Date: March 2026
Location: Cape Town, South Africa
The GTR Conference in Cape Town highlighted a defining shift in trade finance: the transition toward digital, data-driven solutions.
As attendees, we observed how innovation is reshaping the way financial institutions assess risk, extend credit, and support trade.
Key Themes and Insights
Digitalization was at the forefront of discussions. From automated underwriting tools to blockchain-enabled trade platforms, technology is improving efficiency and reducing transaction times.
A particularly important development is the use of alternative data in credit assessment. In markets where traditional financial data is limited, alternative data sources—such as transaction histories and supply chain information—are enabling more inclusive and accurate risk evaluations.
The conference also highlighted the rapid growth of supply chain finance, which is helping businesses optimize working capital and strengthen relationships across value chains.
However, these advancements come with challenges. As systems become more digital, fraud and compliance risks are also increasing, requiring stronger controls and oversight.
What This Means for Underwriting Africa
For Underwriting Africa, the shift toward digitalization presents an opportunity to enhance both efficiency and precision in underwriting.
Incorporating alternative data into our models can improve risk assessment, particularly for underserved segments such as SMEs. At the same time, investing in digital tools will enable faster decision-making and better client experiences.
However, these advancements must be balanced with robust risk management frameworks to address emerging threats.
Looking Ahead
The future of trade finance is undeniably digital. The challenge—and opportunity—lies in adopting innovation in a way that strengthens, rather than compromises, risk management.