For the first time, the Republic of Moldova will host a major international conference [1] dedicated to the future of finance in emerging markets. The event [2], titled "New Technology for Old Markets," is organised by the National Bank of Moldova (NBM), in partnership with the National Bank of Romania [3] and the Bank of France [4], and will take place in Chișinău on 19 September 2025, in a hybrid format (in-person and online participation).
The conference will explore how emerging technologies—from distributed ledgers and smart contracts to central bank digital currencies (CBDCs)—can redefine the architecture of traditional financial markets. By addressing interdisciplinary topics such as the implementation of blockchain technology in monetary infrastructure, the integration of payments with contract execution, and the development of integrated financial ecosystems, the event positions Moldova on the European map of financial innovation.
Internationally, central banks recognise scientific research as a pillar of economic and financial policymaking. It enables the assessment of risks, testing the impact of new regulations, and anticipating market transformations under pressure from emerging technologies. Inspired by these best practices, the National Bank of Moldova has initiated the "New Technology for Old Markets" conference as a permanent framework for dialogue between academia and institutions.
"Technological transformations are no longer just options, but realities that shape the architecture of financial markets. For an emerging economy such as the Republic of Moldova, challenge and opportunity go hand in hand: we can leverage innovation to directly build modern, flexible, and inclusive infrastructures. Through this conference, the NBM is creating a platform for dialogue between research and practice, between tradition and innovation, between Moldova and its European partners. It is a step through which we assume our role as an active contributor to defining the future of finance in the region and beyond," said Anca Dragu, Governor of the National Bank of Moldova.
The conference will include keynote sessions, panel discussions, and research paper presentations, structured around current topics such as: the use of artificial intelligence for market surveillance and risk management; implementation of DLT-based market infrastructure; digital transformation of traditional banking services; cross-border payment systems and regional financial integration; open banking and API-based financial services in emerging economies.
"Through this initiative, the National Bank of Moldova marks the beginning of an academic and institutional tradition aimed at strengthening the role of analysis and research in economic policymaking. For emerging economies, the challenge is not only to adopt innovative technologies, but also to identify solutions that match our specific cost and risk profile. We have the opportunity to build integrated financial ecosystems directly, avoiding the complexity of layered infrastructures in mature markets. The conference explores this delicate balance between technological innovation and financial stability, facilitating dialogue between European public and private sector pioneers and the local ecosystem to generate solutions tailored to our realities. We aim to connect Moldova to international knowledge networks and demonstrate that emerging markets can contribute original insights to the European financial architecture," emphasised Mihnea Constantinescu, Deputy Governor of the NBM, who has contributed to research in the field of financial innovation and central bank digital currencies.
The conference will bring together international experts, representatives of central banks, policymakers, and researchers. Governors of several European central banks have also confirmed their attendance, further strengthening Moldova's position as an active partner in international financial dialogue.