EuroFinance

The year 2024 has been defined by global elections, geopolitical instability, and transformative shifts in technology and finance, creating an environment where adaptability has been paramount. Breakthroughs in artificial intelligence (AI) and growing cybersecurity concerns have reshaped corporate priorities, while the challenges of managing trapped cash have forced companies to rethink their strategies.

For corporate treasurers, ensuring liquidity and managing financial risk has remained a critical focus throughout the year. With interest rates elevated for much of 2024 before some economies began to cut rates, treasurers have turned to innovative hedging strategies and investment approaches to safeguard financial stability.

At the EuroFinance International Treasury Management 2024 in Copenhagen, these challenges were front and center. A standout session featured Helle Thorning-Schmidt, former prime minister of Denmark, who shared valuable insights on the interplay between geopolitical tensions and global trade, offering key takeaways for corporate finance professionals navigating today’s uncertain environment.

As we turn toward 2025, these themes of transformation and adaptation resonate across regions. The Middle East continues to grapple with volatility, as conflicts between Israel and Iran persist. Yet, Gulf Co-operation Council (GCC) economies demonstrate resilience, pressing forward with economic diversification and development agendas. Meanwhile, Africa is poised for accelerated growth, supported by efforts to address sovereign debt and economic imbalances, even as geopolitical risks and policy uncertainties loom large.

North America is seeing a conservative political shift, marked by tighter immigration policies, fiscal scrutiny, and the extension of US tax cuts under Donald Trump. In Asia, fragile consumer recovery intersects with rising geopolitical tensions and the evolving impact of US trade policies.

By weaving together these global narratives, 2024 stands out as a year of rapid adaptation and resilience, paving the way for both challenges and opportunities as 2025 unfolds.

EuroFinance most viewed articles of 2024

Out of crisis comes innovation: corporate treasurers share hybrid work strategies

The COVID-19 pandemic left a lasting impact on the way companies operate, especially in terms of work structures. With hybrid and remote work models becoming the norm, corporate treasury teams have adapted accordingly. During the Global Treasury Americas conference in Miami, treasurers shared their experiences and strategies on successfully navigating the new normal of hybrid work environments. These insights reflect a global trend towards flexible work practices.

Charting new paths in FX risk management across Latin American markets

Corporate treasury teams in Latin America are implementing innovative strategies to tackle FX risk, driven by currency volatility and shifting global economic conditions. They focus on strengthening banking partnerships and leveraging advanced technology to enhance operational efficiency, streamline processes, and mitigate risks. These efforts are reshaping how treasuries navigate the region’s complex financial landscape.

Strategies for stability: how treasurers are managing extended high interest rates

Managing liquidity in an environment of sustained high interest rates has been a formidable challenge for treasurers worldwide. At Global Treasury Americas Miami, treasury professionals came together to share their strategies for overcoming these obstacles. Innovative approaches to liquidity management, such as diversifying cash investments and optimising credit facilities, have become key pillars of treasury strategies in this high-rate era.

AI’s quantum leap in treasury: automating tasks and redefining financial strategy

AI is no longer a futuristic concept, it is already transforming how treasury departments operate, from improving forecasting accuracy to automating routine tasks. AI’s promise of automating repetitive tasks and improving decision-making at an unprecedented speed is reshaping the traditional treasury landscape.

Taking the pulse of treasury management

The EuroFinance International Treasury Management conference in Copenhagen served as a dynamic platform for global treasurers to network and exchange ideas. Attendees engaged in insightful discussions on the latest trends and strategies shaping the future of treasury management. Key takeaways from the event included a focus on digital transformation, evolving risk management practices, and the importance of strategic partnerships in managing global operations.

• EuroFinance International Treasury Management: Navigating the future with innovative hedging strategies on Day Two
• EuroFinance International Treasury Management: A bold start as day one sparks dynamic treasury discussions

EuroFinance Treasury Excellence Awards 2024

The EuroFinance Treasury Excellence Awards 2024 recognised the outstanding achievements of corporate treasury teams worldwide. This prestigious event, regarded as the benchmark for treasury excellence, celebrated the innovative solutions and exceptional strategies implemented by treasurers over the past year. The winners were selected in five categories:

• Strategic Change
• Technology Transformation
• Cash Champion
• Financing and Liquidity
• Risk and Resilience

Each year, the theme of the awards shifts to reflect emerging trends and challenges in the treasury world. The 2024 awards were a testament to the resilience and ingenuity of treasury professionals who continue to drive change and improve financial outcomes for their organisations.

Looking ahead to 2025

As we move into 2025, the global economic landscape remains uncertain, but corporate treasurers have proven their ability to adapt and innovate. The lessons learned in 2024—whether it’s in managing hybrid workforces, hedging against currency fluctuations, or navigating high interest rates—will undoubtedly shape the treasury profession for years to come.

Discussions around the evolving structure of modern treasury teams have focused on the diverse range of skills, cultures, and backgrounds required to ensure success. Treasurers are increasingly reflecting on how technology will transform treasury functions, and what combination of technical and financial expertise will be necessary to keep pace.

Additionally, there are ongoing discussions about how treasury teams will be organised—what functions will remain in-house, what will be outsourced, and how teams will balance remote and office-based work. While there is no one-size-fits-all model, it is clear that each organisation will require a unique approach that best suits its individual needs.

EuroFinance is committed to continuing its mission to empower corporate treasury teams by providing a platform for knowledge sharing, collaboration, and innovation. We look forward to another year of insightful events and valuable discussions that will help treasury professionals face the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

Check out our upcoming events and stay tuned for more news and resources as we continue to support the global treasury community in 2025.