In a commentary for Hospodárske noviny, Eximbanka CEO Rastislav Podhorec reflected on how Europe’s investment priorities are being reassessed and what position Slovakia will take in this new environment.
Below is the full transcript of the commentary:
Europe is currently reassessing its investment priorities. In addition to the green transition, these priorities now include energy security, defense, critical infrastructure, supply chain resilience, and technological sovereignty. This is not just a change in vocabulary. It marks a shift in the direction in which a significant portion of European capital will flow in the coming years. For Slovakia, the position it takes in this new investment environment is crucial. We can primarily purchase new technologies, energy solutions, and components for strategic sectors. Or Slovak companies can supply them. Slovakia has a strong industrial base, including mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, energy expertise, and companies capable of delivering technologically advanced solutions. Slovak companies are already supplying technologies, mechanical components, and energy solutions to demanding foreign markets. It is precisely
They can also build on these experiences when it comes to new European investment priorities.
Often, the barrier is not the product itself, but the ability to finance a larger order, expand production, or take on the risk of entering a new market. Access to financing can be the deciding factor in whether a company will be able to bid on larger contracts. This is one reason why the role of public financial institutions is changing. Our cooperation with the European Investment Bank no longer has to be limited to a traditional credit line. Co-financing, guarantees, counter-guarantees, or risk-sharing can increase our capacity to support larger deals.
For Eximbanka, this is a natural path for further development. If we share part of the risk with a strong European partner, we will create more opportunities for more ambitious projects by Slovak exporters.
, this will be particularly evident in the reconstruction of Ukraine. Investments will be needed in energy, transportation, infrastructure, technology, and equipment. Slovakia has a geographic advantage and, at the same time, companies that can participate in these projects. However, proximity to the border alone will not generate business. What will matter most are preparedness, partnerships, financing of contracts, and risk management. A similar opportunity is emerging in the energy sector. Slovakia has a decade of nuclear energy development ahead of it, much like other European countries.
The question, therefore, is not only how much European funding we can utilize, but also to what extent Slovak companies will participate in these investments. The map of European investments is currently being redrawn. The biggest risk may not be that Slovak companies have nothing to offer. It may be that when new opportunities begin to open up, they will lack the tools to seize them.
Source: Hospodárske noviny
Author: Rastislav Podhorec, CEO of Eximbanka