This conference was held ahead of the 25th Meeting of the SEACEN Executive Committee (EXCO).
The rapid evolution of artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming central banking, financial regulation and
regional payment systems across Asia. While AI technologies offer opportunities to streamline central bank
operations, enhance predictive analytics and enable faster, more interconnected payment systems, they also
introduce significant challenges. Risks arising from third-party provider concentration, algorithmic market
volatility, data security vulnerabilities and cyber threats call for adaptive governance, robust oversight and
stronger regional cooperation.
This document captures the key highlights of the SEACEN High-Level Conference, held in conjunction with the 25th Meeting of the SEACEN Executive Committee in Bali, Indonesia, in October 2026, under the theme
“Central Banking in the Age of Artificial Intelligence: Payments, Regulation, and Financial Stability for a
Connected Asia.” Bringing together central bank leaders, policymakers, experts and scholars from across the
region and beyond, the conference provided a platform to explore the implications of AI for central banking,
financial supervision, payment systems and cross-border connectivity.
Throughout the discussions, three key priorities emerged. The first was the need to strengthen governance
and trust by developing transparent, risk-based AI governance frameworks while enhancing supervisory
capabilities, data governance and human accountability. The second was to advance payment connectivity
safely by leveraging AI, cross-border QR linkages and digital payment infrastructure to improve efficiency and
financial inclusion, while strengthening fraud prevention, cybersecurity and operational resilience. The third
was to deepen regional cooperation through information-sharing, coordinated approaches to emerging risks
and joint capacity building facilitated by The SEACEN Centre and regional partnerships.
As central banks navigate this rapidly evolving technological landscape, balancing innovation with financial
stability remains essential. We hope this conference highlights provide valuable insights and practical
perspectives for policymakers, practitioners and institutions, and support continued dialogue and
cooperation towards a secure, resilient and inclusive financial future for Asia.