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EuroFinance International Treasury Management: A bold start as day one sparks dynamic treasury discussions

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On a crisp, bright day in Copenhagen, the warmth of conversation and collaboration filled the air at the EuroFinance International Treasury Management conference. Day One brought together treasury professionals eager to tackle the complexities of a rapidly evolving global landscape. From the outset, attendees were eager to connect and engage in meaningful discussions.

Geopolitical shifts and navigating uncertainty

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The opening sessions immediately set the tone for the day, focusing on the profound geopolitical shifts shaping the world today. A standout session featured Helle Thorning-Schmidt, former prime minister of Denmark, who shared her insights on the interplay between geopolitical tensions and global trade, highlighting the implications for corporate finance professionals. A major discussion revolved around the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict and its far-reaching implications. There was consensus that any resolution must be carefully balanced to avoid setting a dangerous precedent for future conflicts. 

Throughout the day, attendees participated in dynamic discussions about the impact of sustained high interest rates and the transformative potential of artificial intelligence in business. These conversations emphasised the need for treasurers to adapt to the rapidly changing environment while leveraging new technologies for future growth. There was a focus on the global economic crisis, inflation, wage growth, and central bank policies. The ‘higher for longer’ interest rate environment was a central theme, as speakers explored the implications of sustained high rates for economies around the globe.

AI and the future of work: friend or foe?

As Day one unfolded, the transformative potential of AI sparked an engaging dialogue: will AI and generative technologies threaten jobs or enhance them? Rather than seeing AI as a competitor, the speakers explored its role as a powerful ally in the business landscape.

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Corporate treasurers examined how AI could boost global productivity while fostering a collaborative environment between technology and human expertise. The potential for AI to elevate labour productivity, particularly in the US and Europe, emerged as a compelling driver of future economic growth.

Discussions highlighted AI’s ability to revolutionise processes and refine decision-making in high-stakes sectors. Speakers emphasised the importance of tailored compliance frameworks that protect interests while promoting innovation. 

When asked whether AI is integrated into their daily operations, over 50% of respondents confirmed that they currently use AI in their day-to-day processes. 

The collective enthusiasm for AI underscored its potential to streamline operations and enhance knowledge management. As we look ahead, the question remains: how can we harness this transformative power to create a more efficient and transparent business landscape?

Global economic outlook

Day one of the discussions also provided a comprehensive overview of key global economic trends, highlighting the growth trajectories and challenges faced by regions such as Africa and India.

In Africa, the continent is set to continue its growth trajectory into 2025, driven by economic expansion, significant investments in the service sector, and rapid urbanisation. However, persistent risks such as security threats, political instability, climate change, and heavy debt burdens loom on the horizon, posing challenges for the year ahead.

Shifting focus to India, the world’s largest democracy, the recent re-election of Prime Minister Narendra Modi for a third term in 2024 positions the nation for a promising economic outlook, with projections indicating a robust 7 percent growth through 2025. This political stability and economic growth have fostered the rise of substantial industrial conglomerates. Nevertheless, the treasury landscape remains complex, as the non-convertibility of the Indian rupee, cumbersome local administration, and pervasive state banks continue to pose challenges, despite years of banking liberalisation.

Overall, Day 1 facilitated a rich and 360-degree conversation, examining the intricate interplay of growth, stability, and challenges across the globe.

Looking ahead to day two

Day Two promises to spark fresh ideas and bold innovations as we dive into the future of finance and the evolving work landscape. Expect sessions that challenge the status quo—rethinking how treasurers navigate uncertainty, manage global cash flows, and harness cutting-edge technologies to drive efficiency. From breaking down barriers in capital management to reimagining the way businesses move money, the day will be filled with transformative insights and forward-thinking strategies.

And don’t forget—the excitement continues on Day Three with the EuroFinance Treasury Awards for Excellence, where trailblazing treasury teams will be celebrated for their achievements. These awards set the standard for excellence, showcasing the trends that have reshaped the industry over the past year.

As we look forward to another day of networking and knowledge-sharing, it’s clear that the insights gained today will be invaluable as we navigate the challenges ahead. Stay tuned for more highlights from the conference!

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