KNESS At The Central & Eastern European Forum 2025

Oksana Khlyupina, Head of Corporate Finance Department in KNESS took part in the Central & Eastern European Forum 2025, which was recently held in Vienna. This year, the forum celebrated its 30th anniversary, bringing together issuers, investors, and central bank representatives from over 45 countries.

We are sharing the key points discussed by leading stakeholders at the event:
Monetary Policy and Inflation: With central banks adjusting their strategies in response to inflationary pressures, discussions emphasized the balance between managing inflation and supporting economic growth. There was a consensus on cautious tightening but a need for careful consideration of economic vulnerabilities in Europe.

Energy Transition and Sustainability: One of the prominent topics was the financing of green initiatives and the transition to sustainable energy. Experts highlighted the importance of aligning financial markets with environmental goals and investing in renewable energy to combat climate change. The role of ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) factors in investment strategies was also underlined.

Technology and Digital Finance: There was significant attention on the growth of fintech and the rise of digital currencies, with a focus on regulatory frameworks and the future of Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs). Discussions also covered blockchain technology’s potential to reshape financial services.
Investment Trends: Speakers explored investment strategies in the face of economic uncertainty, particularly focusing on diversification, alternative investments, and the role of private equity and venture capital in supporting innovation.

Emerging Markets: Experts highlighted the opportunities and challenges in emerging markets, stressing that while risks persist, these markets offer significant growth potential, especially with the rise of new technologies and changing global trade patterns.

Banking Sector Outlook: The future of banking, especially in Europe, was debated with an emphasis on digital transformation, regulatory changes, and the integration of AI and automation in banking operations.