The Global Finance & Technology Network (GFTN) is a not-for-profit organisation established by the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) in 2024 to harness technology and foster innovation for more efficient, resilient, and inclusive financial ecosystems through global partnerships. GFTN organises convening forums, offers advisory services on innovation ecosystems, provides access to transformative digital platforms, and invests in technology startups with the potential for growth and positive social impact through its venture fund.
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Group Chief Executive Officer, Baobab SAS
Philip is the Group CEO of Baobab Group, a leading and fast-growing financial services group empowering small businesses across Africa, operating in seven countries. With a strong focus on digital financial inclusion, Baobab is transforming banking—making it fairer, more accessible, and more affordable for entrepreneurs previously excluded from the formal financial system. With more than 560,000 active small business customers, Baobab leverages digital platforms, banking agents, and a comprehensive branch network to disburse over $1.2 billion annually in new loans.
Previously, he served as Group Director of SME Banking at Equity Group Holdings in Kenya, one of Africa’s leading banking groups specializing in digital banking, fintech, and SME banking. Philip has also held senior management positions at ProCredit Group, a banking group dedicated to serving SMEs in emerging markets. He began his career at the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development in Russia.
He holds a Bachelor's and a Master's degree in Economics from the University of St. Gallen in Switzerland, as well as an MBA from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business.
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