Lectures - Past and Present
Tony Carlisle reviews a recent ACCA UK lecture 'Islamic Finance - Basic Concepts and Existing Opportunities' and looks forward to upcoming lectures of interest to members working in financial services.
On 6 February Gohar Bilal, European Representative of the Harvard Islamic Finance Information Program, addressed ACCA's Financial Services Network and guests on the basic principles of Islamic finance and outlined the opportunities arising in this growing area.
In recent years Islamic banking and finance has emerged as a rapidly-growing alternative system of financial management, not just in Muslim countries but wherever there is a large Muslim community, which of course includes the UK. In fact, according to Mushtak Parker, editor and publisher of Islamic Banker, approximately US$20bn of Islamic trade finance is arranged through London every year, much of it for blue-chip multinationals and regional corporations.
Gohar's fascinating presentation gave delegates a real insight into an area which is certain to become more and more important in the near future. For further information on Islamic finance please refer to the March issue of accounting & business.
Upcoming events that may be of interest include a panel debate 'Counteracting Money Laundering', taking place on 13 May (15.30 - 19.00) in St Helier, Jersey and 'IAS - A Banking Perspective', a lecture given by Paul Chisnall, Executive Directive of the British Bankers' Association, taking place on 29 June (12.00 - 14.00) in central London.
At 'Counteracting Money Laundering' a panel of speakers will look at the continuing fight against money laundering in Jersey as well as giving an overview of the international stage. 'IAS - A Banking Perspective' will look at the implications for banking of the upcoming regulations.
Both events are free to members and their guests but bookings must be made in advance. To book a place on 'Counteracting Money Laundering' contact Karen Wilcox on 0121 456 5903 and to book a place on 'IAS - A Banking Perspective' contact Services on 020 7396 5900.
Tony Carlisle - Members' Networks Manager, ACCA UK