Qualco Group had a strong presence at the 11th Delphi Economic Forum, participating in three panel discussions that explored the challenges and opportunities shaping today’s business environment.

Our executives addressed critical issues influencing the business, geopolitical and financial landscape. They focused on the role of embedded finance as a catalyst for the transformation of banking services. They also, highlighted the need for businesses to adapt to an increasingly uncertain and rapidly evolving environment through greater flexibility, stronger corporate governance and the adoption of a digital-first operating model. At the same time, they examined how digital technologies and artificial intelligence are redefining the reality of modern defence.

The Future of Embedded Finance

During the panel discussion “The Future of Embedded Finance”, Christos Kalogerakis, Chief Executive Strategic Ventures & CEO Credit

During the panel discussion “The Future of Embedded Finance”, Christos Kalogerakis, Chief Executive Strategic Ventures & CEO Credit Institution at Qualco Group, analysed how embedded finance is transforming the financial sector. He emphasised that it is not merely a product or a marketing tool, but a comprehensive technology stack that requires robust technological and commercial architecture.

As Mr Kalogerakis explained, the true value of embedded finance emerges when financial services are seamlessly integrated into the tools businesses use on a daily basis, enabling faster access to solutions and more flexible processes. He also identified the diversity of market needs as a key challenge, noting that different industries and customer profiles require tailored solutions.

He further highlighted the importance of customer experience, stressing that embedded finance must operate simply, seamlessly and accurately, with decisions made in real time. Unlike traditional bank lending, which relies primarily on credit history, embedded finance leverages real-time data, such as transaction activity and merchant reliability, reducing risk and improving decision quality.

How Businesses Navigate a Fragmented World

During the panel “How Businesses Navigate a Fragmented World”, Spyros Papaspyrou, Senior Executive Director

During the panel “How Businesses Navigate a Fragmented World”, Spyros Papaspyrou, Senior Executive Director at Qualco Group, highlighted the impact of geopolitical shifts, which are fragmenting global trade and the economy, creating an environment defined by different rules and conditions.

As he noted, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which form the backbone of the Greek economy, are becoming increasingly vulnerable. This makes it necessary to adopt a different strategic approach to risk management, as well as to secure access to financing through strategic partnerships.

In this context, Mr Papaspyrou pointed out that many SME executives are not yet making effective use of technology, raising the question of the skills and capabilities required to adopt solutions such as artificial intelligence. He emphasised that businesses should focus on three key priorities: flexibility in decision-making and data management, stronger corporate governance, and the transition to a digital-first operating model, where full digitisation is a prerequisite for sustainability.

He also referred to the importance of partnerships and digital platforms as the new business ecosystem, noting that the widespread adoption of models such as Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) is making technology more accessible than ever.

Navigating the New Reality of War

Athanasios Pittaras, Executive Director of Data Science at Qualco Group, participated in the panel “Navigating the New Reality of War”

Athanasios Pittaras, Executive Director of Data Science at Qualco Group, participated in the panel “Navigating the New Reality of War”, focusing on how digital technologies are transforming the modern battlefield.

He highlighted that the ability to make decisions and act faster than the adversary, and at scale, has become a critical factor. Data, artificial intelligence, sensing capabilities and digital twins are shaping new modes of operation.

Particular emphasis was placed on unmanned systems (UAVs), which, despite their relatively low cost, can intercept and damage significantly more expensive systems. Mr Pittaras stressed that the evolution of these technologies is still at an early stage, with swarming and increasing autonomy expected to significantly enhance their effectiveness.

At the same time, he underlined the close link between artificial intelligence and cybersecurity, noting that new models can identify system vulnerabilities. While this strengthens defence capabilities, it also introduces new risks, highlighting the dual-use nature of these technologies.