We’ve highlighted the key discussions and conclusions from Friday at the third edition of the region’s largest FinTech conference.

Money Motion 2025 attracted over 2,500 attendees, with 720 meetings arranged through the official event app. The second day of the conference was opened by the Mayor of Zagreb, Tomislav Tomašević, who expressed the city’s pride in hosting the leading regional FinTech conference. The event brought together 120 speakers across four stages, featured a startup competition with 20 teams from 14 countries, and concluded with the announcement of the winners.

Mayor Tomašević emphasized the city’s efforts in digital transformation, including modernizing outdated administrative systems. He highlighted the transparent tracking of over 100,000 city transactions in near real-time and the recently launched app for monitoring public space usage. The city remains open to collaboration with FinTech companies, as seen in its partnership with Keks Pay and support for ZICER, which was recently recognized as Europe’s best innovation center. Tomašević affirmed that the city intends to continue along this path.

Zoltán Kaszás from OTP Banka emphasized the importance of effectively leveraging new technologies, such as cloud-exclusive and AI-first models. OTP Banka has been heavily investing in artificial intelligence, with a special focus on its revolutionary English-Hungarian LLM model.

“We used to aim for 10% improvements, but today, we target tenfold improvements. This is only possible if we understand that low-code, no-code tools, cloud, and AI must serve as the foundation for problem-solving. However, we must also recognize what AI should not do – it cannot and should not do everything,” said Kaszás.

A panel of Croatian bank executives – including Balázs Békeffy (OTP), Christoph Schoefboeck (Erste Bank), Mario Žižek (Addiko), and Marko Badurina (HPB) – moderated by Igor Gržalja (ASEE Croatia), discussed the rapid evolution of banking, the implications of digital currencies, and the ongoing importance of physical branches in maintaining customer trust. Some panelists also announced new technological advancements.

“We are working on many innovations to be introduced in the near future. This includes everyday solutions we are already refining. One key step is spinning off Keks Pay into a separate company, allowing us to take the project to the international market,” Schoefboeck revealed.

“In just a few days, we will launch a new process integrating Identyum and PSD2 data to verify user incomes. This means that, from a technical standpoint, we are already capable of implementing open banking and offering more flexible services,” Žižek added.

Representatives of mid-sized regional banks – including Milan Perović (Prva Banka CG), Hasan Hasić (ASA Banka BiH), Aleksandar Bogdanović (Yettel Bank), and Goran Varat (Podravska banka) – highlighted their agility and personalized approach as competitive advantages over larger banks, leveraging local insights and technology.

A critical cybersecurity panel featured experts Pavel Kaminsky (7Security GmbH), Sven Škrgatić (A1 Hrvatska), Neven Zitek (Span), and Thekla Paschali (payabl), moderated by Željka Jurić (ASEE). They examined the growing threats of identity theft in the AI era, stressing the importance of zero-trust security measures and behavioral tracking.

“All fraud and cyber intrusions typically start with simple social engineering. We need to shift our perception of security. We cannot expect a single layer of protection to be sufficient. When it comes to identity, we often assume that if something looks and sounds like us, it is us. That must change,” Kaminsky stated.

The highly anticipated “Fightclub” debate between philosopher Srećko Horvat and economist Vedrana Pribičević delved into the geopolitical and ethical implications of FinTech and AI, highlighting the need for a balance between innovation and regulation.

“We both agree these issues are crucial. FinTech and finance do not exist in a vacuum – they are deeply tied to globalization. However, we do not see trends indicating that this will change, especially given the direction coming from the U.S. The question is how the FinTech sector will adapt,” Pribičević remarked.

“Finance is always political. Those who control finance also control the world,” Horvat added.

Svetlana Sailer from Kraken Digital Assets Exchange noted the growing institutional interest in crypto investments in Europe, thanks to the clarity brought by the MICA regulation.

“The MICA regulation has done an excellent job – it was like turning on the lights in a dark room. Traditional financial institutions needed a clear framework for dealing with crypto in Europe, and now they have it. Of course, it’s not perfect, but it has opened up new opportunities, which is a huge step for the entire ecosystem,” Sailer commented.

A panel on the European FinTech ecosystem, featuring Don Ginsel, Alice Rettig, Zoltán Ács, Nic Balaceanu, and moderator Alex Panican – joined by conference co-founder Nikola Škorić – highlighted Europe’s regulatory advantages while stressing the need for faster cross-border solutions and stronger FinTech cooperation.

Meanwhile, the FinTech2030 stage powered by FINAX focused on blockchain community challenges, AI agents’ roles, and how the younger generation is setting new trends in FinTech.

The expo stage, packed with attendees, saw one session draw particular interest – the intersection of FinTech, business, sports, and chess. Croatian Olympian Valent Sinković, financial expert Hrvoje Fajdetić, chess player Lena Govedarica, and Grandmaster Alojzije Janković engaged the audience in a discussion on the importance of strategic thinking across all industries. Money Motion 2025, organized in collaboration with Mastercard, Monri Payments, ASEE, OTP banka, A1 Hrvatska, Croatia osiguranje and LAQO, expanded its range of topics, reinforcing its status as the region’s most important business event.

In the afternoon, key discussions on innovation in retail and digitalization featured industry leaders such as Nina Mimica (Studenac), Daniel Šturm (Kaufland), Alexandros Kosenas (Neptun Albania), and Bogdan Meica (Glovo Romania). They detailed how their companies leverage AI and automation to enhance customer experience and optimize business processes, with concrete examples of implementation.

“Kaufland is currently testing the use of chatbots in procurement negotiations with suppliers. We noticed that traditional methods do not always yield the best results, so we are developing this chatbot to improve and streamline the process,” explained Šturm.

“Studenac will pilot a retail media project to assess the value it can bring to the organization. This is a completely new initiative that we have not publicly discussed before. The pilot will be conducted on a small scale to see how the system works in practice,” explained Mimica.

Following this, the program shifted to the topic of entrepreneurial innovation within companies, featuring participation from Aleksandar Bogdanović (Yettel Bank), Monika Majstorović (A1 Hrvatska), Matthias Naumann (Companjon), and Dejan Donev (Erste Bank/Kekspay). The speakers agreed on the importance of maintaining an agile and challenger mindset to successfully navigate rapid market changes.

A1 Hrvatska has, in recent years, launched several products that extend beyond the traditional perception of its industry. In telecommunications, Majstorović stated, continuous product innovation is a necessity. “That’s how we expanded into areas such as FinTech, security, and entertainment. We didn’t do it alone. We sought partners, and that’s how we entered new markets. Travel insurance is the product I am most proud of.”

When it comes to approaching such leaps, Donev believes there are two ways: one that clearly and illustratively contributes to revenue or savings, and another where the idea and vision drive everything, regardless of revenue and promises. In this segment, the best examples are KeksPay and the newly announced Keksić.

“We are currently preparing the Keksić service, and one of the biggest challenges is that we always have 50 ideas on the table that we could develop. But precisely because we decided to develop Keksić, we are not developing some other things. The innovation process is always challenging because it involves selection, sacrifice, and constant adaptation.”

In the final panel of the day on investing, the key message was the role of technology in democratizing financial services, making them more accessible to the average citizen. Krešo Vugrinčić from InterCapital Asset Management elaborated on this: “Today, anyone with a mobile phone who wants to invest can do so. We responded to this trend by getting closer to our investors, giving them a broader and more accessible view of investment opportunities. Investments were once reserved only for the wealthy, but apps have opened the door for a wider audience to start investing.”

Vugrinčić was joined in closing the program by Josip Glavaš (Erste Asset Management Croatia), Ivan Đurđević (J.P. Morgan Asset Management), Benjamin Jošar (Triglav Skladi), and Ivan Kurtović (InterCapital Asset Management).

At the end of the day, the winners of the startup competition were announced. First place went to IDCanopy from Austria, second place to DigFin from Slovakia, and third place to Outpost Chess from Serbia. The ‘Talk the Walk’ award from Infobip was won by FINSO from the United Kingdom, while DeFi Koala from Croatia secured a spot in the Fundraising Bootcamp program.

Tickets for Money Motion 2026 are available on the Entrio platform for €129.

The Money Motion app was developed in collaboration with GOOD/TO/GO.

More than 20 startups competed before a jury consisting of six investors

The largest regional FinTech conference, Money Motion 2025, kicked off at the Zagreb Fair, attracting over 2,000 attendees on its first day. This figure surpasses the total attendance of last year’s edition. During the opening ceremony, the event’s founders confirmed that the conference continues to grow annually, with a 25% increase this year, and expressed their ambition to become the largest FinTech conference in Europe.

“Everything has increased – more speakers, more content, more networking opportunities. We are grateful to our sponsors, including ASEE, Mastercard, Monri, A1 Hrvatska, Croatia osiguranje, LAQO, OTP Bank, and about 30 other brands that have supported the conference,” said Nikola Škorić, co-founder of Money Motion, at the opening.

Co-founder Luka Sučić highlighted the impressive participation of 20 startups this year and the visible growth in interest over the past two years.

One of the most attended sessions focused on the future of retail payments, presented by Milan Gauder, co-founder of frēda. Gauder emphasized the decline in cash usage, which accelerated after the pandemic, and the rapid adoption of instant payments, especially in developing countries like India and Brazil.

“For comparison, it took 50 to 60 years for Western countries, including Croatia, to reach a similar level of adoption. The key to success in the East is QR codes. These countries bypassed card payments entirely, adopting QR codes directly, achieving in just five years what took the West ten times longer. I believe that within the next five years, Europe will need to develop an alternative payment system. This is the key, and you must start working on it now,” he concluded.

A panel discussion on changes in payment methods brought together notable names, including Ignacio Terol from the European Central Bank, Dwayne Gefferie, Krzysztof Sobala from Mastercard, and Silvia Mensdorff-Pouilly from WorldPay. The discussion was moderated by Damir Čaušević, CEO of Monri Payments and co-founder of the conference. Panelists concluded that while payments are rapidly transforming, cards remain relevant, albeit in an evolved, tokenized form. Sobala noted that instant payments now account for 80% of Mastercard transactions.

A particularly engaging talk was delivered by Federico Paderni from platform X (formerly Twitter), discussing trends in financial content on social media. He highlighted the rapid growth of video content and the platform’s importance for financial institutions. “All key financial leaders are on X, exchanging insights and engaging with brands,” he stated.

Natalia Leichmanova from the Mastercard Economics Institute provided an economic outlook for Croatia, emphasizing the country’s strong consumer spending power and rising purchasing capacity, particularly in tourism and experiential spending. “Today, purchasing power in Croatia is higher than in 2019, pre-pandemic. This is not the case in Germany, but it is in the region. As a result, Croatian consumers have regained their highest confidence levels, increasingly spending on experiences, entertainment, and memorable moments.”

A panel on the strategic application of artificial intelligence in banking featured Tim Rutten from Backbase, Josip Majher from Hrvatska poštanska banka, Zvonimir Mavretić from ASEE, Vjekoslav Bonić from Raiffeisen Bank International, and Nenad Crnčec from Architech. The discussion emphasized the importance of personalized user experiences and the transformative impact of AI on banking operations.

Piotr Jelenski from ASEE Group presented insights into building a market leader, stating that ASEE continuously seeks profitable businesses that can become profitable within one to two years. “Founders tend to overvalue their businesses by up to 30%, but we focus on strong revenue-generating capabilities and unique intellectual property that is difficult to replicate.”

“My dream is to double our size in the next few years. We have already expanded into Spain and Portugal, followed by Turkey, Egypt, and India. While we remain active in developed markets, we are increasingly targeting large emerging markets.”

The program also emphasized retail-focused topics, featuring a panel with Berislav Marszalek from Entrio, Borko Buturac from Aircash, Maja Fočić from Monri Payments, Bono van Nijnatten, and Michal Baštar from Visa, discussing key drivers of online shopping and payments.

“Across Europe, consumer behavior is remarkably similar. Users do not want to install separate apps for every small service. Our data shows that when offered a unified solution integrating multiple services, user engagement and adoption increase,” Buturac noted.

Marszalek added, “When we started, we aimed to digitalize payments, but we were 3 to 5 years ahead of the market’s needs. We soon realized that our business was failing because consumers still preferred cash transactions. Today, cash payments make up only a small fraction of total transactions and will soon drop below 10%.”

Another key topic at this year’s conference was the future of the insurance industry. A panel discussion on trends in the sector featured Ana Zovko from Croatia osiguranje and LAQO, Ervin Jagetić from Infobip, Oscar Paz de la Fuente from insurNOW, and Simon Kaesler from McKinsey & Company.

Zovko opened the panel with an overview of the industry, noting that currently, 10% of insurance in Europe is sold digitally. “Although digital insurance hasn’t revolutionized the industry like Spotify did for music, I strongly believe the future lies in a seamless user experience and even simpler contracting. And this trend is clearly growing.”

A panel on digital identity stressed the importance of preparing for 2026, when all EU citizens will be required to have digital personal documents. Belgium currently leads in implementation. Sebastian Theisen from Entrust highlighted the regulatory complexities facing Germany, stressing the need for more accessible digital wallets to simplify public service interactions. Valentina Dragomir from Evrotrust emphasized the importance of secure and legally compliant user identification, while Ingo Rübe from KILT Protocol warned about the balance between state control and user privacy, pointing out risks associated with Big Tech dominance.

In the panel on payment trends in the EU, participants highlighted the growing importance of generative artificial intelligence, which Viktoria Merkoulova from Nexi Group presented through their GenAI Lab, focusing on practical applications in business processes. Panagiotis Kriaris from Unzer emphasized the importance of the functionality of digital payments, warning that Europe often incorrectly focuses on speed rather than user value.

Jordan Graison pointed out the lack of public debate surrounding the introduction of the digital euro, while Antonio Argir from NLB Group highlighted that GenAI technology poses a challenge in smaller markets due to their specificities. Finally, Christian Rau from Mastercard spoke about the transformation of payment methods, noting the decline in the use of plastic cards in favor of virtual ones, the importance of cryptocurrency regulation, and the growing collaboration with the public sector on central bank digital currencies.

A particularly exciting part of the program was the Startup stage, where 20 innovative startups competed for the attention and favor of a panel of six experienced investors. The most attention was drawn to a dynamic “fight club” style discussion between three representatives of different startup financing models: one startup self-financed (bootstrapping), another using a bank loan, and the third supported by an investment fund. On Friday, the event will shift focus to future topics with FinTech2030, and by the end of the program, the winners of the Startup competition will be revealed.

Tickets for Money Motion 2026 will be available from Friday evening, March 28, on the Entrio platform. Super Blind Bird tickets will be sold for 129 euros.

The in-depth discussions on trends, challenges, and innovative solutions at Money Motion – the largest FinTech conference in the region

The largest business event in Central and Eastern Europe, bringing together experts, companies, academics, and enthusiasts in technological innovation within the financial industry, is taking place this week. For the third year in a row, Zagreb will become the center of the international FinTech scene, hosting over 2,500 attendees and representatives from more than 600 companies. Money Motion, a conference initiated by five successful Croatian managers and entrepreneurs, will showcase global trends, experiences, and knowledge across four stages at the Zagreb Fair on this Thursday and Friday, March 27 and 28.

This year’s program features a range of current topics and discussions, further solidifying the conference’s status as the regional epicenter of innovation in the industry. Four thematic stages – Main Stage, Startup Stage, FinTech2030, and Expo Stage – will welcome over 100 experts from various global sectors, including finance, technology, regulation, investment, and related industries. One of the most anticipated parts of the program is the traditional FinTech startup competition, featuring 20 startups this year. The top three teams will share prizes worth over €60,000. A major new addition to this year’s edition is the recently launched app, allowing attendees to personalize their agenda and easily schedule meetings with other participants.

Tickets for the conference are still available via the Entrio platform. In anticipation of Money Motion 2025 – organized in collaboration with leading regional brands in the industry such as Mastercard, Monri, ASEE, OTP banka, A1 Hrvatska, Croatia osiguranje, and LAQO – we sat down with the executives of our corporate leaders. They shared their vision of what our daily lives will look like 20 to 50 years from now and what we can expect in terms of industry development.

Bartosz Ciołkowski, Division President for Southeast Europe, Mastercard: “Financial inclusion as the standard of the global economy”

The future of payments is not just digital – it’s immersive, intuitive, and invisible. As artificial intelligence becomes the backbone of financial systems and digital identities redefine trust, payments will seamlessly integrate into our daily lives, from the metaverse to smart cities. In this new world, the convergence of fintech, blockchain, and traditional banking will redefine value exchange, making financial inclusion not just a goal but a default standard of the global economy. At Mastercard, we are shaping this future by collaborating with leading industry partners to embed security and transparency into every layer of innovation – ensuring trust remains the foundation of the global payment ecosystem.

Dejan Turk, CEO, A1 Hrvatska and Slovenia: “We have an opportunity to shape tomorrow”

The future of everyday life will not only be defined by technological innovations but by how we use them to live more fulfilling, purposeful, and simplified lives. The world is changing rapidly, and we have the opportunity to shape a future where people have more time for what truly matters to them. Imagine a society where complexity is simplified – where bureaucracy becomes invisible, operating in the background; where healthcare systems predict and prevent diseases before they arise; and where cities adapt to the rhythm of their inhabitants rather than restricting them.

In telecommunications, user habits are undergoing a major transformation. Network speed and stability are no longer just technical parameters but prerequisites for a flexible lifestyle. People want to be connected anytime, anywhere, without limitations – whether working from a mountain cabin, joining meetings on the move, or streaming without interruptions. Personalization will become the standard – users will not adjust their habits to technology; rather, technology will learn from them and adapt to their needs. While technology can support this shift, the real change comes from us – how we think about work, education, ecology, health, and community. We are realizing that the future is not about how much we can achieve in the shortest time but how we can create a balance between efficiency and quality of life.

Igor Gržalja, CEO, ASEE Hrvatska & Co-Founder of Money Motion: “AI that proactively solves our challenges”

Fifty years is an almost unimaginable span in the tech world, and we can only guess what will exist then. What we do know is that trends in decentralized finance, significant advances in AI, and the integration of digital payments into everyday life will continue. In this world, AI will proactively manage personal finances based on user habits, optimize communication, analyze behaviors with greater precision, and provide real-time recommendations – making financial decision-making and management easier. At the same time, cybersecurity and biometric digital identities will become an integral reality, ensuring trust and protection in an increasingly complex digital ecosystem.

Bojan Letica, Director of Product Development and Risk Management, Croatia osiguranje: “Insurance for space travel”

Insurance is undergoing a radical transformation driven by artificial intelligence, big data analytics, and the growing demand for personalization and sustainability. While the core function of insurance – protection against risk – remains unchanged, the way this protection is provided is evolving. Already, digital platforms, IoT devices, and sensors enable dynamic premium adjustments and faster claims processing. Over the next decade, AI and predictive analytics will shift insurance from damage compensation to proactive risk prevention. Parametric insurance will automate payouts for climate events, while cyber policies will become the standard.

In the long-term, insurance will integrate seamlessly into everyday life – from smart cities to healthcare systems and new forms of risk. Looking 50 years ahead, insurance could expand into sectors not yet fully covered, such as space travel or deep-sea exploration. However, technology will not replace the key value – trust. Whether a policy is issued by a human or an algorithm, trust will remain the foundation of insurance.

In addition to its rich daily program, Money Motion 2025 will also feature an exceptional evening lineup, with exclusive parties on both conference days featuring performances from top DJs. The closing party will be particularly spectacular, offering multiple dance floors throughout the night, providing diverse music and an unforgettable conference finale.

Tickets for Money Motion 2025 are available via the Entrio platform at a last-minute price of €375. The official networking app for the Money Motion conference was developed in collaboration with GOOD/TO/GO.

The most important business event in the region kicks off in Zagreb this week

Money Motion is once again bringing financial innovation to the heart of Zagreb. On March 27-28, Zagreb Fair will host over 2,000 attendees from more than 20 countries. Organized by leading industry brands- Mastercard, ASEE, Monri, OTP banka, A1 Hrvatska, Croatia osiguranje, and LAQO – the conference will bring together banks, tech companies, regulatory bodies, startups, and investors for key discussions on the future of finance, technology, and society. In addition to three established stages, this year introduces the brand-new Expo Stage and a particularly intriguing Fight Club.

Elephants in the Room: Silicon, Sovereignty, Survival is a headline of this year’s Fight Club

that will tackle the pressing issues often avoided in mainstream discussions but crucial in shaping our future. Inspired by Milton Friedman’s quote that real change happens in times of crisis, when prepared ideas become inevitable, Vedrana Pribičević and Srećko Horvat will go head-to-head in a clash of intellectual perspectives on technology, sovereignty, and survival in a world where power and resources are rapidly shifting. She – a renowned economist and a hard advocate of free markets. He – a philosopher and outspoken critic of capitalism. As digital systems become increasingly intertwined with politics and economics, the question of who controls data and capital is central to understanding the future of society.

The newly introduced Expo Stage will offer a fresh perspective on FinTech, connecting it with sports, strategic thinking, and digital innovation. One of the must-see discussions, “The Future of Sports: Data, Dollars, and Digital Innovation,” will feature Ivan Bešlić and Damjan Rudež.

Bešlić, co-founder of Sofascore, a leading sports analytics platform, will share insights on the role of data in modern sports. Rudež, former NBA player and program director of Sunset Sports Festival, will discuss commercialization and technological trends shaping the sports business.

The topic of strategic decision-making comes into focus through the panel “One Move Ahead: Strategic Thinking in Business, Chess, and Sports,” where Valent Sinković, Hrvoje Fajdetić, Lena Govedarica, and Alojzije Janković will explore how different approaches to decision-making under pressure can be applied to business, sports, and everyday life. Sinković, an Olympic rower and multiple-time champion, Fajdetić, a financial expert and investor, Govedarica, a chess master and entrepreneur, and Janković, an international chess grandmaster, will discuss the key elements of strategic thinking and long-term planning across various fields.

Alongside a rich conference program, Money Motion 2025 will also feature an impressive Expo space of over 2,000 square meters, bringing together more than 30 booths from innovative companies shaping the future of the market. Among them are Backbase, True North, Koios, Adaptivist, Tietoevry, Transaction Systems, Televend, Entrust, and Field39, showcasing their latest technological solutions and digital products.

We are particularly looking forward to panels with top experts on the latest technologies. On the main stage, Tim Rutten, CMO of Backbase, will speak about the strategic implementation of AI in banking, alongside Vjekoslav Bonić, Head of Digital Channels and Conversational AI at Raiffeisen Bank International, Josip Majher, Board Member of HPB, and other leading experts.

On the FinTech 2030 stage, Lan Filipič, Director at Deloitte Consulting, will discuss tokenization and its impact on traditional industries, joined by Jovan Paunović, Director of Treesury, Nikola Škorić, CEO of Electrocoin, and Anina Milanović, Head of the International Cooperation and Development Department at the Securities Commission of the Republic of Serbia

Beyond a content-rich daytime program, Money Motion 2025 will also deliver an exceptional evening lineup, featuring exclusive parties on both conference days with performances by top DJs. The Closing Party promises to be particularly spectacular, with multiple dance floors throughout the night, offering diverse music and an unforgettable finale to the conference.

Tickets for Money Motion 2025 are available via the Entrio platform at a last-minute price of €375.

Let’s get right to it. Shall we?

1. Get your ticket if you haven’t yet

The last batch of tickets is still available in the upper right corner of your screen. Click on the purple button and get your ticket before they’re sold out. 

Once you buy it, you’ll get your ticket and information for the next step in your email box.

2. Download Money Motion App

Go to your app store and find the app called ‘MONEY MOTION’, by GOOD TO GO. Download it. Log in by using your email address, either the one you used for your Entrio ticket or the one you provided the organizers with. Make sure to update your contact information to enjoy all networking perks of this year’s visit.

The app will allow you to explore the entire attendee list of Money Motion 2025. In one place, you will find the entire agenda of our four stages and two days of program, which you can easily personalize by liking the program slots you don’t wish to miss.

You will also have access to the entire venue map, making it easy to find your way around, see all of our exciting exhibitors, and book time slots with attendees you wish to meet.

3. Book your stay

For all of you traveling to Zagreb, we made sure to secure a special fixed price at the amazing local hotels – International, Zonar, and Westin. From March 26 to 29, count on some good night’s rest between a proper MoMo party and a great daily agenda with easy public or private transport routes to our venue.

Book your stay easily by clicking here.

4. Check out the agenda

Our agenda is live and well, and you can easily access it on our website by clicking here or by visiting your Money Motion app.

The program on each stage follows its own timeline with different time slots. So make sure to check in advance the starting and ending times of your priority talks and panels. There will be two longer coffee breaks during both days.

5. Plan your visit to the expo

Find our expo map here or in your Money Motion app. This year, MoMo brings more than 30 exhibitors together on more than 2000 square meters together with a new stage, a coworking zone and a networking zone, its own bar, and amazing activities and perks prepared by our partners.

If you’re looking for some great coffee or beer, snacks and treats, games and prizes, look no further. Find your way to the most exciting expo you’ve ever witnessed.

6. Find your way to the venue

Money Motion 2025 is located at the Zagreb Fair in the New Zagreb. The entrance to the venue is at the South entrance of the fair 

There are two tram lines – 7 and 14 – and multiple buses from the Zagreb Central Station such as the lines 221, 234, 242, and 268. Whereas the tram lines bring you straight to the main entrance, buses will take you to the Avenue Mall shopping centre from which you have a 15 minute walk to the Fair entrance.

By taking a cab, you can simply pin the main entrance as your destination. In case you’re coming by car, we suggest you park at the main parking lot in front of the main entrance of the Fair.

7. Book your meetings

It’s time to shine. Get in your app, scroll through the attendees list and find those individuals who might be your next big break. Hit them up in the app, let them know you wish to meet and suggest a time to do it. Use one of the suggested spots as your meeting spot. 

Plan those meetings in time before your targets get booked by someone else!

8. Share your experience

Don’t be shy. Let the world know you’ve been to the greatest FinTech conference in this neck of the woods. Take photos, share them on your social media. Make sure to tag us, everyone you’ve met, and add #MoMo2026.

You want some professional shots? Don’t worry, our photos are coming in hot and fresh soon. Just make sure you’re subscribed to our newsletter to be the first one to get them.

9. Make the most out of Money Motion

Money Motion is about learning quality insights, discussing different approaches, competing between best solutions, meeting new people, making good business deals. But also – eating, drinking, and partying well. 

Explore the expo, try some great bites and sips with good company, join us for the closing ceremony and learn about the next big shots from the Startup competition, and without exception – join us for the best party in town!

10. Be back in 2026

As soon as we finish our daily program on Friday, blind bird tickets will be available on Entrio. Save up to 70 percent on your next visit to Money Motion by getting your ticket straight away.

We can’t wait to see those amazing dance moves of yours next year!

At Money Motion, 20 teams will present their innovative solutions on March 27 and 28

FinTech has experienced turbulent changes in recent years, but one thing is certain – innovation has never been more necessary. According to a KPMG report, investments in FinTech globally have fallen to $95.6 billion, the lowest level in the past seven years. Nevertheless, Europe remains a strong FinTech hub with more than 350 unicorns, and major companies like Revolut and Klarna are announcing public offerings, signaling a return of optimism.

Money Motion, the largest FinTech conference in the region, taking place on March 27 and 28 at the Zagreb Fair, is sponsored by leading regional industry brands – Mastercard, Monri, ASEE, OTP Bank, A1 Croatia, Croatia Insurance, and LAQO. The event will gather more than 2,000 participants from all continents and feature a hundred speakers on four stages. Leading global experts in finance, technology, and cryptocurrencies will share their knowledge and experiences, while the startup stage will host one of the most exciting competitions of the year – the Money Motion Startup Pitch.

Young entrepreneurs will have the opportunity to present their ideas before investors and partners ready to support the next big thing in FinTech. As many as 20 teams are bringing solutions that can shape the future of financial services – from the digital transformation of banking and data security to DeFi solutions and AI automation. The top three will share the most valuable prizes yet – checks totaling €10,000, $20,000 in credits on platform X provided by Aleph, a €5,000 small booth at the next Money Motion, a $20,000 ‘Talk the Walk’ award from Infobip, six months of free coworking space at the House of Blockchain in Zagreb, and an exclusive spot at the Fundraising Bootcamp in London worth €10,000.

We present the stories, visions, and innovations of the competitors below.

Small and medium-sized enterprises are the key to economic stability and growth in both Croatia and Europe. A1 Croatia has been aware of this for years, developing solutions for its business users to facilitate digitalization, optimization, and the development of new products and services in the digital age.

“We are aware that technology plays a key role in business optimization, increasing productivity, and ensuring a competitive advantage. Our goal is to be their reliable digital partner, providing them with advanced ICT solutions through an as-a-service model – from cloud services, security solutions, and data center services to business connectivity solutions,” said Daniel Šimić, Director of Business Customers at A1 Croatia.

To enable entrepreneurs to operate smoothly, they continue to invest in developing a gigabit network and expanding 5G infrastructure. Their network already ensures top-tier connectivity across Croatia, and they have recently added Starlink to their portfolio, providing stable internet even in locations where there was previously no signal. This has been particularly helpful for business users in rural and remote areas – from agricultural holdings and tourist facilities to construction and transport companies.

“The SME segment has growing needs for flexible and secure digital services, and at A1 Croatia, we continuously develop innovative solutions to facilitate their daily business operations. Digital transformation is not a luxury, but a necessity, and our task is to provide small and medium-sized enterprises with the tools they need to grow and adapt to a dynamic market. With strong telecommunications infrastructure and tailored digital solutions, we continue to support the development of the SME segment and strengthen the local and regional economy,” added Šimić.

Hrvatska poštanska banka (HPB), one of the five largest commercial banks in the country, proudly supports the Startup Stage, emphasizing the ambition for continuous progress and top results. In line with this, HPB, ZICER, and EFZG have recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding initiating collaboration to develop the FinTech community in the country. This aims to encourage innovation in the financial sector, connect the academic community with financial institutions and entrepreneurs, and support the development of startups through the ZICER Acceleration Program – Startup Factory.

“As a key financial partner, HPB will provide startups with access to financial services and pilot projects and participate in FinTech regulation development with the Ministry of Finance. The Bank’s goal is to strengthen the FinTech industry and implement domestic FinTech solutions to improve business operations, positioning HPB as a desirable employer for IT professionals. HPB is dedicated to innovations that enhance financial services and the customer experience, reinforcing its role in FinTech development through digital transformation and community collaboration,” said Josip Majher, a member of HPB’s Management Board.

For the third consecutive year, the Money Motion Startup Pitch competition will be supported by the Croatian Agency for SMEs, Innovations, and Investments (HAMAG-BICRO).

“As the most important government agency dedicated to creating a financial ecosystem that supports the development of small and medium-sized enterprises, we especially focus on entrepreneurs with ideas and innovations to facilitate their market entry. Entrepreneurs in the development phase of their services or products often lack access to financing, so HAMAG-BICRO offers targeted programs. Besides financing, HAMAG-BICRO provides expert mentoring and support to entrepreneurs, increasing their chances of successfully entering the market. We support conferences like Money Motion, especially the startup competition, which we have sponsored for the third consecutive year,” said Vjeran Vrbanec, President of the Management Board of HAMAG-BICRO.

The thrilling competition will take place on the first day of the conference on the Startup Stage, and the winners will be announced at the end of the second day before the final ceremony. You can purchase your ticket with a 20% last-minute discount on the Entrio platform. Below, find out who will compete, from which countries, and with what solutions:

1. FraudShield (Hungary) – AI system for fraud and phishing protection, helping organizations reduce data leaks and financial losses while raising cybersecurity awareness.
2. eFrontiers (Switzerland) – Gamified micro-learning platform that allows financial institutions to use financial education as a marketing tool, increasing engagement and lead generation up to 20 times.
3. FINSO (UK) – AI-based lending and analytics platform optimizing loan approvals and providing personalized financial products for consumers and banks.
4. IDCanopy (Austria) – Comprehensive onboarding platform integrating KYC, KYB, e-signatures, and compliance solutions for financial institutions.
5. Refinance (Croatia) – Software that tracks loan interest rates and alerts users to refinancing opportunities, maximizing savings by reducing repayment terms.
6. Genesis (Croatia) – Tokenized crowdfunding platform for the entertainment industry, helping independent creators secure funding and allowing investors to participate in creative projects.
7. Reel News (Croatia) – AI and blockchain-powered user-driven news platform promoting unbiased journalism and community engagement.
8. Glokal AI (Germany) – AI solutions for ERP systems modernizing financial and supply chain processes through real-time automated decisions.
9. Outpost Chess (Serbia) – Chess skills monetization platform offering competitive real-money games and tournaments, targeting a $1.5 billion market.
10. Tap2Pay (Poland) – Omnichannel payment platform enabling seamless transactions across websites, social networks, and messaging apps.
11. DeFi Koala (Croatia) – DeFi platform offering passive cryptocurrency earnings through fixed returns, eliminating the need for active trading.
12. Producting.ai (Netherlands) – AI-powered product management agents automating key tasks and providing real-time market and competitor analysis.
13. Veli UAB (Lithuania) – Veli is enabling financial advisors to invest in already diversified portfolios, instead of constructing one for each client separately.
14. Monkey Signals (UK) – At Monkey Signals, we’re building the next evolution of trading automation by combining Gen AI with AI Agents for full execution autonomy—moving beyond traditional SaaS-based solutions.
15. TBUY (Armenia) – TBUY is a multifaceted ecosystem for consumers and businesses of all sizes, designed to revolutionize the e-commerce industry.
16. CertHub (US/BIH) – CERTHUB revolutionizes digital identities and credentials with a secure, privacy-first platform integrating blockchain and zero-knowledge proofs (ZKP). It combines certificate issuance, identity management, and verification into a seamless system.
17. DigFin (Slovakia) – DigFin digitalises financial products by adopting new AI technologies to improve customer experience and optimise underlying processes.
18. vestr ag (Switzerland) – They offer a cloud-based SaaS platform that is specifically designed for issuers of investment products, with a modern, web-based interface that simplifies the creation, management, and monitoring of investment products. 
19. Finmesh (Slovenia) – Their initial focus is on integrating SEPA Instant Payments with platforms like Revolut and N26, offering seamless scan-and-pay solutions for consumers and merchants.
20. Bombax (Croatia) – The Monegra app teaches children about financial literacy and encourages them towards financial independence.

Money Motion 2025 takes place on March 27 – 28 at Zagreb Fair

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become a key driver of change in the financial sector, enabling faster and more precise processes, enhanced user experiences, and more efficient risk management. According to recent studies, over 80% of financial institutions are already utilizing or actively implementing AI solutions for data analysis, fraud detection, and operational optimization. However, these advancements also raise important questions: how can we ensure transparency and security, which ethical guidelines should be followed, and where should the industry draw the line in AI applications?

These critical discussions will be key topics of Money Motion 2025, the largest regional FinTech conference, taking place March 27-28 at Zagreb Fair. The event is organized in collaboration with leading regional brands Mastercard, Monri, ASEE, OTP banka, A1 Hrvatska, Croatia osiguranje, and LAQO. 

More than 2,000 participants – from top banks, tech companies, regulators, and investors – will gather to explore how AI is reshaping the financial sector and the challenges it brings. The main stage will host expert panels covering responsible AI implementation, its role in fraud prevention, customer experience optimization, and the risks associated with excessive automation.

Ivan Skender, Chief Digital Officer & Senior Director of the Strategy, Transformation and Competence Centers at A1 Hrvatska, highlights that AI is already redefining business models and opening new opportunities:

“At A1 Hrvatska, we see AI as an opportunity to enhance customer experiences, optimize business processes, and improve operational efficiency. Our investments in AI technologies allow us to deliver faster, more accurate, and more personalized services – whether through advanced chatbot and voicebot systems, network optimization, or automating technical support. However, AI is not a replacement for human expertise. It’s a tool that enhances productivity and enables people to focus on strategic priorities. That’s why we continuously invest in employee education and develop innovative solutions through our Data and AI Community.”

AI is also transforming the way software is developed. Viktoria Merkoulova, Director of IT Group Strategy and Transformation at Nexi Group, emphasizes:

“GenAI is not a universal cure-all; it’s a tool, and its value must be measurable. At Nexi, we are shifting from traditional application development to a platform-based approach that generates applications, optimizing the entire software development and maintenance lifecycle. We are starting with simple BOTs that standardize processes and enable the creation of a shared knowledge base within the company. All of this is done within a strict framework defined by our group’s governance functions and in compliance with the AI Act.”

In the insurance sector, AI brings enormous benefits but also demands a responsible approach. Ivan Bimbi, Head of Digital Strategy & Processes at LAQO (Croatia Osiguranje), explains:

“AI is not just about speeding up processes – it’s a key element of business development. By leveraging machine learning, we enhance fraud detection and strengthen security. AI enables service personalization and optimizes core business processes, ultimately increasing customer satisfaction and loyalty. However, striking a balance between technological innovation and ethical, legal, and societal standards is crucial.”

The banking sector is also undergoing a significant transformation with AI adoption. Mario Žižek, CEO of Addiko Bank, underscores the importance of customer trust:

“AI offers advantages such as faster data processing, improved customer support, and better risk management, but the key question remains – where do we draw the line? Customer trust, data security, and regulatory compliance must be at the core of every innovation. That’s why we actively promote open dialogue about AI in finance, as informed customers make better financial decisions. I’m delighted that Addiko Bank is joining Money Motion for the third consecutive year, where we can discuss how AI is shaping banking while preserving essential human values.”

Tickets are currently available at the regular price of €299. For more details about the conference, visit the official Money Motion website, and secure your ticket via Entrio.

Volunteering increases your chances of landing a job by 27%. And if you’re young, that number is even higher: among young volunteers aged 18 – 24, almost 70% reported improved employment prospects. Volunteering doesn’t just show you’re hardworking, it proves you’re ready to learn, adapt, and grow. Even when there’s no paycheck involved. 

The number rises even more when it comes to industry-specific volunteering. Since it gives you real, job-relevant skills, over 90% volunteers who received training through their roles reported gaining new abilities that directly boosted their chances of getting employed. 

That’s why at Money Motion, we’re not just looking for volunteers. We are in search of those who are interested in gaining hands-on experience in one of the fastest-growing industries. 

We’ve split the entire MoMo Organizing Committee into five different teams so you can gain knowledge that actually matters to you. Pick your team, and shape your own future:

Production & A-Team

Ever wondered what it takes to run the largest CEE FinTech conference? From backstage logistics to last-minute problem-solving, this team keeps MoMo moving. If you love being the go-to person and making things happen, this is for you.

Press Team

Think you can handle conference PR, media, and social buzz in real time? This team operates under high energy, fast deadlines, and the need for killer content. If you love digital, storytelling, and making headlines – welcome aboard.

Accreditation Team

Be the first face people see when they arrive at Money Motion. Perfect for extroverts who thrive on meeting new people and setting the tone for an unforgettable event.

Stage Coordination Team

You’ll be the right hand to speakers, moderators, and panels – aka the backbone of the entire program. If you’re interested in event production and attending as many panels as possible, this is your golden ticket.

Hospitality & Special Events Team

Do you love networking and making connections? This team ensures that FinTech executives, speakers, and VIPs have an amazing experience at MoMo. If you dream of rubbing shoulders with industry leaders this is the place to be.

Did we mention that the volunteering gig also includes lunch and possibly the best part of Money Motion – the parties? Because all work, and no play is not how we roll.

Apply until March 16th. All you need to do is leave your contact info, and convince us you’re the best choice for the MoMo2025 team. 

If our words haven’t made you apply, the visuals might. 

Pics or it didn’t happen, right?

We totally rhymed this on purpose.

Article 1 – Organizer and Headquarters

The organizer of the “Post & Win a ticket for MoMo2026” contest (hereinafter: the “Contest”) is Short Notice Productions Ltd, Zagreb, OIB 17877731232, located at Slavonska Avenija 6, Zagreb, Croatia (hereinafter: the “Organizer”).

The method of participation in the Contest was announced on March 26, 2025, on the Money Motion Instagram, Facebook & LinkedIn account. These Rules apply to the Contest and are binding for all participants. Additionally, for the purpose of conducting the Contest, including but not limited to winner selection and notification, the Organizer will process, use, and share certain personal data of the participants.

By participating in the Contest, participants confirm that they have read, understood, and accepted these Rules.

The Organizer reserves the right to amend or supplement these Rules during the Contest and will inform participants of any such changes via a post on the Money Motion Instagram account. The Organizer is not responsible for whether participants are aware of these changes as long as they are officially posted.

Since the Contest is conducted on LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, X, and TikTok, platforms are not owned by the Organizer, all participants are required to comply with their Community Guidelines.

This Contest is not sponsored, endorsed, administered, or associated with LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, X, and TikTok. Participants provide their information to the Organizer, not to LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, X, or TikTok. By entering, participants acknowledge that LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, X, and TikTok have no responsibility towards them and that they cannot make any claims against them.

By participating in the Contest, participants agree to abide by these Rules as well as LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, X, and TikTok’s Terms of Use.

Article 2 – Name, Duration, and Location of the Contest

The Contest is named “Post & Win a ticket for MoMo2026” and will run from March 1st, 2025, to April 1st, 2025, at 11:59:59 PM.

Article 3 – Purpose of the Contest

The purpose of the Contest is to:

Encourage attendees to engage with Money Motion content.

Strengthen connections with attendees through promotion.

Promote the Money Motion social media accounts for marketing and other purposes.

Article 4 – Eligibility

The Contest is open to all EU residents aged 18 or older.

Employees of the Organizer, affiliated companies, and their immediate family members (parents, spouses, children, siblings) are not eligible.

Third parties involved in data processing or contest organization are also excluded.

If an ineligible person is found to have participated, they will be disqualified and replaced with another winner.

Article 5 – How to Participate

To enter, participants must:

Post a Money Motion related post.

Include #MoneyMotion.

Include #MoMo2025.

Only public profiles will be considered.

The Contest will end on April 1st, 2025, at 11:59:59 PM.

Late entries will not be accepted.

Participants can enter multiple times but can only win once.

If incorrect/incomplete information is provided, the entry will be invalid.

If multiple users submit the same entry, the first one to do so will be considered.

Article 6 – Disqualification

The Organizer reserves the right to disqualify participants at any time if:

They violate these Rules or submit false/incomplete information.

Their entry contains illegal, harmful, racist, defamatory, obscene, or offensive content.

Their entry is automated (e.g., using bots, scripts, macros).

The Organizer deems their participation unfair or unethical.

Article 7 – Prize Details

The prize package includes:

3×1 Ticket to Money Motion 2026

Three winners will be selected.

Article 8 – Winner Selection

The winner will be selected by a three-member jury based on the most creative post.

Selection will be completed by April 5th, 2025.

Entries received after April 1st, 2025, at 11:59:59 PM will not be considered.

Article 9 – Rights to Submitted Content

By participating, contestants grant the Organizer exclusive rights to use their submissions for any marketing or promotional purposes without compensation.

Participants guarantee that:

Their submission is original and has not been previously published.

Their submission does not violate copyright laws.

Article 10 – Winner Notification

The winner will be notified via a comment on their submission.

The winner must respond via e-mail inbox within 7 days and confirm their identity.

If the winner does not respond within 7 days, another participant may be selected.

Article 11 – Winner Identification

Winners must confirm their identity using a valid ID.

Failure to provide ID results in forfeiting the prize.

Article 12 – Prize Delivery

The prize will be delivered within 60 business days of the winner announcement.

If the winner does not report a missing prize within 15 days, the Organizer is not responsible for non-receipt.

No cash or alternative prizes will be offered.

Article 13 – Data Protection

Participants consent to the collection, processing, and use of their personal data for contest administration.

The Organizer will store data for up to 12 months and ensure compliance with the EU GDPR (2016/679).

Participants have the right to access, correct, or delete their data and can withdraw consent at any time.

Complaints can be directed to AZOP (Croatian Data Protection Agency).

Article 14 – Contest Cancellation

The Organizer may cancel the Contest due to force majeure (e.g., hacking, fraud, technical failures). Participants will be notified via the Organizer’s website.

Article 15 – Dispute Resolution

In case of disputes, the Municipal Court in Zagreb will have jurisdiction.

Article 16 – Final Provisions

The Organizer is not liable for delays, lost entries, or technical failures.

All decisions by the Organizer are final.

Third year in a row, Money Motion is giving FinTech startups the opportunity to shine and grow. Applications are open until February 28th with the most valuable prize pool so far

Micro, small and medium enterprises are the backbone of the European economy. More than 90 percent of all companies are small entrepreneurs who have been experiencing a decline in their productivity due to regulation and administration. A huge part of which is invoicing and financial reporting. It was also a great opportunity for a small Croatian team of a seasoned banking professional and two experienced engineers to offer an indispensable platform that will change the game for a growing number of their clients.

Their story started back in 2022, and a year ago, FIRA Solutions, an invoicing and financial reporting application that simplifies financial management, stepped onto the Money Motion Startup Pitch Competition stage alongside 14 startups from 12 different countries. Today, they’re doubling their user base, expanding internationally, and preparing for even bigger milestones.

We caught up with Marko Jurjević, CEO of FIRA Solutions, to talk about the impact of Money Motion, their journey since, and what’s next. 

1. How was your experience at last year’s MoMo Startup Pitch competition?

It was a fantastic event – well-organized and professional. There were many interesting people, and the pitch competition was executed at a high level. It took me some time to practice my pitch to fit the 5-minute slot, and I happily managed to deliver it on time. It was engaging to both the audience and the jury which resulted in valuable positive feedback afterwards, even though we didn’t make it into the top three. Overall, it was a great opportunity to present FIRA and network.

2. Take us through your last year since the competition. Which major events have you gone through?

It’s been an incredible year. We’ve doubled the number of FIRA users and more than doubled our revenue. We’ve also added exciting features, like expanding open banking access to 30 European countries and integrating with about 2,500 banks and payment providers. We implemented an AI-powered OCR model for invoice scanning and data extraction. Our international expansion is underway, with Austria as our first target market.

3. How has being part of MoMo influenced your business since?

Although MoMo didn’t directly influence our business model – since we are bootstrapped and not seeking investors – the connections we made within the financial sector have been invaluable. They might lead to future partnerships. Plus, the company behind MoMo became a FIRA user, which has been great.

4. In terms of scaling your business further, what are your next steps?

We had an incredible start into 2025 with strong user and revenue growth, and we anticipate this trend to continue throughout the year. Starting in 2026, eInvoices will become mandatory for B2B businesses in Croatia, and we expect this to boost our growth, as FIRA fully supports eInvoice issuance. Austria remains a key focus for expansion, and we plan to enter Germany later this year.

5. Given the wide adoption of AI and the EU announcement of a 200-billion-euro investment in AI, do you see an opportunity there for FIRA?

AI will play a big role in FIRA’s future. We’re implementing an AI chatbot that, we believe, can handle 90% of customer inquiries. Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella recently stated that SaaS will be replaced by AIaaS in the future, and I believe this vision is not far off. Imagine a future where a user can issue an invoice simply by talking to an AI, automating the entire process. However, while the frontend will evolve, the backend and system architecture will remain crucial for SaaS solutions like FIRA.

6. Where do you see FIRA in the next five years?

In five years, FIRA will transform from an invoicing and financial reporting app into a comprehensive financial management platform that entrepreneurs use daily. Our vision is to make FIRA not just a tool, but an active partner in managing and tracking finances. A key part of this goal is embedded financing – leveraging the deep data insights FIRA gathers about users’ businesses to provide smarter financial solutions. For example, if a user has outstanding invoices, FIRA could offer invoice financing to improve cash flow. If a user has excess liquidity, we could suggest investment opportunities. This combination of financial automation and embedded financing will make FIRA essential to entrepreneurs’ daily workflows.

7. Which advice would you give to our finalists this year? What is your secret spice in preparing a pitch?
Keep it simple. Do not overload your slides – sometimes just a few words are enough to make a lasting impression. The delivery is far more important than the deck. Remember, you are speaking to an audience that has no prior knowledge of what you are doing, so clarity is key.

8. Will we be seeing you again at this year’s MoMo?
Absolutely! The MoMo team has invited me to participate in a Fight Club format, and I have already started training for it. I’m really looking forward to being part of MoMo 2025 again!

Ready to pitch your startup?

The MoMo Startup Pitch Competition is open for innovative startups seeking their next big opportunity. Apply by February 28th for a chance to win a share of the 50,000€ prize fund. 

The largest prize fund up-to-date includes cash prizes, a spot in the Fundraising Programme, a MoMo2026 booth, and 30,000€ worth of partner services. 

Apply now, and be ready to take your startup to the next level. 

Discover the latest retail trends at Money Motion, the biggest CEE FinTech conference.

Cards have taken over cash. In the past decade alone, the share of cash transactions in the eurozone has dropped from 79% to 52%. Once upon a time, we counted coins at checkout, swiped our cards, cleaned magnetic strips, and struggled with chipped debit cards. Today, more and more people don’t even bother reaching for their wallets when it’s time to pay. Instead, they scan their loyalty card on their phone and then tap the device on a POS terminal to complete the transaction via a mobile wallet.

We’ve simplified the process – for ourselves as consumers and for retailers. Whether physical or digital, card payments are faster, easier, and, at the end of the day, simpler to track through mobile banking and loyalty apps. While loyalty programs first appeared on the market about two decades ago, their real boom is only happening now. Market projections indicate that their biggest impact is yet to come. European retailers are increasingly incorporating loyalty programs into their growth strategies, while continuous inflation is motivating consumers to use them to reduce costs.

This major shift has established a new dynamic between consumers and retailers, making data on shopping habits, consumer needs, and priorities more valuable than ever. Personalized offers, point collection, exclusive discounts, and various gamification models have become an everyday experience for many.

How does the FinTech industry fit into this transformation? How are leading tech, card, and payment companies collaborating with retail brands? These are just some of the key questions that will be answered by top industry experts at the third edition of the Money Motion conference. Taking place on March 27–28 at the Zagreb Fair, the conference is organized in collaboration with leading regional industry brands ASEE, Monri, Mastercard, OTP banka, A1 Hrvatska, Croatia osiguranje, and LAQO. Read on for a sneak peak of what’s in store for MoMo2025.

“One in ten POS transactions in Croatia in 2024 was made via a digital wallet instead of a physical card. This data, sourced from Monri’s payment traffic analysis, clearly indicates that mobile wallets are no longer just a passing trend – they’ve become an essential part of modern payment solutions. Digital wallets will be one of the hottest topics at this year’s Money Motion conference.

I’m also excited that, for the first time, we’re welcoming key players from the retail sector to open up a dialogue on how digital and innovative solutions can enhance the customer experience – not just in payments, but in optimizing retail operations as well,” says Robert Penezić, co-founder of Money Motion and a board member at Monri Payments.

One of the leading retailers joining the Money Motion stage this year is Studenac, Croatia’s fastest-growing and most widespread retail chain. On the retail panel, Nina Mimica, Board Member and Chief Innovation and Digitalization Officer at Studenac, will join other experts to discuss how smart data collection and management are creating real value for customers, employees, and the long-term growth of the company.

“I’ve been following Money Motion for two years now, and it’s exciting to see the event continuously raising the bar for business gatherings. This year, I’m especially pleased to see the program expand further, allowing the retail industry to share its experiences and best practices.

At Studenac, we strongly believe in the power of digitalization and data analytics. Not just for optimizing operations but for directly impacting revenue and profitability. Through high-quality data collection and analysis, we make key decisions – from personalizing customer offers to strategically expanding our network. For example, advanced analytics tools help us decide where to open new stores, ensuring each location is tailored to community needs and strengthens our unique neighborhood store concept,” says Tatjana Spajić, Director of Corporate Communications at Studenac.

Nexi Group, Europe’s leading PayTech company, which collaborates with over 2 million merchants and processes 1.5 million transactions daily, agrees with this sentiment. As one of the industry’s key brands and leaders, Nexi has been a proud supporter of Money Motion for the third consecutive year.

“Thanks to technology and innovation, our favorite stores have become experts at understanding our needs. Personalized recommendations based on past purchases, special offers and discounts appearing just when we need them – these are all ways retailers ‘read’ us like an open book. Every visit feels as though the store knows and values our preferences. There are also apps that notify us about new products and trends tailored to our tastes. In this way, shopping has evolved into a true partnership,” says Renata Devčić, Head of Merchant Solutions and Marketing at Nexi Croatia.

For startups looking to introduce new solutions in consumer and payment trends, applications for the Money Motion Startup Competition are open until the end of February. The winners will split a prize pool of over €50,000. The top ten teams will pitch their solutions in front of a jury consisting of six industry managers, mentors, and investors on the first day of the conference, with the winners announced at the end of day two.

Currently, Early Bird tickets are available for €250, granting access to the full two-day conference program and evening networking events. The discounted rate is available until the end of the month, after which regular ticket sales will begin in March.

For more details about the conference, visit the official Money Motion website, and secure your ticket via the Entrio platform.

Leading brands and cutting-edge technological solutions at this year’s Money Motion

Cyberattacks on financial institutions have continued to rise in both frequency and impact over the past year. For a long time, banks and companies offering similar services have been prime targets for cybercriminals. Just last year, the industry witnessed dozens of cases of major data and asset losses. For this reason, investments in cybersecurity have never been higher.

Leading consulting and research firms predict that cybersecurity investments in FinTech will grow from tens to hundreds of billions of euros over the next five years. Today, three out of four banks worldwide use artificial intelligence to detect transaction anomalies in real time and identify attackers before they can cause harm. In addition to AI, industry experts have high hopes for blockchain technology as a tool for enhancing security and transparency.

The European Union is actively working on implementing the Digital Operational Resilience Act (DORA), which will introduce stricter cybersecurity standards for all participants in the financial ecosystem starting this year. At the same time, the NIS2 directive additionally expands cybersecurity obligations by imposing stricter data protection and incident response requirements – not just for financial institutions but also for a broad range of other critical sectors.

To address these challenges and ensure system resilience, FinTech leaders, regulators, and security experts are gathering at the Money Motion conference organized in collaboration with leading regional brands ASEE, Monri, Mastercard, OTP banka, A1 Hrvatska, Croatia osiguranje, and LAQO. The conference will take place on March 27–28 at the Zagreb Fair.

We asked top experts from three different FinTech domains – banking, payment processing, and cybersecurity – how they tackle cyber threats and what they expect from the conference.

It is clear to OTP Group that cybersecurity has become the foundation of financial industry stability and client trust in today’s dynamic digital environment. From sophisticated threats and growing regulatory requirements to the complexity of the systems they manage, the bank is well aware of the key challenges facing the industry. That’s why OTP continuously invests in state-of-the-art security technologies, strengthens the protection of sensitive data, and collaborates with regulators and experts to uphold the highest security standards.

A particular focus, says Balázs Békeffy, CEO of OTP banka, is on artificial intelligence, which brings both opportunities and challenges in protecting financial transactions and personal data. 

“AI enables faster and more accurate threat detection and automated responses to potential attacks, but it requires responsible management to ensure transparency and ethical application. OTP banka remains committed to innovation and the development of security solutions that provide reliable and secure digital banking for our clients. Our strategy is based on continuously improving technology, strengthening expert teams, and partnering with key stakeholders to build a secure future for the financial industry together.”

Experts often emphasize a broader societal issue – the shortage of cybersecurity professionals, as well as a lack of education and employee engagement in detecting, preventing, and responding to cyber threats in a timely manner.”While AI and decentralized finance are transforming the industry, we are simultaneously witnessing a continuous rise in cyber threats. This environment requires technological innovation, broader access to cybersecurity solutions, and a stronger approach to data protection through advanced defense systems against increasingly AI-driven cyberattacks. Education and awareness – both among users and professionals – are becoming key factors in this process. A sustainable and secure FinTech ecosystem can only be built through continuous learning and proactive engagement from all stakeholders. Platforms like the Money Motion conference play a vital role in fostering idea exchange, joint education, and better preparation for digital risks,” said Željka Jurić, Product Manager at ASEE.

The development of new FinTech solutions, including integrated payment systems and almost invisible transactions, is an exciting next step for the industry and a key topic at the upcoming Money Motion conference. However, every new system launched on the market must prioritize security concerns and address potential vulnerabilities before they become a problem.

At 7Security, experts believe that self-paying cars and smart refrigerators that automatically order groceries are much closer to reality than many think. While discussions about such innovations often delve into machine consciousness, the real issue is the security of transactions in which humans are not directly involved during any stage.”The good news? Security standards are evolving and opening new doors for innovation. As PCI (Payment Card Industry) experts, we see firsthand how security standards adapt to meet industry needs. One of the key developments is MPoC (Mobile Payments on COTS)—a relatively new PCI standard that sets security requirements for accepting card data and PINs on the same mobile device. This allows technology providers to optimize and enhance the payment experience for merchants and consumers. In 2024, we have already seen the first successful MPoC-certified solutions, which fully unlock the potential of integrated payments. Merchants and service providers can now embed MPoC-certified SDKs into their mobile apps, essentially turning them into various modern payment instruments,” said Pavel Kaminsky, Founder & CEO of 7Security.

For new innovative cybersecurity solutions and other industry challenges, applications for the Money Motion Startup Competition are open until the end of February. Winners will share a prize fund exceeding €50,000. The top ten teams will pitch their solutions to a jury of six managers, mentors, and investors on the first day of the conference, with winners announced at the end of the second day.
A ticket grants access to the two-day conference program as well as evening events during the event. For more information, visit the official Money Motion conference website and secure your ticket via the Entrio platform.

Find out how modern technologies and new players are reshaping the financial landscape at the Money Motion conference.

Experts and industry reports suggest that banks in the future will become almost invisible. The only way for leading players to survive and remain market leaders is to listen to user demands – and the numbers have been proving it for years. In the UK alone, over a million customers switched banks last year, and a quarter of customers worldwide were willing to change their primary bank the year before.

Technological advancements have completely transformed the market, bringing new opportunities but also increasing demands. Customers seek custom-made services – from better conditions and fewer obligations to timely customer support, enhanced cybersecurity, and seamless accessibility with minimal clicks.

New challengers, driven by technology and more agile than traditional banking infrastructures, pose yet another challenge to players across the financial market, from the largest institutions to the smallest startups. Industry challenges, best practices, and innovative solutions will be presented by over 90 professionals across four stages at this year’s Money Motion conference, organized in collaboration with leading regional brands ASEE, Monri, Mastercard, OTP banka, A1 Hrvatska, Croatia osiguranje, and LAQO. It will take place on March 27-28 at the Zagreb Fair. 

“The entry of FinTech companies into the banking market is a significant challenge for traditional banking, primarily because it has accelerated the development of digital solutions and so-called time-to-market. This requires frequent updates and adjustments to existing products, as well as a continued, comprehensive digital transformation of banking operations.

Beyond changing traditional business models, financial institutions and service providers are also gaining new opportunities to develop faster, more transparent, and cost-effective services for clients. Ultimately, end users – everyday consumers- stand to benefit the most, through simplified, high-quality, and advanced digital services, an improved customer experience, greater choice, and more competitive pricing,” says Christoph Schoefboeck, CEO of Erste Bank.

Erste Bank is an excellent example of a financial institution that has adapted to the rise of new market solutions and increasing customer expectations. Their Keks Pay and George apps have been growing in user numbers for years, now exceeding one million users, regularly competing with the biggest international and local FinTech rivals. Many of Keks Pay’s services are tailored to everyday customer needs and preferences, often offering the most cost-effective way to pay for third-party, non-banking services.

Innovative solutions aimed at enhancing the user experience in the FinTech industry still have time to apply for the Money Motion Startup Pitch competition. During the conference, the top 10 selected teams will present their solutions to a six-member expert jury and compete for the best prizes to date.

Antonio Argir, board member of NLB Bank, Slovenia’s leading bank, agrees that customers dictate the pace and product portfolio. 

“We have already digitalized most of our services, allowing clients not only 24/7 access to mobile banking apps but also fully digital access to a range of financial products, including consumer loans, cards, overdrafts, and deposits, available anytime and anywhere.

This ensures a seamless, on-demand service experience, meeting the growing expectations of today’s consumers. However, even in this digital world, trust and security remain of greatest importance. Our clients prioritize the security of their financial data, and maintaining that trust is essential for long-term relationships. This is where traditional banks hold a competitive edge – our decades of expertise in risk management, compliance, and data protection.”

The security of traditional banking systems is becoming an increasingly important concern, especially as reports of neobank customers losing funds with no means of recovery continue to emerge worldwide. Whether the issue lies in customers’ digital and financial literacy or in the security practices expected of banks is often difficult to determine case by case. However, one recurring theme remains – customer support and trust. Although public trust in banks has been declining, users value simple, timely, and efficient communication.

Ivan Ostojić, Infobip board member, recently discussed this topic with Efi Pylarinou, a globally recognized FinTech expert, highlighting key trends in Latin America. With WhatsApp’s massive market penetration in the region, some banks have developed dedicated solutions to offer banking services – including payments – directly within the app.

A surprising example comes from the Middle East, where, despite strict banking regulations, financial institutions have successfully integrated conversational banking solutions. As Ostojić explains, customers use WhatsApp for basic tasks like checking account balances, transferring funds, or retrieving information, while they turn to the bank’s mobile app for more complex financial actions, such as investment management.

Over 2,500 experts, entrepreneurs, managers, investors, and consultants will gather at the third edition of Money Motion to engage in open discussions about the future of banking and other key areas of the FinTech industry.

A ticket grants access to the two-day conference program and exclusive evening networking events. Find all event details on the official Money Motion website, and purchase your ticket via Entrio.

More than 90 industry leaders to discuss the future of the industry at the third edition of Money Motion

Artificial intelligence and blockchain are the two technological developments that have been driving growth in the FinTech industry. Until six months ago, every market report and forecast focused on these technologies, their potential, and process optimization. But in the past half-year, new developments have captured the attention of industry leaders and are making a strong impact on all of us.

In December 2024, Bitcoin surpassed $100,000 for the first time. This growth was influenced by multiple factors, including Donald Trump winning the U.S. presidential election. Throughout the entirety of his campaign, and afterwards as well, Trump has openly supported the crypto market and policies aimed at fostering technological innovation, easing regulations, or even removing them entirely.

At the same time, global FinTech investments reached $8.4 billion in the last quarter of 2024, marking a 12 percent increase from the previous quarter. This is the first sign of market stabilization after two years of industry maturation.

These are just some of the key trends shaping the future of FinTech. More than 90 industry experts will discuss these developments at Money Motion, the largest FinTech conference in Central and Eastern Europe. Organized in collaboration with leading regional brands ASEE, Monri, and Mastercard, Money Motion will take place on March 27-28 at the Zagreb Fair.

“According to Monri’s data, interest in crypto has grown 20% annually over the past five years. I am certain that cryptocurrencies will once again be one of the key topics at Money Motion. With this event, Zagreb continues to position itself as the financial hub of the region – bringing together industry leaders, encouraging knowledge exchange, and creating new business opportunities,” says Damir Čaušević, CEO of Monri Payments and co-founder of Money Motion.

As a central platform in CEE for FinTech trends, solutions and networking, Money Motion has introduced key players from both traditional finance and disruptive challengers to the region. Over 700 companies attended the first two editions of the conference to hear insights from leaders like Andrius Bičeika, a Revolut board member, Panagiotis Kriaris, Head of Business and Corporate Development at Unzer, and Anna Maj, CEO of Bridge, a global FinTech offering payment solutions and bank data aggregation services. Attendees had the opportunity to hear first-hand about the industry’s biggest challenges and how leaders are solving them

“We are in a defining moment for our industry. Technology is changing how we think about money, payments, and value exchange. Digital assets like cryptocurrencies, CBDCs, and tokenized funds are already reshaping finance, but we are just beginning to see their full potential. At Mastercard, we work closely with industry leaders to ensure that security, trust, and innovation remain at the core of every development. Over the years, we have moved from cash to cards, and now we are entering a new phase that combines emerging technologies with the existing financial infrastructure,” says Christian Rau, SVP Global Partnerships Digital Assets, Blockchain, and FinTech Enablement at Mastercard. Rau was a keynote speaker at the first Money Motion conference, winning audience’s hearts, and is returning to the main stage this year.

New technologies are driving many of the key discussions at Money Motion. Alongside the main stage, the ‘FinTech 2030’ stage will explore what lies ahead for the industry.

“In the coming years, I expect the rise of personalized payment experiences, making transactions easier and more secure – whether through physical cards, mobile devices, biometric solutions, or blockchain. Collaboration between industry leaders, regulators, and innovators is crucial. Our long-term partnerships with crypto platforms and traditional financial institutions show how technology can drive inclusion and create opportunities for all. At Money Motion, we won’t just talk about today’s innovations; we will share our vision for how the future of digital payments will foster global connectivity and economic growth,” Rau adds.

For more details on Money Motion, visit the official conference website. Tickets are available on the Entrio platform.