From 11 to 12 March 2026, AI, crypto, and governance challenges take center stage as regulators and industry leaders unite in Johannesburg at the Indaba Hotel, Fourways for the 4th Conduct Risk Conference. With live-streaming available, the gathering comes at a pivotal moment for the financial services sector, where digital transformation is rewriting the rules of engagement and regulators are sharpening their oversight.

Conduct risk is no longer a narrow compliance concern—it has become a strategic leadership priority. In an era where algorithms make decisions, crypto assets challenge traditional oversight, and boards demand assurance, the stakes are high. Missteps can erode public trust, destabilize institutions, and invite regulatory sanctions.

The conference aims to provide a platform for collective accountability, ensuring that innovation is pursued responsibly and that governance frameworks keep pace with technological change.

This year’s conversations Programme Highlights;

• AI in financial services – regulation, governance, and accountability
•  Crypto and digital asset oversight
• Evolving supervisory priorities across banking and investment sectors
• Culture, conduct, and board-level responsibility

As digital transformation reshapes financial services, the way institutions manage order claims and unclaimed benefits has never been more critical. This fireside-style conversation will explore how innovation, governance, and ethics intersect to protect consumer trust while ensuring regulatory alignment.Featuring,Katlego Mokgadi Sithole – Head: Compliance, Investec Life,Buyisiwe Hlatshwayo – Head: Market Conduct & Claims, Guardrisk Insurance Company Limited,Lize De La Harpe – Senior Legal Advisor, Sanlam Corporate

“AI in Financial Services – Regulation, Codes of Conduct, and Practical Implications for Southern Africa”.

Algorithms are making decisions. Regulators are asking questions. Boards are demanding assurance. Is SADC ready?This expert panel will unpack regulatory expectations, governance frameworks, data accountability, and the practical realities of implementing AI responsibly in financial institutions.Featuring, Moderator: Nomshado Lubisi – Communications Strategist, Code for Africa,Kezia Talbot CIPP/E CIPM FIP – Senior Compliance Specialist, Discovery Group SA,Jabu Mashiane – Head: Data Governance, Standard Bank Group,Nqabakazi Madalane – Senior Specialist, Conduct Risk Group Compliance, Absa Group

With over 30 distinguished speakers—including Benjamin April (KPMG South Africa), Reana Steyn (National Financial Ombud Scheme), Qiniso Mthembu (JSE), Sherma Malan (Compliance Institute Southern Africa), and Nicola Comninos (IRMSA)—the conference will shape the conversation on responsible finance in Southern Africa and beyond.The 4th Conduct Risk Conference  has been organized by event Thunile Nkosi the Conference Producer from Umbono Conference and Events .