Author: Annette Rowena

With 3 million Malaysians under the younger demographic actively using cryptocurrencies, it’s apparent that it is an increasingly popular investment option here. How do you start getting involved in buying cryptocurrency in Malaysia, though? This article will walk you through everything you need to know about the process of buying cryptocurrency in Malaysia, including licensed cryptocurrency platforms, legal aspects, and best practices for safe trading. What is cryptocurrency? Cryptocurrency is a digital payment system that operates without the need for banks to verify transactions. It uses a peer-to-peer network, allowing people anywhere in the world to send and receive payments…

As Malaysia’s fintech ecosystem continues to evolve, 2024 is shaping up to be a transformative year for the industry. From the launch of new digital banks to billion-dollar investments in data infrastructure, these are the key developments driving the narrative in the country. NTT DATA Expands ASEAN Presence with Majority Stake in GHL Systems In July 2024, NTT DATA, a Japanese multinational IT and consulting firm, increased its shareholding in GHL Systems to 98.8%. The acquisition began with a deal worth RM724.08 million for 58.7% of GHL’s shares, purchased from major shareholders like Actis Stark, APIS Growth 14 Ltd, Loh…

The BNM Exposure Draft on personal financing (PF), announced on 16 December 2024, introduces new rules to abolish personal financing practices where interest or profit charges are calculated using the flat rate with the Rule of 78 method. This move aligns with the joint efforts of Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM), the Consumer Credit Oversight Board (CCOB) Task Force, and the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living to phase out this method. The changes will be part of amendments to the Hire Purchase Act 1967, set to be tabled in Parliament in the first half of 2025. BNM invites…

BNPL Malaysia accountholders currently stand at 3.7 million customers according to the Consumer Credit Oversight Board Task Force (CCOB), and its rapid growth isn’t just a number. It’s a seismic shift in consumer behaviour and retail dynamics. BNPL is becoming the go-to solution for payment flexibility, challenging traditional credit models. As we delve into its evolution, it’s clear that Malaysians are fundamentally reimagining how they interact with credit and commerce. BNPL Market Growth and Changing Consumer Behaviour At the heart of this success are over 700,000 registered BNPL merchants catering to the growing demand for flexible payment solutions. Consumers increasingly…

In an era of constant change, true trailblazers lead with purpose, adaptability, and innovation. Their ability to envision the future and guide others toward it sets them apart in an increasingly complex business landscape. In an exclusive Banking After Hours conversation hosted by Fintech News Malaysia and Amazon Web Services (AWS), two trailblazing women leaders—Noor Farilla Abdullah, Group Chief Digital Officer of Bank Islam, and Taruni Ramamurthi, AWS Industry Sales Head for FSI Malaysia & the Philippines—share their unique perspectives with our Chief Editor, Vincent Fong. The discussion covers topics such as leadership, digital transformation, and empowering women in leadership…