Euroconsumers Invest is attending Web Summit Lisbon, one of the world's premier events for innovation and technology. This year, in addition to various speeches, lectures, and networking sessions, the event centres on a paradigm shift, particularly evident in startups.
The focus is no longer solely on securing funding but on finding new customers ready to adopt new technologies and innovations. For us, however, the market must address additional challenges.
Challenges inherent to innovation
The financial and banking sectors might serve as a model. More and more branches are closing to strengthen remote communication. Fintech companies have developed apps that make it easier to manage money, invest, or access new products, as with cryptocurrencies some years back.
But what problems does this create? Financial literacy was already low, and now new challenges emerge for governments, regulators, companies, and market agents in general. Will we see more people excluded, not only due to a general lack of literacy but now also due to insufficient technology skills or training?
Cybersecurity is also an increasing concern. Thousands of clients fall victim to financial fraud daily, losing money that has often taken a lifetime to save.
Major trends impact investment choices
These are just a few examples of the issues debated at the event, where companies will showcase innovative solutions.
Pedro Catarino (left) and Pedro Moreira (right), from Euroconsumers Invest, attend Web Summit Lisbon
Without understanding the significant trends, ongoing changes, and potential impacts, it's impossible to interpret a future that is, by nature, always uncertain.
Which companies should we invest in? What tools can we use to leverage different innovative approaches? Direct investment? Through private equity? Investment funds focused on new technologies?
There's no definitive answer yet. But some trends and signals are emerging—and you can count on Euroconsumers Invest to help you make better financial decisions concerning them.