Conference “Financial literacy – from financial fitness to financial health” by Erste bank

The conference, organised by Erste Bank Serbia and the podcast “Jezik finansija”, opened a dialogue on key issues of financial literacy among young people.

The first international conference dedicated to youth financial literacy, titled “Financial Literacy – From Financial Fitness to Financial Health”, took place on December 16 in Belgrade, organised by Erste Bank Serbia and the podcast “Jezik finansija”.

The event brought together young people aged 18 to 27 and leading experts in financial education, who shared knowledge and insights on the importance of financial literacy as a foundation for responsible decision-making and long-term financial security.

The program was opened by Marija Mutić, Director of Communications at Erste Bank, and Prof. Dr Slađana Benković, author and editor of the “Jezik finansija” platform, who emphasised that financial literacy is a key skill in modern society and a crucial prerequisite for the economic independence of young people. Throughout the full-day program, expert presentations and panel discussions addressed topics such as financial education as a catalyst for financial independence, the role of digitalisation in enhancing financial inclusion, and the importance of financial literacy in the context of gender equality.

Speakers and panelists included Nina von Gail, Director of the Financial Literacy Museum in Vienna; Eleonora Vlahović from the Institute for Textbook Publishing; Dr. Slađana Andrian Sredojević from the Association of Banks of Serbia; and Prof. Dr. Dajana Barbić from the Faculty of Economics in Zagreb, who discussed the systemic development of financial literacy and the impact of modern technologies on young people’s financial skills. Prof. Dr Bojana Olgić Draženović from the Faculty of Economics in Rijeka provided regional insights on gender gaps and levels of financial literacy, while Sonja Primožič from the Bank of Slovenia and Sonja Konakov Svirčev from Erste Bank Serbia highlighted the importance of early financial education and the challenges women face in financial empowerment, investing, and entrepreneurship.

Through this conference, Erste Bank Serbia reaffirmed its long-term commitment to enhancing financial literacy and empowering young people to make informed and responsible financial decisions, in line with the Bank’s values and social role.