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Asian Financial Forum Confirms 2026 Dates and Program Direction
The Asian Financial Forum (AFF) will return on January 26 and 27, 2026, bringing together government officials, financial executives, investors, and business leaders from around the world. The event is Asia’s first major financial gathering of the year, positioning it as an early venue for discussions on economic trends and policy priorities.
The forum will once again serve as a meeting point for decision-makers focused on global markets and regional development. AFF has built its reputation as a platform where public and private sector leaders exchange views on finance, trade, and innovation while forming new international business connections.
The 2026 edition will focus on cooperation between policymakers and the business community in response to changing economic conditions and shifting trade patterns. The program will also give attention to sectors linked to digital transformation and sustainability.
Participation Expected From Thousands of Global Delegates
Organizers expect more than 3,600 participants from over 60 countries and regions. The speaker lineup is projected to include more than 130 global speakers from government, finance, and industry.
Senior leadership representation remains a key feature of the event. Data from the forum indicates that about 81 percent of attendees come from CEO-level or senior decision-making roles. This includes executives from financial institutions, multinational companies, and technology firms.
The exhibition segment is also set to expand. Organizers report that more than 140 exhibitors, startups, and service providers are expected to take part, reflecting the forum’s role as both a policy discussion platform and a business networking venue.
Program Theme Highlights Joint Efforts Across Markets
The theme selected for AFF 2026 centers on cooperation between global business communities and policymakers. Organizers say the goal is to examine how coordinated efforts can support growth across regions and industries during a period of economic adjustment.
Rather than focusing on a single region or sector, the forum plans to address shared challenges that affect international markets. Topics include financial stability, cross-border investment flows, digital infrastructure, and sustainable development.
The agenda is expected to include panel discussions, keynote sessions, and closed-door meetings designed to promote practical exchanges between public officials and private sector leaders.
Focus on Technology-Driven Sectors
Technology will again play a central role in the 2026 program. Organizers confirmed that several high-growth sectors will receive dedicated attention, including fintech, artificial intelligence, robotics, green technology, new energy solutions, and web3-related applications.
Financial technology remains a key area of interest as banks, payment providers, and regulators continue to adapt to digital services. Sessions are expected to address topics such as digital payments, regulatory compliance, and cross-border transaction systems.
AI and robotics will also be discussed in the context of productivity and labor markets. Business leaders and policymakers are expected to review how automation tools affect manufacturing, logistics, and service industries.
Green technology and energy transition initiatives will form another core part of the agenda. Discussions are expected to focus on financing models that support low-carbon projects and infrastructure development.
Linking Finance With the Real Economy
AFF organizers said the forum will continue to examine the relationship between financial systems and real economic activity. This includes how capital markets, banking services, and investment tools support small businesses, infrastructure projects, and regional trade.
The program aims to highlight ways financial institutions can improve access to funding for companies operating in emerging sectors. Attention will also be given to risk management and regulatory frameworks that influence lending and investment behavior.
Participants are expected to review how financial policy decisions affect employment, supply chains, and long-term economic stability across Asia and beyond.
AFF Deal-Making Program Expands Business Matching
Alongside policy discussions, AFF will host its dedicated deal-making segment designed to connect investors with project owners and companies seeking funding.
According to figures released by the forum, the deal-making platform is expected to facilitate more than 720 business meetings. Participation is projected to include more than 280 investors, over 560 projects, and approximately 510 project owners.
Organizers describe the program as a structured matchmaking environment where participants can explore partnerships and investment opportunities. Meetings are typically arranged in advance, allowing investors and businesses to hold targeted discussions over the two-day event.
This component reflects the forum’s dual role as both a discussion venue and a practical business exchange platform.
Government and Institutional Participation
AFF traditionally attracts senior government representatives and officials from regulatory bodies. Organizers say this participation allows for direct dialogue between policymakers and private sector leaders.
Government involvement also provides insight into regulatory developments and economic policy priorities. These discussions are particularly relevant for international investors seeking clarity on market access rules and compliance requirements.
Financial institutions and multilateral organizations are also expected to play a visible role in the 2026 event. Their presence supports conversations around regional integration and cross-border financial cooperation.
Asia’s Position in Global Finance
The forum takes place at a time when Asia continues to expand its role in global trade and investment. Regional financial centers remain active in areas such as capital markets, asset management, and digital payments.
AFF organizers emphasize the importance of presenting economic trends from an Asian perspective. This approach reflects the region’s growing influence in technology development, manufacturing, and infrastructure investment.
Participants from outside Asia also attend the forum to better understand regional market conditions and identify partnership opportunities.
Industry Representation Across Multiple Sectors
Beyond financial services, the forum draws participation from a wide range of industries. Technology firms, energy companies, logistics providers, and manufacturing groups are among those represented.
This broad industry mix allows discussions to cover topics that affect multiple sectors. Examples include supply chain financing, digital transformation strategies, and cross-border trade logistics.
The exhibition area provides companies with an opportunity to present products and services related to financial infrastructure, data analytics, compliance tools, and enterprise software.
Preparing for Policy and Market Developments
The timing of AFF early in the calendar year positions it as a venue for setting priorities and reviewing economic forecasts. Business leaders often use the forum to assess market conditions and prepare for upcoming regulatory changes.
Discussions typically address monetary policy trends, interest rate outlooks, and geopolitical factors that influence investment decisions. These sessions provide participants with context for planning corporate strategies and capital allocation.
For policymakers, the forum offers feedback from the private sector on regulatory proposals and market conditions.
Digital Infrastructure and Cross-Border Connectivity
Another area of focus for AFF 2026 involves digital infrastructure and international connectivity. Topics include payment systems, data sharing standards, and cybersecurity frameworks.
Cross-border transactions remain a priority for businesses operating across Asia and global markets. Sessions are expected to examine how digital tools can improve transaction speed, transparency, and cost efficiency.
This part of the program reflects growing interest in modernizing financial infrastructure to support international commerce.
Role of Startups and Emerging Companies
Startups and emerging companies will also feature in the 2026 forum. Organizers expect a strong presence from technology firms offering new financial and enterprise solutions.
These companies often use AFF as a platform to meet investors, form partnerships, and explore expansion into new markets. Their participation adds a practical business dimension to the event alongside policy discussions.
The presence of service providers and technology vendors further supports knowledge sharing across the financial ecosystem.
What to Watch Ahead of the Forum
As the event approaches, attention will turn to the final speaker lineup and detailed program schedule. Market participants will watch for announcements related to policy themes and industry priorities.
Investors and corporate executives are likely to focus on sessions addressing digital finance, sustainability, and regional trade integration. Government representatives are expected to use the platform to communicate policy directions and regulatory updates.
The deal-making program will also draw interest from companies seeking funding and partnerships.
A Platform for Regional and Global Dialogue
AFF 2026 is set to continue its role as a meeting place for public and private sector leaders. The combination of policy discussion, business matching, and technology-focused sessions reflects the forum’s broad scope.
Organizers aim to provide a structured environment for dialogue on economic trends and practical business cooperation. With thousands of participants expected, the event will once again serve as a focal point for financial and business activity at the start of the year.
Further details about the forum are available through the official Asian Financial Forum website: https://www.asianfinancialforum.com/conference/aff/en