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SBMA MANAGEMENT AND LAO BULLION BANK DISCUSS PLANS FOR UPCOMING LAOS DELEGATION

We’re hard at work finalizing the details for our SBMA Delegation to Laos, which will take place from 9 to 12 October 2024. This morning, some of our management committee members met with representatives from the Lao Bullion Bank and PTL Holding at Metalor
SBMA Management and Lao Bullion Bank Discuss Plans for Upcoming Laos Delegation
Image-SBMA Management and Lao Bullion Bank Discuss Plans for Upcoming Laos Delegation
The meeting at Singapore’s only LBMA-accredited refinery was productive and insightful. The delegation discussed plans to ensure a fulfilling and informative trip.
Delegates from Laos were also treated to an exclusive tour of the Metalor refinery, providing them with a unique opportunity to witness first-hand the intricate gold refining process. A huge thank you to Metalor Technologies SA for hosting us and facilitating this important meeting.
SBMA MANAGEMENT AND LAO BULLION BANK DISCUSS PLANS FOR UPCOMING LAOS DELEGATION

Why Join the SBMA Delegation?

This delegation, open ONLY to SBMA members, offers an extraordinary chance to explore Laos’s rapidly growing gold industry. As the country’s gold exports soared to $852 million in 2022, Laos is emerging as a significant player on the global gold market stage. Digitalisation and increased production have accelerated this growth, opening up new business opportunities.

By joining our delegation, SBMA members will gain exclusive insights into Laos’ booming gold sector while exploring strategic collaborations and potential partnerships in this burgeoning market. To learn more about Laos’ rising gold industry, check out this article: Lao’s Gold Rush: A Golden Opportunity for Economic Growth.

The delegation’s agenda includes high-impact events designed to foster regional connections and provide a comprehensive understanding of Laos’ evolving role in the global gold trade.

Highlights of the SBMA Delegation Agenda:

  • ASEAN Business & Investment Summit (ABIS) 2024: Gain first-hand insights into ASEAN’s economic future at this annual flagship event. Hosted by Laos this year under the theme of “Enhancing Connectivity and Resilience,” ABIS is a vital platform for dialogue between the business community and ASEAN leaders. This summit attracts thousands of participants, including top executives, policymakers, and government officials, making it a key opportunity to foster collaboration and explore new avenues for growth.
  • Roundtable Discussion with the Lao Ministry of Planning and Investment: Engage directly with key government officials from Laos to discuss the country’s economic transformation and the exciting “Land Locked to Land Linked” initiative. This roundtable will offer an in-depth look at Laos’ strategic development plans to enhance infrastructure, connectivity, and regional trade integration.
  • Capital Link Forum: Be part of the inaugural session of the Capital Link Forum where SBMA Chairman KL Yap will speak alongside industry leaders, providing insights into the future of the bullion market and regional economic trends.

About ABIS: Driving ASEAN’s Economic Integration

Since its inception in 2003, the ASEAN Business & Investment Summit (ABIS) has been an essential platform for business leaders and policymakers. Organised by the ASEAN Business Advisory Council (ASEAN-BAC), ABIS plays a critical role in addressing the region’s most pressing economic challenges while promoting business and investment opportunities within ASEAN. The summit covers various topics, including digital transformation, sustainable development, supply chain integration, and more.
As Laos holds the ASEAN Chairmanship in 2024, ABIS will bring together more than 1,000 world leaders, CEOs, and senior executives representing multinational and regional corporations. This year’s ASEAN BIS theme is “Enhancing Economic Connectivity and Resilience”, which will reflect the view of the private sector on the Priority Economic Deliverables of ASEAN, the presentation of new ideas, technologies and development concepts and strategies for economic integration in ASEAN, in ASEAN plus 5 (RCEP) Region, in the Asia-Pacific Region, in the Eurasia Region and others.
This event is a must-attend for SBMA members looking to engage in high-level discussions and gain valuable insights into the region’s future economic trajectory.

How to Join the Delegation

SBMA MANAGEMENT AND LAO BULLION BANK DISCUSS PLANS FOR UPCOMING LAOS DELEGATION
SBMA members interested in joining this exclusive delegation are encouraged to contact the SBMA Secretariat for more information on the application process. Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to connect with industry leaders, explore new business opportunities, and gain invaluable insights into the future of the ASEAN gold market.

If you have any questions or want to express interest, please contact us today!

Important Travel Information for Delegates: For Singapore passport holders, no visa is required for short-term visits to Laos of up to 30 days. For more information, please visit the official website of the Singapore Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

For other passport holders, please check your visa requirements for visiting Laos before making travel arrangements.

Not Yet an SBMA Member?

To learn more about becoming an SBMA member and gaining access to exclusive opportunities like this, visit SBMA Membership.
We look forward to seeing our members in Laos this October for an unforgettable experience!

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Singapore Bullion Market Association Secretariat-Lee-Jia-Yi

Lee Jia Yi

OPERATIONS & ADMIN EXECUTIVE
Before joining SBMA, Jia Yi worked as an Admin & Reporting Officer in her previous role. She holds a Diploma in Business & Social Enterprise from Ngee Ann Polytechnic. Jia Yi is responsible for managing and maintaining physical and digital files in SBMA, supporting invoicing processes, reconciling receivables and payables, coordinating meetings and conferences. Additionally, she will provide support to the team and assist the Business Director in managing the Association’s office operations and general administrative activities.

SECRETARIAT SBMA-Emily-Oh

Emily Oh

OPERATIONS & ADMIN EXECUTIVE
Emily Oh is the Operations & Admin Executive, a seasoned professional who values teamwork and effective communication. She is skilled at adapting to new challenges and takes a proactive and resourceful approach to every task. Before joining SBMA, Emily had experience coordinating international travel arrangements and spearheading community initiatives. Her role at SBMA will be providing operational and administrative support for projects and other matters to the team.

SECRETARIAT SBMA Clara-Chang

Clara Chang

MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS EXECUTIVE
Clara Chang joins SBMA as the Marketing & Communications Executive, enriching the team with her extensive experience in content creation, social media management, and digital marketing. Prior to joining SBMA, Clara held the position of Marketing Executive at her previous job. She holds two bachelor’s degrees from the University at Buffalo, one in International Trade and another in Geographical Information Science. Her core duties will include maintaining the SBMA website, managing the quarterly Crucible newsletter, among other responsibilities.

SBMA Committee-Photo-john-levin

Mr John Levin

Global Metals
TD Securities
John Levin is the Head of Metal Sales & Trading – APAC at the Toronto Dominion Bank’s Singapore office. Prior to this role, he devoted seven years to leading precious metal sales for the ANZ banking group in his home country, Australia. Notably, from 2009 to 2011, John played a significant role on the management committee of the London Bullion Market Association while serving as the Head of Precious Metals Sales for HSBC Global Banking and Markets in the UK.

SBMA Secretariat-Fabian-Lew

Fabian Lew

MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER

Fabian was a Business Development and Marketing Associate before joining SBMA. He graduated from Singapore Management University with a Bachelor’s degree in Economics.

He has joined SBMA since February, 2022.

SBMA-margare-secretariat

Margaret Wong

BUSINESS DIRECTOR

Margaret Wong, Business Director at SBMA (Singapore Bullion Market Association), brought valuable experience from her previous role at the World Gold Council (WGC). Her tenure at WGC provided her with extensive exposure to the gold community in Singapore and the broader region. This background has been instrumental in establishing strong working relationships within the industry.

Margaret’s role at SBMA encompasses a diverse range of responsibilities. She oversees office management, business support processes, finance, and administrative functions essential for the smooth operation of the team and management committee. Additionally, Margaret handles membership matters, member communications, and addresses public inquiries related to SBMA.

One of Margaret’s key responsibilities is coordinating with the Event Management Company for SBMA’s prestigious annual event, the Asia Pacific Precious Metals Conference. This flagship conference plays a crucial role in the industry, making her involvement pivotal in its success.

Described as resourceful and self-motivated, Margaret Wong brings a wealth of skills and experience to her role at SBMA, ensuring efficient operations and effective engagement within the precious metals community in Singapore and beyond.

SBMA-Albert-secretariat

Albert Cheng

Chief Executive Officer

Albert Cheng joined the World Gold Council in March 1993 as a Regional Manager, becoming Managing Director, Far East in 2003. He retired at the end of March 2015 and was subsequently named its Advisor. He has also been an International Advisor to the Shanghai Gold Exchange since 2002.

His marketing career began with Dentsu Young & Rubicam, Hong Kong in the early 80’s. He began gold marketing in July 1985 when he joined the Royal Canadian Mint as a Regional Manager for Southeast Asia.

He was appointed honorary CEO of SBMA in November 2015. He is responsible for the success and strategic development of SBMA, represents the interests of the Association, and is responsible for all the legal and regulatory aspects of the work of the Association. He is the primary contact for regulators and government bodies on bullion market development.

Ms Pawan Nawawattanasub

Ms Pawan Nawawattanasub

CEO
YLG Bullion Singapore Pte Ltd

Pawan is the CEO of YLG Bullion Singapore and founder of YLG Bullion International. She has almost 40 years of experience in the jewellery industry and established YLG in Thailand in 2003. In 2012, she brought YLG to Singapore. She sits on the Board of Directors of the Thailand Gold Traders Association, the Thailand Futures Exchange’s Arbitration Committee, and the Rotary Bangkok committee. She holds a master’s degree in Political Science.

SBMA-Shaokai-Fan

Mr Shaokai Fan

Head of Asia-Pacific (ex China) and Global Head of Central Banks
World Gold Council
Shaokai Fan is the Global Head of Central Banks at the World Gold Council, responsible for advising governments on gold matters, and enhancing the gold market through engagement, dialogue, and thought leadership. He works directly with central banks and sovereign wealth funds on investment considerations. Prior to this position, Shaokai held multiple roles at Standard Chartered Bank, including Director for Asia Strategic Initiatives and Associate-Director for Public Sector coverage. Shaokai holds a Masters of Public Administration from Columbia University and the London School of Economics, and an undergraduate degree in finance and economics from New York University.

SBMA-Committee-Alan-Liew

Mr Alan Liew

Head of Bullion & Commodities Trading
United Overseas Bank Limited
Alan is Head of Bullion and Commodities Trading for Group Trading in Global Markets, United Overseas Bank (UOB). Alan joined UOB and started the bank’s commodities trading business in 2014, previously he spent eight years in Standard Chartered Bank (SCB) trading both precious and base metals. During his tenure at SCB, he obtained the SGE gold trader licence and was part of the pioneering team for the SGE business and the FX quantitative trading team. Prior to trading, he worked for Monetary Authority of Singapore in the Financial Risk Management Division. He holds a BSc (Hon) in Computer Science at National University of Singapore and a MSc in Financial Engineering at Nanyang Technological University.

SBMA-Committee-Nikos

Mr Nikos Kavalis

Managing Director
Metals Focus Singapore Pte Ltd
Nikos Kavalis is a founding partner of Metals Focus. He has over 20 years of experience in precious metals, having previously worked for the Royal Bank of Scotland and GFMS. Since September 2019, Nikos has been based in Singapore, where he also runs the local subsidiary of Metals Focus.

SBMA-Committee-khun nuttapong

Mr Nuttapong Hirunyasiri

CEO
MTS Gold Global Trading Pte Ltd
Nuttapong Hirunyasiri is the CEO of MTS Gold Group, one of Thailand’s top 10 companies and top 3 bullion companies. He started MTS Gold Group’s first overseas office in Singapore and has been expanding the group business internationally. He focuses on product development and innovation for gold investment, with the aim of being a leader in providing the full suite of gold investment services in the ASEAN region.

SBMA Committee-Photo-Raman-Walia

Mr Raman Walia

Executive Director, Head of Commodities Sales – APAC
JP Morgan Chase Bank N.A.

Raman is Executive Director and Head of Commodities Sales, APAC, for J.P. Morgan. He joined JPMorgan in 2008 in New York, moved to Singapore in 2011, and helped expand the precious metals business in the region. Raman has an MBA from Cornell University, and likes to travel in his spare time.

SBMA Committee-Photo-Andrew-Clarke

Mr Andrew Clarke

Head of Brink’s Global Services
Brink’s Global Services Pte Ltd

Andrew Clarke is the Head of BGS (Brink’s Global Services) for Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia and Brunei. He has held various leadership positions throughout his career in secure logistics and risk management with Brink’s, which started in Hong Kong in 2010. Andrew relocated to Singapore in 2018 to expand the precious metals line of business along with Brink’s portfolio of services and industries.

SBMA Committee-Photo-Kazuya-Naoki

Mr Kazuya Naoki

Head of Metals, Asia
ICBC Standard Bank Plc, Singapore Branch

Kazuya (Kaz) Naoki is the Head of Metals, Asia of ICBC Standard Bank in Singapore and is responsible for the precious & base metals sales and trading in the region. He joined Standard Bank Plc Tokyo Branch in 2008 and was relocated to its Singapore Branch in 2013 whose controlling stake was acquired by the Industrial and Commercial Bank of China in 2015. Prior to joining Standard Bank, Kaz spent 11 years focusing on commodity trading and risk management with Mitsui & Co in Tokyo, Sydney and London. Kaz has been serving on the SBMA Management Committee since 2016.

SBMA Committee-Photo-Vinh-Nguyen

Mr Vinh Nguyen

Head of Precious Metals, Asia
StoneX APAC Pte Ltd

Vinh Nguyen joined StoneX Group in Singapore at the beginning of 2008 and responsible for its APAC precious metals activities since 2019 until now.

SBMA Committee-KL-Yap

Mr KL Yap

General Manager, Singapore Refining Business Unit
Metalor Technologies (Singapore) Pte Ltd
KL YAP is the General Manager of Metalor Technologies (Singapore) Pte Ltd’s Singapore Refining Business Unit. He joined Metalor in 2013, initially in Refining Sales. In 2014, he became Refining Business Unit Manager, leading the development of a new precious metal refinery. KL was Vice Chairman of SBMA from 2017 to 2021, now serving as Chairman. With a degree in business commerce, finance, and marketing, he brings prior experience from refinery and heavy industries.