Global financial technology firm Airwallex has appointedformer New Zealand Prime Minister and Finance Minister Sir Bill English asChair of its New Zealand board.Singapore Summit: Meet the largest APAC brokers you know (and those you still don't!Expanding Role in New ZealandSince entering the New Zealand market in 2023, Airwallex hasgrown rapidly. The fintech now reportedly supports more than 1,000 local firmsand handles about NZ$2.4 billion in annual payment flows, representing 240%year-on-year growth. According to the announcement, almost 20% of the country’sdigital and tech companies use the platform for cross-border transactions.Airwallex’s Head of ANZ, James Teodorini welcomed English’sappointment as a reflection of the company’s continued investment in NewZealand. He added that its focus on building trusted financial infrastructure helpslocal businesses grow at home and compete globally.“Sir Bill brings an exceptional understanding of NewZealand’s economy and public institutions, alongside deep experience inleadership, risk and long-term decision-making,” Teodorini mentioned.“Sir Bill’s experience will help us keep scaling effectivelyas demand continues to grow, stay close to what New Zealand businesses need,and continue investing in products and partnerships that make it easier tooperate across borders.”English joins as an independent director, bringingexperience in economic policy and international trade. He said Airwallex playsan important role in helping New Zealand exporters and technology firms operateglobally.Growth, Licenses and Tougher OversightSince the start of last year, Airwallex has combined stronggrowth, new licenses and fresh funding with closer regulatory scrutiny. Last year, it reported annualized transaction volume climbed to about $200 billion, up 92%year-on-year, while annualized revenue reached roughly $900 million, an 89%increase.During the same period, the company secured a MiFIDinvestment firm license from the Dutch Authority for the Financial Markets.But it has not been without challenges. In January, AUSTRACordered Airwallex to appoint an external auditor to review its anti-moneylaundering and counter-terrorism financing compliance after concerns that itsmonitoring controls had not kept pace with its growth and risk profile.This article was written by Jared Kirui at www.financemagnates.com.