Invited Speakers​

 

Prof. Thomas Andreas MAURER

Speech Title: Kyle in a Triangle: Asymmetric Information and Strategic Trading in Connected Markets with Redundant Assets

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Abstract: We analytically solve a Kyle model with an informed riskaverse speculator strategically trading in three connected asset markets satisfying a triangle relationship where a combination of two assets determines the value of the third (redundant) asset. Given private information on one asset, the speculator trades this asset directly in the corresponding market as well as indirectly via the triangle by simultaneously trading the other two assets. In equilibrium, the price informativeness is smaller, and the speculator trades more aggressively and earns higher profits in markets for assets that are more intensively used for indirect trading via the triangle. As an application to foreign exchange markets our model provides a market microstructure explanation based on asymmetric information for the high trading volume and low price impact for currency pairs that involve a vehicle currency (i.e., a trade via the triangle) such as the U.S. dollar.

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Prof. Victoria Gierok

Speech Title: Financial Crises in History 1600-1939: Lessons from the Past

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Biography: Dr. Victoria Gierok is a tutor in Economic History at Nuffield and Brasenose Colleges, University of Oxford. She specializes in the political economy of pre-industrial Germany, particularly the Holy Roman Empire, and received her DPhil in Economic and Social History from Oxford in May 2022 under the supervision of Professor Stephen Broadberry. Her research focuses on long-term economic inequality, poverty, and public finance in German territories from 1300 to 1800. Dr. Gierok has developed two new datasets on inequality and fiscal systems for over 50 communities, exploring the impact of demographic shocks, institutional changes, and economic cycles on inequality. She has been awarded grants from the Economic History Society and the German History Society, and received the Economic History Society New Researcher Poster Prize in 2021.

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Prof. Abdelhak Senadjki

Speech Title: Smart Nation, Smart Markets: Big Data’s Role in China's New Digital Silk Road

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Abstract: Big data is becoming a driver of economic change and global collaboration in the age of digital globalization. China, as a leader in this wave, is integrating data-driven technologies into its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), which has spawned the Digital Silk Road, a strategic approach to increase cross-border connectivity, smart infrastructure, and digital trade. Although its increasing significance can be observed, the economic consequences of this digital expansion have not been explored in full. The question that is critical and to be answered in this keynote speech is how big data technologies are influencing trade flows, economic performance, and digital governance among countries that are partners of the BRI, with China playing the main role. The first goal is to analyse how big data can be used to power innovation, support smart logistics and digital markets by means of advanced technologies like AI, cloud computing, and IoT. Based on empirical evidence and policy trends, the presentation unravels the fact that the countries involved in the digital infrastructure investments of China have recorded faster growth in digital trade and enhanced connectivity. Such results make big data not only a technological device but also a strategic tool of the Chinese international economic policy. The keynote ends with some policy implications to be made to enhance inclusive, secure, and sustainable digital development in the emerging global digital ecosystem.​

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Prof. Evan Lau Poh Hock

Speech Title: Digital Banking

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Abstract: The inexorable march of digitalization and the rise of financial technology (Fintech) are fostering a compelling case for the emergence and proliferation of digital banks. This paradigm shift gains further significance in light of the substantial populations categorized as unbanked or underbanked, presenting a ripe terrain for digital banking opportunities. The COVID-19 pandemic, acting as a catalyst, has accentuated the imperative for traditional banks to swiftly pivot towards digital landscapes, underscoring the urgency for agility, adaptability, and transformative measures. Pertinently, institutions that had invested significantly in digital transformation prior to the pandemic found themselves better positioned to navigate the evolving financial landscape. The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) emerge as a collaborative model for the Digital Banks Ecosystem, offering a potential solution aligned with global commitments encapsulated in the 5Ps (People, Planet, Prosperity, Peace, and Partnership). As the financial sector charts its trajectory into the future, the prospect of metaverse and multiverse banking journeys looms large, signifying a dynamic evolution in the way banking services may be conceptualized and delivered. This journey envisions a holistic integration of digital technologies and sustainable practices, presenting a transformative vista for the financial industry on a global scale.

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Prof. Erik Cambria

Speech Title: 7 Pillars for the Future of AI

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Abstract: In recent years, AI research has showcased tremendous potential to impact positively humanity and society. Although AI frequently outperforms humans in tasks related to classification and pattern recognition, it continues to face challenges when dealing with complex tasks such as intuitive decision-making, sense disambiguation, sarcasm detection, and narrative understanding, as these require advanced kinds of reasoning, e.g., commonsense reasoning and causal reasoning, which have not been emulated satisfactorily yet. The Seven Pillars for the future of AI (https://sentic.net/7-pillars-for-the-future-of-ai.pdf) address these shortcomings and pave the way for more efficient, scalable, safe and trustworthy AI systems.

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Prof. Sudeep Tanwar

Speech Title: Integration of Blockchain and AI for Building Secure Healthcare Applications

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Abstract: The convergence of Blockchain and Artificial Intelligence (AI) promises transformative advancements in the healthcare sector. This integration enhances security, trust, and data management efficiency. Blockchain's decentralized ledger and AI's advanced analytics create a robust framework for managing Healthcare environments. This talk discusses opportunities, including improved cybersecurity, efficient healthcare management, and secure operations in Healthcare Applications. Also, highlight challenges such as high computational demands, latency, interoperability, and standardization must be addressed. Discussed opportunities and challenges, providing insights into future research and practical implementations to achieve secure, intelligent, and efficient next-generation Healthcare Applications.

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Prof. Hongbing Cheng

Speech Title: Blockchain and Data security

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Abstract: Blockchain is a chained data structure consisting of blocks linked in chronological order. Each block needs to maintain an identical, continuously growing, and immutable ledger backup locally; blockchain is a technology that enables the secure sharing of information. Data, obviously, is stored in a database. Transactions are recorded in an account book called a ledger. In this report, we will explain blockchain technology and preliminarily explore its potential application data security areas.