The CEO Conclave is a closed-door forum convened for senior leaders within the financial services industry to:
- receive an update on progress against priorities agreed at the previous CEO Conclave,
- engage in candid dialogue on matters impacting the industry, and
- collectively identify, refine, and confirm strategic priorities for the year ahead.
The session is designed to encourage open and honest exchange on what is required to move the industry forward, with a strong emphasis on collaboration, alignment, and practical outcomes. This Conclave builds on the inaugural CEO Conclave held in 2025.
Key Highlights
What will be covered:
- Industry update on actions taken since the 2025 CEO Conclave
- Confirmation of strategic priorities for the upcoming year
- Peer-level dialogue among senior industry leaders
Attendance Parameters
Attendance is limited to up to two (2) senior executives per firm (CEO, COO, or equivalent).
9:30am – 10:00am: Welcome & Review of 2025 Industry Priorities
Led by Niekia Horton, CEO & Executive Director, Bahamas Financial Services Board, this opening session will welcome participants and review the 2025 industry priorities agreed at the previous CEO Conclave. The discussion will reflect on progress made to date, assess current positioning, and highlight any shifts in the operating or regulatory environment that have influenced those priorities.
10:00am – 10:20am: Jurisdictional Strategic Positioning: Industry Priorities for 2026
This session will be guided by insights gathered from the 2026 Industry Priorities Survey and will focus on the key themes identified by industry leaders. Participants will engage in a facilitated discussion to align on the most critical priorities for the jurisdiction and consider where BFSB and key stakeholders should focus advocacy, policy engagement, and strategic resources in 2026.
10:20am – 10:30am: BFSB Corporate Social Responsibility & Sponsorship Opportunities 2026
This segment will highlight BFSB’s 2026 Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) mandate, focusing on priority initiatives and sponsorship opportunities.
10:30am – 11:00am: The Bahamas Tax & Policy Outlook
Led by Tomas Machado, Head of Tax at KPMG Bahamas and Chair of the BFSB Advocacy Committee, this session will provide a concise update on key tax and policy developments. The discussion will cover QDMTT, VAT, and Business Licence matters impacting the financial services sector.
11:00am – 11:15am: Morning Break
11:15am – 11:35am: Legislative Update
This session will be led by Attorney General L. Ryan Pinder and will provide an overview of key legislative changes impacting the industry.
11:35am – 12:30pm: CRS/AEOI and Mutual Evaluation: Panel Dialogue
This session will focus on providing an overview of the mutual evaluation process, insight into its significance for the jurisdiction, and guidance on how industry participants should approach preparation and engagement in a coordinated and effective manner. Panelists include Governor John Rolle, Central Bank, Executive Director Christina Rolle, Securities Commission and Mr. Charles Virgill, National Identified Risk Framework Senior Consultant, Office of the Attorney General & Ministry of Legal Affairs.
12:30pm – 1:30pm: Lunch Break with Open Dialogue
This lunch break will provide an open forum for questions, perspectives, and direct engagement on areas of concern, collaboration, and continuous improvement.