Queen Máxima of the Netherlands Takes the Helm as Chair of GFTN's International Advisory Board

Queen Máxima of the Netherlands Appointed Chair of GFTN's International Advisory Board

The Global Finance & Technology Network (GFTN) announced a significant leadership change with the recent appointment of Queen Máxima of the Netherlands as Chair of its International Advisory Board (IAB). This announcement was made on July 3, 2025, highlighting the Queen's pivotal role in promoting inclusive financial systems on a global scale.

A Commitment to Financial Health

Queen Máxima, who has served as the United Nations Secretary-General's Special Advocate for Financial Health (UNSGSA), brings with her a wealth of experience in advocating for financial inclusion. Her appointment comes alongside other notable figures, including Agustín Carstens, former General Manager of the Bank for International Settlements, and Sanjiv Bajaj, Chairman of Bajaj Finserv. Their collective expertise and dedication signify a major move towards enhancing financial resilience and inclusion globally.

Mr. Ravi Menon, the Chairman of the GFTN Board of Directors, expressed enthusiasm about the new appointments, stating, "We warmly welcome Queen Máxima, Mr. Agustín Carstens, and Mr. Sanjiv Bajaj to the IAB. Their visionary leadership and commitment to advancing financial innovation are invaluable to our mission."

Queen Máxima's Vision

Having held her UNSGSA role since 2009, Queen Máxima has pushed for broader access to financial services, particularly for marginalised groups such as low-income households, women, and smallholder farmers. Under her advocacy, recent statistics show nearly 80% of adults now have access to payment accounts worldwide. However, Queen Máxima emphasizes that mere access is not enough; it must also translate into wellbeing. Her focus will now shift to products and policies ensuring that individuals can manage their day-to-day finances effectively, protect themselves against risks through savings and insurance, and invest in both short- and long-term goals.

Her strategic approach aims at fostering cooperation among political leaders, regulators, global standard-setting bodies, civil society, and the private sector, ensuring that the financial needs of underserved communities are met. Queen Máxima's tireless efforts are expected to shape policies that empower individuals and uplift communities, improving economic stability and financial health.

Notable New Board Members

Agustín Carstens is a distinguished economist whose insights into both national and international finance are recognized worldwide. During his tenure as Governor of Banco de México and the country’s Secretary of Finance, he successfully managed the economy through crises, including innovative strategies during the 2008 global financial downturn. His work at the Bank for International Settlements has been pivotal in promoting central banking modernization and fostering collaboration among financial institutions globally.

Sanjiv Bajaj has rapidly become one of India's leading financial figures with his approach to creating a consumer-centric financial services landscape. Under his leadership, Bajaj Finserv has developed an array of solutions that cater to the diverse needs of Indians, all while driving a digital-first approach to financial accessibility.

GFTN's Vision for the Future

The Global Finance & Technology Network (GFTN), headquartered in Singapore, operates as a non-profit entity devoted to enhancing the efficiency, resilience, and inclusivity of financial systems worldwide. The organization hosts several forums, including the flagship Singapore FinTech Festival, and advises governments and corporations on developing digital ecosystems within the financial sector. Moreover, GFTN plans to establish a venture fund aimed at investing in financial technology startups, particularly those focused on sustainability and inclusion.

In conclusion, Queen Máxima’s new role as Chair of the International Advisory Board for GFTN represents a promising future for global finance, emphasizing inclusivity and collaboration. With a strong focus on financial health, her leadership is expected to inspire significant advancements in how financial services can benefit the most vulnerable populations around the world.