Bulgaria enters a new era in its economic and financial development as a member of the euro area, strengthening its integration with Europe at a time of profound economic, technological and geopolitical change. Its accession brings renewed attention to the opportunities presented by deeper European integration, while Bulgaria’s position at the crossroads of central, eastern and southeastern Europe gives it growing significance for investment, connectivity and regional economic co-operation.

The OMFIF Sofia forum brings together senior policy-makers, central bankers, investors and financial sector leaders across Europe to examine the forces reshaping the continent’s economic and financial landscape. Under the patronage of the Bulgarian National Bank and in collaboration with the Association of Banks in Bulgaria, the forum explores the future of the euro area, competitiveness and resilience, banking and capital markets integration, investment and infrastructure, and the transformation of money, payments and financial services.

Discussions consider how further euro area enlargement could shape Europe’s financial architecture and global influence; how public and private capital can be mobilised to support growth and competitiveness; and how digitalisation, artificial intelligence and new forms of money are transforming the financial system. Against this backdrop, the forum highlights Bulgaria’s growing role within the euro area and its potential as a gateway for investment, innovation and financial co-operation across southeastern Europe and the wider continent.