May 2025 Highlights: Key Events and Development Directions at Octobank

In May 2025, Octobank implemented a series of initiatives spanning digitalization, international cooperation, financial education, and human capital development.

ATM Network Development: Partnership with BS/2

On May 28, during the PLUS Forum in Tashkent, Octobank signed a three-year memorandum of cooperation with the international fintech company BS/2 (part of the Lithuanian group Penki Kontinentai). The agreement provides for the modernization of the ATM infrastructure and the development of self-service solutions.

The project includes:

• Expansion of ATM functionality (cash-in, service payments, currency exchange);
• Implementation of remote monitoring and control systems;
• Enhanced device security.

Public Presentations and Analytics at the PLUS Forum

At the PLUS Forum, Octobank’s Managing Director Vladimir Vasiliev delivered a presentation on cross-border transfer trends and internet acquiring in the region. According to the bank, money transfers to Uzbekistan reached $8.16 billion in 2024 — a 14% increase compared to the previous year. The P2P transfer segment grew by more than 50%.

Octobank also announced ongoing integration with international payment platforms Alipay and WeChat Pay, aimed at expanding payment acceptance channels for foreign users.

Financial Literacy for Schoolchildren

In May, Octobank conducted financial literacy training for students in Tashkent schools as part of Global Money Week, supported by the Central Bank of Uzbekistan. The program covered the basics of handling personal finances and digital hygiene.

Particular attention was given to:

• Online safety rules;
• Fraud detection techniques;
• Personal data protection.

Students actively engaged in the sessions, showing strong interest and sharing personal experiences. The pilot format for engaging with a teenage audience received positive feedback.

Award for Development

On May 3, Octobank received the “For Dynamic Development in the Banking Sector of Uzbekistan 2024” award at the VIII Brand Awards International. The award recognized the bank's growth and technological advancements, with evaluation carried out by an independent consulting group. This recognition further solidifies Octobank’s reputation as an innovation-driven market leader.

Educational Partnership with AUT

Octobank signed a memorandum of understanding with the American University of Technology (AUT, Tashkent) to develop joint educational programs. The goal is to train professionals for the financial sector and strengthen the bank’s internal talent pipeline.

Planned initiatives include:

• Professional development courses for bank staff;
• Internship opportunities for AUT students;
• Joint projects in business education.

This initiative aims to strengthen ties between the business sector and higher education institutions. By fostering collaboration, Octobank and AUT will help bridge the gap between academic knowledge and industry practice, ensuring graduates are better prepared for real-world financial challenges.

Conclusion

May 2025 marked a period of strengthened partnerships, technological upgrades, and continued educational initiatives for Octobank. The launch of projects in ATM modernization, cross-border payments, and talent development reflects the bank’s strategic focus on systematic growth aligned with current trends in digital finance.

These developments not only enhanced operational efficiency but also reinforced Octobank’s commitment to delivering user-centric, secure, and future-ready financial solutions. By embracing innovation in core banking infrastructure and expanding global payment capabilities, the bank positioned itself as a proactive player in the rapidly evolving fintech landscape. Furthermore, investments in staff training and talent development ensured that internal teams are equipped with the necessary skills to support and drive transformation. Octobank’s efforts during this period laid a solid foundation for long-term resilience, customer satisfaction, and sustainable competitive advantage. As digitalization accelerates, the bank’s forward-thinking approach ensures it remains adaptable and responsive to both technological disruption and customer needs.