Sibos 2018, the world’s premier financial event, wraps up today (25 October) in Sydney following four days of conversation and connection between leading financial professionals.

Sydney welcomed 7000 business leaders and decision-makers from around the world for the annual event, which is now in its 40th year.

Secured by Business Events Sydney (BESydney) over four years ago, Sibos 2018 is expected to generate more than $38 million in direct expenditure to the NSW economy while cementing Australia’s reputation as an innovative financial services hub.

The event also provided the opportunity to showcase ICC Sydney, which was built by the NSW Government to attract Sibos and other large global meetings like it.

BESydney CEO Lyn Lewis-Smith says Sibos provides an opportunity to strengthen networks and create social change.

“Economies are increasingly becoming knowledge intensive,” she says. “And, for Australia to remain truly competitive, we need to future-proof our sectors.

“Global meetings, which promote and encourage the development of skills, drive important conversations forward and provide opportunities for global trade and investment, support this. And, in Sydney, we have a proven model of success.”

Highlights of the event include The Discover Zone, which showcases innovations taking place at NSW universities in the areas of aerospace, bio printing and desalination; The Oceania Lounge featuring FinTech start-ups from across Australasia; Innovation Labs from leading Australian banks; and the 2018 SWIFT Institute Challenge, which sees students create solutions in the area of personal data protection.

Head of Sibos Chantal Van Es says the BESydney team have extremely supportive throughout the event process.

“They’re incredibly connected and put us in touch with all the right stakeholders,” she says. “Through them we’ve met many different authorities and key local organisers to help make SIBOS 2018 in Sydney a success.”