Uzbekistan Central Bank, Standard Chartered discuss fintech

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — Representatives of the Central Bank of Uzbekistan held talks with a delegation from Standard Chartered in Samarkand during the 59th Annual Meeting of the Asian Development Bank, focusing on the management of international reserves and the development of digital financial technologies.

The sides discussed key areas including digital banking, fintech solutions, digital assets, custodial services, and cross-border payment infrastructure. Standard Chartered representatives noted the growing role of digital finance in integrating traditional banking services with modern technological solutions.

A separate topic of discussion was central bank digital currencies. The Central Bank of Uzbekistan stated that it is studying international experience in implementing CBDCs and is considering various approaches in coordination with relevant agencies.

Significant attention was given to international reserve management. The Uzbek side emphasized that it follows a conservative strategy focused on safety, liquidity, and profitability, while continuing efforts to diversify reserve assets and automate management processes.

The meeting also covered global trends in reserve management, including expanding investment portfolios, cooperation with custodian banks, engaging external asset managers, and accessing new financial markets.

Standard Chartered expressed readiness to provide technical support and share expertise in reserve management and investment diversification.

The sides also reviewed practical areas of cooperation, including custodial services, clearing solutions, and the development of financial market infrastructure.

At the end of the talks, the parties agreed to continue dialogue and work out specific formats of cooperation in digital finance and reserve management.