European Financial Integration 2026

On Thursday, 7 May 2026, the European Central Bank (ECB) located in Frankfurt am Main will host a significant hybrid conference focusing on the theme of European Financial Integration. This event aims to bring together experts and decision-makers to discuss crucial aspects of financial stability and integration within the euro area.

Program Overview

The day will begin at 08:30 with registration and coffee, followed by welcome remarks at 09:00. The keynote speech will be delivered at 09:15 by Luis De Guindos, the Vice-President of the European Central Bank, setting the tone for the discussions to follow.

Presentations of Key Reports

At 09:45, attendees will be presented with two pivotal reports. The ECB’s Report on Financial Integration and Structure in the Euro Area will be introduced by John Fell, Deputy Director General of the Directorate General Macroprudential Policy and Financial Stability of the ECB. Simultaneously, the European Commission will present its European Financial Stability and Integration Review, led by Alexandra Jour-Schroeder, Deputy Director-General of the Directorate-General for Financial Stability, Financial Services and Capital Markets Union (DG FISMA).

Engaging Discussions and Panels

After a coffee break at 10:45, a fireside chat featuring Enrico Letta, President of the Jacques Delors Institute and former President of the Italian Council of Ministers, will explore the effectiveness of the strategy for building the Savings and Investments Union, with Rebecca Christie of Bruegel moderating the discussion.

Session 1, starting at 11:30, will delve into rethinking pensions for an entrepreneurial Europe, chaired by Alexandra Jour-Schroeder. This session will feature a diverse panel including policymakers and experts in the field of finance and pensions.

Lunch and Continued Discussions

Following a lunch break at 12:45, Session 2 will commence at 14:00 with a focus on how a more integrated banking sector can foster EU economy competitiveness. Frank Elderson of the ECB will chair this session, guiding discussions among prominent figures in the banking and financial services sectors.

Closing Remarks

The conference will culminate with a keynote speech by Maria Luís Albuquerque, European Commissioner for Financial Services, at 15:30, wrapping up a day full of insightful presentations and discussions before concluding at 15:50.

Event Details

The event will be documented through live-streaming and photography for publication on the ECB’s website shortly after. Participants who wish to avoid being photographed are encouraged to speak directly with the photographer on-site. This gathering underscores the ECB’s commitment to fostering dialogue and cooperation in the realm of European financial integration.

Venue Information

The conference will take place at the European Central Bank located at Sonnemannstrasse 20, 60314 Frankfurt am Main. For any inquiries regarding the event, participants can contact Philippe Molitor or Sonja Erfurt from the Directorate General Macroprudential Policy and Financial Stability.