Finance.Weekend, in its second edition in Rovinj, proved that finance is not just about numbers – it’s a dynamic industry evolving faster than ever, from digital transformation and sustainability to the people behind these processes. After debuting last year as part of the main program, its rapid growth and strong audience interest turned it into a standalone festival within Weekend.18. Two days filled with inspiration, hands-on experiences, and first-hand stories revealed what the financial world looks like when innovation meets vision.
CFOs from across the region shared their experiences, from rapid expansion and data overload to the challenges of adapting to change. “If there is no standardization, there is no control,” warned Drago Kavšek from Petrol, while Anton Barbir from ENNA focused on data quality, emphasizing that without reliable data, good decisions and results are impossible: “Data must be available on time and without additional explanations – they should speak for themselves. Reliable data are the foundation of faster and smarter decision-making.”
The event also explored global lessons. Michael Boyd, former director of Apple’s treasury, revealed how a company that once narrowly avoided bankruptcy now manages billions of dollars in liquid assets: “Our mission was clear – preserve the principal, ensure liquidity, and safeguard space for innovation.” His insights reminded the audience that survival and growth depend on discipline and adaptability, not just visionary ideas.
One of this year’s central topics was artificial intelligence and its role in finance. Matija Nakić, CEO and founder of Farseer, described AI as “a calm colleague who works 24 hours a day, simplifies planning and reporting, and asks questions that improve our processes.” Discussions showed that AI is increasingly taking on the role of a tool that accelerates and simplifies workflows – but also raises new questions about data reliability, transparency, and decision-making.
Sustainability and ESG proved to be just as important as AI. Panels tackled issues such as greenwashing, the transition to electric vehicles, and the need to align environmental goals with real business practices. Ivana Krajinović, partner at EY, reminded the audience that “every serious company today has a department or at least a person dedicated to ESG,” while Vedrana Jelušić Kašić, Management Board member at PBZ, emphasized that the biggest challenge is infrastructure, not the idea itself.
Finance.Weekend in Rovinj showed that finance has long since moved beyond numbers – it’s a story about people, technology, and responsibility. Between panels, lectures, and discussions, one thing became clear: the future of the sector will be built by those who combine innovation with values and have the courage to change the rules of the game. The second edition of the festival left a clear message: the finance of tomorrow will not be led by algorithms alone, but by leaders who believe in people and community.
