTrescon GlobalMobile: +971 55 498 4989shadi@tresconglobal.com