At the Kopaonik Business Forum, one of the region’s key business events, Nikola Vuletić, President of the Executive Board of UniCredit Bank Serbia, highlighted the financial sector’s adaptation to global trends and the role of new technologies. He emphasized that customers increasingly demand fast, simple, efficient, and personalized financial services, driving banks to further their digital transformation, enhance fintech development, and adjust to ESG standards.
Vuletić pointed out regional challenges such as differing regulatory frameworks, political circumstances, and varied levels of economic development. He also identified limited access to capital as a major challenge, with conservative sources predominating in the region.
In his discussion of banks and fintech companies, Vuletić noted the shift from competition to collaboration. Initially seen as rivals, banks and fintech companies now recognize each other’s strengths: banks bring stability, trust, and regulatory compliance, while fintech firms offer innovation, agility, and advanced technology. This synergy enhances services, reduces costs, and fosters growth for both parties.
Looking to the future, Vuletić foresees the financial sector becoming more reliant on advanced technologies, including AI, which will drive tailored services and greater automation. He also expects sustainable finance and ESG factors to become integral to financial products, with an emphasis on socially responsible business practices.
