For the month of March, in honor of International Women’s Day, the Cambridge SupTech Lab will be featuring inspiring leaders of women in finance and financial supervision. We asked them questions about financial inclusion as well as about career advice and mentorship. Our next leader is Laura López, Chief of Insurance Supervision, Superintendencia de Banca, Seguros y Administradoras de Fondos de Pensiones del Perú (SBS).
Q: How do advancements in suptech create more opportunities for women to receive fair treatment, equitable and non-discriminatory access to the financial system?
A: The digital revolution in financial institutions and advances in suptech are radically transforming financial markets and fostering meaningful digital financial inclusion. Greater access, use and improvement in the quality of financial products and services will not only boost the general well-being of the population and economic growth, but will also open new opportunities for women to integrate into the financial system. This situation represents a unique opportunity to promote gender equality by facilitating more equitable access to financial tools and platforms, which will allow women to overcome traditional barriers and receive fair and non-discriminatory treatment in the financial field.
Q: What is the role of financial authorities, and in particular financial supervisors, to further advance financial inclusion, non-discrimination and equal opportunities of women in global economies?
A: Financial authorities, including financial supervisors, play a crucial role in promoting digital financial inclusion and equal opportunities for women in global economies. This is achieved by implementing policies and regulations that encourage equal access and fair treatment of women in the financial sector. Likewise, the financial supervisor plays a relevant role by promoting financial education, through training programmes aimed at women in their role as entrepreneurs, professionals and key members of the family and society.
Q: How can women in central banking and financial supervision identify opportunities to be mentored, and to mentor someone else?
A: Women working in central banking and financial supervision can take advantage of various opportunities to serve as mentors and support other professionals. This includes participating in internal and external training programs, as well as attending academic and professional events and conferences. These activities allow them to network with colleagues and industry leaders, as well as exchange experiences and knowledge acquired in their own personal and professional development. This role is crucial since they are seen as inspiring examples for the new generations.
Read more about women working in digital financial inclusion, females in financial supervision, and national-international women’s day!
