AmCham Banking, Finance and Insurance Committee Holds June Meeting on the Future of Financial Cybersecurity in the Age of AI

On June 3, 2026, AmCham Azerbaijan’s Banking, Finance and Insurance Committee organized a session titled “The Future of Financial Cybersecurity in the Age of AI”.The event commenced with opening remarks delivered by Mr. Vugar Namazov, Deputy Chair of the AmCham Banking, Finance and Insurance Committee, who welcomed participants and underscored the timeliness and significance of the topic amid the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence and digital technologies. Mr. Namazov also introduced the speakers and set the stage for the discussions that followed.The session featured keynote presentations by distinguished international experts from Mastercard. Mr. Cihan Salihoglu, Vice President, Cyber Advisory at Mastercard Eastern Europe, Middle East & Africa, opened the discussions by exploring the evolving cybersecurity landscape in the age of artificial intelligence. He shared insights into emerging technologies, digital trust, cyber risk management, and the transformative impact of AI-driven solutions on businesses, consumers, and financial institutions.The event continued with an executive panel discussion moderated by Mr. Resat Kokcen from Mastercard Eastern Europe. The discussion brought together leading cybersecurity professionals, including Mr. Shahmar Hajiyahyayev from the Innovation and Digital Development Agency; Mr. Elnur Eyvazli from the Central Bank of the Republic of Azerbaijan; Ms. Sona Talibova-Alizade from PASHA Financial Holding; and Mr. Nadir Jabiyev from Unibank.The panelists exchanged views on strengthening cyber resilience, enhancing digital trust, managing risks associated with emerging technologies, and building secure digital ecosystems capable of adapting to rapidly evolving cyber threats. The discussion also addressed the growing role of artificial intelligence in cybersecurity, regulatory considerations, operational resilience, and the future of secure digital transformation across the financial sector.The session concluded with a keynote presentation by Mr. Suheyl Hamavioglu, Director, Cyber Security Products Management at Mastercard Eastern Europe, Middle East & Africa, who shared regional perspectives on the latest cybersecurity threats, trends, and developments affecting financial institutions. He highlighted the importance of proactive risk management, regulatory compliance, and strategic investment in cybersecurity capabilities to address increasingly sophisticated threat environments.The event served as an important platform for dialogue and knowledge sharing, reinforcing the significance of collaboration among financial institutions, technology providers, regulators, and cybersecurity professionals in strengthening the resilience of Azerbaijan’s digital economy.The session concluded with an engaging Q&A discussion, during which participants had the opportunity to raise questions and exchange views directly with the speakers. The interactive dialogue generated insightful conversations on the challenges and opportunities presented by artificial intelligence, cybersecurity risks, and the future of digital trust, allowing attendees to benefit from the speakers’ expertise and practical experience. 

AmCham Azerbaijan and PASHA Bank Hold Joint Session on PASHA Bank’s IPO

The American Chamber of Commerce in Azerbaijan (AmCham Azerbaijan), in partnership with PASHA Bank, hosted a joint session dedicated to PASHA Bank’s upcoming Initial Public Offering (IPO), bringing together AmCham members and representatives of the business community to discuss one of the most significant developments in Azerbaijan’s financial sector.The session featured presentations by Mr. Kamil Allahverdiyev, Director of Treasury at PASHA Bank, and Mr. Ramin Abbasov, Head of Local Brokerage Division at PASHA Capital, who shared insights into PASHA Bank’s investment proposition, the current macroeconomic environment, and the evolving landscape of Azerbaijan’s capital markets.During the event, attendees gained a deeper understanding of PASHA Bank’s growth journey, financial performance, strategic priorities, and the opportunities presented by the bank’s IPO. The speakers also highlighted the broader role of public offerings in strengthening the country’s investment ecosystem and promoting the development of local capital markets.The discussion provided participants with valuable perspectives on market trends, investor expectations, and the significance of increasing public participation in Azerbaijan’s financial sector. The event also served as a platform for an engaging exchange of views between industry professionals and members of the business community.AmCham Azerbaijan extends its sincere appreciation to PASHA Bank for its partnership and support in organizing this event and thanks all participants for their active engagement and contributions to the discussion. 

AmCham Sustainable Development and Corporate Impact Committee Holds June Meeting

On June 3, 2026, AmCham Azerbaijan’s Sustainable Development and Corporate Impact Committee (SD&CI), within the framework of Energy Week, organized a session titled “Energy Transition in Practice: Renewables, Green Fuels, and Hard-to-Abate Sectors”.The event commenced with opening remarks delivered by Mr. Jeyhun Atayev, Deputy Chairperson of the AmCham Sustainable Development and Corporate Impact Committee, who welcomed participants and emphasized the importance of fostering dialogue on sustainable energy solutions and supporting Azerbaijan’s ongoing energy transition agenda. Mr. Atayev also moderated the panel discussion throughout the session.The session featured presentations by leading industry experts. Mr. Vitaliy Yakovlev, Managing Partner of KPMG Azerbaijan, opened the discussions by sharing insights into the global energy transition landscape, highlighting key market trends, investment opportunities, and the challenges organizations face in translating sustainability ambitions into practical outcomes. He also addressed the role of innovation, policy frameworks, and private sector engagement in accelerating the transition toward a more sustainable energy future.The keynote session continued with Mr. Elchin Targuluyev, Director of the Technology and Innovations Department at SOCAR Green, who discussed recent developments in renewable energy technologies and the growing importance of green fuels in supporting long-term decarbonization efforts. Drawing on practical experience from the sector, he shared perspectives on technological innovation, project implementation, and the opportunities emerging within Azerbaijan’s evolving energy ecosystem.The session concluded with a presentation by Mr. Rashad Osmanov, Geocycle Manager and Director at Binacycle LLC, who focused on the role of circular economy principles and sustainable industrial practices in supporting the energy transition. He shared practical examples of alternative fuel solutions, resource efficiency initiatives, and waste management strategies that contribute to reducing environmental impact while enhancing operational sustainability.AmCham Azerbaijan extends its sincere gratitude to the team at Kolektif House for hosting the event and for their valued support in facilitating this important discussion. Their hospitality and commitment to fostering collaboration provided an excellent setting for meaningful dialogue and knowledge exchange among participants and speakers.The session concluded with a brief Q&A discussion, allowing participants to engage directly with the speakers and exchange views on the opportunities and challenges associated with energy transition initiatives.

May Masterclass on Getting into the Top 10 US Universities

On May 24, 2026, an exclusive in-person masterclass titled “Harvard Admissions in Baku: A Masterclass on Getting into the Top 10 US Universities” was organized for AmCham members, with the support of Crimson Education and upon the initiative of the AmCham Education & Vocational Working Group.Guest Speaker of the event was Mr. Benito Rodriguez, Harvard University alumnus and former Harvard Admissions Interviewer.The event commenced with opening remarks by Ms. Leyla Isgenderova, Deputy Chairperson of the AmCham Education & Vocational Working Group, who warmly welcomed participants and highlighted the importance of expanding international educational opportunities for Azerbaijani students. The session was followed by a welcome speech from Ms. Yevgeniya Aliyeva, Academic Advisor at Crimson Education, who emphasized Crimson Education’s commitment to guiding students through the highly competitive admissions processes of the world’s leading universities.The keynote session was continued by Mr. Benito Rodriguez, who shared valuable insights into how top US universities assess international applicants and discussed the latest trends shaping today’s admissions landscape. His presentation covered a wide range of topics, including building strong academic and extracurricular profiles, avoiding common application mistakes, and developing competitive applications for institutions such as Harvard, Stanford, Yale, Princeton, and other top-ranked universities.The masterclass brought together high school students, parents, school counselors, and individuals interested in pursuing undergraduate studies in the United States, providing attendees with practical guidance and insider perspectives on admissions to top-tier US universities.The event concluded with an engaging interactive discussion and Q&A session, during which participants had the opportunity to directly engage with the speaker on topics including admissions interviews, scholarship opportunities, extracurricular involvement, essay writing, application strategies, and long-term academic planning. The discussion encouraged active participation and offered attendees valuable practical insights into successfully navigating the admissions processes of leading global institutions. The masterclass concluded with closing remarks delivered by Ms. Leyla Isgenderova and Ms. Yevgeniya Aliyeva, who thanked the participants for their active engagement and emphasized the importance of continuing to support Azerbaijani students in accessing world-class educational opportunities and global academic networks. 

AmCham Azerbaijan, AccessBank and Neurotime Announced the Winners of the AI Hackathon

On May 23, 2026, the one-day innovation hackathon “Building with AI: From Idea to Working Product,” organized by AmCham Azerbaijan in partnership with AccessBank and Neurotime, was successfully held.More than 600 applications were received for participation in the Hackathon, which took place on May 23, 2026. From this pool of applicants, 60 participants were selected, who were then given the opportunity to develop their ideas into functional products and prototypes within a short timeframe using artificial intelligence technologies.During the Hackathon, participants collaborated in teams to develop innovative solutions using ChatGPT, Claude, Cursor, Lovable, Replit, Zapier, various APIs, and other modern AI platforms, and presented their projects to the jury panel at the end of the day. Throughout the process, the teams were supported by experienced mentors.Based on the evaluation of the jury panel, the winners of the hackathon were announced as follows:• 1st Place — Rufina Rahimli, Ibrahim Huseynov, Nuray Gasimzade• 2nd Place — Emil Gallacov, Mahammad Babayev• 3rd Place — Elchin Yusubov, Imran Hajiyev, Huseyn HasanzadeIt should be noted that the total prize fund of the “Building with AI: From Idea to Working Product” Hackathon amounted to 5,000 AZN. The winners received cash prizes in the following amounts:• 1st Place — 2,500 AZN• 2nd Place — 1,500 AZN• 3rd Place — 1,000 AZNThe main goal of the Hackathon was to contribute to the development of Azerbaijan’s artificial intelligence and innovation ecosystem, enhance the practical skills of young people and technology enthusiasts, and encourage the development of innovative products. The event also served as an important platform for participants to learn and network.

AmCham Banking, Finance and Insurance (BFI) Committee Holds May Session

On May 21, 2026, the AmCham Banking, Finance and Insurance (BFI) Committee hosted a session titled “Transforming Financial Services: AI, Modelling and the New Banking Paradigm” The session opened with welcoming remarks by Ms. Gunay Jalilova, Deputy CEO of Yelo Bank and Chairperson of the AmCham Azerbaijan BFI Committee. In her opening speech, she highlighted the growing importance of innovation, digital transformation, and data-driven decision-making in shaping the future of the banking and finance sector.The keynote part of the event featured presentations from distinguished international experts. Mr. Taşkın Osman Aksoy, CEO and Co-Founder of Linktera, delivered a presentation titled “Finding the Signal in the Noise: Reimagining Modelling and Decisioning with Agentic AI and Synthetic Data,” where he explored the transformative impact of agentic AI technologies and synthetic data on financial modelling and strategic decision-making processes. The discussion continued with a keynote speech by Mr. Dave Ferguson, Principal Pre-Sales Solution Architect at SAS, who addressed the future implications of artificial intelligence for the financial services industry. His presentation focused on the opportunities AI creates for operational efficiency, customer experience, and risk management within modern banking ecosystems. One of the central highlights of the event was the executive panel discussion titled “Basel III Unpacked – The Future of Risk-Adjusted Portfolio Management and Pricing.” The panel brought together leading professionals from the banking, analytics, and regulatory sectors, including Mr. Dave Ferguson, Mr. Valeh Nabiyev, Chief Data & AI Officer at Bir ecosystem, Mr. Celil Ertürk Yılmaz, Head of Analytical Balance Sheet Management at Ziraat Katılım Bankası, and Mr.İskender Kaycı, Head of Regulation and Credit Risk at Linktera. The session was moderated by Salih Sertbaş, Head of Analytics and Modelling at Linktera. The panel explored key developments in Basel III frameworks, risk-adjusted pricing methodologies, model governance, and the growing role of AI-powered analytics in portfolio management and financial decision-making.Throughout the event, speakers shared practical insights drawn from their extensive international experience in banking supervision, credit risk modelling, AI integration, regulatory compliance, and digital transformation initiatives. Discussions also emphasized the importance of balancing technological innovation with regulatory resilience and sustainable financial growth. The session concluded with closing insights delivered by Mr. Taşkın Osman Aksoy, summarizing the key takeaways of the discussions and highlighting the strategic importance of collaboration between financial institutions, technology providers, and regulatory stakeholders in navigating the future banking paradigm. The event ended with an interactive Q&A and networking session, allowing participants to exchange perspectives and continue discussions on the future of AI-driven financial services.

AmCham Human Resources and Labor Committee Holds May Webinar

On May 20, 2026, the AmCham Human Resources and Labor Committee hosted a webinar titled “Employee Wellbeing as a Strategic Advantage.”The session was opened with welcoming remarks by Ms. Emina Ibrahimova, Deputy Chairperson of the AmCham HR and Labor Committee, who emphasized the increasing role of wellbeing initiatives in modern organizational strategy and highlighted the importance of creating supportive and sustainable work environments.The keynote presentation was delivered by Mr. Fatih Mustafa Çelebi, Co-Founder of Meditopia, one of the world’s leading mental wellbeing platforms serving more than 40 million users across over 100 countries and 15 languages. During the session, Mr. Çelebi shared valuable insights into the evolving relationship between employee wellbeing, organizational culture, and long-term business success.Drawing from his extensive experience in developing digital wellbeing solutions, Mr. Çelebi discussed the importance of integrating mental health and wellbeing practices into corporate strategy. He also explored how organizations can foster healthier and more engaged teams by prioritizing emotional resilience, psychological safety, and purpose-driven leadership. The presentation further highlighted global trends shaping the future of work and the increasing expectations of employees regarding workplace wellbeing and support systems.Throughout the webinar, participants gained practical perspectives on how wellbeing initiatives can contribute to employee engagement, productivity, retention, and overall organizational performance. The discussion also underlined the strategic value of investing in employee wellbeing as a long-term advantage in today’s rapidly evolving work environment.The session concluded with an interactive Q&A segment, where participants had the opportunity to engage directly with Mr. Çelebi, exchange views, and discuss challenges and opportunities related to employee wellbeing in modern workplaces. The webinar ended with closing remarks and appreciation extended to all participants and speakers for their valuable contributions to the discussion.

AmCham Hosted "Meet Your Candidate" Cocktail Reception

Reflecting on a cherished annual tradition, the AmCham “Meet Your Candidate” Cocktail Reception took place on May 14, 2026. This special event brought together the dynamic AmCham community for an evening of networking and engagement, providing members with the invaluable opportunity to connect with candidates running for vacant seats on the AmCham Board of Directors.Amidst a warm and relaxed atmosphere, attendees had the opportunity to enjoy engaging conversations, listen to the candidates’ speeches, and exchange ideas while networking over cocktails, creating a refreshing and interactive break from their demanding professional routines. Throughout the evening, each valuable candidate — many of whom have actively contributed to the development and initiatives of AmCham Azerbaijan over the years — delivered speeches presenting their professional backgrounds, visions, and priorities for the future of the Chamber.As traditionally held ahead of the Board elections, the reception served as an important platform for fostering open dialogue between candidates and members of the AmCham community. This year, 10 vacant seats are available on the Board of Directors, each carrying significant responsibility in representing and advocating for the interests of the business community. Among the 10 elected Board Members, one member will be elected as the President and Chairman of the Board of Directors. Board members voluntarily dedicate their time, expertise, and leadership to support AmCham’s mission throughout a two-year term (2026–2028).A total of 14 accomplished professionals stepped forward, presenting their vision and commitment to supporting the future growth and development of AmCham Azerbaijan.The list of candidates includes:1. Imran Ahmadzada I Head of NEQSOL Holding Azerbaijan, CFO of NEQSOL Holding Global2. Elyar Aliyev, Vice president lega I bp Azerbaijan, Georgia and Türkiye region3. Niyazi Amirbayov, CEO | AgroDairy4. Ilham Azizov, Founder & Director | iTech Group LLC5. Francesco Banchini, CEO & Director | European Azerbaijan School6. Oscar Bogopolski, CEO of McDonald’s Azerbaijan7. Ramil Eyyubov, Regional Director, Caucasus & Central Asia | CISCO8. Gunay Jalilova, Deputy CEO | Yelo Bank9. Fuad Karimov, Regional Managing Director | Xsolla10. Nuran Kerimov, Managing Partner | Deloitte11. Yanis Levzhinskiy, Country Director | Baker Hughes OFSE12. Orkhan Mikayil, CEO | Aqualink LLC13. Vahid Novruzov, CEO | Grand Logistics Center14. Kamil Valiyev, Country Co-Managing Partner | DentonsTo get acquainted with the candidates’ platforms, please follow the link: Candidates’ PlatformBear in mind that the elections themselves will take place at the Annual General Meeting (AGM) to be held on June 17, 2026. The Chamber looks forward to the upcoming Annual General Meeting and to continuing its mission of strengthening Azerbaijan’s business community through active leadership, collaboration, and member engagement.AmCham Azerbaijan extends its sincere appreciation to all candidates and members who participated in this year’s “Meet Your Candidate” Cocktail Reception and contributed to the engaging and open exchange of ideas.  Highlight from the event: https://youtu.be/G6vVcALd_ww   

AmCham Human Resources and Labor Committee’s May meeting

On May 14, 2026, the AmCham Human Resources and Labor Committee hosted a workshop titled “Using Behavioral Data for Smarter Talent Decisions.”The workshop featured Ms.Banu Aksoy, Human Resources and Organizational Development Expert and Harrison Assessments Solution Partner based in Türkiye, and Mr. Togrul Alakbarov, Director of the Human Development Center (HDC), Azerbaijan, as guest speakers.The session opened with welcoming remarks from Ms.Shabnam Gurbanova Deputy Chairperson of the AmCham HR and Labor Committee, followed by opening remarks delivered by Mr. Togrul Alakbarov, who shared his perspectives on workforce capability building, professional development, and the importance of strengthening human capital through modern learning approaches. To create a more engaging and welcoming atmosphere, Mr. Alakbarov also conducted an interactive ice-breaking activity that encouraged participants to connect and actively engage with one another from the beginning of the workshop.The workshop continued with a presentation by Ms. Banu Aksoy, who introduced participants to the role of behavioral data and talent analytics in modern Human Resources practices. Drawing on her extensive experience across various industries, she discussed how organizations can utilize behavioral competency frameworks and predictive assessment tools to improve recruitment, leadership development, employee engagement, and workforce planning processes.The meeting provided participants with practical perspectives on integrating behavioral assessment tools into everyday HR processes and organizational decision-making. The speakers shared real-life examples and professional insights on identifying employee strengths, improving team dynamics, and enhancing leadership effectiveness through data-informed approaches to talent management.The event concluded with an interactive Q&A session led jointly by Mr.Togrul Alakbarov and Ms.Banu Aksoy, during which participants had the opportunity to exchange views, raise questions, and discuss current trends and challenges related to talent management, organizational development, and the future of Human Resources practices. Drawing on Ms. Aksoy’s extensive professional experience, Mr. Alakbarov guided the discussion through a series of insightful and practical questions that reflected the interests and concerns of the audience, making the session highly engaging and dynamic for all attendees. 

AmCham Marketing, Communications, and Business Development (MCBD) Committee’s May Meeting

On May 13, 2026, the AmCham Marketing, Communications, and Business Development (MCBD) Committee hosted a May workshop titled ““Communications and Public Affairs in Azerbaijan and Beyond.”The keynote session featured Ms.Aytaj Mukhtarzade, Group Public Affairs and Communications Director at PASHA Holding, as the guest speaker.The session opened with welcoming remarks from Ms.Aysel Suleymanova, Chairperson of the MCBD Committee. During her remarks, she provided a brief overview of the Committee’s action plan and encouraged members to actively contribute by sharing their proposals and concerns for the preparation of position papers on relevant topics.The workshop continued with a keynote session delivered by Ms.Aytaj Mukhtarzade, who provided participants with insights into the evolving communications and public affairs landscape in Azerbaijan. Her presentation addressed key industry challenges, strategic media engagement, and the growing importance of effective stakeholder relations in today’s business environment.The discussion also focused on the role of value-driven communication strategies, emphasizing how stronger cooperation between corporates, media, and academia can contribute to closing the talent gap in the communications sector. Particular attention was given to the importance of talent development, sustainable reputation management, and long-term organizational impact.The event concluded with an interactive Q&A session, during which members had the opportunity to raise questions, share their perspectives, and address key concerns related to communications, media engagement, and the future development of the industry in Azerbaijan.