Facilitated by instructors with expertise in digital finance, this immersive summit introduces students to the technologies transforming the global financial system.

Students will be introduced to the complex world of financial technology through a mix of speakers, case studies, and team-based innovation labs, providing an invaluable foundation in fintech, blockchain, and emerging AI applications. You will develop both conceptual understanding and practical experience while collaborating on team projects and participating in a Fintech Innovation Competition.

Session Topics
Introduction to Fintech, AI & Digital Finance

• The evolution of fintech and digital transformation.

• Asia’s role in shaping next-generation of finance.

• Digital wallets, super apps, and the Gen Z economy.

Blockchain, Cryptocurrencies & DeFi

• Blockchain fundamentals and distributed ledgers.

• Understanding cryptocurrencies and tokenization.

• How decentralized finance (DeFi) is changing lending and trading.

AI Applications in Financial Services

• How financial institutions use AI for fraud detection and automation.

• Robo-advisory platforms and algorithmic investing.

• Machine learning in credit scoring and insurance.

Fintech Innovation Across Asia

• Case studies of Asia’s leading fintech companies (WeChat Pay, Grab, GCash, Paytm).

• Open banking, API’s, and digital identity systems.

Ethics & Regulation in Fintech

• Responsible innovation and regulatory frameworks.

• Ethics in AI and sustainable fintech development.

Fintech Innovation Competition

Students will be grouped into small teams and mentored by NYIF instructors and industry professionals to develop and pitch an original fintech solution. Each team will:

• Generate ideas for a fintech product or digital asset innovation.

• Formulate a business plan outlining functionality and value proposition.

• Incorporate key concepts from blockchain, AI, and digital finance.

• Present to an expert panel to receive feedback and potential funding for their idea.

Career Paths in Fintech & Digital Finance

Students will gain an inside look at the evolving career landscape within financial technology and innovation. Topics Include:

• Key career paths across fintech, venture capital, digital banking, and regulatory technology

• The skills, certifications, and technical knowledge needed for success in fintech roles

• How to combine academic preparation with hands-on experience in AI, data, and blockchain

• Case study: Explore the career journeys of industry leaders shaping Asia’s fintech revolution

• 8:00 AM  Wake Up

• 8:30 AM  Breakfast

• 9:30 AM Morning Finance Curriculum

• 12:00 PM  Lunch

• 2:00 PM  Afternoon Finance Curriculum

• 4:30 PM  Tokyo Highlight

• 7:00 PM  Dinner

• 9:00 PM  Evening Activity

This introductory level program is for students of all levels interested in learning more about business and finance. There are no prerequisites required to join! Prior to your arrival, you will be granted complimentary access to 2 on-demand lessons hosted on the NYIF learning portal. These two 2-hour lessons are not mandatory but highly recommended for students who are new to finance and want to enhance their summer learning experience. Pre-Learning modules include:

• Basic Concepts of the Macro Economy

• Basic Concepts of the Micro Economy

Upon completion of the program, additional benefits include:

• Certificate of Completion from Westcoast Connection and the New York Institute of Finance.

• Induction into the NYIF Alumni group, a global network of over 250,000 professionals committed to lifelong learning and development, plus various alumni benefits.

• Exclusive invitations to participate in NYIF’s Global Youth Competitions throughout the year and join events organized by NYIF and other international organizations such as UN agencies, multilateral institutions, chambers of commerce, foreign consulates, and educational institutions.

• Pre-admission and exclusive offers to NYIF’s Young Finance Scholar (YFS) International program a pre-college enrichment program designed for talented high school students interested in expanding their knowledge and skillset in business and finance while strengthening their research capabilities and extracurricular profiles.

• Complimentary access to some of NYIF’s webinars offered to YFS graduates as continuing education and prospective YFS students.

• Reference letters are available upon request from Westcoast Connection and the New York Institute of Finance.

Westcoast Connection’s mission is to create life-changing experiences that teens remember as the best of their lives.

Since 1982, Westcoast Connection (WCC) summer programs for high school students, aged 13-17, have brought teens together from around the world to share unforgettable experiences. WCC focuses on creating safe, fun, and socially comfortable environments where teens are encouraged to step out of their comfort zones, explore the world around them, make lasting new friendships, and grow.

Offering three distinct program styles in over 24 countries, WCC is able to provide the perfect summer program to fit your individual needs, whether you want to Travel, Learn, or Volunteer. WCC is confident that one of their 70+ programs will be your summer of a lifetime.

Asakusa District & Sensoji Temple
Step into Tokyo’s historic heart and explore Nakamise Street’s traditional shops before visiting Sensoji, the city’s oldest and most beloved temple.

Tokyo Skytree Observation Deck
Take in panoramic views of Tokyo’s vast skyline from one of the tallest towers in the world.

Meiji-jingu Shrine
Experience serenity in the middle of the city as you walk through towering torii gates and lush forest paths at this iconic Shinto shrine.

Harajuku District
Discover Tokyo’s youth culture hub, filled with colorful fashion boutiques, cafés, and creative street style.

Shibuya Crossing
Witness the organized energy of the world’s busiest intersection and the excitement of Tokyo’s modern pulse.

Sushi-Making Class
Learn traditional techniques from expert chefs as you roll your own sushi and savor your creations.

TeamLab Digital Art Exhibit
Immerse yourself in an interactive digital art world where light, motion, and creativity blend into a one-of-a-kind experience.

Odaiba Waterfront
Enjoy Tokyo Bay views from this futuristic entertainment district known for its seaside parks, shops, and iconic skyline.

Sumida River Cruise
Cruise along the Sumida River for a unique view of Tokyo’s skyline and bridges, connecting traditional and modern districts.

Akihabara Electric Town
Explore the neon-lit world of anime, gaming, and electronics in Tokyo’s vibrant tech and pop-culture hub.

Flight to Tokyo, Japan
Some students may need to depart their home city on July 10 to arrive in Tokyo on July 11. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by our staff and enjoy a complimentary transfer (for flights in designated times) from the airport to our hotel. For those requiring, we are happy to assist you with arranging flights to and from the program. If you prefer, you may be dropped off directly at our hotel and meet your staff there. For our North American students, we offer a chaperoned group flight from New York or Los Angeles to Tokyo departing on July 10.

Return Flight Home from Tokyo, Japan
For your return from Japan, our leaders help you to check-in and remain in the airport until flights in designated times have departed. For our North American students, we offer a chaperoned flight to New York or Los Angeles. You may choose to join that flight and arrange transfers (if required) at suitable times after the group has cleared customs and immigration in the USA to your home city.

Meals & New Cuisines
Part of the excitement of traveling to Japan is diving into the incredible local cuisine, so come with an open mind and a taste for adventure! From fresh sushi and hearty ramen to savory okonomiyaki and sizzling yakiniku (Japanese BBQ), you’ll get to try a variety of authentic Japanese dishes. There is plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables and many noodle dishes. Please note picky eaters may get frustrated as there are limited North-American style options available.

Dietary Restrictions & Allergies
Although we aim to satisfy the choosiest of eaters and most dietary requests, there are challenges in Japan. Due to the limited options, we cannot accommodate participants with Celiac disease, or those that adhere to a strictly gluten free or vegan diet.

Fish, sesame and soy are common ingredients in Japanese cuisine. Due to the frequency they are served and likelihood for cross contamination, we cannot accommodate participants with an anaphylactic allergy to fish, sesame or soy. We strongly discourage participants with a non-anaphylactic allergy to these ingredients from traveling to Japan in general and may require a doctor’s note clearing you to participate in this program.

We welcome hearing from you to discuss your individual allergy and dietary restrictions.

Vaccinations & Medication Restrictions
We recommend you follow the advice of the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), and consult with your physician for current immunizations and medication required for travelers to Japan. These recommendations may change from time to time.

Most medications are permitted in Japan with no paperwork or permission required if the total amount brought is less than a 1 month supply. This includes Psychotropics. Make sure that all medicines are brought in the original packaging/container in your carry-on luggage. All prescription medications should be accompanied by a doctor’s note. No need to declare them at Customs.

For medications containing a narcotic or stimulant, you must apply for/receive a permit before your Japan arrival regardless of the quantity brought. If your teen is traveling with any medication containing an active ingredient on this list, we will assist you in receiving supporting documentation from the Narcotics Control Department in Tokyo.

The medication Adderall is NOT allowed to be brought into Japan by law. We suggest that participants who take this medicine consult with their doctor for alternative medication during their Japan trip. For more information, please visit the following links: Application Guidance and Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare of Japan.

Drinking Water
Japan is known for having some of the highest water quality standards in the world. Tap water is safe to drink throughout the country. At all accommodations on this program, you’ll have access to clean, filtered water.

Laundry
You will only need to bring nine days worth of clothing as outlined in the packing list that will be sent to you prior to departure.

What’s Included
Included in your program tuition is all lodging, breakfast and dinner daily, recreation & entertainment listed, Tokyo Metro pass, airport transfers in designated times, gratuities & taxes.

Not included is the application fee, transportation to and from the program, lunches, snacks, personal spending money for souvenirs, and laundry. We also make available optional travel insurance that is not included, but highly recommended.

Available for students who don’t require accommodations. Commuter students join for 5 weekdays per the schedule below.

Commuter Tuition: $1,899

Class Schedule: July 13-17

Note: Lunch is not included.