South Africa’s banking industry is navigating one of the most complex periods in its history.
Rapid advances in artificial intelligence, evolving regulation, the rise of fintech challengers, and shifting customer expectations are reshaping how financial institutions operate.
At the same time, banks continue to play a critical role in enabling economic growth, funding infrastructure, and supporting businesses and consumers in a challenging economic environment.
Against this backdrop, industry leaders will gather at the 2026 Monocle/GIBS Beyond Banking Conference, a flagship event designed to explore the future of banking and the forces transforming financial services.
Early bird tickets for the conference are now available, offering a R2 000 discount off the standard ticket price for registrations completed before 31 March 2026.
Hosted in partnership between international management consultancy Monocle Solutions and the Gordon Institute of Business Science (GIBS), the conference has established itself as one of the most important annual gatherings for South Africa’s banking sector.
Each year, the event brings together senior leaders from major banks, fintech innovators, regulators, policymakers, economists and technology experts to discuss the trends and challenges shaping the industry.
This creates a rare opportunity for meaningful dialogue across the financial services ecosystem.
Michael Avery, respected broadcaster and the conference MC, highlights the importance of the event’s collaborative environment.
“I think it is very rare for an industry as important as banking to gather in a pre-competitive environment where you get the major banks, the major fintech players and the government regulators in the same room talking about the pressing issues.”
A conference focused on the future of banking
The 2026 conference will explore some of the most significant developments currently influencing the banking landscape.
Topics are expected to span a wide range of strategic issues, including the impact of AI and emerging technologies, the role of digital transformation, the sectors regulatory outlook, and how banks can continue to innovate while strengthening resilience and trust.
Beyond this, the conference will also explore the broader economic and societal role of banking in South Africa and globally.
The agenda will feature a range of thought-provoking keynote sessions, panel discussions, and interviews with industry leaders, offering both strategic insights and practical perspectives.
Hear from leading voices in banking
A key highlight of the Beyond Banking Conference each year is the calibre of speakers who bring first-hand insight into the forces shaping financial services.
The 2026 event will feature a distinguished lineup of leaders from across the banking ecosystem, including regulators, bank executives, and innovators driving change in the industry.
Confirmed speakers include Dr Rashad Cassim, Deputy Governor of the South African Reserve Bank; Dr Mark Nasila, Chief Data & Analytics Officer for First National Bank Risk; and Cheslyn Jacobs, CEO of GoTyme Bank.
These speakers are just a preview of the broader programme, with many more high-profile voices from banking, fintech, and policy joining the agenda.
Click here to view the updated speaker line up.
Unparalleled networking opportunities
One of the defining features of the Beyond Banking Conference is the opportunity it creates for networking and collaboration across the financial services ecosystem.
This creates an environment where participants can exchange ideas, discuss shared challenges, and build relationships across the industry.
According to Avery, this dynamic is what sets the event apart.
“I haven’t attended an event where you get this type of networking.”
Unlike many industry conferences that focus narrowly on one topic, the Beyond Banking Conference brings together a broad range of perspectives that reflect the interconnected nature of modern financial services.
This diversity of viewpoints allows for richer discussions and deeper insights into how the industry is evolving.
Insights that matter for banking leaders
For decision-makers and professionals working across banking and financial services, the conference provides an opportunity to step back from day-to-day operational pressures and engage with the bigger strategic questions facing the industry.
As Avery notes:
“There is no other conference that brings together such a wide array of different and important topics for the banking industry.”
Secure your early bird ticket
The 2026 Monocle/GIBS Beyond Banking Conference is again expected to attract strong interest from across the financial services sector.
Banking professionals interested in attending are encouraged to take advantage of the early bird discount of R2 000, available for registrations completed before 31 March 2026.
Early registration not only secures a reduced ticket price but also guarantees a place at one of the most influential banking events of the year.
Those who wish to attend can find more information about the conference programme, speakers, and registration details on the official event page.
Click here to learn more about the conference and secure your early bird ticket.
