CTOS Data Systems Sdn Bhd, Malaysia's leading credit reporting agency, welcomed over 1,500 participants at its second 'CTOS SME Biz Day 2024', marking a 50 per cent increase from last year.
Themed 'Future-Forward SMEs: Grow, Transform, Innovate', the conference featured speakers from SME Corporation Malaysia, Matrade, Samenta, RAM Rating Services Berhad, FashionValet Group, Lawrence Walter Seminars, ZUS Coffee and Oriental Kopi.
The event came at a significant time, with Malaysia's GDP growing by 4.2 per cent.
The RAM-CTOS Business Confidence Index (BCI) also rose to 53.4 points in Q1 2024, reflecting optimism among SMEs regarding turnover, profitability, hiring, capital investment and capacity utilisation.
CTOS Digital Berhad Group chief executive officer Erick Hamburger, addressed the challenges SMEs face despite the positive economic outlook.
"Rapid technological advancements, inflationary pressures and exchange rate fluctuations impact financing conditions and ease of credit.
"CTOS aims to help SMEs gain better access to credit, supporting their growth and sustainability. We currently serve over 20,000 SMEs and aim to increase this number," he said.
Participants gained insights from industry leaders on digital transformation, resilience and developing a winning mindset.
The event was supported by Unifi Business, Microsoft, Lawbank Asia, Amazon Web Services and SNS Network.
A key highlight was the soft launch of CTOS' new cyber security rating services, aimed at helping SMEs tackle cyber threats and comply with regulations.
This service complements CTOS' expertise in credit ratings and provides a comprehensive view of a company's financial and cyber security risk profile.
CTOS also highlighted its CTOS Credit Manager and CTOS Verified services.
CTOS Verified, developed with airasia academy, helps businesses improve their online credibility.
The CTOS Credit Manager platform allows businesses to manage customer information effectively, reducing credit risk.
For more information visit their official website or download the CTOS mobile app.