Qualco Group has entered into a strategic partnership with United Arab Bank, one of the most established and trusted banking institutions in the United Arab Emirates.

As part of this collaboration, Qualco Group’s technology arm and United Arab Bank will implement QUALCO ProximaPlus, a cutting-edge solution designed to enhance the bank’s Supply Chain Finance (SCF) operations.

By transitioning to QUALCO ProximaPlus’ fully integrated digital platform and automated processes, United Arab Bank will be able to expand and optimise its services, better address evolving market needs, improve cash flow and liquidity management, and enhance the overall customer experience.

With a vision to create state-of-the-art technology solutions that drive positive change, Qualco Group develops and exports financial technology across 30+ countries in Europe and the Middle East. In the Middle East specifically, the Group serves 11 banking and financial sector clients across five countries (UAE, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and Egypt).

Ioannis Maniadakis, VP New Ventures, Qualco, stated:
“The UAE is a region with significant innovation potential. At Qualco Group, we take pride in partnering with leading banking institutions in this rapidly evolving market. Our collaboration with United Arab Bank reflects our commitment to delivering efficient and scalable solutions that address industry needs and create lasting value for our clients and their markets.”

George Koukis, International Business Development Director, Qualco, added:
“We are excited to support United Arab Bank with our technology, enabling scalability and faster market entry for new SCF products. Additionally, we enhance transparency, facilitating real-time communication between the bank and its customers. This partnership aligns with our strategic focus on the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), Middle East, and North Africa (MENA) regions, where we are actively investing in growth and expansion.”

Nael Mourad, Head of Wholesale Banking United Arab Bank, commented:
“Our partnership with Qualco Group will help us provide clients with real-time insights, seamless communication, and flexible SCF solutions. Moreover, this collaboration improves access to cost-effective financing while strengthening relationships between corporate buyers and suppliers, enhancing the resilience of supply chains in the UAE market.”

Niraj Kumar, Head of Global Transaction Banking United Arab Bank, added:
“At United Arab Bank, we understand that effective cash flow management is essential for businesses operating in the UAE. QUALCO ProximaPlus addresses this need by offering uninterrupted financing solutions that enhance customer experiences and benefit all stakeholders. This aligns with our vision of continuously improving client

In recent years, a new term has emerged in the financial world, redefining the financial sector and the provision of related services.

We are talking about Financial Technology, or, as it is better known, FinTech, which is a “partnership” of technological innovation with financial services. The result is the radical reshaping of the financial market by emerging new business models, services and applications.

In Greece, FinTech’s growth potential is remarkable. It is based on collaboration between the academic community and businesses. Its further development requires strengthening the research effort for the country to become a strong “pole” of financial innovation.

In this spirit, the Qualco group, which stands out in the FinTech sector, has collaborated with the National Center for Natural Sciences Research “Demokritos” since 2021. The result of this collaboration is a new, top-level initiative to create an innovation hub that, by supporting academic research, lays the foundations for the development of FinTech in our country.

“Building” the new generation of Greek researchers

Specifically, the Qualco group, joining forces with the National Center for Natural Sciences Research “Demokritos”, has created an “ecosystem” of scientific knowledge around FinTech, which utilises, among other things, artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning systems and big data analysis.

The first step of the collaboration is the five-year scholarship program ” Demokritos—Qualco Fellowship Programme,” which began in October 2021. Within the framework of this initiative, young researchers in the country have the opportunity to develop their ideas in FinTech and implement their ambitious scientific plans and projects, creating products and services that impact society and the economy.

An innovation hub

The idea behind the scholarship program was to generate new initiatives through an innovation hub. This “partnership” paved the way for the development of FinTech and new positions for researchers through competitive scholarships and high-paying jobs. According to Dr. Elias Zavitsanos, head of the research team, the innovative solutions they result in “bring our research closer to the needs of the market and society.”

Thanks to the National Center for Natural Sciences Research “Demokritos” collaboration with the Qualco group, the appropriate conditions are created for young researchers to develop their scientific work.

“This specific initiative is yet another manifestation of our vision at Qualco Group and our effort to give back to society. In recent years, our effort has now taken concrete form through the activation of the Qualco Foundation, ” explains the head of the group in Greece, Orestis Tsakalotos. On behalf of the National Center for Natural Sciences Research “Demokritos”, Dr. Denia Kanellopoulou, Scientific Manager of the program, states that: “we are particularly fortunate to have the support of the Qualco Group because it provides us with the necessary funding, the know-how in an important sector for business innovation, undivided support but also great freedom in terms of the research approach we follow.”

After all, the Qualco group is a leading Fintech technology solutions and services provider that has served organisations worldwide for 25 years. It is a reliable partner in capital management, risk reduction and adaptation to modern technological requirements. At the same time, it provides innovative technological tools that facilitate claims management and risk prevention. Among its fields of activity are finance, artificial intelligence, Big Data, and analysis, which offer personalised services that meet the needs of both the private and public sectors.

The five-year plan

The ” Demokritos—Qualco Fellowship Programme ” supports doctoral and postdoctoral research, as well as innovative workshops and competitions. To date, three high-level research and development (R&D) positions have been created, one for postdoctoral and two for doctoral research on topics related to artificial intelligence and big data, while five master’s theses have been scientifically supported. At the same time, the research topics have been co-designed by the Qualco group and the National Center for Natural Sciences Research “Demokritos” after many preparatory discussions.

The convergence in research practices was a unique challenge as, according to Dr Denia Kanellopoulou, “a lot of work was carried out in collaboration with the company to emerge innovative research directions through the business needs of the industry .” At the same time, as she explains, securing a high-level team of collaborators and international recognition of the research results was also a challenge.

The NCSR “Demokritos” facilities

“Perhaps a small step has been taken towards addressing the brain drain.”

The established practice is for researchers to divide their time between various other activities to secure the resources for their research project. The collaboration of the Qualco group with the National Center for Natural Sciences Research “Demokritos”), through the entire funding it offers, changes the data by enabling young researchers to dedicate 100% of their time to their research.

Consequently, all the appropriate conditions are created for everyone to pursue their research interests, contributing to limiting the brain drain phenomenon.

“The form of the scholarship ensures that I can devote myself fully to my doctoral research, improving both my experience and my research results,” says Konstantinos Bougiatiotis, one of the two doctoral candidates in the scholarship program, confirming that the above model could be a success story of a lasting collaboration between businesses and research organisations. For his part, doctoral candidate Andreas Sideras raised the issue of the challenges presented by the financial sector, with the program allowing him to come into contact with this area, “strengthening both my research and the ability to solve real problems.”

The three research fellows of the program, Konstantinos Bougiatiotis, Elias Zavitsanos, Andreas Sideras

By opening the channel between the business and research communities, the results can only benefit the scientific field and society. Thus, through the collaboration of the Qualco group with the National Center for Natural Sciences Research “Demokritos,” the five-year scholarship program ” Demokritos—Qualco Fellowship Programme ” inspires young researchers to realize their research ambitions in fertile and smooth conditions.

Read the full story at CNN

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In today’s fast-paced environment, the concept of wellbeing has evolved from a buzzword to a business imperative. Companies that prioritise the health and happiness of their employees are not just creating a pleasant work atmosphere—they’re laying the foundation for long-term success.  
 
At Qualco Group, we recognise that when our employees are well, our entire organization flourishes. That’s why we’ve made it our mission to foster a work environment where wellbeing is encouraged and woven into the fabric of our corporate culture. Through Wellbeing Week, every year we are actively promoting a holistic approach to wellbeing. This initiative reflects our deep commitment to supporting our people in every aspect of their lives, ultimately driving greater productivity, engagement, and innovation across the board.

Our Holistic Approach to Employee Wellbeing

At Qualco Group, we believe that true employee wellbeing encompasses every aspect of our people’s lives. We are committed to a holistic approach that covers mental, emotional, physical, social, environmental, financial, and career wellbeing. This approach includes:

• Offering mental health workshops and counseling services to ensure psychological safety,
• Providing wellness programmes and fitness activities for physical health,
• Promoting financial wellness through competitive remuneration packages and equal pay policies.
• Supporting social connections through community-building and volunteer initiatives,
• Encouraging environmental awareness with recycling programmes and energy efficiency efforts.
• Investing in our people’s career wellbeing by offering development programmes and internal mobility opportunities to foster growth.

By addressing these interconnected dimensions, we create an environment where employees feel supported in all facets of life, allowing them to thrive both personally and professionally. Our approach fosters flexibility, inclusivity, and growth, ensuring that our people are respected and empowered. This comprehensive focus on wellbeing not only enhances productivity and engagement but also strengthens the resilience and adaptability of our entire organisation.

Wellbeing Week at Qualco Group 

“Wellbeing Week”, is our annual event designed to promote all facets of employee wellbeing and inviting our people to embrace healthier habits and try a new way of life participating every day in activities that cover all Wellbeing pillars such as Mental, Physical, Financial, personal professional, social, and environmental.

The week was packed with diverse activities: 

• Mental Health: Engaging live sessions and expert-led webinars focused on stress management and resilience. 
• Physical Health & Wellbeing: Fitness activities such as yoga, Pilates, and challenges for every #Qmember, Interactive workshops on healthy eating habits. Sessions on skincare, relaxation, and grooming.
• Personal and professional wellbeing: Training on giving feedback and goalsetting.
• Financial Wellbeing: Online sessions on “Financial Planning”, “Relationship with money” and “Secure online shopping” and more.
• Environmental Wellbeing: Recycling station and interactive challenges.

Social Wellbeing: Lara guide dogs at Qualco, Maroussi Give Back fundraising, Shedia Magazine promotion in our premises. Free healthy snacks in our on-site restaurant and an internal photo challenge kept the energy high and participation enthusiastic. For those working remotely or in our international offices we offered a variety of online resources and activities. 

In this context, we organised:

• 14 Webinars: Covering everything from mental health to financial wellness. 
• 20 Live Activities: At our offices, including fitness and creative workshops. 
• 10 Creativity Workshops: Encouraging new skills and hobbies. 

We are proud that we managed to collect 20 kg of recyclables, and plant 120 trees, with the team of the #Qcommunity.

A standout addition was the Kids Wellbeing Day with educational seminars for employees’ children on bullying, the safe use of social media, how to perform first aid and in collaboration with “Shedia” Magazine, the creation of handcrafts from recycled materials and how to effectively recycle.  

What sets our wellbeing initiatives apart is the creative input, from interactive talks and outdoor activities to hands-on workshops like candle making and baking. Finally, our Inclusion Panel, provided a platform for employees to share their diverse experiences, fostering a culture of inclusivity and understanding. 

We believe that by leading with empathy and innovation in our approach to wellbeing, we are setting a new standard for what it means to truly care for your people. Our goal is to foster a more resilient, adaptable, and forward-thinking organisation—one that is poised for sustainable success in an ever-changing world. 

Be part of the #Qteam! 👉 Explore #LifeatQualco and view our open positions.

Nikos Psimogiannos has been appointed CEO of Qualco Group’s new, Information & Communication Technologies (ICT) entity.

Leveraging advanced technological capabilities and a long-standing international presence, Qualco Group is set to enter the ICT market. This new venture aims to support the digital transformation of public and private sector organisations globally. Through this division, Qualco Group will offer a wide range of solutions and services, including Technology Consulting, AI/ML, Data Intelligence, Digital Engineering, Cloud, Cybersecurity, and Enterprise Platforms, as well as specialised vertical business solutions and advisory services in sectors such as Energy, Environment, Health, Economy, Justice, and Security.

Mr. Psimogiannos is a seasoned executive with extensive experience in senior leadership roles at major organisations. Over the past 15 years, he has led the international growth of Uni Systems (a QUEST Group company), serving as Managing Director of five subsidiary companies in Belgium, Luxembourg, Romania, Italy, and Spain. Under his leadership, the company grew from a newly established entity in Belgium into an international ICT solutions and services provider, achieving ~€100 million in turnover and establishing a presence in 20 European countries.

“Continuous evolution through developing new activities is a core element of Qualco Group. Once again, we are expanding our horizons by entering the challenging ICT field with Nikos Psimogiannos at the helm. His undeniable expertise and vision ensure a strong path to success,” stated Orestis Tsakalotos, Executive Chairman of Qualco Group.

“We welcome Nikos Psimogiannos, an executive with invaluable experience and deep knowledge of the ICT market. I am confident that, under his leadership, the ICT division will become a strategic partner for businesses and organisations across various sectors, delivering specialised technological solutions,” commented Miltos Georgantzis, CEO of Qualco Group.

“A new and exciting chapter is about to begin,” said Nikos Psimogiannos. “Qualco Group’s commitment to innovation, responsible business practices, and value creation for clients, society, and employees aligns perfectly with my values. Together with my new team, we will work tirelessly to establish the organisation as a European technological powerhouse, offering human-centric solutions that address the modern challenges of businesses and society.”

Qualco Group has acquired a 50.1% majority stake in D.D. SYNERGY, a leading value-added reseller of SAP solutions and a distinguished SAP Gold Partner.

Founded in 1999, D.D. SYNERGY has built a strong reputation for delivering tailored SAP solutions that address the unique needs of modern businesses. As an industry leader, the company boasts deep expertise in SAP S/4HANA for intelligent enterprise resource planning, SAP Analytics Cloud (SAC) for advanced data-driven insights, and SAP Business Technology Platform (SAP BTP) for seamless digital transformation. Through strategic partnerships and collaborations, its technical capabilities portfolio extends to a range of specialised SAP solutions, including SAP Extended Warehouse Management (SAP EWM) and enterprise and industry vertical SAP solutions, including SAP Concur for expense and travel management.

With a proven track record of over 100 successful projects for more than 80 clients across diverse industries, including pharma, hospitality, energy, manufacturing, retail, and finance, D.D. SYNERGY combines technical excellence with a deep understanding of industry dynamics. Averaging 15 years of hands-on experience, its team of expert consultants ensures seamless implementations and ongoing support. This approach helps clients achieve sustainable operational improvements and realise their business goals.

This strategic partnership strengthens Qualco Group’s capabilities, enabling an expanded reach into new markets and empowering clients with a broader, more integrated portfolio of solutions. Building on its proprietary technology and strong expertise, Qualco Group is now better positioned to address the evolving needs of businesses across industries.

We are excited to announce that Qualco Group has been honoured at the inaugural “Innovation Challenge” organised by the recently established Hellenic Center for Defense Innovation (HCDI) under the auspices of the Hellenic Ministry of Defence.

The award was presented to our organisation during the Hellenic-French Defense Symposium, held in Athens on December 12-13. The event, which brought together experts in defence innovation and dual-use technologies alongside representatives of the defence industrial sector from France and Greece, was attended by the National Defence Minister, Mr Nikos Dendias.

Our award-winning proposal offers algorithmic solutions to the “Vehicle Recognition in Real-Time” challenge area. It underscores our commitment to researching and developing innovative technological ideas utilising artificial intelligence and machine learning to create new growth opportunities in the defence sector.

HCDI fosters collaboration between the innovation ecosystem and the defence industry to bolster national defence capabilities. The “Innovation Challenge” initiative aims to harness the country’s resources by showcasing pioneering ideas and advanced technologies.

How Energy Companies Are Leveraging AI to Tackle New Challenges

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has demonstrated its transformative potential across various industries, including the energy sector. The sector stands to greatly benefit from AI in addressing significant challenges brought on by changes in consumption patterns and the need for sustainability.

The energy sector encounters numerous operational challenges, from limitations in energy storage to the complexities of grid management, which significantly affect an organization’s resilience and journey toward decarbonisation. The demand for advanced technologies in this sector is undeniable, and unsurprisingly, energy companies are among the first to adopt AI innovations, often through strategic partnerships with startups.

According to Allied Market Research, AI in the energy market was valued at $4 billion in 2021 and is projected to reach $19.8 billion by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 17.4% from 2022 to 2031. This growth indicates that large energy companies will continue to hire machine learning and data scientists, while AI-focused startups will keep forming strategic partnerships.

Challenges and Opportunities

AI presents many benefits for the energy sector, enabling it to solve long-standing problems and capitalise on new opportunities. Key areas include:

• Smart Grids: These advanced electrical systems use digital technology to monitor energy consumption and enhance the sustainability of energy distribution. AI analyses energy usage patterns, optimises resources, and improves reliability. It forecasts consumption trends, allocates resources efficiently, and enhances electricity distribution. Additionally, AI detects and rectifies faults, reducing service interruptions and bolstering grid reliability.
• Demand Response Management: This crucial aspect of energy management benefits considerably from AI, which facilitates real-time responses to energy demand fluctuations. By analysing data from various sources and predicting energy demand changes, AI helps adjust the energy supply, enhancing efficiency and reducing costs.
• Energy Storage: AI utilises data analysis to maximise the use of renewable energy sources by optimising their storage and distribution. This approach reduces dependence on unpredictable weather, ensuring consistent power availability even during peak times or when natural resources are scarce. For example, AI can balance solar panel output at night and wind turbine output during calm periods to maintain a steady energy flow.
• Predictive Maintenance: This approach uses machine learning algorithms and predictive analytics to foresee potential equipment issues, allowing for timely maintenance and repairs. AI analyses sensor data, performance metrics, and maintenance records to predict equipment failures, leading to reduced downtime, lower maintenance costs, and enhanced safety.
• Energy Efficiency: AI improves energy efficiency in buildings, vehicles, appliances, and industrial processes by analysing data to provide insights and recommendations on reducing energy consumption and waste. For instance, AI can optimise building energy use by automatically managing cooling and lighting systems.

Collaborations with AI Startups

Startups focused on AI innovation are becoming change catalysts, offering advanced solutions for energy storage and resilient grids. These startups develop innovative solutions that tackle the sector’s challenges, shaping a sustainable energy future.

According to PitchBook, 1,153 deals (financing, M&A, IPO) have been completed globally in the energy tech sector over the last ten years across 676 startups. The total capital invested is $7.0 billion, with a median post-money valuation of $12.5 million. Indicative examples of successful collaboration between corporates and startups in the energy sector include:

SolarCity, now part of Tesla, showcased a successful collaboration to promote residential solar energy use and create a clean energy powerhouse. SolarCity overcame the high upfront costs associated with solar installations and introduced the concept of solar as a service. Tesla found an excellent ally to address its need to help clients overcome rising energy costs.

In Denmark, Salling Group aims to cut energy use across its stores by partnering with AI startup Ento Labs. Similarly, Octopus Energy partnered with Salzgitter Group to provide 126,000MWh of solar energy yearly, aiming to make German steel production more eco-friendly.

Schneider Electric has acquired several innovative solutions startups in the last few years, with EV Connect being one example. EV Connect developed a creative, open charging platform for electric vehicles that matched Schneider Electric’s vision for a more sustainable and resilient world.

Energy Innovation unveils

Qualco Group monitors the developments in the energy sector, especially keeping an eye on the innovations that startups are working on that harness the latest AI technologies to enhance energy production, distribution, consumption efficiency, reliability, and sustainability. Through our Innovation Hub, we highlight the importance of embracing new technologies and fostering a culture of innovation and continuous improvement, which are vital for addressing the energy sector’s complex challenges.

AI thrives in data-rich industries, presenting a unique opportunity for the energy sector to utilise its vast data resources to tackle the challenges of volatile demand, operational disruptions, and decarbonisation. Openness to synergies with AI startups allows established energy companies to implement innovative solutions and explore new digital future concepts.

Qualco Group announces it has acquired a majority stake of 70% in Middle Office, a company providing specialised services to manage and monitor Wholesale Portfolios effectively.

The partnership marks the establishment of the Business Process Outsourcing Unit within Qualco Group, which will address banks, Servicers, and utilities. These new services will enable the organisation’s clients to focus on business growth through automated processes and access to advanced technologies, alongside resource and cost optimisation.

Established in 2022, Middle Office provides banks and Servicers with ISO 9001-certified loan management services, including loan and credit support, loan lifecycle management and legal action implementation support.

At the same time, the company has developed the MOS SYSTEM, a proprietary, scalable, real-time loan and collateral management system. This allows clients to manage loan relationships holistically. Combined with Qualco Group’s proprietary technology, it is expected to drive significant changes in the financial sector.

“At Qualco Group, we constantly explore new opportunities to broaden the scope of our services, creating value for our clients. Our partnership with Middle Office, a well-established company in Business Process Outsourcing, further enhances our efforts in this respect”, stated Mr Miltos Georgantzis, CEO of Qualco Group.

Mr Kostas Moraitis, Founder and CEO of Middle Office, said: “We are pleased that Middle Office, after a successful journey, joins Qualco Group. We are confident that the organisation will capitalise on our experience, unlocking significant synergies and positively impacting the financial landscape.”

The pressing matter of the demographic crisis was the key theme of the panel discussion “The Immense Economic Impact of the Demographic Issue in Greece 2025-2050 ” on the last day of the Delphi Economic Forum IX.

Orestis Tsakalotos, Executive Chairman of Qualco Group, moderated the panel alongside distinguished individuals from the political, social, economic, and academic scenes:

• Domna Michailidou, Minister of Labour & Social Security
• Alexandra Tragaki, Professor at Harokopio University
• Byron Kotzamanis, Research Director at the Institute of Demographic Research (IDR)
• Eva Papadaki, Project Manager of HOPEgenesis
• Panos Xenos, Assistant Professor at the Department of Statistics and Insurance Science, University of Piraeus
• Apostolos Gkoutzinis, Partner at Milbank LLP

The discussion highlighted the complexity and persistence of the demographic issue, spanning decades without a clear starting point for resolution. Foundational reforms are needed from the country and its citizens to address it and work towards long-term solutions.

At the same time, it became evident that several initiatives and policy decisions are underway across all ministries, although their effectiveness remains to be seen in the future.

The multifaceted nature of the demographic challenge was emphasised, with socio-economic and behavioural dimensions. Additionally, the “silver economy” emerged as a positive demographic trend involving the production of goods and services by individuals over 65.

Lastly, the moral aspect was underscored, emphasising that addressing this issue brings together political, social and ethical principles that guide personal and social behaviour. Optimism and cherishing future generations’ well-being were identified as the key factors in shaping the next day.

Tune in to watch the full discussion.