Digital infrastructure can lower barriers to financial services, markets and public support, but access alone does not guarantee participation or prosperity. The harder task is building the skills, institutions, trust and locally relevant services that let people and businesses turn connectivity into opportunity. Drawing on experience across policy, development and fintech, this session examines what helps digital systems reach underserved communities, support livelihoods and strengthen local economies, and where infrastructure-led strategies fall short. Attendees will leave with a clearer view of the capabilities required to make digital growth genuinely inclusive.

Whether you're a student starting out, a finance professional planning a career pivot, or a startup founder facing a specific business challenge, Pay It Forward connects you with established industry professionals for face-to-face, one-to-one mentorship. It's a chance to get advice from people who have already worked through the challenges you're facing. Sessions are 15 minutes long and take place at the Pay It Forward Lounge in Hall 3, from 18 to 20 November, 12.30pm to 4.30pm. Come with one specific question or challenge, and leave with focused, practical advice.

What can quantum computing contribute to financial services—and what are early experiments teaching us? Convened by Q-FINEX, this session opens with a brief fireside chat between OCBC and ST Engineering sharing early results, practical lessons and the financial problems they are working to address. The session continues then as a panel joined by Quantinuum and an additional quantum-finance expert for a broader discussion on the threats and benefits of using quantum computers in finance. The session concludes by launching the global quantum finance challenge to be resolved at BSS Perth 2027 and the Quantum Finance Report by Q-FINEX.