In 2026, Kazakhstan will host the 10th anniversary Summit and the International Conference of the International Public Asset Management Company Forum (IPAF) — an international association of state organizations engaged in the management of distressed assets in Asian countries, united under the auspices of the Asian Development Bank (ADB).

This was announced during the 9th IPAF Summit, which was held on August 13 in Ulaanbaatar (Mongolia). 

Thus, JSC “Problem Loan Fund” (PLF) officially received the status of General Member of IPAF (for reference: since 2013 the PLF had been a member of IPAF as an Associate Member and during this time gained significant experience of interaction within the framework of participation in key IPAF initiatives in the field of non-performing asset management).

According to the principle of rotation, in 2026 the Fund will also assume the chairmanship of IPAF and become the organizer of the next IPAF Summit and International Conference, which will bring together representatives of government bodies, international financial institutions, and the expert community from all over the world.

It is worth noting that in 2025, new directions were added to the discussion of traditional NPL management issues — primarily the use of artificial intelligence, blockchain, and digital platforms to improve the assessment of distressed assets, optimize the processes of overdue debt resolution, and maximize the transparency of the distressed asset trading process. 

The Kazakhstani delegation, which included representatives of the PLF and its Board of Directors – Miyatov Kairat Isatayevich, took part in the work of the 9th IPAF Summit.

An honorary speech was delivered by the Deputy Chairman of the Management Board of the Fund – Baigaziyev Nurzhan Damirovich, who expressed words of gratitude to the ADB for the trust and support provided in the process of the Fund joining the ranks of IPAF General Members, as well as for granting the Fund the honor to assume the chairmanship of the Forum starting from 2026, emphasizing the importance of strategic partnership with the ADB for Kazakhstan. 

In his speech, Baigaziyev N.D. also presented to the participants a brief overview of the state’s measures for the development of the secondary distressed asset market, encouraging both sellers (banks) and buyers (investors) to actively participate in transactions with problem assets. He noted that the development of a transparent and efficient NPL market, the introduction of modern analytical tools, and the exchange of experience with international partners are key conditions for strengthening financial stability. Concluding his speech, Baigaziyev N.D. expressed confidence that holding the anniversary IPAF Summit in 2026 in Kazakhstan will become an important step towards deepening international cooperation and exchanging advanced practices in this field.

Why this is important for Kazakhstan

The upcoming IPAF Summit and International Conference in Kazakhstan will become a key event for the professional community engaged in distressed asset management. In the context of high turbulence in the global economy, the issue of effective resolution of non-performing loans (NPL) is of particular relevance.

In addition, these events will create a unique opportunity to present to the international community the Kazakhstani experience in working with non-performing assets, discuss current challenges and exchange practical solutions, as well as allow the expansion of professional contacts, access to advanced approaches, and the strengthening of the competencies of domestic specialists in the field of distressed asset management.