(From L to R) Dr. Sebastian Schäfer, CEO, House of Finance & Tech Berlin; Sopnendu Mohanty, Group CEO, GFTN; Matthias Kröner, CEO, GFTN Europe; Thomas Krogh Jensen, CEO, Copanhagen FinTech
Berlin, Germany, 15 April 2025 — The Global Finance & Technology Network (GFTN) has officially launched its European presence with the opening of a new office in Berlin. This expansion aims to accelerate global financial innovation and enhance cross-border collaboration across Europe. GFTN Berlin will serve as a key hub in its global network, facilitating mutually beneficial cross-border programs, connecting the European ecosystem with international and Asian strategic capital, and collaborating with policymakers to develop inclusive and scalable financial systems. It will also enhance transnational dialogues between Europe, the international network, and Asia, particularly on emerging technologies such as AI, digital assets, and green tech.
Sopnendu Mohanty, Group CEO of GFTN, said: “GFTN’s entry into Europe, starting in Berlin, underscores the strong partnership between Singapore and Germany, building on existing bilateral ties including the Germany–Singapore Fintech Cooperation Agreement signed in November 2024, which aims to enhance collaboration in financial services, particularly in fintech.”
Matthias Kröner, CEO of GFTN Europe, added: "Germany and Singapore share a deep alignment as rule-based, innovation-driven economies built on trust and strong governance. The launch of GFTN’s Berlin office builds on this synergy, connecting the strengths of both regions and fostering collaboration across policy, finance, and technology."
GFTN hosted a high-level event in collaboration with Nordic Fintech Week and the House of Finance & Technology (HoFT) to mark the Berlin launch. The forum convened European and international leaders from government, central banks, financial institutions, and the technology sector to explore the next frontier of digital finance.
2025 is a milestone year in Singapore-Germany ties, marking the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations.
Singapore’s Ambassador to Germany H.E. Lee Chong Hock, speaking at the GFTN Berlin launch, said: “Both Berlin and Singapore are thriving hubs for FinTech and technological innovation. It is in our common interest to expand our FinTech ecosystems. GFTN’s decision to open an office in Berlin is thus a natural step forward to take our FinTech collaboration with Germany and Europe even further.”
GFTN brings together global regulators, financial institutions, technology pioneers, entrepreneurs, and investors on a trusted platform that connects innovation with regulation. Its goal is to ensure financial ecosystems evolve in step with society: Future-ready, inclusive, and governed by trust. Globally, GFTN convenes major forums at the intersection of finance, technology, and policy. These include the Singapore FinTech Festival, Point Zero Forum (Zurich), GFTN Forum Japan (Tokyo), and the Inclusive FinTech Forum (Kigali).
Next on the calendar, GFTN will co-host the Point Zero Forum in Zurich, Switzerland (May 5–7), alongside the Swiss State Secretariat for International Finance. The 2025 edition will explore “The Blueprint for the Future of Digital Money and Infrastructure”, highlighting Europe’s leadership in building next-generation trusted financial systems.
About the Global Finance & Technology Network (GFTN)
The Global Finance & Technology Network (GFTN) is a not-for-profit organisation established by the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) in 2024 to harness technology and foster innovation for more efficient, resilient, and inclusive financial ecosystems through global partnerships. GFTN organises convening forums, offers advisory services on innovation ecosystems, provides access to transformative digital platforms, and invests in technology startups with the potential for growth and positive social impact through its venture fund. Learn more.
Nordic Fintech Week
Nordic Fintech Week is the leading fintech conference in the Nordic region, uniting financial leaders, innovators, policymakers, and regulators to discuss digital finance transformation, sustainable finance, and emerging fintech ecosystems. It fosters international partnerships and strategic collaborations. Learn more.
HoFT Berlin – Our Host
HoFT Berlin is a key fintech hub that supports regulatory discussions, startup growth, and technological advancements. It plays a crucial role in shaping the future of digital finance in Europe. Learn more.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Preeti Dawra, Chief Communications Officer, GFTN, preeti.dawra@gftn.com