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The BMO Private Bank Technology Showcase, themed "Innovations for a Better World", was held at the Exchange Square Rotunda May 18 -- 25. Mr. Jeff Nankivell, Consulate General of Canada to Hong Kong and Macao, and Mr. Jean-Francois Gagne, CEO of Element AI Inc. were the guests of honour.

The event brought together pioneers in the Canadian Artificial Intelligence space and emerging local talents in sharing their stories on how they build for a better life. By bringing together innovators, industry leaders as well as academia, BMO provided an opportunity that fostered the exchange of ideas and a networking platform within the local business community.

"Canada is the world's leader in nurturing startups and industry leaders in AI innovation," says Monique Chan, CEO, BMO Private Bank Asia. "We are very excited to showcase Canada's tech/AI innovations and the contributions of Hong Kong's local technology companies as well as academia on how they can help change lives. As one of the largest Canadian banks and one of the World's Most Ethical Companies, we are extremely proud of AI's deep connection with Canada and pleased to support the technological development of the country".

BMO has been an active advocate in supporting AI and fintech startups in Canada, including partnering with various universities to launch programs that incubate Canada's high-growth technology start-ups.

The BMO Private Bank Technology Showcase reinforces the bank's commitment to technological innovation. It featured BMO's 'Digital Tree' where participants were encouraged to make wishes for a better world. Their wishes were displayed on screens throughout the event.

In addition, visitors were asked to identify the three greatest risks and top three technologies that have the greatest impact on humanity. Both Global Warming and Pollution of air, water and soil are ranked as the most pressing risks, followed closely by cyber warfare/threats. As widely expected, Artificial Intelligence is among the top 3 technologies which pose the greatest impact on humanity, as AI is projected to challenge human capabilities in foreseeable future. Renewable energy and genomics/superfood took the second and third place. The theme of world peace unsurprisingly dominates our visitors' wishes for a better world.

"Technology and innovation are transforming the world and delivering meaningful improvements in our daily lives," said Peggy Kwok, Managing Director & Business Head, North Asia, BMO Private Bank. "At BMO, we selected this theme as one of the focus areas for our ESG (environment, social and governance) investing. We recognise the importance of ESG and how they impact our society and create a better world. BMO has over 30 years of experience in responsible investment. We know how to invest in a way that matches our clients' financial goals as well as their values. We do this by applying ESG principles to the selection of investments, having a robust approach to portfolio construction and management, and using our influence as shareholders to encourage more ethically, socially responsible and environmentally sustainable behavior by companies."