MEFTEC 2008 off to a flying start

The successful launch of MEFTEC 2008 is the latest milestone for the record-setting event that has made rapid strides since its debut in 2004 to become one of the world's leading financial technology events.

"We are delighted by the fantastic response to the 2008 event," said Paul Stott, Managing Director of Media Generation Exhibitions Ltd, organisers of MEFTEC. "The rebooking rate is exceptionally high and repeat exhibitors are booking larger stands. In addition, many first-time participants are vying for exhibit and sponsorship opportunities. With still eight months to go before the show opens its doors, MEFTEC is on course to sell out in record time."

The robust growth of the event comes on the back of the burgeoning demand for financial technology across the Middle East, Africa and South Asia (MEASA) region. During 2007-2008, banks & financial institutions in the MEASA region are expected to spend close to US$6 billion on IT, with GCC banks accounting for almost 25% of this expenditure.

To enable market players to connect more effectively, MEFTEC 2008 is introducing a raft of new features, including an expanded, US$500,000 Hosted Delegate Programme®, a meetings facilitation service and extended exhibit hours. An augmented conference programme is also being planned to provide a more intensive coverage of the financial industry, including insurance and capital markets, besides banking.

The Hosted Delegate Programme®, the industry's foremost business club, continues to evolve; in 2008, the programme is expected to draw more than 800 participants, including up to 300 fully hosted delegates from 35 countries.

"Although the numbers are growing by the year, our focus remains on quality rather than quantity. We are committed to delivering the highest quality buyers and, in doing so, retaining our standing as the most exclusive and prestigious event in the financial technology industry."

MEFTEC 2008 takes place 11-12 February 2008 at the Bahrain International Exhibition Centre (Hall 1). The event is organised in association with the Bahrain Exhibition & Convention Authority (BECA) and held under the auspices of the Central Bank of Bahrain.