The recent AFM & Exberry Tech Day in Amsterdam proved to be an exceptional gathering of minds and a catalyst for innovation. What distinguished this event was its dynamic approach to industry dialogue. Drawing executives from across the globe, each session of the event sparked engaging discussions and probing questions. 

Tech Day covered the following sessions: 

• Hanzo van Beusekom from the Dutch Authority for Financial Markets highlighted the importance of tech-neutral financial regulations, allowing innovation while keeping risks managed. He stressed that outsourcing does not relieve institutions of responsibility and discussed new outsourcing requirements under the upcoming Digital Operational Resilience Act (DORA).
• The panel highlighting the evolution of cloud adoption in exchanges focused on overcoming regulatory hurdles, balancing benefits and costs, and innovations like GPU-powered edge computing and Exchange-as-a-Service. Key advantages include flexibility, scalability, and potential cost management strategies for trading technology infrastructure.
• The journey of Abaxx Exchange, launched in 2023, was used to showcase how cloud-based solutions and strong partnerships can drive growth. The discussion focused on the benefits of agile development and the importance of regulatory approval for cloud adoption in financial services.
• Technological threats to exchanges were examined, particularly security issues and the challenges of outdated systems. The discussion covered algorithmic trading risks, regulatory hurdles in emerging markets, and the push for new models in the derivatives space to foster innovation.
• The discussion on data management and analytics explored how effective data management is key for financial exchanges to differentiate themselves. They emphasised the importance of AI in unlocking new insights and the need for standardised, quality data to ensure reliable analytics.
• The conversation on the global green transition touched upon the significant funding needed to achieve net-zero goals and the crucial role of private sector investment. The potential of green bonds and the development of carbon markets were discussed, highlighting the challenges of quality control and standardisation.

These intersecting themes painted a clear picture: exchanges must innovate across multiple fronts to remain competitive in an increasingly digital landscape.

The last session stepped away from the world of exchanges to highlight the work of artist Itamar Gilboa. Gilboa uses data visualisation techniques, like 3D printing and MRI, to address issues such as personal consumption and global food supply chains. His work raises awareness about climate change and hunger, using art as a medium for social impact.

The Road Ahead: Embrace Change or Risk Obsolescence

The intimate setting of the Tech Day at the W Amsterdam fostered frank, no-holds-barred dialogue on these complex issues. 

It’s through events like these that we chart the course for the industry’s future, driving innovation and ensuring that exchanges remain at the cutting edge of financial technology.

Feel free to scroll through the pictures from the event below and relive some of the key moments captured during the day.