On behalf of the Canadian Chinese Finance Association(CCFA), it is my great honor to welcome you all to the 4th Canada China Finance Forum (CCFF).

CCFA is a not for profit organization established to facilitate the professional exchange between Canada and China. For the past 17 years CCFA has evolved to be one of the important platforms to promote bilateral relationships in the financial industry. Canada China Finance Forum is an annual industry event where practitioners from both countries gather to share their industry insights, discover investment opportunities and forge new business relationships.

One of the hot topics today is how artificial intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML) and data science are applied to enhance decision-making, operational efficiency, risk control and compliance. Investors are also debating on the potential impact that the recently-agreed USMCA in North America may have on Canada-China investment and trade activities.

In this context, this year's event will feature the following themes:

• AI, ML and Data Science: Evolving Trends and Applications in Investment Industry; and
• Investment Opportunities

I want to thank our title sponsors PwC, TPP, McCathy for sponsoring the forum. I am equally appreciative for speakers and panelists who come to share their views. I hope you will find the forum interesting and insightful.

I am looking forward meeting with you all at the forum.

CCFA President: Daju Gu