In the heart of Warsaw’s financial district lies a hub of intellectual exchange and financial prowess—the Warsaw Stock Exchange (GPW), where the inaugural Knowledge Exchange Forum recently unfolded. This event, part of GPW’s strategic plan until 2027, serves as a platform bridging international financial institutions, academic centres, and the Polish capital market.
The maiden edition of the Knowledge Exchange Forum boasted partnerships with global entities such as the World Federation of Exchanges (WFE) and the International Sustainable Finance Centre (ISFC), underscoring the significance of collaborative information dissemination in the financial realm.
GPW Board Member Stresses Knowledge’s Indispensable Role in Financial Advancement and Innovation
Monika Gorgoń, a GPW board member, emphasized the priceless value of knowledge and information in the financial landscape during the event’s opening address. She highlighted the forum’s role in fostering innovative ideas and business projects by facilitating interactions between market experts and participants.
With roots dating back to the 1990s, the Polish capital market has evolved into a prominent force in Europe. However, maintaining this stature necessitates a continuous expansion of knowledge concerning free-market processes, global investment trends, and potential threats. GPW’s development strategy for the upcoming years prioritizes educational initiatives like the Knowledge Exchange Forum, designed inclusively for all, including youth, students, and budding entrepreneurs.
Global Trends and Behavioral Dynamics Unveiled at GPW Event
Distinguished guests such as Linda Zeilina-Cross from ISFC, Richard Metcalfe from WFE, and Professor Markku Kaustia from Aalto University in Finland graced the event. Each expert delivered presentations focusing on pivotal global financial aspects and engaged with participants at the Warsaw Stock Exchange headquarters.
Richard Metcalfe delved into Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs), highlighting their role in tracking stock market index movements and enabling portfolio diversification for investors. He emphasized the staggering growth of ETF assets worldwide, reaching nearly $10 trillion by 2022, with the United States leading, followed by Europe and Asia poised to potentially surpass the Old Continent due to rapid economic growth.
Professor Markku Kaustia’s discourse revolved around the impact of institutional, traditional, and behavioural factors on individuals’ readiness to engage in the stock market. Analyzing 19 European societies, he revealed varying levels of participation influenced by education and wealth, with Scandinavian countries leading and Poland trailing below the European average.
Shaping Strategies and Fostering Knowledge at GPW’s Forum
Linda Zeilina-Cross tackled the escalating significance of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria in crafting and utilizing financial instruments. She highlighted the transition of ESG standards from major international corporations to smaller Polish firms, emphasizing its integration into GPW’s new strategy.
The event culminated in a networking session, allowing attendees to pose additional queries to the invited experts, fostering further knowledge exchange.
The Knowledge Exchange Forum stands as a testament to the Warsaw Stock Exchange’s commitment to fostering a culture of continuous learning and information sharing, solidifying its position as a vanguard of financial knowledge in Europe’s dynamic landscape.