What must be prioritised for the financial sector over the next five years
For the EU to maintain its competitive edge globally, the von der Leyen II Commission must focus on balancing regulatory simplification with forward-looking strategies in capital market integration, bank competitiveness, digital finance and sustainability. Despite significant growth, Europe’s financial system remains predominantly bank-centric compared with more market-oriented systems. Initiatives like the Capital Markets Union and […]
A consumer finance roadmap for the new European mandate
The credit and payments sector has been extremely dynamic over the past decade, with a plethora of legislative initiatives being unveiled at EU level to reflect this. As a new five-year political mandate is about to begin, this contribution reviews the future of consumer finance, as well as discusses the ongoing developments for credit and […]
Staying ahead of the curve
A comprehensive review of the financial services landscape is necessary for the EU to address structural inefficiencies, ensure market dynamism and support long-term economic growth. The report emphasises that while Europe’s financial system has expanded in size and complexity, and there have been efforts to diversify and integrate financial markets, progress remains uneven, with fragmented […]
Why we need to rewire Europe’s financial sector – to end fragmentation and bolster integration
If Europe wants to stay ahead of the curve and be able to follow – and eventually lead – its international counterparts, the new European Commission should have a focused agenda that balances regulatory simplicity with forward-looking strategies. This is particularly the case in capital market integration, bank competitiveness, digital finance and sustainability. Over the […]
EU cohesion policy post-2027: why and how to enhance flexibility
The EU’s recent crises and complex geopolitical landscape means the EU budget should be rethought in terms of crisis management and increasing spending demands. Despite these pressures, future Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) discussions are more likely to focus on reallocating existing funds rather than expanding the EU budget. This situation has put cohesion policy, the EU budget’s largest spending item, […]