02/12/2026 15:19
Zagreb, Croatia - Maria Luís Albuquerque, Commissioner (2024-2029), Financial Services and the Savings and Investments Union, paid an official visit to the Zagreb Stock Exchange (ZSE), highlighting the importance of capital market development, regional integration, and enhanced investment opportunities across the European Union.
Commissioner Albuquerque — whose portfolio at the European Commission includes unlocking finance for the EU’s green and digital transitions and improving access to finance for citizens and businesses — met with the Management Board of the Zagreb Stock Exchange — Ivana Gažić, President of the Management Board, and Tomislav Gračan, Member of the Management Board — as well as Matko Maravić, President of the Supervisory Board.
During her visit, Commissioner Albuquerque underscored the vital role of well-functioning capital markets in supporting economic growth, financial stability, and cross-border investment. Her remarks reflected the broader objectives of the European Union’s strategy on savings and investments, which aims to reduce market fragmentation and enhance opportunities for investors and issuers alike.
The Commissioner’s visit also coincided with ongoing initiatives in the region to deepen cooperation among stock exchanges and broaden investor participation. The Zagreb Stock Exchange has been at the forefront of efforts to foster greater liquidity and connectivity in Central and Southeastern Europe, including regional integration projects joining multiple national exchanges.
ZSE leadership emphasized the progress made in recent years, with increased trading activity, rising interest from domestic and international investors, and a growing number of companies accessing capital through public listings.
ZSE leadership emphasized that capital market development relies on continuous education. In this context, the Zagreb Stock Exchange Academy was highlighted as a key platform for advancing financial literacy among citizens, investors, entrepreneurs, and students.
The visit reaffirms the shared commitment of the European Commission and Croatian financial community to developing transparent, competitive, and integrated capital markets that empower savers and support Europe’s economic ambitions.
