The Ontario government has launched a team of financial services and information technology experts charged with developing a strategy to enhance the province’s fintech industry and strengthen consumer protection, the Ministry of Finance announced on Tuesday.
The team will help shape a fintech strategy that “enhances Ontario’s position as a global leader and promotes growth that produces jobs and investment in the province,” the ministry’s announcement says.
The group includes Maureen Jensen, chairwoman and CEO, Ontario Securities Commission (OSC); Janet Bannister, general partner, venture capital firm Real Ventures; Adam Felesky, president and managing partner, Portag3 Ventures; Christine Day, chief information officer, Questrade Financial Group; and Matthew Spoke, CEO, Toronto-based blockchain firm Nuco.
The group also includes representatives from the Toronto Financial Services Alliance and MaRS Discovery District, along with lawyers Simon Hodgett, partner at Osler, Hoskin & Harcourt LLP, and Robert Scavone, co-chairman, securitization, structuring and derivatives, McMillan LLP; and Michael Serbinis, founder and CEO of fintech firm League Inc.
“Ontario’s expert panel plays a critical role in strengthening our leadership position in financial services and technology by developing a modern and innovative fintech strategy. Unlocking the potential of technology helps create more jobs, increase business investment to grow our economy, and ensure Ontario remains at the forefront of innovation,” says Charles Sousa, minister of finance, in a statement.
“It is essential to develop a new strategy to help Ontario’s fintech entrepreneurs’ access quality data and resources. The invaluable participation of leaders in the sector will foster the environment fintech firms need to grow and prosper in our province. We look forward to the jobs, investment and economic growth that will result from this work,” adds Brad Duguid, minister of economic development and growth.
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