_{André Casterman, CEO of TFDi}            

This partnership underscores the increasing collaboration between innovative financing solutions and the broader capital markets in supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

Emerald Capital is an alternative lending provider that specialises in trade finance solutions. As a direct lender with a strong balance sheet, Emerald Capital is able to make quick and tailored lending decisions focusing on short-term financing on a revolving basis.

This partnership comes against a backdrop where SMEs are encountering escalating trade financing needs while traditional financing avenues are diminishing. There is a pressing need to channel more liquidity from capital markets to lenders that prioritise SMEs.

André Casterman, CEO of TFDi, said, "I am delighted to welcome Emerald Capital as sponsor of the upcoming Investor Day. The growth achieved by Emerald Capital demonstrates the rising role of alternative lending providers that specialise in developing tailored trade finance solutions. At a time when the trade financing needs of SMEs are increasing while traditional financing providers are re-trenching from the sector, it is imperative to fuel more capital markets liquidity to SME focused lenders. This is exactly what members of the TFD Initiative focus on and will showcase at the Trade Finance Investor Day."

Monique Goosen, Director, Emerald Capital Group added, "We are honoured to partner with TFDi for the Trade Finance Investor Day. Our mission at Emerald Capital is to unlock new opportunities for SMEs through innovative and flexible trade finance solutions. This sponsorship reflects our commitment to not only support the trade finance community but to also drive forward the conversation on how to better serve SMEs in an evolving financial landscape. We believe that through collaborations like these, we can make a significant impact on the industry and help bridge the trade finance gap."

The five-star event, set to take place this autumn in the UK, gathers the industry's most influential figures, including investors, technology innovators, and policymakers. Last year's event, organised by The Trade Finance Distribution Initiative (TFDi), attracted 135 attendees, from more than a dozen countries, representing 90 companies. With keynote addresses, panel discussions, and networking opportunities, the event will discuss the latest trends and opportunities within the trade finance sector.