ArmInfo. The next annual Banking Forum will be held in Yerevan on September 23 at the Armenia Marriott Hotel.
The event is designed to bring together industry leaders, fintech innovators and regulators to discuss the latest trends, challenges and opportunities in the financial system and will show the directions in which the dynamic transformation of the banking landscape of Armenia is taking place.
The forum is organized by the Union of Banks of Armenia, the Central Bank, the Banks of Central and Eastern Europe Association (BACEE), and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD).
The event will feature panel discussions on the following topics: Digital Transformation and Innovation; Regulatory Reforms and Economic Growth; Challenges and Opportunities; Sustainable Finance and ESG Initiatives; Capital Market; Armenia's New Reality as an Economic Shock; Reliable Risk Management: Understanding Sanctions and Compliance.
According to the Forum organizers, the Armenian banking sector is undergoing a significant digital transformation, driven by advances in technology and changing customer expectations. This shift towards digitalization allows banks to offer more personalized and efficient services, increasing customer engagement and satisfaction. Despite the progress made, banks face a number of challenges on their journey to digital transformation. Many banks are struggling to bridge the gap between digital strategy and execution, with cloud adoption lagging behind other countries.
However, there are significant opportunities for growth, particularly in SME and sustainable finance. Sustainability is becoming a key focus for Armenian banks, with an increasing emphasis on Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) initiatives. Reports from international financial institutions highlight the importance of integrating ESG into banking operations to enhance long-term value and sustainability. Banks are exploring innovative solutions to support sustainable finance, such as green bonds and sustainability-linked loans, to meet the growing demand for responsible investment options.
At the same time, developing a vibrant capital market is essential to finance long-term growth and attract investment. This session will bring together regulators, market participants and international partners to discuss the current situation, strategic reforms and steps needed to deepen and expand Armenia's capital market access to finance.
Armenia and its banking system are facing a new reality.
It is associated with both shocks and new opportunities - regional economic changes on the one hand, and new prospects in new markets and financial reforms on the other. In an increasingly complex global environment, Armenian banks face heightened expectations related to international sanctions regimes and compliance standards. At the Forum, its participants will also consider strengthening risk management systems to ensure operational resilience and maintain institutional integrity.
