QnA International recently hosted the first edition of the Gulf Trade Finance Summit in UAE. Held from September 25 – 26, in Steigenberger Hotel Business Bay, Dubai, the event featured leading GCC thought leaders and financial experts from some of the most forward-thinking corporates, banks and financial institutions from the region, who strategized and brainstormed on significant topics in the current economic scenario ranging from the challenges facing corporates and traders in attracting liquidity in an increasingly challenging environment to blockchain for trade finance, collaboration of bankers and CFOs to  mitigating liquidity risk, financing options for SMEs to uncovering the potential of Islamic Trade Finance, Impact of VAT on trade finance amongst others.

Commenting on the launch edition, Sidh NC, Director, QnA International said, “We are extremely delighted to announce a successful launch of the Gulf Trade Finance Summit 2018. As envisioned with a business focus in mind, the Summit brought together 100 pre-qualified top-level attendees including CFOs, Group Financial Controllers, Treasurers from Leading Corporates, Regional Government and Regulatory Authorities, Banks and Financial Institutions and Trade Finance Solution Providers, all under one roof to discuss latest trade finance trends and products. During this time of dynamic economic evolution in the GCC, the diversification of economies is being addressed with a sense of urgency and utmost concern. The region’s measures to move away from largely oil based economy is attracting public interest and inspiring private sector to contribute in overcoming these challenges.” 

A big focus for this year’s edition is on the importance of providing alternative finance options to SMEs. With stringent regulatory and compliance policies, it has become difficult for SMEs to finance and thrive as they are underserved by traditional financing sources. Exploring the current borrower mindset in the region, the corporates and SMEs alike are looking for simpler solutions for their financing requirements. Keeping this in mind, Exworks Capital, founded in Chicago, is at the summit offering fast and efficient funding solutions to businesses frustrated by the bureaucracy of traditional forms of finance.  Christopher Ash, Managing Director of the London Office and responsible for this region at ExWorks Capital said, “As a leading alternative provider of Trade and Transactional finance to SMEs in Asia, Middle East and Africa, ExWorks Capital is extremely proud to sponsor this event”.