Karsten Wenzlaff, Advisor
August 26th, 2025
Karsten Wenzlaff is a Crowdfunding and Fintech Expert from Germany. He is Secretary-General of Digit[...]
Category Archives: Enterprise, Scaleup
Smarter API Integration with VoPay’s AI-Powered Assistant
Vopay | March 5, 2025
Image: Freepik/rawpixel.com
VoPay’s AI GPT Assistant is Transforming Fintech with Smarter, Faster, Fintech Integration
On March 4, 2025, Vancouver-based embedded payment solutions leader, VoPay, has revealed its latest innovation, it's API GPT Assistant. It's an AI-powered tool designed to help developers integrate financial technology solutions quickly and efficiently. By using advanced language models, it automates API documentation, troubleshooting, and even front-end development to significantly reduce integration time.
See: Embedded Finance: Banking Meets the Customer
Hamed Arbabi, CEO and Founder of VoPay:
“Integration is often the biggest hurdle in adopting new financial technology. With our API GPT Assistant, we are eliminating that friction—empowering developers to build faster, more accurately, and using the programming languages they prefer. This isn’t just about convenience; it’s about fundamentally accelerating financial innovation.”
Who is it for and How Will They Benefit?
The API GPT Assistant is built for developers, fintech startups, enterprises, and product teams looking to setup a payment API integration seamlessly. VoPay's API GPT assistant serves as an interactive guide with automated API call requests, real-time debugging and code suggestions across multiple programming languages including Python, JavaScript, C#, and PHP, and integration strategies. It can also create front-end payment interfaces and ensure compliance with industry regulations, helping teams integrate financial solutions with focused efficiency, and all customized to their specific use case(s).
See: Key Findings from 2025 Advanced Payments and Fintech Survey
Simply put, the assistant reduces complexity and saves a lot of time required for implementing fintech integrations. Developers no longer need to struggle through extensive documentation or troubleshoot errors manually, as the AI provides instant solutions tailored to their platform. By accelerating API implementation, companies can properly setup, launch, and scale financial products faster and more accurately. With this type of instant troubleshooting and 24/7 expert support, teams can focus on innovation, instead of being bogged down with hiccups.
VoPay’s Expanding Fintech Ecosystem
VoPay has been actively building a robust fintech ecosystem through strategic partnerships and groundbreaking innovations. The fintech is constantly improving how businesses handle payments. By refining its embedded payment technology, the company is making it simpler for businesses to add seamless, secure financial transactions directly into their platforms. Below are just a few examples to check out:
VoPay teamed up with Mastercard to make international payments quicker and safer. This partnership helps businesses move money across borders in real time, reducing delays and improving security.
VoPay is growing its presence in the U.S. by working with Cross River Bank. This allows businesses to use major payment networks like ACH and Real-Time Payments (RTP), making transactions smoother and more efficient.
VoPay’s payment technology made it easier for people to donate to charities using GiveWise. As a result, donations went up by nearly 50%, and more funds were sent to charities.
Real estate investment company, Parvis, started using VoPay’s payment system, reducing the time it takes for payments to go through from a full week to just a few days, giving investors quicker access to their funds and drastically speeding up transactions.
VoPay set up a special AI research lab to explore how artificial intelligence can improve financial processes. The lab focuses on predicting financial trends and automating repetitive tasks, helping businesses make smarter decisions and work more efficiently.
Conclusion
By reducing integration barriers and providing intelligent, real-time support, VoPay is helping businesses implement secure, scalable payment solutions with unprecedented ease. As AI adoption continues to transform financial services, VoPay remains at the forefront, driving efficiency and innovation in fintech solutions.
The National Crowdfunding & Fintech Association (NCFA Canada) is a financial innovation ecosystem that provides education, market intelligence, industry stewardship, networking and funding opportunities and services to thousands of community members and works closely with industry, government, partners and affiliates to create a vibrant and innovative fintech and funding industry in Canada. Decentralized and distributed, NCFA is engaged with global stakeholders and helps incubate projects and investment in fintech, alternative finance, crowdfunding, peer-to-peer finance, payments, digital assets and tokens, artificial intelligence, blockchain, cryptocurrency, regtech, and insurtech sectors. Join Canada's Fintech & Funding Community today FREE! Or become a contributing member and get perks. For more information, please visit: www.ncfacanada.org
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Resources for Canadian Resiliency and Competitiveness
NCFA | March 4, 2025
Image: Freepik
Resources for Canadian SME Businesses to Improve Resiliency and Competitiveness
In the face of economic uncertainty and the challenges posed by tariffs and trade tensions, Canadian businesses must adapt, innovate, and strengthen their resilience. The National Crowdfunding & Fintech Association (NCFA) is committed to equipping entrepreneurs, small businesses, industry leaders and individuals with the tools, strategies, and insights to build and improve resiliency and competitiveness.
See: Fintech reports and research
This resource hub provides access to expert guides, financial strategies, actionable frameworks and insights to help you stay competitive and sustainable. Whether you need support in managing cash flow, re-evaluating supply chains, or understanding new trade regulations, our curated growing list of select resources to keep you informed and prepared.
1. A Guide for Canadian Businesses on Tariffs and Trade Challenges - Weathering the Storm
This guide is packed with practical steps to help small and medium-sized businesses in Canada deal with the impact of tariffs and trade uncertainty. It covers ways to manage cash flow, adjust pricing, strengthen supply chains, and improve operations to stay competitive. The strategies are designed to be easy to apply and cost-effective, helping businesses adapt and thrive in a changing trade environment.
🔷Source: TRBOT World Trade Centre
📖 Length: 32 pages
🔗Download Here: Weathering the Storm Guide (32 pages)
2. A Blueprint for Canada’s Economic Future – Complacency to Competitiveness
This report looks at the challenges holding back Canada’s economy and lays out steps to boost competitiveness. It focuses on improving tax policies, expanding trade beyond the U.S., and making smart investments in infrastructure and talent. The goal is to help businesses and policymakers create a stronger, more resilient economy for the future.
🔷Source: Toronto Region Board of Trade
📖 Length: 12 pages
🔗Download Here: Complacency to Competitiveness Report
3. How Businesses Can Handle Tariffs and Trade Policies
This guide explains four key ways businesses can deal with tariffs and trade restrictions. It walks through how to figure out where your company might be affected, how to adjust your pricing, and how to change your supply chain if needed. It also looks at the bigger picture, including how tariffs could impact your suppliers and what to do to stay ahead of competitors who might be facing the same issues.
🔷 Source: Oliver Wyman
📖 Length: 5-minute read
🔗 Read Here: Four Ways to Navigate Tariffs and Trade Policies
4. Fintech Companies That Are Changing How Businesses Handle Trade
Many businesses struggle with the high costs and complex processes of international trade. This article introduces six fintech companies that are creating digital solutions to make trade easier. These companies help businesses track payments, manage their cash flow, and reduce paperwork when trading across borders. Some of them are also working with banks to make financing more accessible for small and medium-sized businesses that need better payment options for global trade.
🔷 Source: Trade Finance Global
📖 Length: 7-minute read
🔗 Read Here: 6 Interesting Trade Finance Fintechs and What They Are Doing
5. Business Resources on Trade and Tariffs
This resource center is designed for businesses that need current information on tariffs and trade policies. It includes reports, analysis, and guides on how businesses can adjust their pricing, find new suppliers, and reduce risks from tariffs. It also provides insights into how different industries are being affected by changing trade rules, so businesses can prepare for what’s ahead.
🔷 Source: PwC
📖 Length: Various articles available
🔗 Explore Here: Tariffs and Trade Policy Resource Centre
6. Export Resources for Canadian Fintech Companies
Fintech businesses looking to expand into international markets can access a range of helpful tools and guides. FintechCanada.io resource hub provides information on how to successfully enter new markets, navigate regulations, and grow a business beyond Canada. It includes insights from experts, case studies from companies that have expanded globally, and the latest news on international fintech trends. The platform also offers detailed overviews of key global fintech markets, such as the United Kingdom, helping businesses understand where and how to expand.
🔷 Source: FintechCanada.io
📖 Length: Multiple articles and reports
🔗 Explore Here: Export Resources for Canadian Fintechs
7. Exporting Resources for Canadian Businesses
Businesses looking to expand into international markets can access a range of tools and guides to help them navigate the exporting process. BDC's export resource hub includes step-by-step guides, financing options, and tools to calculate costs and manage risks. It covers key topics like how to create an export plan, understand trade regulations, and find new opportunities in global markets. Businesses can also access tools like the Canada Tariff Finder to estimate costs and a checklist to ensure they are ready to start exporting.
🔷 Source: Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC)
📖 Length: Multiple guides and tools
🔗 Explore Here: BDC Exporting Resources
8. Toolkit: Trading Internationally and Winning with Fintech
This toolkit helps businesses understand how financial technology (fintech) can make international trade easier. It explains how fintech solutions can simplify processes like finding new markets, checking overseas partners, calculating import taxes, and reducing risks in global trade. The toolkit offers resources and fintech options tailored to different stages of a business's export journey. It also discusses new trends in global trade finance and what they mean for businesses aiming to grow internationally.
🔷 Source: Confederation of British Industry (CBI)
📖 Length: Approximately 2-minute read
🔗 Access Here: Toolkit: Trading Internationally and Winning with Fintech
9. Supporting Canadian Exporters Through U.S. Tariff Challenges
The Trade Commissioner Service (TCS) offers assistance to Canadian businesses dealing with recent U.S. tariffs, which include a 10% duty on energy products and a 25% duty on other goods from Canada. The TCS provides support in understanding the impact of these tariffs, identifying new markets, and connecting with relevant contacts to address challenges. Additionally, they offer resources for export diversification and self-serve tools to help businesses navigate these disruptions. The Government of Canada has also implemented a remission framework to support affected businesses and workers.
🔷 Source: Trade Commissioner Service (TCS)
📖 Length: Approximately 5-minute read
🔗 Access Here: Supporting Canadian Exporters Through U.S. Tariff Challenges
10. Tariff-Proofing Canadian Businesses with Intellectual Property
This article explains why Canadian businesses should protect their ideas, brands, and inventions, especially with possible U.S. tariffs. It recommends that companies review their intellectual property (IP) to see what needs protection and secure patents not just in Canada, but also in the U.S. and other countries. Doing this helps businesses stay competitive even when trade rules change. It also covers the benefits of registering trademarks internationally through systems like the Madrid Protocol, which makes it easier to protect brands in multiple countries.
🔷 Source: Gowling WLG
📖 Length: Approximately 5-minute read
🔗 Access Here: Tariff-Proofing Canadian Business: The Role of Intellectual Property
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This is a growing list. Be sure to check again in the future if looking for helpful resources!
The National Crowdfunding & Fintech Association (NCFA Canada) is a financial innovation ecosystem that provides education, market intelligence, industry stewardship, networking and funding opportunities and services to thousands of community members and works closely with industry, government, partners and affiliates to create a vibrant and innovative fintech and funding industry in Canada. Decentralized and distributed, NCFA is engaged with global stakeholders and helps incubate projects and investment in fintech, alternative finance, crowdfunding, peer-to-peer finance, payments, digital assets and tokens, artificial intelligence, blockchain, cryptocurrency, regtech, and insurtech sectors. Join Canada's Fintech & Funding Community today FREE! Or become a contributing member and get perks. For more information, please visit: www.ncfacanada.org
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Trade War Hits! Markets Roil, What Fintechs Need to Know
Economy | March 4, 2025
Image: Freepik/brgfx
Tariffs Trigger Trade War and Shake Markets > What It Means for Fintech and Finance
Canada is on the front line of a global trade war unfolding, triggered by U.S. President Donald Trump. On March 4, 2025, the U.S. imposed 25% tariffs on all Canadian imports and a 10% tariff on energy, and in response, Canada fired back with $155 billion in retaliatory tariffs on U.S. goods, targeting key industries like agriculture, manufacturing, and consumer products, with the first $30 billion in retaliatory tariffs being applied immediately and the remainder $125 billion in 21 days. Markets reacted swiftly on the news with the Canadian dollar dropping to it's lowest point in five years, USD/CAD currently trading at 1.45 per tradingview. The S&P dropped 1.5%, erasing post-elections gains as financial markets and investors brace for longer term, volatile economic uncertainty.
Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada issued this official statement:
“Today, after a 30-day pause, the United States administration has decided to proceed with imposing 25 per cent tariffs on Canadian exports and 10 per cent tariffs on Canadian energy. Let me be unequivocally clear – there is no justification for these actions."
Trudeau said speaking to reporters on Parliament Hill:
"[Trump is trying to prompt] a total collapse of the Canadian economy [because he thinks that will] make it easier to annex us" [something the U.S. president has repeatedly said he wants to do. But Trudeau said that will never happen because] when it comes to defending our great nation, there is no price we all aren't willing to pay."
Fintech companies need to adapt to the new realities that will impact lending, payments, investment trends, regulatory frameworks and overall economic sentiment, especially if the trade war is prolonged and more of a structural change than a short-term trading spat. Companies that adapt quickly will be in a better position than those who don't. Catch up here: Tariff Trade War Hits Canada – What’s Happening | 30 day pause
A Global Trade War
This isn't just about a U.S.-Canada trade argument. The U.S. has also escalated disputes with other key partners. China is now facing higher tariffs on tech and electronics, so Beijing is retaliating with restrictions on rare earth minerals essential for semiconductors. Mexico is preparing countermeasures after the U.S. raised tariffs on steel and auto parts.
In response to potential U.S. tariffs on European goods, the European Union has proposed reducing its 10% tariff on U.S. car imports to a rate closer to the U.S.'s 2.5% tariff on European cars. This move aims to avert a trade conflict and balance trade relations between the two economies. Also, the EU is considering using its Anti-Coercion Instrument (ACI) to retaliate against potential U.S. tariffs, which could impact major U.S. tech and financial companies operating in Europe.
With multiple global economies reacting to rising trade tensions, the consequences and ripple affects will be felt far beyond just North America. Fintech firms operating globally should anticipate shifts in compliance costs, new regulations and investment strategies.
Market Implications
The drop in the Canadian dollar will make imports more expensive for Canadian firms and increase volatility in foreign exchange markets. Fintech companies specializing in FX and cross-border payments will likely see increased demand as businesses look for more cost effective ways to make global payments and hedge against currency swings and gaps.
See: What Fintechs Need to Know About New U.S. Tariffs
While stock markets are roiling, financial stocks have taken a hit, such as Goldman Sachs falling by 4.6% and JPMorgan Chase by 3.5% as investors adjust to reassessed economic risks. It's anticipated that wealthtechs and robo advisory services like Wealthsimple could see an uptick in demand for automated risk management strategies and trade portfolios.
Royal Bank of Canada CEO Dave McKay has warned that tariffs are already slowing economic growth, hurting business confidence, and dampening consumer spending. He also called out early signs of a slowdown in housing and both companies and individuals brace budgets for higher costs.
Short-Term Disruption
In the near to mid-term, the volatility in currency markets, investor uncertainty, and rising costs for businesses and consumers will dominate immediate reactions. Some companies will try to absorb higher costs while most will pass increased costs onto consumers which will raise inflationary pressures. Fintech companies dealing in trade finance and international payments and any cross-border transactions needs to monitor for regulatory changes. Incentives may be on the table for targeted sectors to help them through tough times and diversify to new markets and supply chains.
Long-Term Structural Changes
Longer term, if inflation rises as expected, the Bank of Canada could be forced to raise interest rates, making borrowing more expensive for businesses and consumers. Canadian businesses should migrate supply chains away from the U.S., an opportunity for fintechs providing global solutions and alternative trade networks.
See: Canadian Fintech Booms with $9.5B Despite Global Slump
Smaller fintechs may struggle with stricter credit conditions, finding it harder and more expensive to raise capital, which could lead to larger players consolidating their market share. A prolonged trade war could result in an overhaul of financial regulations governing international payments and lending, as governments react to new trade realities.
How Fintechs Should Respond Now
Fintechs need to be proactive and stay on top of market trends and changes. Risk management is critical. Companies dealing with global transactions should monitor any changes to activity, capital flows and compliance changes. Fintechs dealing in foreign exchange and global payments could offer hedging tools to help companies manage currency fluctuations. Lenders should reassess credit exposure to sectors most affected by the trade war.
Companies should diversify to new markets urgently, and look for growth opportunities outside the U.S. by exporting and expanding into markets like Europe and Asia via agreements such as CETA and CPTPP. Look for partnerships in fintech friendly economies such as Singapore, Dubai, and London where trade tensions will be less impacted. Speak to your customers and partners and see how you can work together to mitigate risk and heightened costs. Opportunities for platforms offering lower cost fees, lending solutions with flexible capital, and digital finance tools to help track regulations and manage compliance.
Outlook for Fintechs in a Changing Global Economy
The trade war will change global economic relationships. Companies will reassess supply chains, governments will restructure trade agreements, and financial markets will react to increased risk and uncertainty. Fintechs need to come to grips that this is a new economic reality that will require companies to be agile, innovative and manage risk in a forward thinking manner.
See: Digital Export Trends and Global Trade Fintech Opportunities
Now is the time to secure funding and expand into less volatile markets and strengthen partnerships while providing cost effective financial solutions. Opportunities always exist for companies that move quickly to capture new market share. There's also a major risk that companies that fail to adapt will be left behind. Is your fintech ready for the new economic paradigm?
The National Crowdfunding & Fintech Association (NCFA Canada) is a financial innovation ecosystem that provides education, market intelligence, industry stewardship, networking and funding opportunities and services to thousands of community members and works closely with industry, government, partners and affiliates to create a vibrant and innovative fintech and funding industry in Canada. Decentralized and distributed, NCFA is engaged with global stakeholders and helps incubate projects and investment in fintech, alternative finance, crowdfunding, peer-to-peer finance, payments, digital assets and tokens, artificial intelligence, blockchain, cryptocurrency, regtech, and insurtech sectors. Join Canada's Fintech & Funding Community today FREE! Or become a contributing member and get perks. For more information, please visit: www.ncfacanada.org
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SEC Commissioner Peirce Consults on Crypto Regulations
Crypto Regulations | March 3, 2025
Image: Freepik/wirestock
A Rare Opportunity for the Crypto Industry to Shape Future Regulation
SEC Commissioner Hester Peirce is inviting the public to provide input on the future of crypto regulation. She's launched a consultation to gather insights on how digital assets should be classified, traded, and overseen. This consultation presents a rare opportunity for industry participants, investors, and policymakers to directly influence the regulatory framework governing digital assets. The results could have profound implications on how tokens are issued, traded, and managed in the U.S. and around the globe.
See: Trump’s U.S. Crypto Reserve Sparks Market Surge, Debate
Until now crypto regulation in America has been a patchwork of unclear policies, aggressive enforcement, and courtroom battles. The industry has long argued that the U.S. lacks a clear framework for digital assets, pushing innovation offshore. Peirce’s invitation opens the door. Regulators are asking for help and the crypto industry should answer.
Key Issues in the Consultation Scope
1. Crypto Asset Taxonomy
The SEC wants to create a transparent and clear system for categorizing crypto assets, defining what qualifies as a security, a tokenized security, an investment contract asset, or something else entirely. Right now, many crypto assets exist in a regulatory gray area which has led to legal uncertainty and enforcement actions. For example, stablecoins are widely used for payments and trading but regulators are still debating whether they should be qlassified as securities, commodities, or a new category altogether. A structured classification system could provide the much needed clarity for businesses and investors, reducing risks and uncertainty.
2. Public Offerings and Registration Challenges
The SEC is looking at whether existing securities laws are suitable for crypto offerings or if new set of registration rules are needed. Current regulations were designed for traditional stocks and bonds, which operate differently from decentralized crypto projects.
See: SEC Policy Reversals and Crypto Case Dismissals
Many blockchain startups struggle to fit into outdated frameworks, leading to legal uncertainty and high compliance costs. A more practical and transparent registration process would help businesses raise funds legally while ensuring investors receive the right level of protection.
3. Safe Harbour for Blockchain Development
One of Peirce’s earlier proposals called ‘Rule 195’ suggested giving blockchain projects a grace period to develop before facing full securities regulations. This is/was meant to address the uncertainty around when a token transforms from being a security to a decentralized asset. For example, Ethereum initially launched through a sale but was later recognized as decentralized. Without clear guidelines many projects face enforcement risks simply for trying to build innovative networks. A well designed and intentioned safe harbour could provide legal breathing room for legitimate projects to grow.
4. Trading and Secondary Markets
The SEC is examining whether crypto exchanges should have their own regulatory category instead of being forced into existing stock exchange rules. Crypto trading platforms operate differently, often using automated market makers and decentralized networks rather than traditional dealer-broker arrangements and structures. Applying outdated regulations could stifle innovation or push trading platforms offshore. A regulatory framework that acknowledges these differences could foster safer, more efficient crypto markets while still addressing fraud and investor protection concerns.
5. Custody Rules for Crypto Assets
The SEC is reviewing how investment firms, brokers, and custodians should handle crypto assets securely. Unlike traditional securities, crypto assets can be self-custodied or held on platforms that may not meet the same regulatory standards as banks. High profile failures like FTX have already exposed the risks in unregulated custody practices, making it clear that rules are a priority. Institutional investors need certainty about how to hold and protect digital assets without violating SEC regulations.
6. Crypto Lending and Staking
The SEC is questioning whether crypto lending and staking services should be classified as securities. Many platforms allow users to earn rewards for locking up tokens or lending them out but the legal status of these services is unclear. Some regulators argue that certain staking rewards resemble unregistered securities offerings, which should lead to enforcement actions, however a clear stance on how these services should be regulated would prevent legal uncertainty and ensure fair treatment for both businesses and investors.
7. Tokenized Securities and Settlement
The SEC is evaluating how blockchain-based assets like tokenized stocks and bonds should be regulated. Traditional securities are settled through clearinghouses in one or two days (T+1 or T+2) but blockchain technology allows for almost instant settlement.
See: Insights from the Tokenization Report Act of 2024 Hearing
This makes financial markets more efficient and reduces costs but current regulations don’t account for these innovative developments. If policymakers can create securities rules to accommodate tokenized assets, it would lead to a more modern financial system.
8. Regulatory Sandbox for Innovation
The SEC is considering a regulatory sandbox, which would allow crypto projects to operate in a controlled environment with regulatory oversight before launching fully. Other countries, such as the UK, Singapore and Canada already have sandboxes, to varying degrees of success, to encourage financial technology innovation. A U.S. regulatory sandbox could give blockchain startups a legal framework to test compliance measures while reducing regulatory risk. This approach would lead to better rules that support both innovation and consumer protection.
What This Means for Canada
Although this consultation is happening in the U.S., its impact will be felt here in Canada and around the globe. Canadian regulators are sure to be paying close attention to how the SEC approaches crypto, and any major changes in U.S. policy could influence Canada’s own regulatory direction. For Canadian fintech companies, this is a chance to push for clearer rules that align across borders rather than having a confusing mix of multiple regulations that companies need to comply with, slowing down innovation while increasing costs.
Outlook
Peirce’s request for input opens the door for stakeholders to use their experience and expertise to present viable modern solutions. If the industry doesn’t engage, policymakers may proceed with restrictive measures that fail to address crypto’s many unique characteristics. Industry leaders, fintech startups, and investors should not sit on the sidelines. The best way to counter regulatory uncertainty is to be part of the new rule making process. The SEC is listening and now is the time to speak up!
The National Crowdfunding & Fintech Association (NCFA Canada) is a financial innovation ecosystem that provides education, market intelligence, industry stewardship, networking and funding opportunities and services to thousands of community members and works closely with industry, government, partners and affiliates to create a vibrant and innovative fintech and funding industry in Canada. Decentralized and distributed, NCFA is engaged with global stakeholders and helps incubate projects and investment in fintech, alternative finance, crowdfunding, peer-to-peer finance, payments, digital assets and tokens, artificial intelligence, blockchain, cryptocurrency, regtech, and insurtech sectors. Join Canada's Fintech & Funding Community today FREE! Or become a contributing member and get perks. For more information, please visit: www.ncfacanada.org
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[Osaka Finance Forum, March 13]: Global Talent Development
Fintech Event | March 3, 2025
Osaka Finance Forum to Highlight Global Talent Development
The Osaka Prefectural Government in collaboration with Osaka City is hosting the annual Osaka Finance Forum on Thursday, March 13, 2025, at GRAND FRONT OSAKA Umekita SHIP HALL from 4:00PM - 7:30PM (JST). The theme of the event this year will focus on developing highly skilled professionals in the financial sector, with participation from experts across academia and industry. By registering for this event, you will receive a digital recording.
Free Registration Here
Highlights
- Learn from industry experts/leaders about how developing skilled talent can help grow Osaka’s financial sector
- Meet and network with professionals from FinTech companies, universities, and other financial organizations to build connections
- See exhibits and booths from the latest financial innovations from companies and universities
- Attend in-person or watch virtually (real-time English interpretation available)
- Free to Register by Wednesday, March 12, 2025. Sign Up Here
Good to Know
The Osaka Finance Forum is a great opportunity for financial professionals, entrepreneurs, and investors looking to grow their business in Japan. Osaka has several programs that support foreign companies and skilled professionals:
See: Digital Export Trends and Global Trade Fintech Opportunities
- Financial support for foreign businesses who can receive up to ¥1.1 million for research on setting up a business in Osaka and up to ¥10 million to help with business establishment costs
- Companies that start operations in Osaka may qualify for corporate tax incentives and reductions for up to 10 years more
- Receive help with financial regulations, licensing, legal advice, and even daily life support in Osaka- see One stop support centre
- For those unable to attend live, a recording of the event will be available afterward on YouTube
Why It Matters
Osaka is building its reputation as a major financial center, and this event works towards attracting and developing top talent and businesses to the region. With financial incentives, tax breaks, and business support programs, it’s a great opportunity for FinTech companies and investors to explore new possibilities in Japan’s financial market.
For more details, check out the event flyer.
The National Crowdfunding & Fintech Association (NCFA Canada) is a financial innovation ecosystem that provides education, market intelligence, industry stewardship, networking and funding opportunities and services to thousands of community members and works closely with industry, government, partners and affiliates to create a vibrant and innovative fintech and funding industry in Canada. Decentralized and distributed, NCFA is engaged with global stakeholders and helps incubate projects and investment in fintech, alternative finance, crowdfunding, peer-to-peer finance, payments, digital assets and tokens, artificial intelligence, blockchain, cryptocurrency, regtech, and insurtech sectors. Join Canada's Fintech & Funding Community today FREE! Or become a contributing member and get perks. For more information, please visit: www.ncfacanada.org
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Canada’s Strength in Tough Times – The Quiet Kid Stands Up
Canada | Feb 25, 2025
Copy/pasted from a shared LinkedIn post from Phillip Richardson at Black Opal Property Advisors.
We will never forget.
"
Dear 77,301,997 Americans who voted for Trump
Being Canadian has never been about shouting the loudest. We don’t pound our chests or demand attention. We are sometimes like the quiet kid on the playground, just wanting to get along with others. We hold doors, say sorry even when it’s not our fault, and shovel our neighbour’s driveway just because it’s the right thing to do. We believe in fairness, decency, and looking out for one another.
We are the world’s greatest neighbour… and yes, our spelling is the correct one. We show up. In the words of our Prime Minister on Saturday night, “from the beaches of Normandy to the mountains of the Korean Peninsula, from the fields of Flanders to the streets of Kandahar, we have fought and died alongside you during your darkest hours. During the summer of 2005, when Hurricane Katrina ravaged your great city of New Orleans, or mere weeks ago, when we sent water bombers to tackle the wildfires in California, and during the day the world stood still — Sept. 11, 2001 — when we provided refuge to stranded passengers and planes, we were always there, standing with you”.
And yet, here we are – watching your president, a man who built his legacy on bullying, turn his sights on us. He mocks us, belittles us, and treats us like some inconvenience rather than the ally who has stood by you through thick and thin.
It’s easy to mistake our politeness for passivity, or our kindness for weakness. But here’s the thing about the quiet kid on the playground: push that kid far enough, and that kid pushes back.
Canada has never needed to boast about its strength. We just prove it. On battlefields. In boardrooms. On the ice. So, if you think you can push us around and take us for granted – think again. You think we will become your “cherished 51st state” – think again. Underestimate us… that will be fun. Because the quiet kid? The quiet kid remembers. And when the quiet kid finally stands up, the whole playground takes notice.
Now we are pissed.
Sincerely,
Canada"
The National Crowdfunding & Fintech Association (NCFA Canada) is a financial innovation ecosystem that provides education, market intelligence, industry stewardship, networking and funding opportunities and services to thousands of community members and works closely with industry, government, partners and affiliates to create a vibrant and innovative fintech and funding industry in Canada. Decentralized and distributed, NCFA is engaged with global stakeholders and helps incubate projects and investment in fintech, alternative finance, crowdfunding, peer-to-peer finance, payments, digital assets and tokens, artificial intelligence, blockchain, cryptocurrency, regtech, and insurtech sectors. Join Canada's Fintech & Funding Community today FREE! Or become a contributing member and get perks. For more information, please visit: www.ncfacanada.org
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Join NCFA at Consensus 2025 Toronto May 14-16
Consensus 2025 Toronto | Feb 28, 2025
Consensus 2025 Toronto
The Premier Web3 & Blockchain Event!
📅 May 14-16, 2025
📍 Downtown Toronto, Canada
NCFA Canada is proud to be an official community partner of Consensus 2025 Toronto, the most influential conference for blockchain, crypto, and Web3! As a partner, we’re thrilled to offer our community an exclusive 15% discount on tickets.
Why Attend?
- Connect with top industry leaders, investors, and innovators
- Explore groundbreaking advancements in blockchain, AI, and fintech
- Participate in exclusive side events, networking, and expert panels
- Discover game-changing startups at CoinDesk PitchFest
- Hack, build, and pitch at the EasyA Consensus Hackathon
Registration
- Pro Pass: $700 USD (Save $250) – Access to all stages, exhibition floor, networking app, and more.
- Platinum Pass: $1,400 USD (Save $350) – Includes all Pro Pass benefits plus exclusive access to the Executive Lounge, private meeting rooms, and VIP events.
- Startup Package: $700 USD (Save $250) – Special 3-for-1 Pro Pass bundle for startups.
Prices increase on March 14 at 4 p.m. ET. Secure your spot today!
Exclusive NCFA Discount
- Register now: go.coindesk.com/NCFA
- Use promo code: NCFACANADA15 at checkout for 15% off!
See: Investing in the Future of AI and Blockchain
Don't miss this opportunity to be part of the most influential event in the crypto and Web3 space. Join us in Toronto and be a part of the future of decentralized technologies. Stay tuned for updates and join the conversation using @consensus2025 #Consensus2025 #ConsensusTO
See you there!
The National Crowdfunding & Fintech Association (NCFA Canada) is a financial innovation ecosystem that provides education, market intelligence, industry stewardship, networking and funding opportunities and services to thousands of community members and works closely with industry, government, partners and affiliates to create a vibrant and innovative fintech and funding industry in Canada. Decentralized and distributed, NCFA is engaged with global stakeholders and helps incubate projects and investment in fintech, alternative finance, crowdfunding, peer-to-peer finance, payments, digital assets and tokens, artificial intelligence, blockchain, cryptocurrency, regtech, and insurtech sectors. Join Canada's Fintech & Funding Community today FREE! Or become a contributing member and get perks. For more information, please visit: www.ncfacanada.org
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