How should Europe finance its future? A discussion with the EU commissioner

On March 24 we welcomed Maria Luís Albuquerque, EU Commissioner for Financial Services and the Investments Union to CBS for a discussion on Europe’s financial future.

Her presentation was attended by 100 students who had the opportunity to discuss the critical question: How should Europe finance its future?

With the EU facing significant investment needs, from the green and digital transition to defence spending, the conversation centered on how these projects should be financed.

Should Europe rely on EU-wide debt, mobilise pension funds or encourage private savings?

Following the commissioner’s presentation, Professors Lasse Heje Pedersen and Jesper Rangvid from the Department of Finance moderated a discussion with the students.

Topics included Europe’s competitiveness with USA and China, the opportunities and challenges of a single European capital market, the future of pensions and savings within the EU and possible reforms to simplify business regulations.

The event ended with an informal reception, where attendees continued their conversations over refreshments. Many took the opportunity to network, exchange ideas and capture a group photo with the commissioner.