As part of its commitment to advancing innovation and digital transformation across the financial sector, Jordan Kuwait Bank served as a Gold Sponsor of the second Jordan Fintech Festival 2026. Organized by the Central Bank of Jordan under the theme “Where Regulation Meets Innovation,” the festival was held at the King Hussein Bin Talal Convention Centre at the Dead Sea. More than 3,000 participants from over 40 countries attended, bringing together local, regional, and international representatives from the financial and fintech sectors.

The festival provided a platform for regulators, financial institutions, and fintech companies to exchange expertise and discuss key priorities shaping the sector. Discussions focused on digital transformation, the development of payment systems, financial inclusion, and responsible innovation, in line with international trends and regulatory best practices.

The event also created opportunities for regulators, policymakers, and representatives from the banking and financial sectors to engage with the wider fintech community across the Middle East and North Africa. The discussions focused on greater cooperation and the future of financial services in the region.

Haethum Buttikhi, Group Chief Executive Officer of Jordan Kuwait Bank, joined an opening panel on the relationship between regulators and innovators. The discussion focused on how clear and balanced regulation can support the development of financial services and fintech while allowing room for innovation.

During the session, Buttikhi said: “Financial institutions need clear regulatory expectations that reflect the level of risk involved if they are to invest confidently in innovation. The sector does not need less regulation. It needs regulation that is clear, balanced, and predictable, protecting customers and the financial system while giving new ideas room to develop and reach the market”.

He added that successful partnerships between banks and fintech companies depend on a clear business need and the right mix of banking and technology expertise. Risk, compliance, cybersecurity and technology teams should be involved from the beginning of the development process. Buttikhi also stressed the importance of starting with focused projects, clear objectives and measurable performance indicators, then expanding based on the results.

Commenting on Jordan Kuwait Bank’s sponsorship, Buttikhi said the festival reflects the value of cooperation and knowledge-sharing between regulators, financial institutions and the fintech sector. It also provides a forum for discussions on payment systems, financial inclusion and responsible innovation within a secure and modern financial environment.

Jordan Kuwait Bank’s sponsorship reflects its focus on keeping pace with rapid developments in banking and financial services. It also supports the bank’s efforts to strengthen institutional dialogue, exchange expertise and develop secure and effective financial solutions that meet customers’ needs.