MÁLAGA, SPAIN – The Alternative Finance Research Network is proud to announce the 5th International Conference on Alternative Finance Research (ICAFR 2026), taking place from April 8–10, 2026, at the University of Málaga.
As the landscape of global finance undergoes a rapid digital transformation, ICAFR 2026 serves as the premier global forum where cutting-edge academic research meets real-world industry application. This year’s conference arrives at a critical juncture for the industry, focusing on the evolution of crowdfunding, the integration of AI in credit scoring, and the maturation of crypto-asset regulation.
Bridging the Gap: Research Meets Industry
While rooted in academic excellence, ICAFR 2026 distinguishes itself through the Platform Leaders Programme. This dedicated track is designed specifically for CEOs, founders, and policy-makers to discuss the practical hurdles of scaling alternative finance platforms in an increasingly regulated global market.
Key Themes for the 2026 Conference include:
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Crowdfunding & P2P Lending: New models for SME financing and investor protection.
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The Crypto Evolution: Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs) and the institutionalization of DeFi.
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Sustainability & ESG: The role of alternative finance in hitting “Net Zero” targets.
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Regulatory Horizons: Navigating the post-ECSPR (European Crowdfunding Service Providers Regulation) landscape.
A Global Hub for Innovation
Hosted in the “Silicon Valley of Europe,” the University of Málaga provides a fitting backdrop for the event. Málaga’s burgeoning tech scene offers attendees a unique opportunity to network within one of the world’s fastest-growing fintech ecosystems.
“The goal of ICAFR has always been to ensure that the brightest minds in research are not working in a vacuum,” said the Conference Organizing Committee. “By bringing together the scholars who study these markets and the practitioners who build them, we foster an environment where evidence-based innovation can thrive.”
Call for Submissions and Registration
Scholars and industry experts are invited to submit their latest research papers and case studies. Registration is now open for both academic delegates and industry professionals.
For more information on the Call for Papers, keynote speakers, and registration details, please visit the official conference website: https://www.crowdfunding-research.org/icafr2026
Direct industry inquiries and sponsorship opportunities can also be managed through the Fintech Insider portal at: https://fintechinsider.pro/Conference-on-Alternative-Finance-2026
About the Alternative Finance Research Network: The Alternative Finance Research Network is a global collaborative of researchers from leading institutions, including the University of Agder, Utrecht University, and the University of Málaga. The network is dedicated to advancing the understanding of non-traditional financial markets through rigorous empirical study and international cooperation.
