Economic Research, Security and Defence, Innovation, Transport

At the Invisso Conference in Vienna, the European Investment Bank (EIB) has released a comprehensive working paper examining the state of innovation in Central, Eastern, and South-Eastern EU (CESEE) countries, in the context of the EU long term competitiveness’ discussions. This paper highlights the region's significant progress in enhancing innovation capacity over the past decade, while also addressing persistent challenges that threaten its growth and competitiveness.

After a challenging period marked by tight credit conditions, banks in Central Eastern and South-Eastern Europe (CESEE) are reporting increased willingness to lend together with a stronger credit demand from both households and businesses. However, expectations for the upcoming months indicate a slightly more cautious outlook, reflecting broader economic challenges.

Fintech companies in Africa have nearly tripled in number since 2020 , improving access to finance for people and businesses across the continent, according to a new EIB report released today. The report, Finance in Africa 2024 , highlights improvements in the African financial sector as well as constraints for the region’s economic growth.