The banking sector in Central and Eastern Europe (CEE) is open to foreign innovations and demand for modern, smart ICT and software solutions is strong.

1. Business Opportunities in Smart Banking in
Central and Eastern Europe
The banking sector in Central and Eastern Europe (CEE) is
open to foreign innovations and demand for modern, smart
ICT and software solutions is strong. Changes in the European
Union’s banking legislation, a growing loan market and a
heterogeneous banking industry with only modest competition
make the CEE banking sector a great opportunity for Finnish
ICT, digital solution and software companies seeking growth.
While banks want to improve their cost-efficiency, the focus
is also on attracting customers and boosting sales with new
offerings.
In 2000–2010, the banking and insurance sector in eastern
Europe experienced Europe’s highest levels of foreign direct
investment. Following the financial crisis, new EU legislation
set higher capital requirements for banking operations. These
legislative changes have created a huge need for restructuring
within the banking sector. Currently, banks are facing pressure
to adopt new business models, find solutions for delivering new
services and manage banking security issues.

2. Banks operating in Central and Eastern Europe and the varied markets in the banking sector
offer business opportunities in several segments:
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Smart banking solutions to attract and manage additional customers - examples include software solutions that offer
enhanced security, encryption tools and CRM solutions
Solutions such as online bank services or call center applications that allow the number of bank branches to be reduced
Applications and automation tools that can be used in the banking sector, including CRM solutions and solutions based
on RFID technology
Solutions that integrate sales into software applications
The conceptualization and design of smart banking services and related product development
Gaining a foothold in this growing market can open up major opportunities for Finnish companies. Many international banking
concerns already have a presence in CEE markets and access to a national bank can open the door to international banks of
significant size and reputation. For example both Switzerland and Austria are aiming to maintain their position as banking sector
pioneers by continuing to provide high-end products and solutions
The time is now right: the market is growing and the demand is there. Finpro’s experts can act as matchmakers for your company,
helping you meet the right decision makers and identify the business opportunities that offer the best potential in the CEE banking
sector.
This market opportunity is identified and verified by Finpro’s regional experts with in-depth market and industry research and
interviews with banks’ decisions makers. We have the market knowledge, the internationalization expertise and the connections
you need to help your company find the right track for growth in Central and Eastern Europe. Contact us to arrange a detailed
discussion of business opportunities for your company!
Michael Warner
Senior Consultant
michael.warner@finpro.fi
+358 40 3433 386
Seppo Keränen
Area Sales Manager
seppo.keranen(a)finpro.fi
+358 400 535 907
www.finpro.fi
www.finpro.fi/english-pages/opportunities-worldwide