The first edition of Money Talks, a one-day, exclusive FinTech event produced by Money Motion, will take place on June 9th in Bled. The new format, with a localized approach to the leading challenges in the financial and technological market, brings together globally relevant experts and opinion-makers.The Money Talks tour begins in Slovenia at the internationally renowned IEDC Business School. The one-day program will cover the most important current topics for the Slovenian and regional economy—from the digital euro and new regulations to AI banks and agency payments.
“In a time of geopolitical tensions, market fragmentation, and accelerated technological development, the financial system and technological infrastructure are becoming a strategic issue of national security, not just economic development,” warns Prof. Dr. Mislav Ante Omazić, President of the Board and Acting Dean of IEDC – Bled School of Management, who will also open the program of the first Money Talks.
The financial sector today accounts for about 10 percent of all globally reported cyber incidents, he adds, while the number of digital frauds has almost tripled in recent years.
“This clearly shows how interconnected financial stability, digital resilience, and technological autonomy are. States that lack the ability to manage their own financial and digital capacities become extremely vulnerable to external shocks, value chain disruptions, and shifts in global centers of power. That is precisely why investing in modern financial mechanisms, digital competencies, and strategic technologies is no longer a matter of choice, but a prerequisite for long-term independence, resilience, competitiveness, and social stability.”
More than 20 experts from various domains of the FinTech industry will share their experiences and insights through a dozen lectures and panels on stage. What technological solutions in the financial market are crucial for preserving both the economic independence and strength of Slovenia, as well as other countries, will be one of the key questions on the agenda. Marko Pahor, Vice Governor of the Bank of Slovenia, will reveal how the digital euro will affect all stakeholders in the Slovenian market with his opening lecture. The globally recognized expert Panagiotis Kriaris will elaborate on what building a business in an industry with technology as a key infrastructure entails, while Darko Jovišić, Executive Director and Co-founder of Robotiq, will pose the main question about artificial intelligence: who is late for the fastest technology train?
“In an era of unpredictable global changes, financial literacy and trust in technology are not just an advantage, but fundamental pillars of national security and economic independence. At Mastercard, we believe that a stable financial system rests on an empowered individual, which is why we actively strengthen knowledge of financial management through educational initiatives,” says Luka Gabrovšek, Country Manager for Slovenia, Mastercard.
“We are simultaneously paving the way for a secure future through innovation; our cybersecurity solutions are setting new standards in preventing online fraud and ensuring the impeccable security of digital payments. Events like Money Talks are a valuable platform for open dialogue, connecting stakeholders toward a more resilient ecosystem. By intertwining knowledge and advanced technologies, we are not only following the future of finance, but actively co-creating a safe and trustworthy environment that will support the long-term stability of the Slovenian economy.” Samo Kumar, CEO of Bankart, a leading payment provider on the market, agrees with him.
“If you have ever paid for coffee in Bled, dinner in Ljubljana, or a ski ticket in Kranjska Gora, there is a high probability that the transaction in the background passed through Bankart—quickly, securely, and without interruption. This is not a coincidence. This is the infrastructure that drives Slovenia.”
In a world where payments never stop, infrastructure must be reliable, he adds, but also keep pace with changes brought by instant payments, the digital euro, and new digital financial services. Stability is no longer enough if it does not come with adaptability.
“Slovenia is a good example of resilience in this regard. Through solutions like Flik instant payments Slovenia, built on instant infrastructure, it retains the ability to function quickly, safely, and independently even in unpredictable circumstances. At Bankart, we are building infrastructure that not only supports the financial system but enables the economy and everyday life to function without delays. From real-time processing to preparations for the digital euro—we ensure that Slovenia remains connected, operational, and ready for the future. Payments must work. Always. That is our responsibility.”
