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Institute of Banking and Finance
Welcome to the UB Institute of Banking and Finance (UB-IBF)! Explore our mission, values, and unwavering commitment to excellence in banking and finance education, research, and community engagement. Get to know our dedicated advisory members, staff, and dynamic student community.
Welcome to the UB Institute of Banking and Finance (UB-IBF)! Explore our mission, values, and unwavering commitment to excellence in banking and finance education, research, and community engagement. Get to know our dedicated advisory members, staff, and dynamic student community.
Dr. Vincent PalacioDr. Vincent Palacio

Welcome message

from the President

Greetings to all stakeholders of University of Belize!

I am thrilled to announce the establishment of the Institute of Bank and Finance, a third pioneering venture within our esteemed university. With a steadfast commitment to academic excellence, this institute aims to nurture the next generation of professionals within as well as outside of the banking and finance industry. It aims to bridge the gap for professionals who are not only sought-after within the banking and finance industry but also equipped to make a profound impact.

In today’s rapidly evolving economic landscape, the demand for skilled professionals in banking and finance has never been greater. We have seen the challenges posed by regulations as well as the rapid evolution of financial technology that continues to pivot with no ending date. The Institute of Banking and Finance is poised to meet this demand head-on by offering cutting-edge programs, interdisciplinary research opportunities, and industry partnerships.

As President, I am deeply inspired by the potential of this institute to shape the future of finance education and practice in our country and beyond. Through a blend of rigorous training, practical experience, and a forward-thinking curriculum, we aim to equip all with the knowledge, skills, and mindset needed to thrive in a dynamic and competitive industry.

To local and foreign professionals, I encourage you to seize this opportunity to embark on a transformative journey of learning, growth, and discovery; the Institute of Banking and Finance is your gateway to success.

To our stakeholders, I extend my gratitude for your unwavering support and collaboration as we embark on this exciting new chapter together.

Together, let us dare to dream, adapt, and push the boundaries of what is possible. The Institute of Banking and Finance stands as a beacon of hope and opportunity, empowering individuals to realize their full potential and driving positive change in Belize.

Welcome to a new era of excellence in banking and finance education at the University of Belize. Together, let us chart a course towards a future of limitless possibilities.

Warm regards,

Vincent Palacio, PhD
President of the University of Belize

About UB-IBF

The UB Institute of Banking and Finance (UB-IBF) offers a diverse range of professional development and certification courses tailored for working professionals, regulators, law enforcement personnel, UB students, and others seeking a competitive edge or maintaining regulatory compliance.

Incorporating international best practices, UB-IBF designs and delivers high-quality courses and programs while advocating for academic research and hosting conferences and initiatives to advance finance, anti-money laundering (AML), fraud risk detection, and more. Through partnerships with local, regional, and international organizations, UB-IBF promotes financial awareness, literacy, and education. As Belize’s leading training institution in finance, UB-IBF plays a pivotal role in shaping the country’s financial landscape by contributing to the evaluation and implementation of policies, regulations, and best practices.

Institute of Banking and Finance Programs & Trainings

Programs & Trainings

Explore our diverse range of programs designed to meet the needs of business leaders in and outside of the finance industry. Engage in professional development opportunities through our tailored training programs. Gain practical skills, industry insights, and networking opportunities to excel in your field.
Certifications

Conferences

Join us for dynamic conferences and symposiums that bring together thoughtful leaders and experts within our region as well as internationally. Explore cutting-edge topics, participate in engaging discussions, and expand your professional network. Contact us to find out more about our conferences and when you can join!

Contact Us
Institute of Banking and Finance Conferences
Institute of Banking and Finance Partnerships

For Organizations

Here at UB Institute of Banking & Finance we believe that successful businesses thrive on a foundation of continuous learning, innovation, and strategic development. Whether or not you operate within the banking and finance sector partnering with UB-IBF offers you the following opportunities:

  1. Customized Trainings for Your Staff at all levels
  2. Branded Education Excellence
  3. Leadership Development Initiatives

Schedule of Activities

AMLFC Professional Certifications
Fraud Risk Management

Date: November 6th, 2025
Price (USD): $1,925.00

FinTech

Date: November 27th, 2025
Price (USD): $1,925.00

AML-Regulators

Date: November 6th, 2025
Price (USD): $1,925.00

Cyber-security

Date: November 27th, 2025
Price (USD): $1,925.00

Local Professional Certifications
General Security Industry Essentials (GSIE)

Date: December 2nd, 2025
Price (USD): $1,500.00

Belize Companies Act

Date: November 10th, 2025
Price (USD): $750.00

Customized Short Courses for Organizations
Cybersecurity

Date: December 2nd, 2025
Price (USD): $75.00 per person

AML-CFT-CPF

Date: November 10th, 2025
Price (USD): $75.00 per person

Meetings/Conferences
National AML Conference

Date: TBD
Price (USD): TBA

UB IBF Advisory Board Meeting

Date: December 4th, 2025
Price (USD): N/A

Advisory Members

Meet the distinguished members of our advisory board who provide strategic guidance and support to our institution. Discover their expertise, industry connections, and contributions to shaping the direction of our institute.
  • Financial Intelligence Unit – Ms Leni Ysaguirre McGann
  • Belize Bankers Association – Mr Gregory Maheia
  • RF&G Insurance – Mr Andrew Roe
  • University of Belize – Dr Bernard Watler
  • Financial Services Commission of Belize – Mr Claude Haylock
  • Central Bank of Belize – Mrs Laetitia Murillo
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Ms Leni Ysaguirre McGann

Financial Intelligence Unit
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Mr. Gregory Maheia

Belize Bankers Association
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Mr. Andrew Roe

RF&G Insurance
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Dr Bernard Watler

University of Belize
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Mr. Claude Haylock

Financial Services
Commission of Belize
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Mrs. Laetitia Murillo

Central Bank of Belize

Research

Focus Areas:

  1. Effectiveness of AntiMoney Laundering Training and Adoption
  2. Virtual Asset Service Providers & Digital Asset Regulations

Contact Us

We’re here to help! Reach out to the UB-IBF for inquiries about our programs, courses, and initiatives. Connect with us to take the next step in advancing your career or organization in the field of banking and finance.
223-0256 Ext. 2050
674-1723
IBF Contact Form

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