The Governor of the National Bank of Moldova, Ms. Anca Dragu, emphasised the importance of female leadership in the process of transforming the country's economy during the annual international conference "New Technology for Old Markets," held recently in Chisinau. The event, organised by the National Bank of Moldova in partnership with the National Bank of Romania and the Banque de France, brought together experts, researchers, and officials from 14 countries.

In addition to the official speech at the opening of the conference, NBM Governor Anca Dragu moderated the panel discussion "FinanciarELE," which brought together top leaders in the international financial sector: Ms. Jasmina Selimovic, Governor of the Central Bank of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Ms. Cristina Doros, Vice President and Group Country Manager for Visa in Central Asia, and Ms. Soledad Zignago, Senior Research Economist at the Banque de France.

"Female leadership is no longer just a matter of equity, but an important resource for transforming the economy and strengthening institutions. The experiences and skills of women in the financial sector bring new perspectives that stimulate innovation and resilience in economic systems. Through the "FinanciarELE" panel, we demonstrate that the Republic of Moldova is taking part in this global conversation and has leaders ready to actively contribute to changes in the financial sector," emphasised Ms. Anca Dragu.

"By addressing gender equality, we are able to send clearer and stronger messages. Institutions with a clear balance in this regard are more trusted. We need to be very open. Central banks can really serve as role models and have a powerful voice," stated Ms. Jasmina Selimovic.

"Women, as consumers, entrepreneurs, innovators, and leaders in payments are actively shaping how payments evolve and progress across the 17 markets in our region. I have the great privilege of witnessing this transformation firsthand... It is about delivering real economic impact," emphasised Ms. Cristina Doros.

"Banks and financial institutions with greater gender inclusion are more resilient, have lower levels of non-performing loans, and show stronger financial results. An important aspect is that gender diversity increases the relevance of the policies adopted," noted Ms. Soledad Zignago.

The discussions also focused on the economic efficiency generated by gender equality, reducing the gap between female and male employment, and promoting women to leadership positions in central banks, commercial banks, sovereign wealth funds, and public pension funds worldwide. The exchange of ideas and suggestions included analyses of how leadership, politics, and technology combine to accelerate the role of women in the financial sector. In conclusion, the measurable benefits for the economy were addressed: development, stability, and resilience.

The "FinanciarELE – Women's Leadership Community" project was launched by the NBM in March 2025 and is dedicated to creating an environment conducive to the development of women's financial and leadership skills. It supports gender equality in the financial sector and encourages active participation of women in the economy through education, mentoring, and professional support.

For the first time, the Republic of Moldova is hosting a major international conference dedicated to the future of finance in emerging markets. The event, entitled "New Technology for Old Markets," is organized by the National Bank of Moldova (BNM), in partnership with the National Bank of Romania and the Bank of France, and is taking place in Chisinau in a hybrid format (physical and online participation).