The potential is also confirmed by the fact that in the first half of this year, the income of the Lithuanian electronic money and payment institutions sector grew by more than 20 percent. Lithuania has every opportunity to maintain consistent growth and become an even more attractive space for foreign investments.
According to the Bank of Lithuania, the revenue of the sector’s licensed activities in the first half of the year amounted to 275.1 million. EUR – compared to the corresponding period last year, they increased by 22 percent. The amount of payment transactions increased by more than a third – almost to 132 billion. Eur. It is estimated that 27 million people use the services of companies located in Lithuania. customers across the EU.
The field of electronic money and payment services is one of the engines of Lithuanian fintech. And the fact that the country is attractive to international investors is confirmed by the arrival of major players in this sector, such as Revolut, Airwallex, Nuvei, to Lithuania. This also led to the growth of local companies such as TransferGo, NEO Finance, Paysera.
It is worth noting that the “fintech” sector contributed significantly to Lithuania improving its position in the international tax competitiveness index, rising from seventh to fifth place in the world. This is a major achievement for a country that is constantly seeking to attract foreign investment and stimulate economic activity.
Last year, out of 34 countries, Lithuania was among the 10 countries with the lowest money laundering (AML) risk (ranked 9th). This year’s Council of Europe Committee of Experts for the Evaluation of Measures to Combat Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing (MONEYVAL) emphasized the significant progress of our country in the fight against money laundering and terrorist financing. Fintech companies, which pay a lot of attention to AML risk assessment and management, have contributed to these achievements. Market participants are actively investing in human resources, increasing employee competencies, and implementing the latest AML technologies.
It is estimated that almost 7.5 thousand people worked in “fintech” companies in Lithuania last year. employees, and the companies added more than 100 million to the state budget. Eur.
According to Expert Market Research, the global fintech market has grown rapidly in recent years and continues to expand at an impressive pace. It is predicted that by the end of this year the total market value may reach about 300 billion. EUR, and in the future the market is expected to grow by approximately 14 percent annually. and until 2029 can reach almost 600 billion Eur.
How to ensure the growth of the sector
Even three elections were held in Lithuania this year. For the successful further growth of the fintech sector, it is necessary to maintain the continuity of the fintech policy. In a few years, Lithuania has become one of the fintech leaders in the EU. One of the main reasons for this growth – successful cooperation between fintech market participants and politicians. I believe that with active cooperation, the sector can go even further, creating more opportunities and benefits for the people of Lithuania.
A few wishes for the new government, what should be paid attention to when thinking about the growth of fintech. I think it is especially important that the Ministry of Finance continues to ensure the further implementation of the 2023-2028 development guidelines for the Lithuanian “fintech” sector. The guidelines prepared together with partners provide for essential work in order to continue to maintain the country’s leading position in Europe.
The Ministry of Economy and Innovation, which is responsible for increasing the attractiveness of the investment environment, and regulation of the fintech sector based on risk assessment, plays a very important role in the growth of fintech. Recently, there is a lot of communication with companies providing international financial services that are considering establishing themselves in Lithuania. In order to attract these companies to our country, it is necessary to continue to ensure a good investment environment.
The Ministry of Education, Science and Sports should continue to focus on improving the skills of the youth. Fintech companies plan active expansion and intend to create more well-paid jobs both in large cities and in regions. Therefore, it is extremely important that young people have the opportunity to acquire skills and knowledge in higher education institutions, which would allow them to get a job in companies providing financial services.
As for the Seimas, I would like to wish the newly elected members of the Seimas to continue involving market participants in the legislative process. After all, the best decisions are born only in detailed discussions.
The active cooperation of the Lithuanian institutions, the Bank of Lithuania, the Financial Crimes Investigation Service, the Money Laundering Prevention Competence Center of VšĮ with market participants should be further encouraged. “Fintech” companies listen to the recommendations of Lithuanian institutions, implement the requirements for the prevention of money laundering and terrorist financing, and submit proposals.
The Government Chancellery also plays an important role. The people working there are responsible for coordinating fintech issues between different institutions.
In history, you can find many successful examples where great victories and important achievements come only by working together. I have no doubt that the cooperation between the fintech sector and the authorities will continue to be one of the successful examples of how a small country can become a market leader.
#Greta #Ranonytė #elections #whats #Fintech #sectors #expectations #government #Business
What factors contribute to the impressive growth of Lithuania’s electronic money and payment institutions sector?
### Interview with Jurgita Šlekienė, Fintech Analyst
**Interviewer**: Welcome, Jurgita. Recent reports indicate that Lithuania’s electronic money and payment institutions sector has seen impressive growth this year. Can you share more about this?
**Jurgita Šlekienė**: Absolutely, and thank you for having me. The Lithuanian electronic money and payment sector has shown remarkable resilience and adaptability. In the first half of this year alone, the sector’s income increased by over 20%. This growth has made Lithuania an increasingly attractive destination for foreign investments, underpinned by the successful arrival of international players like Revolut and Airwallex.
**Interviewer**: That’s significant. What does the data show in terms of revenue and transaction volumes?
**Jurgita Šlekienė**: According to the Bank of Lithuania, the revenue from licensed activities reached EUR 275.1 million, marking a 22% rise from last year. The volume of payment transactions surged by more than a third, approaching EUR 132 billion. It’s estimated that these services reach around 27 million customers across the EU, showcasing the sector’s wide impact.
**Interviewer**: You’ve mentioned the role of international investors. How is this benefiting local companies?
**Jurgita Šlekienė**: The entry of major global fintech firms has catalyzed local companies like TransferGo and Paysera, driving competition and innovation within the market. This influx not only fosters a healthy business ecosystem but also encourages investment in technology and expertise.
**Interviewer**: Lithuania has recently improved its position in the international tax competitiveness index as well. Can you elaborate on that?
**Jurgita Šlekienė**: Certainly! Thanks to the fintech sector’s growth and contributions, Lithuania climbed from seventh to fifth place in the international tax competitiveness index. This demonstrates our commitment to creating a favorable business environment, which is vital for attracting foreign capital.
**Interviewer**: What challenges do you see ahead for Lithuania’s fintech sector?
**Jurgita Šlekienė**: One major challenge is ensuring continuity in fintech policies, especially with recent elections. Maintaining consistent guidelines—like those set for 2023-2028—will be crucial. Furthermore, collaboration between market players and our political leaders will be key in addressing potential regulatory hurdles.
**Interviewer**: What are some recommendations you have for the new government to support this sector’s growth?
**Jurgita Šlekienė**: I strongly recommend ongoing support from the Ministry of Finance for implementing developmental guidelines. Additionally, the Ministry of Economy and Innovation must focus on keeping a risk-based approach in regulations to attract international firms. Lastly, improving education and skills training for the youth is critical, as fintech companies plan to expand and create new jobs.
**Interviewer**: Thank you, Jurgita. It sounds like there is a promising future for Lithuania’s fintech sector if the right steps are taken.
**Jurgita Šlekienė**: Thank you for having me. I am optimistic that with the right strategies, Lithuania can strengthen its position as a fintech leader in Europe.