The Global Centre for Banking and Financial Innovation (GCBFI)
The Global Centre for Banking and Financial Innovation (GCBFI) is an international research centre dedicated to advancing the study of banking and financial innovation. We focus on supporting resilient, competitive, and transparent financial markets through high-impact research and strategic collaboration.
Our research, knowledge exchange, and consultancy services support policymakers and industry leaders in addressing modern financial challenges, exploring data-driven and responsible solutions that drive global stability.
About us
GCBFI is built on the interdisciplinary research excellence of Nottingham University Business School. We are a trusted partner to UK and international policymakers, working closely with organisations such as the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), the Bank of England, and HM Treasury.
Our work focuses on ensuring financial innovation supports the real economy through effective market design, risk management, and responsible use of data and technology.
Our vision
Our vision is to produce world-leading, innovative, and impactful research that reshapes financial intermediation and monetary policy for a digital age. We aim to align financial innovation with global sustainability, inclusion and long‑term economic stability, supporting evidence‑based policy and socially responsible financial growth.
Our expertise
GCBFI expertise focuses on three core research areas:
- AI and FinTech - Research on AI, data analytics, digital assets, and the future of financial services
- Sustainable Finance - Advancing finance that supports the green transition and environmental resilience
- Inclusive Finance - Improving access to finance for SMEs and underserved communities, and strengthening inclusive financial ecosystems
Across all themes, we are committed to integrity, independence, and policy relevance, translating rigorous research into real‑world impact.
International collaborations and impact
A core pillar of our mission is building Talent and International Partnerships (TIP). We work with regulators, universities, and research institutions across the globe.
Our current collaborations include strategic research partnerships in Azerbaijan, Bahrain, Brazil, China, Colombia, India, Indonesia and Pakistan, with a focus on:
- Financial inclusion: Developing frameworks to expand access to financial services in emerging markets
- FinTech innovation: Co-developing projects that leverage digital transformation for economic growth
- AI for credit risk: Advancing alternative data-driven research to improve risk assessment and market stability
Landmark launch
GCBFI’s relaunch was marked by a visit from the Financial Conduct Authority, with Simon Walls (Executive Director for Markets, FCA) and Professor Meryem Duygun (Co‑Director, GCBFI) unveiling the GCBFI launch plaque.
The launch reinforced our commitment to:
- advancing innovation in risk management and market regulation
- promoting data-driven AI research and responsible finance
- Fostering growth, inclusion, and sustainability
We achieve this by:
- conducting cutting-edge research in market design and systemic risk and regulation
- translating research into practice through executive education and consultancy
- developing future talent through PhD training, teaching, and global academic engagement
We generate meaningful impact through a robust research agenda, international partnerships, and a dedicated focus on data and digital ethics.
Our work ensures that financial innovation is guided by robust evidence, responsible use of data, and a clear focus on real‑economy impact.
Get in touch
To discuss how the Global Centre for Banking and Financial Innovation (GCBFI) can support your work, please get in touch with the team by email.
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