In the area of payment services for example, e-payment has revolutionised payment mechanisms through convenient and accessible channels. In Islamic finance, a recent initiative in Malaysia has been the Investment Account Platform (IAP) that was launched in February this year. It is an important example of a collaborative strategy by the industry to bring game-changing innovations to the market. The IAP is the first Islamic bankingintermediated internet-based platform that combines the expertise of Islamic banks and efficiency of technology to channel funds from investors to viable economic ventures. It promotes risk-sharing financial transactions by providing the platform for Musharakah and Mudharabah-based equity financing. The platform has strong prospects to support crossborder investments and increase global connectivity through the participation of banks worldwide. The potential impact of such technological disruptions is significant. An estimated 10% to 40% of overall banking revenues could be at risk by 2025 due to fintech innovations outside banking institutions that are able to achieve a significant pricing advantage. In Islamic finance, like the Investment Account Platform in Malaysia, fintech has immense potential to be the next game changer. It offers opportunities for industry players to radically transform operational models by adopting digitisation strategies that will be able to deliver much greater scale or alternatively, a high degree of specialisation. It also opens up new possibilities for improving efficiencies, reducing wastage and enhancing the customer experience. All of this adds up to stronger market positioning and financial performance.
Another important development in this recent decade has been the growing emphasis on responsible, inclusive and sustainable finance. The global financial crisis provided a dramatic reminder of the basic purpose of financial intermediation – as a means to create sustainable value in the real economy. Without this anchor, finance will always be inherently unstable. The central role of finance in any economy also places a critical responsibility on financial actors to promote and embrace responsible behavior, consistent with the long term preservation and development of the economy, society and environment. In a number of developed markets, Sustainable, Responsible and Impact Investing (SRI) and Environment, Social and Governance (ESG) considerations are gaining significant momentum. Similar trends are also starting to gain traction in emerging markets. Islamic finance is uniquely positioned to champion this cause, guided by the overarching Shariah principle which emphasises the protection and preservation of the benefits and interests of society at large. More than 750 verses in the Quran relate to the importance of achieving balance and moderation in one’s life, whilst being responsible and accountable in the use of natural resources. The Islamic finance agenda must therefore embrace this cause as its core mission – a mission that has become more urgent in light of growing economic and social inequalities and environmental concerns. The first Socially Responsible Investment Sukuk that was issued last year is an example of impact investing that generates positive social outcomes.