The World Alliance is taking part in the BIFC Global Finance Symposium 2026 in Busan, South Korea, bringing together representatives of international financial centers, policymakers and financial-sector leaders to discuss the changing global financial landscape.
Organized by Busan Metropolitan City and Busan Finance Center, in cooperation with the World Alliance and Z/Yen Group, the symposium is being held at the iconic Nurimaru APEC House.
The event opened with remarks from Myongho Rhee, President of Busan Finance Center, followed by Shin Chang-ho, Deputy Mayor for Digital Economy of Busan Metropolitan City; Lamia Merzouki, Chair of the World Alliance; Michael Mainelli, Executive Chairman of Z/Yen Group; Jochen Biedermann, Managing Director of the World Alliance; and Mike Wardle, CEO of Z/Yen Group.
Blue economy and maritime finance
The symposium's keynote address was delivered by Kitack Lim, Secretary-General Emeritus of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), under the title “Blue Economy and Finance: Charting the Course for Maritime Cities and Global Growth.”
His address examined the links between the blue economy, maritime cities, global economic growth and international finance, highlighting the role financial markets can play in supporting the development of maritime economies.
The theme is particularly relevant to Busan, one of the world's major port cities. The symposium is exploring how the city can build on its maritime strengths and further develop its position as a specialized international financial center, with a particular focus on the intersection of maritime finance and the blue economy.
Supporting the next generation of financial research
The program also includes the World Alliance Young Academic Award Ceremony, recognizing emerging researchers whose work addresses key issues affecting the future of global finance.
The award forms part of the World Alliance's broader efforts to connect academic research with the international financial-center community and encourage new thinking on the development of global financial markets.
Strengthening cooperation between financial centers
The symposium reflects growing cooperation between Busan and the international financial-center community. The collaboration between Busan Metropolitan City, Busan Finance Center, WAIFC and Z/Yen Group provides a platform for participants to exchange experience, develop international connections and examine the opportunities and challenges facing financial centers.
The event takes place during the World Alliance's AGM week in Busan, bringing together members and partners from across its international network.
The World Alliance has thanked Busan Metropolitan City and Busan Finance Center for their hospitality and cooperation throughout the AGM week, as the city hosts discussions on the future of international finance and the evolving role of financial centers in the global economy.